Five players Dallas Cowboys must target in 2016 NFL Draft

Su’a Cravens (OLB, USC)

In a 4-3 defense, most things are determined by the defensive line but it means little if that front doesn’t have quality linebackers ready to take advantage.  Given the injury concerns with Sean Lee among others, Dallas is not as talented or deep at the position as some might believe.  Keep in mind Marinelli had Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs at one point, so he knows how much better they can get.

More than ever teams are looking for linebackers that can do more than just make tackles.  The one that sticks out most is being able to function in coverage.  Few do that better than Su’a Cravens.  During his time at USC he played both outside linebacker and safety, notching five sacks and three interceptions to showcase that versatility.  He closes to the ball fast and arrives with lots of pop.

Some will be concerned that he isn’t big enough at just 6’1″, 225 lbs but smaller linebackers have had lots of success in that scheme.  Cravens has shown that he can make plays based on the quality tape he’s put up in a top college conference.

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