Dallas Cowboys 7-Round 2020 mock draft after first quarter of season

While losing to the Saints hurt, the Cowboys actually suffered an even bigger blow this weekend. Starting left tackle Tyron Smith suffered a high ankle sprain and will miss some time. With him out, Cam Fleming takes over for the next few games.

Fleming is a solid player but the step down from Smith is still significant. Smith has been one of the best in the business for years and anytime he’s out, the offense lacks some of their identity.

And unfortunately, this is becoming a common theme for Smith who hasn’t played a full 16 game season since back in 2015. With all that being said, it could be time to consider drafting someone to groom. That leads to the selection of Alaric Jackson out of Iowa.

Jackson is a good pass protector who plays for a great program. He needs to work on handling speed rushers but there’s a lot to like about him as a potential bookend. At the very least, he gives them a solid swing tackle that can eventually replace Fleming and save them some cap space.

As far as talent goes, Ross Blacklock should go much higher than this Unfortunately for him, he missed all of the 2018 season with a torn Achilles. Now, the TCU defensive lineman is out there trying to prove he’s healthy and has looked good. He’s already recorded a career-high 2.5 sacks and has 4.5 tackles for a loss in just four games.

Should Dallas be unable to keep Maliek Collins, who is a free agent this offseason, that would elevate 2019 second-round pick Trysten Hill to the starting job. Adding Blacklock gives them some much-needed depth in that scenario.