Cowboys' Defense Boosted by Rodriguez

0:00On March 25th, the Dallas Cowboys head into year two under head coach Brian Shottenheimer after finishing last season with seven wins, nine losses, and one tie. Their offense ranked among the league's best, but the defense ranked near the bottom, letting opponents pile up big numbers. That unit finished 30th in total yards allowed at 377 per game, and dead last in points given up at 30.1. The league defense sat 23rd, while passing yards allowed top the charts in the wrong way, thanks to weak pass rush and shaky linebacker play. Now, CBS Sports analyst Pete Prisco sees the Cowboys grabbing Texas Tech standout linebacker Jacob Rodriguez with a 20-of-pick in the 20, 26 NFL draft. The Butkis Award winner could plug those gaps right away. Rodriguez posted 128 tackles and four interceptions last year, proving he handles runstuffers and coverage duties with ease. His instincts in range would shore up the middle and take heat off the secondary.

1:02Landing a versatile playmaker like him might turn the Cowboys' defense from a weak spot into a real asset, setting them up for a stronger push next, season.