Dallas Cowboys 2014 Mock Draft #2 using Fanspeak's On the Clock Mock Draft Simulator

After playing with a salary cap calculator I realized that Dallas is in real trouble and need to make some real difficult choices just to get under the cap.  Factoring this into the equation with a team that already has needs across the board makes it that more difficult.  In my second mock I tried to focus on needs and opportunity to save salary cap space at the same time.

Round 1 Pick# 16 DT Louis Nix III (Notre Dame)
This provides a legit presence in the middle of the line.  A rare combination of size, power and quickness for a big man.

Round 2 Pick#47 OT Antonio Richardson (Tennessee)
This pick give Dallas an upgrade at RT and allows them to cut Doug Free and save a little on the cap.

Round 3 Pick#78 DE Jackson Jeffcoat (Texas)
A tweener who likely would be only a pass rush specialist.  In this era of the NFL however a pass rusher is often needed on 2nd and 3rd down.  The Cowboys pass rush was woeful and a playmaker is needed off the edge.

Round 4 Pick#115 S Jimmy Ward (Northern Illinois) 
Dallas has multiple options at SS on their roster but don't have a true free safety.  Ward's strong suit is coverage and would likely fit quickly into nickel and dime packages until he can handle the full time FS position.

Round 5 Pick#146 QB A.J. McCarron (Alabama)
This pick allows Dallas to cut Kyle Orton to save cap space and give a young QB to groom as Romo's future replacement.

Round 6 Pick#177 DE Aaron Lynch (USF)
This pick provides depth and upside at the DE position.  Lynch was highly rated but had a somewhat disappointing 2013 season.  In the 6th round this is a value pick if he realizes potential.

Round 7 Pick#206 RB Rajion Neal (Tennessee)
Big school, big production.  Neal provides competition with Randle for RB2 this year and a possible replacement for Murray who is in the last year of his contract.

Round 7 Pick#208 WR Jeremy Gallon (Michigan)
Gallon would be an upgrade over Cole Beasley for slot receiver duties.  Gallon is fast, quick and has return capabilities.


Fanspeak's On the Clock Mock Draft Simulator