(Editor's Note: With just one month until the start of the 2016 NFL Draft on April 28, the staff of DallasCowboys.com intends to preview the landscape of possible Cowboys draft picks – from the top of the first round to the bottom of the talent pool. Today's featured player is Clemson defensive end Kevin Dodd.)
Name:Kevin Dodd
Position:DE
College: Clemson
Height/Weight: 6-4/275
Honors:It's a bit startling that Dodd only received honorable mention All-ACC honors, given that he posted a fantastic 24 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks during the 2015 season. He can probably thank his teammate, All-American defensive end Shaq Lawson, for gobbling up the votes.
Key Stat:Dodd leapt into the national spotlight during Clemson's national title game loss to Alabama this past January. He abused Alabama right tackle Dominick Jackson all night, piling up five tackles for loss and three sacks against the Crimson Tide.
Where He's Projected: Dodd doesn't boast the absurd athleticism of some of the high-profile pass rushers in this draft, but there's no denying his ability or his room for growth. He's not going to be a top-10 pick, but he could be a candidate for the Cowboys' second-round pick – assuming he doesn't sneak into the back half of the first round.
How He Helps the Cowboys: The need for pass rushers is undeniable, as the Cowboys are extremely short on proven playmakers. Given his size, Dodd could work at left end, just like he did in college, and allow DeMarcus Lawrence to shift to the right side. He'd offers a stout presence against the run with a strong pass rush element.
Scout's Take:Can really close down off the edge. Plays with start and stop quickness. Shows quickness to capture the edge. Can get up the field then retrace his steps to get back in on the play. Nice job of extending his hands and controlling the blocker. Works to set up pass rush moves. Plays up the field. Effort to finish plays. There are snaps where he tries to throw guys but is not always successful. Will take on the trap block and beat the blocker. Quick hands and strong with them. Will play down the line and find the ball. Can avoid the low block. Can close when he gets the corner. Inside charge for tackle for loss. Can get through gaps and make plays. Rushes well inside over the guard. Shows initial quickness and a burst. Keeps working. Plays with balance. Could see him lining up at either end spot but most likely better on the left side. – Bryan Broaddus
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