NFL Draft 2021: Dallas Cowboys select OT Josh Ball: A Steal
Defensive streak ends, Cowboys select OT Josh Bell. Six selections later and the Dallas Cowboys have strayed away from the defensive positions, as the team called up Offensive Tackle Josh Ball. Ball becomes the first offensive player selected for Dallas.
With the 138th pick the Dallas Cowboys selected Marshall Offensive Tackle Josh Ball.
In terms of top tier Left Tackles, Josh Ball was not listed high on anyone’s board. However Cowboys’ fans should rejoice, as the team was able to improve with some major upsize.
While playing for Marshall, Ball’s best season came during his senior year. He started eight tackles at left tackle and was integrate part of the team’s success last season. Ball was also listed All First Team for Conference USA.
Some key skills include his ability to protect the blindside for quarterbacks when needed and his ability to fight through multiple defenders. Other attributes include his long arms and ability to counter blockers down field.
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One major concern though is his lack of quickness and inability to maintain proper footwork against bigger defenders.
Another key issue is an off the field that occurred in 2018 during his days with the Florida State Seminoles. During his time, he was cited for a domestic violence incident. Soon after, he left the program entirely, transferred to Butler Community College and agreed to an offer from Marshall University. Upon his move to Marshall, Ball vowed to be a better man and citizen within society.
One reason why this is important, is due to the fact he missed most of the 2018 college season. This ties into his failure to fully understand and develop the proper skills needed for the offensive line position.
Next. NFL Draft 2021: Dallas Cowboys select LSU LB Jabril Cox: The Impact. dark
However, given the Cowboys’ coaches and personal I believe he will be just fine. Now, I do not expect Ball to start right off the bat, but given time and practice he could become the next big thing.
I mean how many players can players do you know are listed at 6’8, 309 pounds?