A new ESPN NFL mock draft shows a player who is often projected to be picked in the top five this month will fall to the Dallas Cowboys at No. 12 overall.
After another seven win season, the Cowboys need to improve their selection in this month's NFL Draft. Fortunately for Dallas, they will have a chance to add two top-20 players to the event after acquiring an additional first-round pick before this season's trade deadline.
Along with their two selections in Round 1 – 12 and 20, respectively – the Cowboys have been linked to a variety of stud prospects, including Tennessee cornerback Jerrod McCoy and Washington receiver Denzel Boston. However, along with two first-rounders, they have also been linked to a top-five trade-up to land one of the best players in this year's class.
However, they may not need to give up one of those selections in order to bring elite talent to the event. On Tuesday, ESPN's Peter Scherzer released his new NFL mock draft, and at pick 12, he has the Cowboys getting Ohio State star safety Caleb Downs.
Caleb Downs stats: 68 tackles, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions
He wrote, "Buckeyes defensive coordinator Matt Patricia told me on 'The Schrager Hour' that Downs will be the smartest player on whichever team drafts him and should be the face of the franchise." “The Cowboys need that on defense, even if the safety isn't given the same importance as a pass rusher or cornerback.
"Downs can team up with Jalen Thompson and Malik Hooker and help cut down the big plays that plagued Dallas last season. If he's on the board, he'll be a steal at No. 12."
There has been much speculation that Downs could go fifth to the New York Giants. Additionally, many draft analysts view him as one of the most NFL-ready players in this year's class due to his impressive versatility and high football IQ. The All-American and Jim Thorpe Award winner had 68 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions and a sack last season.
