Moehrig To Cowboys: 'Not Just A Safety' - NFL Draft Trade-Up Target?
Considering what the Dallas Cowboys need, any chance to add a defensive helper is warranted. That happened in Round 1 of the NFL Draft on Thursday with the selection of Micah Parsons.
We think on Friday in Round 2 it's going to happen again.
With a new defensive coordinator, the secondary will be in line for a tune-up.
Dan Quinn's Cover 3 defense has worked at the highest level. The Legion of Boom hoisted a Lombardi Trophy when Quinn was the Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator. Three years later, his defense did enough to win the NFC title with the Atlanta Falcons.
The results speak for themselves, meaning Dallas is hoping for a "Boom 3.0'' approach.
Dallas added both (hybrid linebacker/safety) Keanu Neal and Damontae Kazee, each of whom thrived in Quinn's system during their time in Atlanta. Now comes Parsons. That isn't enough for the Cowboys to feel comfortable at the safety position, even with the hope that Donovan Wilson can be a difference-maker in Year 3.
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The Cowboys are expected to at least consider both cornerback and safety at some point in Round 2.
And TCU's Trevon Moehrig is, in our view, a front-runner for selection.
The 6-foot-1 defensive back might be another versatile chess piece that finds success no matter where he lines up. According to Pro Football Focus, Moehrig lined up 313 snaps inside the slot, but over 170 snaps at either free or strong safety in a base formation.
Considered by many as the NFL Draft's best safety, Moehrig is at his best when roaming the plains and having the chance to pounce on a play. The former Horned Frog recorded seven career interceptions and 21 pass deflections as a three-year starter.
Kazee and play the full season on the back end. Neal is expected to play more of a "box linebacker" role rather than the strong safety position deep. ... though Parsons' addition could change that a bit.
Moerhig's experience at either role could have him start right away.
As a cover guy, his skills warrant a first-round grade. Last season, Moehrig allowed 20 catches on 41 targets for 208 yards, one touchdown. He also paired well with fellow draft prospect Ar'Darius Washington when asked to play in Cover 3 sets.
The reigning Jim Thorpe winner might add tremendous value in Round 2, while likely not lasting until Dallas' present No. 44 slot.
The scouting report:
Scouting measurables: 6-1, 202 pounds, 30-inch arms, 9.7-inch hands, 4.50 40-time, 17 bench reps.
Stats: 10 games, 47 tackles, eight pass deflections, two interceptions
Scout Says: "Boasting the ideal frame that evaluators dream of at the position, with length for days and a smooth athletic profile, Moehrig has the type of physical profile that could fit into a variety of roles on the next level. Partnering with fellow 2021 draft prospect Ar’Darius Washington, Moehrig played a lot of split-zone, two-high looks, including reps as a curl-flat defender, mid-hole, robber and single high. The versatility he brings to the position will be a huge bonus for NFL teams that ask their safeties to do a variety of duties." - SI Draft Bible
Quote: "They think I can fit in and play anywhere they need me. That’s been kind of the talk right now. They’ve just said anywhere on the field I need to be. I think all of my interviews with different teams have been good.” - Moehrig on his NFL role.
NFL Comparison: Marcus Williams, FS, New Orleans Saints
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