(Editor's Note: While the start of the 2018 NFL Draft isn't until April 26, it's never too early to profile some of the key participants. The staff of DallasCowboys.com intends to preview the landscape of the draft's top prospect, with an emphasis on possible Cowboys draft picks – from the first round to the last. Today's featured player is SMU's Courtland Sutton.)
- Name: Courtland Sutton
- Position: Wide Receiver
- College:SMU
- Height/Weight:6-3 / 218
- Honors:Two-time All-AAC selection, becoming first SMU receiver to receive all-conference honors since Cowboys WR Cole Beasley.
- Key Stat:One of the more decorated receivers in SMU history, Sutton finished his career second in school history with 31 touchdown catches and third in receiving yards with 3,220, surpassing Beasley (2,959).
Where He's Projected:
Sutton has the skills and stats to be a first-round pick. There have been some mock drafts that have him in the range of late-teens to early 20s, which certainly would be entertaining for the Cowboys at No. 19. His combine workout was good, but Sutton could help himself if he improves on his 40 time of 4.55, if he chooses to work out again at his Pro Day at SMU.
How He Helps The Cowboys:
The Cowboys need some playmaking receivers and Sutton can provide that. He's not the fastest receiver in the group and not a perennial deep threat, but he can definitely extend a defense. He's also a red-zone threat who scored 31 touchdowns in three seasons. Depending on what happens with Dez Bryant, the Cowboys could use a receiver ready to contribute right away. Sutton has the size to compete with NFL defensive backs and should be someone to step right in and make a difference.
- Can't draw them up any prettier than him when it comes to a wide receiver. Ideal body type and measurements for the position at 6-3, 218 pounds.
- Speed at the Combine was 4.55, which isn't bad for a player his size.
- Hands are dependable, which you see on tape.
- The questions about him are going to be about his initial separation off the line and his route knowledge. His college scheme was quick passes to get the ball out fast. Going have to develop escape plans off the line and then working on how to get himself further down the field.
- I've developed a bit of a phobia about taller receivers that don't have route skills to begin with, especially for the Cowboys. Kid has a chance to be a really good player if he can work through that lack of knowledge.
