3 good value defensive tackles the Cowboys could target in the third round of the draft

The third round could be right spot for the Cowboys to land a defensive tackle.

The Dallas Cowboys have been busy beavers this offseason, or at least busier than they typically are. Between trades and free agent signings, they have addressed several positions already. Looking through the roster, the team has certainly filled some holes, but they still have some spots where additional resources are needed. One of those areas is defensive tackle.

The Cowboys re-signed Osa Odighizuwa and added the versatile Solomon Thomas on a two-year deal, so there’s some pass-rushing prowess along the interior defensive line. They also have nose tackle Mazi Smith on the roster. Smith is halfway through his four-year rookie deal. This will be Smith’s third different defensive coordinator in as many years.

The team isn’t depleted in the middle, but they should still look to add a fresh, new big boy in the trenches, and they might find what they need toward the end of Day 2 of the NFL Draft. They’ve gone this route with Maliek Collins, Neville Gallimore, and the before-mentioned Odighizuwa, but it’s about time to look again. Here are three defensive tackle options who could be great value grabs in the third round of the upcoming draft.

T.J. Sanders, South Carolina

Sanders gets off the block quickly, looking for the quickest path around his blockers. He has slappy hands to fend off opponents and attacks the shoulder to prevent his man from squaring up on him. His active hands and length do a good job of keeping blockers from getting into his chest. Once he gets started, he’s very hard to redirect. Sanders plays with a good amount of power and does more pushing than being pushed, allowing him to close out running lanes and get to the quarterback. He had 93 tackles and 9.5 sacks over his last two seasons.

Consensus mock draft position: 69

Pro Football Focus big board: 36

Shemar Turner, Texas A&M

A little undersized at 290 pounds, Turner doesn’t have the prototypical defensive tackle build. He gets off the blocks quickly and works quickly to get into the gaps. He uses his hands well and slaps, tugs, or pushes away any attempt to get into his body. He’s a relentless pursuer and very aggressive, even to the point where it’s gotten him in trouble. He has a mean streak that led to unsportsmanlike penalties. While Turner’s size and short arms will limit his overall effectiveness, he has the athleticism and play awareness to keep him right in the middle of the action.

Consensus mock draft position: 83

Pro Football Focus big board: 55

Omarr Norman-Lott, Tennessee

With jumpy feet, Normal-Lott gets off the snap quickly and attacks. He loves to reroute his blocker, looking for any way to get around him. He’ll fight with power, using his hands to shove into the chest and drive his man back. He also swipes and swims to sneak around the block. Norman-Lott stays engaged until he’s done with you, quickly breaking apart and firing toward wherever he wants to go. His sudden reaction and burst make him an unsuspecting lane closer just waiting to shut things down. And if he doesn’t get your right away, he might get you later because he’s a high-motor player who is relentless in pursuit.

Consensus mock draft position: 89

Pro Football Focus big board: 61

The consensus draft positions were found using NFL Mock Draft Database.

The Pro Football Focus ranks for defensive tackles can be found here.