Dallas Cowboys free agency 2017: Top 5 targets

Sep 25, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Morris Claiborne (24) and defensive tackle Terrell McClain (97) and teammates celebrate recovering a fumble in the third quarter against the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 4, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley (30) is pursued by New England Patriots defensive end Jabaal Sheard (93) during the fourth quarter at Gillette Stadium. The New England Patriots won 26-10. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Jabaal Sheard

If the Cowboys could use any positional help in the worst way, it would be the defensive line. Jack Crawford is a free agent, and Tyrone Crawford has been a disappointment. They are unsure that they have in Demarcus Lawrence, and David Irving is really on the stable piece in the front.

Sheard is a free agent from the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots, but it seems very unlikely that he will be back. He fell out favor late in the season, but should talent and versatility on the edge for the Patriots. Sheard is strong in holding the edge in rush game, and he can slide inside on obvious passing downs and take on guards in the trenches.

Sheard is an unknown as it is, and starting in nine games in two seasons for the Patriots is not his first selling point. Still, this is a guy who put up eight sacks last season and has five sacks in five of his six NFL seasons. His skill set matches what the Cowboys need up front, and he is an under the radar talent that may be able to be grabbed at a cheaper price than the production you will get from him.

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