2021 NFL Team Draft Page

Even though the Cowboys needed help on their defense, I don't like this pick for them. They've invested in linebackers with very similar skill sets to Parsons, and while 2020 wasn't a good year for them, that's true of everyone on that defense. Yes, Parsons is the best defender in this draft, but those character issues scare me. I thought it would be Slater, who can be one of the better guards in the league very early in his career. He also provides insurance at the left tackle position if Tyron Smith continues to struggle with injuries. This team has always prioritized their offensive line in the draft, and after paying Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott all that money, that made sense. Not saying Parsons can't be a great pick, but the character concerns are very real. Grade: B

~Austin Smith, DraftTek Senior Analyst

Right now, I-m in a bit of disbelief. It-s not that Joseph or Micah Parsons aren-t talented. However, this is back-to-back picks with character concerns. We shouldn-t be shocked that Jerry Jones would make a pick like this, but Stephen Jones and Will McClay have done a good job at limiting these kind of moves in recent years. Joseph has the skills to be the best corner in this class, and his limited tape reminds me of Janoris Jenkins at Florida. However, Dallas is gambling on another player who could make them shutter every time the phone rings late at night.

Grade: B-

~ Austin Smith, DraftTek Senior Analyst

The Cowboys watched some defensive linemen go ahead of them like Alim McNeill and Milton Williams that I would have liked more than Odihizuwa. Still, length is something this team needs up front. He can also play multiple positions on the front, as I think he could be the four-tech end because of his arm length, pad level, and powerful hands. He could also rotate at the three-tech tackle position with Trysten Hill and Neville Gallimore. He's definitely more ready to be disruptive against the run at this point, but the guy plays with a high-motor that makes me believe he's not done developing.

~ Austin Smith, DraftTek Senior Analyst

Grade: C+

Golston is another long-armed, powerful defensive lineman that can play inside or out. Like Osa Odighizuwa, who Dallas selected at #75, his best position will likely be the interior-shaded end position in Dan Quinn's scheme. Golston is actually very similar to the type of player and person that Tyrone Crawford was for a long time in Dallas. He gives great effort on all three downs, although his sack production is more about that than physical gifts. He will make this team better at stopping the run, which can't be understated after the Cowboys were one of three teams to give up five yards or more per carry.

~ Austin Smith, DraftTek Senior Analyst

Grade: B-

This is certainly the biggest reach in the first two days, and I'm not sure what Dallas was thinking here. We have him ranked at #362 on our draft board, and the Cowboys were convinced that he was worthy of the 99th selection. Wright measured just over six feet, four inches and weighs 183 pounds at his Pro Day. That's slender to say the least. Obviously, someone in the draft room felt they could redshirt this guy and mold his length and athleticism into a future NFL player. To say patience will be the key may be the understatement of the year. I will certainly file this one away and admit I was wrong on the grade if he does workout. However, I will not be holding my breath.

Grade: F

~ Austin Smith, DraftTek Senior Analyst