Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft: All the rounds, all the fun (Reid 2.0)
By Reid Hanson
Round 5, Pick 127 overall
Cornerback
Houston
You may be asking, why Dallas would draft a cornerback before a safety? There are really multiple answers to that question:
- Kris Richard likes larger, longer cornerbacks for his single high coverage.
- Chidobe Awuzie is still a question mark opposite Byron Jones.
- Byron Jones is a free agent after 2019.
- This draft is deep in Kris Richard-type CBs
The reason Richard likes larger, longer corners is because of the scheme. In single high, both outside cornerbacks are tasked with gaining inside leverage, protecting the sideline, and stopping anything on the deep outside third. Johnson, 6’2” 195lbs, has impressive deep speed so playing bump and chase on the outside is perfect for his skillset.
Additionally, Isaiah Johnson is better in an area Awuzie struggles: looking for the ball while covering downfield. He’s not consistent, which is why he’s available here, but he’s shown the ability. In true Richard Sherman fashion, Johnson has no problems running close in coverage with his back to the receiver and his eyes watching the quarterback.
While I expect the Dallas Cowboys to eventually sign Byron Jones long-term, I think they’re going to make him sing for his supper again this next season. Keep in mind, Anthony Brown, the inside nickel CB, is also a free agent next year. With so much in doubt in the secondary, this is a great time to address the position – especially since so much value can be found in this specific type of cornerback.
It’s worth noting, I think the Dallas Cowboys will address safety in free agency making the need less on draft day. Also worth noting, many of my favorite safeties in this draft are undersized, therefore unlikely to be selected by a Kris Richard team.
With all of that said, I’m still looking for a safety with my last pick.