Donovan Wilson was a sixth-round draft pick out of Texas A&M in 2019, and his selection didn't create any buzz in North Texas. However, during the 2019 preseason, Wilson turned heads by leading the NFL in interceptions (3). It led to some pretty high expectations for what he could do for an entire season.

The former Aggie was met with a bump in the road, unfortunately. Wilson suffered an ankle injury just before the 2019 season started. He appeared in 11 games, but only logged 16 defensive snaps and two tackles. Although the COVID-19 pandemic eliminated spring practices and preseason games in 2020, Wilson responded with a very productive year.

Wilson registered 71 tackles, two interceptions, three passes defended, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and 3.5 sacks in 14 games with 10 starts. After such a productive season, Wilson was looking to raise his game in 2021.

“I’m just looking to build off that and put together a better season this year,” Wilson said, via the team’s website. “Just work as hard as I can this offseason to make that possible.”

Wilson wasn't fortunate in that regard. He missed eight games in 2021 with a groin injury and a chest/shoulder issue. The flashes of what he did the year before were there, but it wasn't consistent enough. With 2022 being a contract year for him, Wilson needs to be on the field as much as possible to maximize his talent.

The Cowboys brought in Jayron Kearse, Malik Hooker, and Damontae Kazee to bolster the safety position in free agency last year. Dallas likes one-year deals in free agency, though, and that's exactly what they did with all three. So, Wilson is the only safety on the roster with a proven track record as a starter.

Even if one or a few of them are brought back (preferably Kearse and Hooker), Wilson has a golden opportunity to establish himself once again as a cornerstone for the safety spot in Dallas next season. Also, his versatility having played nickel cornerback during his college days gives defensive coordinator Dan Quinn different ways to use him, if need be.

It's never been a case of ability with Wilson. When on the field, he makes plays against the pass and the run. However, your best ability is availability and that's what's holding Wilson back from being a consistent, effective player.

The safety position has been much-maligned in Dallas for quite some time. Kearse helped change the narrative last season, but seeing as his future with the Cowboys is uncertain, it leaves Donovan Wilson as the only sure thing on the roster to keep that going in 2022.

Feature image via Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports