Cowboys 2018 draft: The “dream pick” for the Cowboys

We’ve done a fair amount of trying to figure out who is a realistic pick for the Dallas Cowboys at #19 in the 2018 NFL draft. We’ve done prospect reviews, mock draft evaluations, combed through the pre-draft visits, all in an effort to zero in on a likely pick for Dallas.

Now, let’s throw all that out the window. Say the Cowboys could have any player they wanted in the 2018 draft. Yes, let’s imagine a world where somehow, some way, the Cowboys could just pluck any player they wanted from the draft eligible pool. We won’t even call it the overall number one pick, which seems to come with unwritten rules that you have to use it on a position of high value, or some other false restriction. We’re saying the Cowboys, on the day before the draft, can just remove one player from the eligible pool, and place them on their roster. We’re not even going to worry about the cost of their contract, we’re just going to say - who is the player you most want in the 2018 draft?

Some possibilities:

Quenton Nelson - The Cowboys have a hole at guard, and Nelson is not only the best guard in the draft, but some think he might be the best player overall. Imagine the Cowboys offensive line with Nelson in between Tyron Smith and Travis Frederick.

Saquon Barkely - The Cowboys running game would be devastating. Think about all the possibilities of rotating Barkley and Ezekiel Elliott, or creating plays with both of them on the field. The Cowboys might only pass 10 times a game!

Bradley Chubb - DeMarcus Lawrence on one side, Chubb on the other - what could go wrong? Dallas would have one of the most feared pass rushes in the league with Lawrence, Chubb, and David Irving.

Minkah Fitpatrick - Want to solve the safety problem without trading for Earl Thomas? We got your man. Fitzpatrick could play all over the secondary and would be the cherry on top of a young, emerging secondary for Dallas.

Roquan Smith - The Cowboys need another linebacker, and will definitely need one in a year or so who can play. Smith has been compared to some of the great linebackers in this league and could elevate the Cowboys defense to another level.

Quarterback - We’re just going to lump the quarterbacks into one bucket. Whether you like Josh Rosen, Sam Darnold, Josh Allen, Baker Mayfield or someone else, if you want to replace Dak Prescott, this category is for you. In the comments you can let us know the exact QB you want and why.

Other - Everyone has an opinion about who is a transcendent talent in the draft, so we’ll create an “other” category. Guys like Derwin James, Denzel Ward, Tremaine Edmunds, or even Vita Vea could fall into this bucket. If your preference is someone other than those listed, pick this category and tell us who it is in the comments.