Greg Hardy suspension: 3 NFL Draft replacement for Dallas Cowboys

Shane Ray, DE, Missouri

Shane Ray may be even more of a long-shot for the Cowboys to land, considering some NFL draft experts have him projected to go in the first 10 picks next week. If the standout defensive end out of Missouri is available past pick No. 10, however, the team’s front office must heavily consider trading up to draft him.

Ray is a freakishly athletic defensive lineman, something that does not come along every day, and unlike Randy Gregory, he is a natural fit at the position. The two players do share one similarity, though, and that is their tremendous pass rushing ability. Either addition would impose fear in opposing offensive tackles for years to come.

In addition to his diverse skill set, Ray also earned first team All-American honors and the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award last season, another promising sign and another reason for the Cowboys to heavily consider him as not only a stop-gap while Hardy is suspended, but as a player they can build their defensive front for the future around. If the Cowboys decide to keep Hardy for the long haul, him and Ray would be an imposing duo to bookend their defensive line.

Unfortunately, it is unlikely for Ray to fall very far into the first round. If it does happen, however, the Cowboys could end up with one of the biggest steals of the draft. On paper he may not be the best defensive player out there, but you would be hard-pressed to find a player that plays with more intensity than Ray.

Next: Arik Armstead