Dallas Cowboys: 7-Round 2018 mock draft after Dez Bryant release

Round 3: Harrison Phillips, DT, Stanford

Much like was the case with Ridley dropping to No. 19 in the first round, it’s hard to imagine a world where Harrison Phillips is still on the board in the middle of the third as the Cowboys are making their selection. But since that was the case in this simulation, I wasn’t about to let the Stanford product slip by Dallas in that position as he’s not only an impressive prospect, but one who fits yet another huge need for the Cowboys.

The Boys have made a concerted effort in recent years to strengthen their ability to rush the passer off of the edge. They made sure that will be the case for 2018 as well by locking up Demarcus Lawrence on the franchise tag and then adding solid depth with the signing of Kony Ealy. However, the defensive tackle position leaves a lot to be desired. That’s an area where they need to focus tremendously, and Phillips helps them do that.

There are questions about whether or not Phillips has the athleticism to play the three-tech as some see him as a true nose guard and not much else. However, he put up solid numbers at the Combine to quell those concerns a bit for me. And one thing you can’t argue with is strength and production, which Phillips had plenty of throughout his time at Stanford. He may need some work and a bit of NFL conditioning, but he could relatively seamlessly play the most snaps at defensive tackle for Dallas in 2018 if he performs well in camp.