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The calendar now says January 1st, 2014. With a brand new year here, it's time for a brand new Cowboys offseason, as depressing as that sounds. Every offseason brings one of the most loved/hated traditions of an NFL offseason - the mock draft. You know they're coming, so let's just go ahead and dive right in. Why wait for common sense, rationality or anything like that? Let's go ahead and dream about players who will undoubtedly be totally different looking prospects by the time the actual draft arrives.
So we'll start with SB Nation's Mocking The Draft. They decided the Cowboys need help along the defensive line. I can't disagree with that, I wouldn't mind a couple of draft picks along the d-line along with signing a moderately priced veteran (if we can get the salary cap under control). Anyway, here's the pick:
16 or 17. Dallas Cowboys: Ra'Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota
Jason Hatcher was a superstar for the Cowboys this season, but Nick Hayden struggled next to him. The addition of Hageman would improve one of the league's worst run defenses, and add an extra element to the pass rush. If the Cowboys happen to show three-man fronts, Hageman has the athleticism to play end as well.
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Not sure why mention the three-man fronts, Dallas really didn't play any of that in any meaningful way. Hageman is an interesting prospect. Right now, some call him a boom-or-bust pick. But after measuring, prodding, working him out and other things, we'll get a clearer picture of where he sits on draft day. One thing Hageman does have is a very interesting background. Think Michael Oher of The Blindside fame, and of the Baltimore Ravens.
SB Nation has an excellent article on the kid here.
So, what do you think? Is he a good prospect? Should the Cowboys use their first pick on the defensive line? Get your thoughts in early, why wait for logic and actual on-the-ground news?
