Moore: Why Cowboys might be better off passing on DT Dontari Poe and letting Jay Ratliff wreak havoc inside

JAMES D. SMITH / Dallas Cowboys
1 of 14 Next Image


Wouldn't it be smart for the Cowboys to draft a big man like Dontari Poe in the first round and move Ratliff to end that would immediately upgrade the defensive end position and Poe could take on double teams for the middle linebackers


David Moore: If you're convinced Poe is a dominant player and will be from Day One, yes. But has Poe shown in his time at Memphis that he's that player?

People will continue to discuss moving Ratliff to end in a 3-4 because of his size. But his size is part of the reason he's so effective inside. His quickness gives centers and guards problems. Rob Ryan has said Ratliff allows his defense to be more flexible than it would if there was a tree trunk at nose tackle.

An argument can be made for moving Ratliff to end. But I don't think enough people argue of why it makes sense to keep him at nose tackle. My preference: keep Ratliff at nose tackle and add a defensive end that can put some pressure on the quarterback and make plays. Then see what kind of havoc Ratliff would wreak inside.


Are Cowboys high on Fletcher Cox? Who do you think the rate higher Cox or Quinton Copples?       

David Moore: Don't have specifics, but from what I've been able to piece together I'd say the Cowboys may think more of Coples than Cox.


At this point, given the moves the Cowboys have made so far, do you think they will try to target a pass rusher in the first round?

David Moore: That would be ideal. But will there be a pass rusher available at No. 14? I'm not so sure there will be.


Top Picks