Dallas Cowboys: 5 First-round targets in the 2018 NFL Draft at midseason
By Randy Gurzi
5. Malik Jefferson, LB — Texas
The Dallas Cowboys have some talent at the linebacker spot, and hope that 2016 second round pick Jaylon smith can add to that if he ever fully recovers from the devastating knee injury that knocked him out of the first round last season. That still remains a big question mark as Smith has made plenty of progress, but hasn’t shown that same playmaking prowess he once displayed.
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Even if he does become the player he showed while at Notre Dame, Dallas can use some help alongside him. Sean Lee, while absolutely amazing, is 31-years old and has had serious struggles with health throughout his career. While he should still be around next season, planning for life after him would be prudent. Then there’s Anthony Hitchens. The 2014 fourth-round pick has been a wonderful addition to the team, but with his contract expiring following this season, he may find better opportunities on the open market.
Dallas showed this past offseason they’re willing to allow starters to leave and replace them with picks, and if Hitchens does walk, Malik Jefferson could be an ideal first round pick to fill in. The Texas linebacker is as athletic as they come, and has developed into a real playmaker for the Longhonrs.
He’s been off the charts this year and already topped his total for a season high in tackles. He’s able to penetrate the offensive backfield and in 2016 he showed an ability to really affect the passing game by taking down opposing quarterbacks 6.5 times.
He needs to work on being able to beat blocks, since he usually relies on athleticism to move around players. However, that’s still a skill that can serve him well as he develops and he would be a great fit for the Cowboys on a rebuilding defense.