Since the departure of Jimmy Johnson, the Cowboys have drafted in the top ten 6 times. Greg Ellis, Roy Williams, Terrence Newman, Morris Claiborne, Tyron Smith and Ezekiel Elliot.
With the exception of Morris, they were all very productive. Then again, how difficult is it to botch a top ten. It happens, but when it does, it's considered epic.
My issue has always been in the way they constantly flatline in the 2nd round. Shane Hannah, Kendell Watkins, Sherman Williams, Kavika Pittman, Solomon Page, Dwayne Goodrich, Tony Dixon, Al Johnson, Jacob Rogers, Kevin Burnett, Anthony Fasano, Bruce Carter and Gavin Escobar are all pretty forgettable names.
The idea that you can take an injured college player that might otherwise be a high 1st rounder seems like a bargain on the surface. However, the Cowboy's history on these player's NFL career justifies skepticism.
Then there is the idea that drafting a 1st round talent with issues is justified when you pick them in a lower round. Again, that is a mixed bag. Hopefully Gregory and Lawrence are over their habit of being suspended at the beginning of a season. Those suspensions cost the Cowboys some games. The games are so close these days that the majority are separated by the results of just a play or two.
This #10 overall pick coming up should be used by the Cowboys only if they are absolutely convinced that the draft value as well as the talent and character of the player is justified and relevant. Otherwise, they should trade down. It will be an interesting day.