Dallas Cowboys: 4-Round 2019 mock draft in mid-December

Round 2: Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State

In the zone scheme of defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli, the Cowboys defense heavily relies on the front four to create pressure. One of the most important pieces along the line the 4-3 system is in the middle at defensive tackle. What the Dallas Cowboys are missing is someone who has power opposite Tyrone Crawford. Crawford carved out a role as the three-technique and is one of the more underrated players in the league.

Maliek Collins and David Irving bring a similar skill-sets as upfield gap penetrators in the vein of Crawford. Moreover, both players have had their issues with inconsistency, for varying reasons. The Cowboys need power up front moving forward, someone to keep their talented young linebackers clean.

Mississippi State defensive tackle Jeffrey Simmons could be that player, someone who asserts his will at the point of attack. There were times throughout the 2018 season where he tossed blockers into the backfield. His bull rush is second to none in the 2019 NFL Draft class. Moreover, while he has an unorthodox stance, the 6-3, 301-pound tackle has a quick first step. His quickness and lateral movement aid in his ability to get to the quarterback.

Simmons has versatility and star potential. If he does fall to Round 2 (and he could), the Cowboys should jump on the chance to take him.