Earlier this offseason, it was reported that Dallas Cowboys cornerback Brandon Carr could be on the chopping block due to cap concerns. The veteran defensive back struggled last season and will count $12.7 million against the salary cap. With Jerry Jones still hoping to re-sign free agent running back DeMarco Murray, Carr could become expendable to free up some money. If that's the case, Dallas could replace him in the upcoming NFL draft.
The football writers of CSNWashington.com put their heads together to draw up a recent mock draft that has the Cowboys selecting LSU cornerback Jalen Collins with the No. 27 overall pick.
"The Cowboys' defense shined earlier last season, yet ranked near the bottom in the league in sacks, rushing yards per carry and rushing touchdowns. The secondary needs help and nobody would argue against a linebacker threat. Also, do the Cowboys go running back if DeMarco Murray doesn't return? Even if he doesn't, Dallas would be wise to go defense."
Collins is one of the highest rated defensive backs in this draft coming off a superb season at LSU. The Cowboys, who ranked 26th in pass defense (251.9 yards per game) last season, could use more talent in the secondary after Carr disappointed and Morris Claiborne failed to develop as expected.
Here's what ESPN NFL Draft Insider Mel Kiper Jr. had to say of Collins.
"Collins is a high-upside play as a cornerback with good size, reach and athletic attributes," Kiper wrote. "He can play physical but also turn and run with the fastest wide receivers in the league. He's not a complete package yet, but he can press, play off and shows awareness in zone."
Jones is known for making bold moves up the draft board and landing splashy picks. But Dallas' best course of action this year may be to take the solid Collins and tempt fate. Will the draft play out that way? We'll just have to wait to find out.
