FRISCO, Texas – Somehow, it's draft season once again.
The offseason is flying by, and the 2019 NFL Draft is set to start in just a few short weeks.
This year is different from other ones, as the Cowboys' trade for Amari Cooper leaves them without a first-round pick this month. With their first selection coming at pick No. 58, it's a bit more challenging to identify their targets.
Still, by paying attention to their pre-draft movements, it's possible to get an idea for what the Cowboys are thinking this year. The goal of this series is to identify their targets at the back end of the second round.
The series continues with Washington safety Taylor Rapp.
- Name: Taylor Rapp
- Position: Safety
- College: Washington
- Height/Weight: 6-0/208
- Honors: Rapp was a first-team All-Pac-12 selection each of the last two years and received first-team All-American recognition by various outlets in 2018.
- Key Stat: An early-entry junior, Rapp posted 171 tackles (10 for loss) and seven interceptions (one touchdown) in three seasons for the Huskies. He recovered three fumbles last season alone.
How's His Stock: While most mock drafts have Rapp in the second-round range, some outside observers believe his stock could slip slightly after posting a reported 4.7-second 40-yard dash time at his pro day. But Rapp's toughness, range and instincts are evident on his college tape. He's still arguably the best safety prospect in this year's class.
How He Could Help: Newly-signed seven-year veteran George Iloka adds depth behind 2018 starters Xavier Woods and Jeff Heath. But drafting a safety isn't out of the question if value presents itself on Day 2 or 3. Rapp showed versatility at Washington, able to make tackles near the line of scrimmage and make plays in coverage. He conceivably could help a team at free or strong safety.
Scouting Report: Plays near the line. Has a feel for his assignments. Plays with some range. Fights through the trash. Nice job timing the run blitz. Has the ability to run and close. Quickness in his feet. Can stay with his man in coverage. Shows redirection skills. Plays at all levels of the defense. Not afraid to stick his nose in there. Form tackler. Will react quickly. Takes good angles to the ball. Doesn't miss tackles. Tough player. Love his ability to play anywhere in the scheme. Nice fit if you want to play him up or back. Not hard to find on film. – Bryan Broaddus
