Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys are coming off a very disappointing 2015 NFL season and are looking to get back into playoff contention next year. If they want to get there, they have to add more talent to their roster. They weren’t a huge player in free agency, but they have a chance to bring in an impact player in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Dallas certainly didn’t expect to have the No. 4 overall pick in the draft this offseason. After making it to the divisional round of the NFL playoffs two years ago, Jason Garrett and the Cowboys were expecting to be back in the playoffs.
Injuries were the story of the Cowboys’ 2015 season. Tony Romo went down with a broken collarbone twice throughout the season, and star wide receiver Dez Bryant missed the majority of the season due to a foot injury. Losing those two guys doomed the season for Dallas immediately, but they expect to get back on track this coming season.
Adding a talented rookie who can play a role immediately is a major key for Jones and the Cowboys.
There are many different players the Cowboys could choose to take with the No. 4 pick. That being said, which five prospects are potential targets for Dallas?
Jalen Ramsey, Cornerback, Florida State Seminoles
If the Cowboys want to get their defense on track in 2016, they have to bring in a playmaker in the defensive backfield. Florida State cornerback Jalen Ramsey has that kind of potential and would make a lot of sense for Dallas. He would immediately work his way into a starting role and could be a lockdown corner at the NFL level.
Paxton Lynch, Quarterback, Memphis Tigers
There is a chance that the Cowboys will consider drafting a young quarterback in the first round this year. Paxton Lynch has felt interest from Dallas, and he will likely be available when the No. 4 pick rolls around. Memphis saw Lynch grow continually over the last couple years, and he will make an NFL team very happy that they drafted him.
Joey Bosa, Defensive End, Ohio State Buckeys
Dallas needs to develop more of a pass rush as well, and Joey Bosa could be a fit for their defense. He has a good chance to be around when the Cowboys are up to pick. Bosa has a very bright future ahead of him, and it wouldn’t be too shocking to see Dallas pick him.
Ezekiel Elliott, Running Back, Ohio State Buckeyes
Adding another Ohio State player onto the list, star running back Ezekiel Elliott would be a huge pickup for the Cowboys. They might not want to take him with the No. 4 overall pick but have been searching for an upgrade at the position. Elliott has a great chance to be a superstar in the next few years, and the Dallas offensive line would make things very easy for him.
Myles Jack, Outside Linebacker, UCLA Bruins
Getting back to improving the defense, UCLA outside linebacker Myles Jack would be a solid addition for the Cowboys. He has excellent speed and athleticism and could turn into a major pass rushing threat. Dallas may be scared off by Jack’s knee issues, but if they do end up choosing him, there is a chance he could become a franchise-caliber defensive player.
Overall, the Cowboys have more options than the five mentioned in this article. There are so many different ways that Jones could go, but these five players would all be nearly perfect fits. Dallas will be a team to keep an eye on moving forward, especially when the draft gets underway.
Who do you think the Dallas Cowboys should take with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft? Do you think one of these five players is the best option for them?
[Photo by Paul Vernon/AP Images]
