The Dallas Cowboys posted the best record in the NFC last season, but fell short in the playoffs. This year, this group has major Super Bowl aspirations - but they need a few key players to up their game and have breakout seasons. Here are the three players that Dallas most needs to step up this year:
DB Anthony Brown
It's no secret that the secondary is Dallas' biggest question mark going into the season, and they're counting on rookies Chidobe Awuzie and Jourdan Lewis to play major roles. As a result, they need the few veterans they have back - like Anthony Brown - to step up and really be reliable players. He showed last season that he can play either slot or outside, and that versatility will be very helpful again.
DE Taco Charlton
It may be cheating to put a rookie on this list, but the Cowboys drafted Charlton with the expectation of him contributing in a big way right away. Dallas ranked in the middle of the pack in sacks last season, but they didn't have a single player who had over six sacks. Owner Jerry Jones said he felt the Cowboys needed a "war daddy" who could consistently get after the quarterback, and they picked Charlton to be that guy. If he consistently pressures the opposing quarterback, Dallas will be the best team in the NFC again.
LB Jaylon Smith
Anything the Cowboys can get from Smith should be considered a positive given the injury he suffered at Notre Dame. However, Smith says he'll be ready to play Week 1 against the New York Giants, and if that's the case, he'll likely have a significant role with the defense. Dallas will be counting on him to help stop the run and defend tight ends.
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