2018 NFL Mock Draft: Los Angeles Rams select Donte Jackson first round

One year after emerging as one of the top teams to beat in the NFC, the Dallas Cowboys took a major step back this season after failing to earn a spot in the playoffs due to adjusting to changes on the offensive line along with all of the drama surrounding the Ezekiel Elliott suspension. And while these problems shouldn’t be as much of an issue in 2018, the defensive line could see some improvements to help take some of that pressure off the offense.

The addition of someone like Alabama’s Da’Ron Payne would certainly benefit the Cowboys’ defense, especially when it comes to helping stop the run when looking at the impact he was able to make with the Crimson Tide. Not to mention, Payne’s ability to get to quarterbacks is another reason why he’ll most likely be selected by the time the first round comes to an end.

Overall, Dallas’ defense once considered one of the top in the league for the most part this season, but there’s always room for improvement on the defensive line. At least for Payne, joining a team like the Cowboys would put him in great position to be on a team expected to be a contender once again in 2018, despite everything from this season.