As the Cowboys begin rookie minicamp, let's take a closer look at each selection, including what they've done, how they fit, and what was said about their picks over the weekend.
Let's end today with seventh-round pick Justin Rodgers.
- name: Justin Rogers
- position: defensive tackle
- school: Auburn
- choice: 7th Round (244th overall)
What he brings: Rodgers brings a wealth of size and experience to the table. Having played in the SEC, Rodgers should be able to adapt quickly to the speed of the game and the size of the linemen. Obviously, the NFL is a different beast, but Rodgers has faced plenty of top-notch competition during his career at both the University of Kentucky and the University of Auburn. Rodgers is a strong and sturdy player who will rely on his ability to take on double teams and maintain his place in the midfield. The Cowboys lost two defensive tackles to free agency, with Neville Gallimore (Washington) and Jonathan Hankins (Seattle) departing in March. Rodgers should have a chance to get more reps in the offseason, as Madge Smith is rehabbing from a shoulder injury.
Where he plays: There's no question at all where Rodgers will line up on the field. The question for him is how long it will take him to break into the rotation. But when he does come out, he'll likely be in the middle of the defensive line, possibly right above center, depending on how Mike Zimmer plans to play on defense. However, Rodgers is better suited as a nose tackle and would perform Technique 1 right over the ball.
What they are saying: Here are some quotes from the weekend's draft after the Cowboys selected Rodgers in the seventh round.
- Will McCray, Vice President of Player Personnel: “Then there's Justin Rodgers. We want to get big, we want to be physical. Justin Rodgers is a big troublemaker out of Auburn and has some length to play that big inside nose tackle position. So, It's not just about being the best, it's about fitting the players for us, based on what our boards are going to be like in that direction. ”
- 7th round pick Justin Rodgers: “(The Cowboys) are getting a violent talent in the midfield. Someone who is hardworking and ready to work every day.”
