The 2024 NFL Draft presents the Dallas Cowboys with an opportunity to bolster their linebacker corps, raising questions about the timing of their selection. Should they opt for an early pick to secure one of the draft’s top talents, or can they delay, prioritizing premium positions initially? In this analysis, we’ll examine three prospects, all of whom have had visits with the Cowboys, assessing the optimal draft stage for adding a new linebacker.
At the forefront, the Cowboys face a dilemma due to the potential of their existing young linebackers. Damone Clark and Leighton Vander Esch show promise, but uncertainties linger, particularly with Vander Esch’s past injury. DeMarvion Overshown’s preseason setback further complicates matters, leaving the linebacker unit’s future uncertain, especially considering Eric Kendricks’ temporary tenure.
To address this, the Cowboys could target Michigan’s Junior Colson with their 56th pick. Colson’s standout performance in college, marked by his astute football intelligence and athleticism, presents an enticing prospect. With his exceptional tackling ability and consistent performance, Colson offers the stability desired in a linebacker, potentially resolving any lingering concerns about the current roster.
Alternatively, if the Cowboys opt to delay their linebacker selection until later rounds, options remain viable in the third round. This presents their final chance to secure an immediate defensive contributor before a gap in draft capital arises. Kentucky’s Trevin Wallace emerges as a compelling option, boasting similar attributes to Colson in terms of size and on-field explosiveness. While Wallace may lack Colson’s immediate impact, his potential as a starting linebacker in the NFL is evident with refinement in play anticipation.
However, beyond the top 150 picks, the likelihood of landing a starter diminishes significantly. Late-round selections offer depth rather than immediate impact, with players like Texas’ Jaylan Ford standing out as potential reserves or special teams assets. Ford’s consistency and football IQ make him an appealing choice for teams seeking linebacker depth, albeit without the ceiling of a future starter. Despite limitations in athleticism compared to other prospects, Ford’s reliability presents a valuable addition for the Cowboys, ensuring depth without compromising on position specificity.
