5 players the Cowboys should draft in the first round
3. Jaylen Waddle, WR, Alabama
Yes, yes, yes. The LAST area that Jones needs to address is the receiver position. In fact, the last areas he should even think about are offensive skill positions.
However, before you possibly click off this article in a fury of frustration, listen to the theory behind drafting Jaylen Waddle in the first round.
Last year, Jones raised some eyebrows when he ignored offensive line and safety in the first round. Instead, he could not pass up the chance to draft a potential star receiver with pick 17. CeeDee Lamb was chosen out of Oklahoma and he went on to have a strong rookie campaign.
Lamb rounded out the receiving corps well with Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup. He finished the year with 74 receptions for 935 yards and five receiving scores. If Prescott were healthy the whole year, it is fair to assume those numbers would be higher.
So, how would Waddle fit? Wouldn’t it be unwise to add him to that pack of receivers if he might not be used a lot? Fair questions, but here is why adding the former Crimson Tide star makes sense.
Cooper is one of the best receivers in football. He had a fantastic year last year, and he has been great since coming over from Oakland. Oh, and he is still only 26-years old.
Although, Cooper has a large contract, which may become tricky as time goes on. Especially if Prescott is brought back. According to Spotrac, there is an out in his contract after this upcoming season. Moving on from him would be a massive decision, but one that may be more cost-effective. Gallup is entering his fourth year in the league, which means the team will have to make a financial determination on his future as 2021 is his final year on his current deal.
Having Waddle around could make that decision much easier if he becomes the player many project him to be in the NFL. A young core at receiver headlined by Lamb and Waddle would be great for Prescott as well.
This is all hypothetical and probably a little unlikely due to how well Cooper has performed for the team. But, you can never fully count things out, especially when it comes down to the bottom line (MONEY).