Editor's Note: The 2024 NFL Draft is approaching the end of April, and the draft process is in full swing as the Dallas Cowboys and other teams conduct their board meetings to identify the right players for the next level. There is. The DallasCowboys.com staff provides potential picks before the draft to give the Cowboys context on potential targets when the time comes. Next up is Texas running back Jonathan Brooks.
- name: junior colson
- position: linebacker
- College: michigan
- height, weight: 6-2 / 238 (confirmed at combine)
- Combine tests: Not applicable
- Did you know that? Colson was born in Haiti and did not immigrate to the United States until he was adopted in 2012. He began playing soccer in Brentwood, Tennessee, where he emerged as a premier reserve.
Strengths and weaknesses: A true run-stopper at the second level who uses his entire 6-foot-2, 238-pound body to beat the ball carrier, Colson has the strongest strength that fits into the field of all linebackers in the draft class. But don't think his game is limited only to his size and strength. His speed and explosiveness can be seen on film flying through the driving lane. His reading of running lanes could be improved, but he still has a relatively new position and sport to develop compared to other players in his draft class.
Where he is projected: Colson is expected to be one of the first three linebackers taken in the draft, potentially somewhere between the mid-second round and late third round. This would serve as a sweet spot for the Cowboys, who would pick at 58 points in the second round and 87 points in the third round, likely seeking a linebacker on Day 2.
How he helped the Cowboys: The Cowboys desperately needed help to stop them from being eliminated from the second level in 2023, and Colson provided just that. Dallas has already remedied that problem with the addition of Eric Kendricks on a one-year deal this offseason, but the defense has a lot more to offer in the form of a rookie linebacker who can join and at least develop over the long term. A more permanent solution is needed. Four years. His big frame and strength of play will prevent the missed tackles that greatly hampered the linebacker unit in losses to Buffalo and Green Bay last season.
