NFL Draft 2011: Dallas Cowboys Draft Preview

What a disappointing year for our team. Not only did we fall far short of the Super Bowl goal, but we couldn’t even muster a wild card spot. Unfortunately for the franchise, the Cowboys actually made a decent push after a coaching change; this lead to the acquisition of the #9 overall pick instead of the much higher pick we were headed for originally.

#9 leaves a lot of possibilities on who the Cowboys could potentially look to acquire. I don’t think it would be a bad idea for the Cowboys to consider trading down and try to address multiple needs. As it stands, there are many positions on the roster which could benefit from a first round prospect, whether to add competition for the starting job, or provide depth while the young player develops. Of the positions in which Dallas could use a lift at I don’t think they can go wrong at safety, cornerback or offensive guard.

Last year, the Cowboys secondary was abysmal coming up 26th overall for total yards against through the air.They also lead the league at touchdowns allowed through the air with 33. A far fall from 2009 when the cowboys were 20th in the league with fourteen less scores allowed through the air.

The play of Terence Newman and Mike Jenkins was heavily criticized on and off throughout the year, with both of them having their slip ups. Mike Jenkins became a liability with his high amount of penalties, and both seemed to be playing far below the Pro Bowl level they were both at last year. However, unless the coaching staff feels that Patrick Peterson or Prince Amukamara is off world talented I think the Cowboys should pass on CB, and give the two former pro bowlers another shot.

Though both starting corners took their fair share of criticism last season, the starting safeties were an equal part if not more of the mess that was the Cowboys secondary. Alan Ball frankly isn’t a starter at this point in his career. He was picked on often and played poorly in the red zone.

Gerald Sensabaugh lacked consistency but did have a nose for the big play. Though it’s hard to give much sway for defensive back statistics, 5 interceptions, 10 pass deflections and 57 tackles is hardly anything to turn your nose at. Gerald should see the opportunity to come back but at this point he should have to earn his spot. I feel like adding a top safety prospect would be a fantastic move for the Cowboys.

The O-line this year was a mess. It felt as though we couldn’t get everyone playing well and or healthy for even one game this season. It’s tough to tell what you got on your team when only half the line is playing up to potential any given night. Although depth at tackle should be on the offseason list, the Cowboys could really use a guard who could come in and play now.

Kyle Kosier played low below what he was once capable of and may have been struggling with some lingering injuries. Leonard Davis who was at one point a 3 time pro bowler, was playing so poorly there was talk he would be benched halfway through the season. This is why I think it would be in the interest of the Cowboys to move back and add one or two 1st or 2nd round picks to replenish the secondary and offensive line.

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NFL Draft Previews (All 32 teams)