FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys snagged a linebacker and offensive lineman in the fourth round: LSU’s Jabril Cox and Marshall’s Josh Ball to add depth to the roster.
The Cowboys took LSU linebacker Jabril Cox with the 115th pick. Cox was a one-year starter at LSU, lining up as an outside linebacker in the Tigers hybrid 3-4 scheme. The previous three years he spent at North Dakota State as a key cornerstone defender, helping the team reach three straight FCS championships. Cox transferred to LSU to make a splash in the SEC for his final season.
Throughout his four-year collegiate career, he compiled 316 tackles, 38.5 tackles for loss, 15.0 sacks, one forced fumble, 26 passes defensed, and nine interceptions. Cox has natural ball skills and a knack for anticipating where the quarterback wants to throw and disrupting passing lanes. He is disciplined in coverage and will join first-round draft pick Micah Parsons in the Cowboys’ linebacker room, along with Jaylon Smith, Leighton Vander Esch, Francis Bernard, and Luke Gifford.
At the pro level, Cox needs to improve on his block recognition, find more consistency in run fits and refine tackling technique in angle pursuits. Overall, arguably the best player available in the fourth round, projected to go in the second or third. He will help solidify the LB corps. after the retirement of Sean Lee and Joe Thomas’ departure during free agency.
Dallas selected Marshall offensive tackle Josh Ball with the 138th pick. As a one-year starter at Marshall, Ball lined up as the right tackle. He has the position flexibility to play both sides. Prior to, he played two seasons at Florida State before character issues cut his career short. An accusation of domestic violence led to his dismissal, resulting in his stint at the JUCO level (Butler County Community College) before arriving in West Virginia.
He addressed the incident with media following his selection stating, “It happened in the past. I have grown as a human being and as a man.”
Time will tell if the statement is true growth or an attempt to appease.
The Cowboys once again had to do extensive research on a prospect’s character but obviously the team did not see cause for concern. Ball maintains his balance/body control and sets well. He can adjust and has the lateral agility to move in the run game and counteract edge speed.
Ball will need to improve his hand placement and add more bulk at the pro level. After last year’s offensive line fiasco due to injuries, he provides insurance. With an aging and injury-prone Tyron Smith and La’el Collins, Ball will help solidify the unit.
