FRISCO, TEXAS — The Dallas Cowboys filled their edge need with the 179th pick in the Draft with Bradlee Anae out of Utah. Anae was projected to go in the third round and Dallas got a steal, acquiring him in the fifth.
Anae was a three-year starter at left defensive end in Morgan Scalley’s scheme. He is the complete package. He quickly accelerates around the edge to get on top of blockers and harass quarterbacks. He is also effective against the run and according to former coaches; his work ethic is off the charts.
He had an extremely productive collegiate career, becoming Utah’s all-time leading sack artist with 30 accumulated over his career.
Following Anae’s selection, I asked the power edge about the accomplishment. He humbly replied, “ I don’t take pride in the accomplishment itself [sacks]. I took more pride in the work it took to get there.”
This defensive end is the real deal. Instead of describing his strengths to the local Dallas media, he simply responded, “ I don’t like talking about it. I want to go to work.”
Anae does not want lip service, he wants to put on a Cowboys uniform, earn his place, and showcase his ability on the gridiron in the NFL.
The Cowboys lost their best pass rusher last season, Robert Quinn, in free agency to the Bears. There is no guarantee that Aldon Smith or Randy Gregory will be reinstated by the NFL Commissioner, and Anae provides depth and insurance. He has the ability to become an instant impact player in the league with his burst around the edge.
Anae will join the player he tried to emulate throughout his football career. “ A longtime player I’ve watched is DeMarcus Lawrence. Getting the chance to come to Dallas is a dream come true.”
