2017 NFL Mock Draft: Projected First Round After Week 4

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Sep 10, 2016; Champaign, IL, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Dawuane Smoot (91) tackles North Carolina Tar Heels running back Elijah Hood (34) in the endzone for a safety during the 2nd quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports /

123. . EDGE. Illinois. Dawuane Smoot. 19. player

The Dallas Cowboys are dealing with a number of injuries and suspensions on defense this season. However, even when guys like Rolando McClain, Randy Gregory and Demarcus Lawrence return, the Cowboys are going to need to keep adding pieces on that side of the ball.

One area the Cowboys could use some additional help is on the defensive line. Dallas has lacked a serious pass rusher on the line since DeMarcus Ware was in town, but they could get a legitimate edge rusher here out of Illinois in Dawuane Smoot.

Smoot doesn’t get a lot of national media attention playing for the Fighting Illini, but he has all of the tools to make a name for himself at the next level. He needs to continue to add some weight to his frame, especially as a 4-3 defensive end, but he’s the aggressive and powerful player on the edge that the Cowboys could use.

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