Defense, defense, defense. And running back, but mostly defense.
The Dallas Cowboys need to improve a defensive unit that finished last season ranked 19th in total defense (355.1 yards allowed per game), 15th in scoring (22 points per game) and 28th in sacks (28.0) if they want to repeat as NFC East champions.
The Cowboys hold the No. 27 overall pick in tonight's NFL Draft, and they could go a number of different routes with it. But ESPN NFL Draft Insider Mel Kiper Jr. believes that Jerry Jones will ultimately go with Mississippi State defensive end Preston Smith.
"Why they take him: Because the defensive line is a clear need area, and Smith offers versatility and the chance to step into the rotation right away and help a 'win now' team," Kiper wrote in his final Mock Draft.
Smith finished last season with 22 total tackles, including 15 tackles for a loss, nine sacks and two interceptions (one of which he returned for a touchdown). The 6-foot-6, 270 pound lineman has drawn favorable comparisons to Antonio Smith. But Dallas' most pressing need is in the secondary and it could prevent Smith from landing with Big D.
"Why they pass: If they have a good option at cornerback, such as [Marcus] Peters or [Kevin] Johnson, they could target another clear need area."
The Cowboys have long been linked to the draft's top corners such as Peters, Johnson and Byron Jones. However, several teams like the Eagles, Steelers, Ravens, Packers and Patriots are also in the market for a corner. If all of the top options are off the board by the time the Cowboys pick, then Smith or Florida State's Eddie Goldman could be the selection.
