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Dallas Cowboys: Undrafted Free Agents, Who Are They?

By Daniel Ruppert

DALLAS, TX - SEPTEMBER 9: Jalen Guyton #9 of the North Texas Mean Green breaks free for a 72 yard touchdown reception against the SMU Mustangs during the second half at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on September 9, 2017 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
DALLAS, TX - SEPTEMBER 9: Jalen Guyton #9 of the North Texas Mean Green breaks free for a 72 yard touchdown reception against the SMU Mustangs during the second half at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on September 9, 2017 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) /
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STILLWATER, OK – NOVEMBER 12: Linebacker Justin Phillips #19 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys sacks quarterback Patrick Mahomes II #5 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders during the second half of a NCAA football game November 12, 2016 at Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma. OSU won 45-44. (Photo by J Pat Carter/Getty Images)
STILLWATER, OK – NOVEMBER 12: Linebacker Justin Phillips #19 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys sacks quarterback Patrick Mahomes II #5 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders during the second half of a NCAA football game November 12, 2016 at Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma. OSU won 45-44. (Photo by J Pat Carter/Getty Images) /

Justin Phillips – Inside Linebacker – Oklahoma State

Many local fans knows who Phillips is, but looking at him from the outside, Phillips will have some work before he makes it onto the roster. He is looking at a practice squad spot as of now, but does have some traits that could help him be a depth player in the NFL. His ability to play special teams could go a long way in helping him early on.

Phillips is a linebacker you want coming downhill and hitting people. He is a strong tackler who can both get to the quarterback when asked and find the running back and hit him. He has a knack for creating fumbles and fills gaps well. He is a smart player and you need that for an inside linebacker.

I don’t like how Phillips over-pursues the ball carrier at times and takes himself out of a play. I also wouldn’t ask him to do much in coverage at this point either. He has the athletic traits for the NFL, but needs a lot of work to be an all-around linebacker. In obvious running situations he could find some time, but until he improves his understanding and ability in the passing game, he is situational and if he can play special teams, could be a depth player earlier than expected.

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