NFL Draft: 5 players Cowboys should draft in first round

4. Trenton Simpson

The Cowboys want to add more dynamic playmakers on the defensive side of the ball next season. Simpson isn’t a popular name in the first round of many mock drafts, but that could change as teams take a second look at his collegiate film.

The reason teams might do more homework on Simpson is that he lit up the combine with his 4.43 40-yard dash. Teams weren’t surprised he ran fast in Indianapolis, but that number raised more than a few eyebrows in the scouting community.

The downside to Simpson’s game is that he needs a lot of scheme freedom to capitalize on his athletic gifts. The blank slate the Cowboys have at linebacker currently could work to his advantage. At worst, Simpson projects as a guy who can help Dallas rush the passer and cover in nickel situations as a rookie.

The value might not line up well for the Cowboys to take a linebacker at No. 26, but if they do they should gamble on a potential difference-maker. Simpson has star potential if things break right for him at the next level.