The most important part of free agency is behind us. Dallas did a great job in that period, but now comes the instance on which he usually bases his roster construction. In this series we’ll look at some prospects who could help the Cowboys at each position. Today: interior offensive linemen.
Dallas has made picking offensive linemen early in the draft a long-standing priority. Last year they needed to improve in that area, so they used their first-round pick there. The choice of Tyler Smith was precisely to play left guard despite having been a tackle at the college level. However, veteran Tyron Smith’s injury in training camp opened up another hole in the line.
The rookie then ran outside. For that reason Connor McGovern had more snaps than expected. His performance was acceptable, although someone new will have to line up there because McGovern received a three-year contract for $22.35 million with the Buffalo Bills.
The Cowboys signed Chuma Edoga to add depth, but there isn’t a long-term option yet. The other position he might need from the draft is center. Tyler Biadasz was a solid fourth-round addition in 2020, although this will be the last year of his contract. It wouldn’t hurt to have a backup plan in case a potential extension negotiation doesn’t pan out.
O’Cyrus Torrence – Guardia – Florida
Torrence appears to many as the top player in the draft at this position. The 23-year-old is a lineman whose best tool is his power that complements his enormous size. The 1.95m of him with 150 kg make a great build for that position. One major advantage he possesses is that he has experience at both left and right guards.
Last year the #Jaguars OL excelled in Pass Pro, however, in Run-Blocking, the #Jaguars finished an ugly 30th per @PFF.#Gators O’Cyrus Torrence could be a huge get at 24 to help the run game.
pic.twitter.com/K7v9J3chRB— Daniel Griffis (@DanDGriffis) February 26, 2023
Cody Mauch – Guardia/Tackle – North Dakota State
Mauch competed at the collegiate level in the second tier of difficulty. However, he rose in the rankings to rank high among interior offensive linemen. His build isn’t all that intimidating at 6’3″ and 300 pounds, but he has very good mobility thanks to his early start as a tight end. His entire career was spent at left tackle, but experts view his projection more as a guard because of his short arms length. The selection range would be the second round.
Darkhorse candidate for most media coverage at the Senior Bowl is NDSU’s Cody Mauch (#70).
– No front teeth
– Long flowing ginger locks
– Gained 80+ pounds after walking on as a tight end
– One of the best highlight reels of anyone in the class pic.twitter.com/01l12lfync— Austin Gayle (@austingayle_) January 30, 2023
Steve Avila – Guardia/Centro – TCU
Avila was a valuable asset to the Horned Frogs who made it to the college football finals in shock fashion. He has a physique of 1.92m and 151kg which is enhanced by his mobility. The best tool he has is his positional flexibility having played two full seasons at center and in 2022 at left guard. Taking him in the second or third round would be a great addition to add depth to the line with his versatility.
TCU OG Steve Avila vs. Texas. Big frame at 6-4, 330lbs with natural strength. He’ll be at the Senior Bowl. Want to see him in 1 on 1 pass rush period. pic.twitter.com/zwirmqC0Lj
— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) January 27, 2023
