Dallas Cowboys mock draft with only defensive picks allowed
By Randy Gurzi
The Dallas Cowboys could be losing several defensive players to free agency this offseason but they land replacements in the defense-only mock draft
One of the most pleasant surprises for the Dallas Cowboys in 2021 was the play of their defense. A much-maligned unit the prior year, they took off under the instruction of Dan Quinn who was the NFL Assistant Coach of the Year.
While Quinn did wonders with his unit, there could be some changes coming that will again require him to work his magic. Dallas has several key players entering free agency and there could be some other moves made to get them under the salary cap.
Having said that, the defensive side of the ball could again be a focus in the 2022 NFL Draft — which leads us to this mock draft with a twist. Here, we mock the Cowboys’ selections, but the only rule is every pick has to be a defensive player — and they start with a defensive end early.
Dallas Cowboys Round 1 Pick: Cameron Thomas, EDGE, San Diego State
One position that could be depleted this offseason for the Cowboys is defensive end. Randy Gregory is a free agent and while they want him back, they might have to consider releasing DeMarcus Lawrence to make the money work.
Even if they did manage to find a way to keep both, injuries have been a concern, and their best reserve — Dorance Armstrong — is also set for free agency. With all these moving parts in place, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them go with someone such as Cameron Thomas with their first pick.
Thomas is a 6-foot-5, 270-pound defensive end who can hold up against the run as well as generate a consistent pass rush. He’s also strong enough to move inside on some third-down situations, making him a versatile weapon.
Dallas Cowboys Round 2 Pick: Lewis Cine, S, Georgia
Damontae Kazee, Jayron Kearse, and Malik Hooker are all pending free agents. Sure, Dallas will want to bring at least one of them back but they probably can’t afford all three. Enter Lewis Cine with our second pick.
The Georgia product had 73 tackles and a pick this past season and is another versatile weapon. He can play single high and in the slot, making him an ideal player for Quinn who will move him all over the field.