Breaking Down and Grading the Drafts of the NFC East Teams

Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys did very well in this year's draft. They were able to get a 1st round pick next year by trading down with the Browns. Despite trading down they were still able to trade up and draft the same player they wanted at their original pick, Anthony Spencer. Spencer is a very good defensive end out of Purdue, and he will greatly help an overrated Dallas defense. Spencer has great explosive pass rushing ability but, can also stop the run, he will be a perfect complement to Demarcus Ware as the other outside linebacker in the Dallas 3-4 scheme. Expert draftician Mel Kiper Jr.has even predicted Spencer to be the defensive rookie of the year. I won't go as far as Mel and give him the ROY yet, but Spencer will be a solid contributor this year and will eventually become a premier defensive end in the years to come.

Tackle James Marten was an excellent pick in the third round. He is tall (6'7"), athletic, and plays with a mean streak. He could step in and start for Dallas this season. The other tackle drafted by Dallas, Doug Free in the fourth round, was a steal and also could see significant playing time this year. Cornerback Courtney Anderson in the seventh round was a great pick, as he has the talent to become a good cornerback in the NFL. Dallas addressed there kicking needs with Nick Folk out of Arizona in the sixth round, but I would rather see them draft Mason Crosby there or Andrew Wellock instead. However Dallas earns a high grade by being able to maneuver into an additional first round pick next year, while still being able to draft the player they wanted. They addressed their needs in the offensive line and stole Free and Anderson in the later rounds. My Grade: A-