New Dallas Cowboys’ 7 Round Mock Draft: Surprise Risers and Fallers
By Reid Hanson
Feb 22, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers offensive lineman James Stone participates in drills during the 2014 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
7th Round (6)
C James Stone
Tennessee
6’4” 306 lbs
I really wanted to grab the injured Brandon Thomas early in the 7th. He’s going to be out all of 2014 season with a torn ACL but he’s worth stashing away. Sadly he was picked up much earlier so I waited until the end of the draft to readdress the middle of the O-line.
James Stone is a man who suffers greatly for one big game. Once thought of as a top center to enter the draft, Stone fell off the board after being dominated by Alabama. His total body of work tells a different tale.
Stone is quick and well-built. He’s thick on the bottom and moves well along the line. He was the leader of the team and directed the offensive line well. Stone recognizes and picks up blitzes well.
Sadly, he’s not a mean or dirty player which is a bad thing in an offensive linemen. He needs to add more strength to his body to keep from getting manhandled at the next level. A year of grooming and he could be an excellent backup at center and guard, providing important versatility along the O-line. Maybe even more someday…
Conclusion
The Cowboys addressed some major needs without reaching too much. They took advantage of bargains and found value, potential, and character in most cases. They balanced risk with safe and smart picks. I would have liked to find a LB, but feel optimistic Carter and Holloman can step up in 2014.