Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft: Dallas trades back, collects Earl Thomas
By Reid Hanson
Kurt Benkert, QB, Virginia
The Dallas Cowboys have all but assured us they will be drafting a quarterback to groom behind Cooper Rush. Kurt Benkert is a good late round option that won’t cost too much and could spend a year on the practice squad if needs be.
The 6’4” 215lbs prospect completed 58.5 percent of his passes his senior season. He also threw for 2,552 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He has the build, the arm strength, and the experience playing QB.
He is the perfect player to groom. He can make all the throws and has one of the strongest arms in the class. The problem is he trusts his arm strength too much and makes risky throws through tight windows a little too often (think Jay Cutler or Jeff George).
He has the athletic ability to scramble and play outside of the pocket but his mechanics go to crap and his accuracy follows suit. Benkert has all the skills and traits you’re looking for in an NFL QB he just needs time and coaching.
Working on his ability to read defenses, progressions, mechanics, and decision-making is one hell of a to-do list but with such an upside and no imminent need, he may be worth a three-year grooming investment.