Dallas Cowboys Draft: OT Asim Richards Profile (utility lineman)

The Dallas Cowboys value “mean” on their offensive line. They like players who are powerful and have a nasty streak to their game. From Zack Martin to Tyler Smith, they target this style of player to fit their identity up front.

Given the uncertain long-term status of multiple players along their line, the Cowboys could be looking for a new lineman to help populate the ranks. Someone who could develop for a year and possibly slip into a starter role a year or two down the road.

Asim Richards is a big bodied player the Dallas Cowboys could be interested in as reserve offensive lineman.

With over 2,500 career snaps, Richards is one of the most experienced and battle tested linemen in the draft. At 6-foot-4, 325 pounds, he’s NFL built and ready to compete from Day 1. He’s a strong run blocker who should be able to play in a number of blocking schemes.

Not overly quick or explosive, he’s going to struggle against faster rushers on the edge. TDN specifically pointed out his issues getting out of his stance and some inconsistencies with his pass protection. While strong and dominant against the run, he may not be athletic enough to be starting offensive tackle in the NFL.

But given his strengths and size, he looks like a player who could move inside to guard and be a dominant player. I see a player who can be a swing tackle and/or starting guard. He could start his career as a utility offensive lineman and depending on his development, move to a specific spot full-time.

Projected Draft Spot: TDN projects him as a fourth round value but much of that will be dependent on who thinks he’s a tackle and who thinks he’s a guard. His ceiling is fairly capped but his floor is high which means you sacrifice potential for less risk.

The Dallas Cowboys would be wise to take a couple shots at offensive line in the middle rounds and Asim Richards is a good one to target on Day 3 sometime.