Cowboys' Day 2 draft picks highlighted by potential steal of the NFL Draft
The Tyler Smith selection on day one has been seen as a bit of a reach, but still addressing a major need the Dallas Cowboys needed to zero-in on. A quality player but the perceived value of the player and where he was taken versus other players available has fans in a frenzy. Remember though, value […]
The Tyler Smith selection on day one has been seen as a bit of a reach, but still addressing a major need the Dallas Cowboys needed to zero-in on. A quality player but the perceived value of the player and where he was taken versus other players available has fans in a frenzy.
Remember though, value is subjective.
On Day 2, the exact opposite happened. The Cowboys have removed two of their biggest needs. The selections of Ole Miss edge rusher Sam Williams and Southern Alabama wide receiver Jalen Tolbert were taken in the second and third round, respectively.
Sam Williams has been on the Cowboys radar for months. He was an official visit, after Dan Quinn made a visit earlier to his pro day.
The 6'4 260-pound edge rusher is coming off a fantastic career where he totaled 33 tackles for loss, 23 sacks and six forced fumbles. He's got great speed (4.46 40) and plays with explosiveness in pass rush and can set the edges in run defense.
Getting him at pick 56, when some believe he's got first round ability, is a steal. Had it not been for his off-field concerns that he was cleared of, he might not be wearing a star today. He could end up being one of the best picks in the draft, if everything works out, of course.
Jalen Tolbert is a Cedrick Wilson replacement in every sense. Similar size (6'3 190) and can play the Z-receiver position, with the likelihood he'll also play the slot. Allowing CeeDee Lamb to do the same, keeping Gallup at the X-position.
He frequently creates separation on smooth routes and is one of the best players in this draft in creating yards after the catch. He demonstrated his value in the Senior Bowl on his home turf, going from a relatively unknown, to a perceived second round pick.
The Dallas Cowboys aren't being flashy, but credit is due. They are being efficient in their drafting. Taking their guys and have gotten great value in Day 2.
Now a pair of Day 1 contributors come in and add depth to major areas of need. Giving a sigh of relief to the Cowboys, and paving the way for the remainder of the draft.
Featured image via Gary Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
