Dallas Cowboys 2021 mock draft: Fixing the defense at every level

Next up on the list for the Dallas Cowboys is addressing the linebacker position. Leighton Vander Esch has shown he can be a difference-maker, but injuries have kept him off the field for a big chunk of time on his rookie contract. Jaylon Smith has struggled a bit more recently as well.

Palaie Gaoteote IV would be a fun addition to this defense. The USC linebacker is only a junior entering the season, but he is an athletic, rangy linebacker who can do it all. He can blitz, cover, and make plays in the backfield. Gaoteote gets a little aggressive at times against the run rather than staying patient, so it will be important to watch him improve in 2020.

This mock draft for the Cowboys finishes up with a true playmaker. Brady Breeze does a lot for the Oregon secondary, and while it stinks he won’t be playing in 2020, there’s a lot to like with his game. He flies downhill to make tackles and is a reliable finisher. He’s also got a knack for creating turnovers as the stat sheet shows, recovering four fumbles and recording two picks in 2019.

Breeze would likely take the strong safety spot while Cisco mans things deep, but Breeze is versatile enough to play in multiple spots, wherever he’s needed most. He’d be a great add this late in the draft.