Who Are These Guys? The Dallas Cowboys UDFAs

Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports

J.C. Copeland, LSU, FB

I am starting with J.C. Copeland because I have been bringing his name up to anyone who would listen. Copeland is a converted offensive linemen, who now plays fullback. He is 6’1″, 272 pounds and runs a 4.9 40-yard dash. While the speed isn’t there, he is a really large man to try to bring down. His 10 yard split is a 1.69 and he ran a 4.58 shuttle. The positives are that he can run over just about anyone. When he hits someone they feel it. He will blow up a defender quickly and no one enjoys trying to tackle him. He is still quite raw as a runner but while he only ran for about 100 yards, he had 7 touchdowns. The negatives are he tries to decleat people instead of getting solid blocks and doesn’t have the best hands when catching.

How does he fit? Well the Cowboys do like to have a fullback on the team to block. Copeland is interesting as he could line up as an H-back on the line and you essentially get another lineman. He could also be used in short yardage situations either for a first down or at the goal line. I imagine he will get a chance to be the starting fullback day 1, and at the very least will be on special teams while they work on his blocking style.