(Editor's Note: With the offseason practices now complete, the Cowboys will take some downtime before departing for training camp on July 28. Until then, let's focus on some of the more unknown rookies on this team, fighting for a roster spot. Today's featured player is linebacker Damien Wilson.)
Name: Damien Wilson
Position: Linebacker
College: Minnesota
Height/Weight: 6-0 / 245
Acquired: Draft (4th Round, 127th overall)
Jersey Number: 45
Collegiate Career: Started 24 of 26 games for the Golden Gophers after transferring from Jones County Community college, where he was the Region 23 MVP. But at Minnesota, Wilson was a first-team All-Big 10 selection as a senior, when he recorded 119 tackles, including 10.5 behind the line of scrimmage. His 15 tackles against Northwestern earned him Big 10 Defensive Player of the Week honors.
Did You Know? Wilson is the cousin of former Minnesota tailback David Cobb, who was drafted in the fifth round (138th overall) by the Titans. [embeddedad0]
2015 Outlook: The Cowboys were obviously happy with Hitchens' rookie production, given the decision to select Wilson in the fourth round of this year's draft. Just like Hitchens, Wilson was a highly productive tackler in the Big Ten, as he finished with 197 total takedowns in just two seasons with Minnesota. This coaching staff expects versatility from all of its linebackers, but Wilson's early focus is likely to be the weak side and the middle spot. Given his high draft status, it's doubtful the rookie gets cut, which should make the veteran competition for roster spots all the more competitive.
Scout's Take:
- Plays with a burst. Can really cover some ground when chasing the ball.
- Wrap-up tackler.
- Will get in trouble when locked up. Needs to be on the move.
- Can really change direction. Quick-footed player with great reactions.
- Would make every single play if he wasn't held.
- Special player when it comes to getting to the ball. Will make plays all over the field.
- Three-down player.
– Bryan Broaddus
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