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2021 NFL Draft: Dallas Cowboys 7-round mock

By Mike Phillips

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - DECEMBER 08: Head coach Mike McCarthy of the Dallas Cowboys looks on against the Baltimore Ravens during the third quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on December 8, 2020 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - DECEMBER 08: Head coach Mike McCarthy of the Dallas Cowboys looks on against the Baltimore Ravens during the third quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on December 8, 2020 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /
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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SEPTEMBER 19: Payton Turner #98 of the Houston Cougars in action during a game at Yulman Stadium on September 19, 2019, in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SEPTEMBER 19: Payton Turner #98 of the Houston Cougars in action during a game at Yulman Stadium on September 19, 2019, in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

Dallas Cowboys mock draft – Third Round

Payton Turner. 75. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Houston. player. 123. EDGE

Finding an edge rusher is another critical component for the Cowboys in the offseason. Dallas has been linked to plenty of edge rushers in the free-agent market but a more practical solution given the team’s salary cap issues is to find a solution in the draft.

One underrated edge-rushing prospect is Turner, who has been productive throughout his college career. Turner racked up five sacks for the Cougars in 2020 and another 3.5 in 2019, thanks in large part due to his excellent football instincts.

There are also plenty of physical attributes to like with Turner, who utilizes his size and lateral quickness to put together a solid arsenal of pass-rushing moves. Turner also has the skills to kick inside and help out against the run, making him a versatile chess piece for new defensive coordinator Dan Quinn’s scheme.

Pairing a guy like Turner with a veteran free agent signing would be a more cost-effective way for Dallas to add some more pass rush options to the in-house candidates like DeMarcus Lawrence and Randy Gregory. It also would be a thrill for a Texas native like Turner to be able to suit up for the Cowboys.

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