Dallas Cowboys 1st Round Options: 2013 NFL Draft
By Blake Meek
Sep 8, 2012; Winston Salem, NC, USA North Carolina Tar Heels guard Jonathan Cooper (64) blocks during a pass play in the second quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB
Jonathan Cooper – The interior of the Cowboys line is not very good. They really need it to get better at protect Tony Romo and openning up holes for DeMarco Murray. Cooper is an athletic guard with outstanding and very fluid footwork. He also shows outstanding balance and is very good at getting out and blocking on the move. He is just as effective moving and blocking left or right. Shows some nastiness out on the field, not afraid to get physical. Also has the ability to slide over and play center if that is where the Cowboys think they need the most help. He isn’t as strong as a Chance Warmack and can get pushed back by the bigger, stronger DTs.
Sep 1, 2012; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tackle D. J. Fluker (76) on the line of scrimmage during the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Cowboys Stadium. Alabama beat Michigan 41-14. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
D.J. Fluker – Fluker is a player than can either take over for Doug Free, who has been really bad since signing his big contract, at RT or slide inside and play guard. With Flukers size, he is a right tackle or guard prospect only. Fluker is an extremely powerful run blocker. Has long arms and shockingly little fat on a very impressive frame. Has extremely powerful hands, showing the ability to latch onto a defender and push him where he wants him to be. Is an extremely passionate player and was said to be the emotional leader for the Crimson Tide. He hasn’t demonstrated the agility or ability to stop top level speed rushers.
Oct 13, 2012; Bloomington, IN, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Johnathan Hankins (52) against the Indiana Hoosiers during the 2nd half at Memorial Stadium. Ohio State defeated Indiana 52-49. Mandatory Credit: Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports
Johnathan Hankins – Jay Ratliff looks like he will be back next year, but hasn’t played very well since he got his big contract. With the Cowboys switching to the 4-3 next year they will need help at the defensive tackle position. Hankins has excellent feet and quickness for a man his size. Hankins is extremely good against the run, but also shows the ability to knife through the line and disrupt in the passing game. Is very fluid and has good range for a player his size, dropping into coverage at times at Ohio St. Does tend to rely too much on upper body strength. Will wear down over the course of a game, better if he doesn’t play every down.