The Dallas Cowboys surprisingly hold the No. 4 overall pick in the NFL Draft after a down season that was ruined by injuries. However, it also gives them the chance to add a major contributor that can make an immediate impact. They can't afford to waste this situation. It's not often a team with Super Bowl potential gets a chance to add a Top 5 pick. Here are three players the Cowboys should target in the first round:
3. Jaylon Smith, LB, Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Smith's draft position is complicated by a torn MCL and ACL. He'd be a no-brainer for this if he was totally healthy, but the injury could cause him to miss most of his rookie season. Smith isn't a tweener, but a true hybrid. He can play any LB position and is a freak athlete. Smith reminds me a lot of Patrick Willis. If he checks out medically, he's worth considering at No. 4. UCLA's Myles Jack is also worth thinking about, but I think No. 4 is a bit too high for him.
2. Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State Seminoles
It's not clear if Ramsey is part of the next generation of bigger corners, or better off at safety. Either way, he's a good fit for the Cowboys. Secondary is a major need, and Ramsey could step in right away. He's a true playmaker at either position. Ramsey is worth a top 5 pick, as is Florida CB Vernon Hargreaves. Either pick would help the Cowboys' secondary in a big way.
1. Jared Goff, QB, Cal Golden Bears
Goff isn't the perfect QB, but he is worth drafting No. 4 overall. He comes from a variation of the Air Raid offense, but called his own plays at times. While there will be a learning curve, sitting behind Tony Romo for a few seasons is the best possible thing for Goff. He's the top QB in the class, with solid size, a good arm and enough accuracy. He needs some time to develop, but drafting Goff keeps the Cowboys' Super Bowl window open another 10-15 years. Goff might not even last to Dallas, but the Cowboys should jump all over him if he does.
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