IRVING, Texas –The NFL Draft has come and gone just like that.
The Cowboys were scheduled to get seven players but ended with eight, thanks to a last-minute trade in the seventh round.
So as the rookies get ready to come to Valley Ranch this coming weekend for the start of a three-day minicamp, let's take a closer look how these new players can fit into their roles, along with their overall chances of making the team.
Byron Jones1st round, CB, UConn
What seemed to gain even more attention that his combine workout was his the fact Jones can play both safety and cornerback. And the fact he said he plans to come in and continue on special teams means this guy seems to have it somewhat figured out already. Jones will certainly be on the field right away, but we don't exactly know where. The Cowboys said this week Jones will likely start out at cornerback. And with some of the question marks this team has at corner, such as Orlando Scandrick reportedly wanting to readdress his contract and Brandon Carr possibly having to rework his, the Cowboys need some stability at cornerback and that's why Jones was picked. However, if somehow Scandrick and Carr both return to the team and it becomes a deep position, maybe Jones will be used at safety. Either way, that becomes a good problem to have.
Randy Gregory2nd round, DE, Nebraska
Rushing the passer was not a problem for Gregory in college. And based on his tape, it seems like Gregory will be able to transition to the NFL just fine. Off-the-field issues, of course, were the reasons why he dropped to the second round. But when it comes to talent, Gregory should be able to step right in and contribute as a rusher, at least on third downs. Gregory's playing weight has been an issue, too as he weighed in around 235 at the combine. He'll have a full offseason to try to get back to the 250-range. The Cowboys lost a pair of defensive ends in free agency in Anthony Spencer and George Selvie. And while the club signed Greg Hardy, who is facing a 10-game suspension, there seems to be room for a high-motor end like Gregory, who should step right into the mix on passing situations.
Chaz Green3rd round, OT, Florida
Maybe this wasn't considered a top need, but the Cowboys didn't have a swing tackle on the roster who has played in a game. The club lost Jermey Parnell in free agency and Green's versatility to play both left and right tackle should give him an edge in backing up both Doug Free and Tyron Smith. Green has some position flex to play some at guard, which will only help him become active on game day. Green's biggest competition will be from Darrion Weems, who missed all of last year with a shoulder injury.
*Damien Wilson4th round, LB, Minnesota *
All of a sudden, the Cowboys are starting to have some depth at linebacker, and that's despite losing a pair of veterans in free agency. But Wilson has some ability to play the middle and weak-side, as well as the strong. The hard-hitting tackler should also fit right in on special teams, with his ability to run. The Cowboys have found themselves rather thin at the position in recent years, but that likely won't be the case now. Don't forget, the Cowboys seemingly picked Anthony Hitchens higher than most draft analysts had the Iowa linebacker pegged, but that turned out to be a solid pick. Let's see if the Cowboys have done it again with Wilson.
On Tuesday, we'll come back with the final four picks of the draft.
