2018 NFL Mock Draft: Impact of recent trades and signings

Is this a need? No, not exactly. But Derwin James was the best player on the board quite a few picks ago and the Dallas Cowboys aren’t in a position where turning down a chance to draft a player of his caliber makes sense.

Thus, while adding a wide receiver at No. 19 overall may sound nice in theory, the reality is that James is significantly better than any wideout on the board.

James is an All-Pro talent whose draft stock has only suffered because of the injury concerns that exist. He previously tore his ACL, which is an admittedly justifiable reason to be worried about his transition to the highest possible level.

When he’s healthy and active, however, James is a dynamic playmaker who can fill multiple roles and change the momentum of a game without a moment’s notice.

Physically, James is the prototype in every sense of the word. On the field, he can create turnovers with active hands as a tackler and soft hands in coverage. He can also come down and stuff a runner at the line of scrimmage, rush the passer, or match up with a slot receiver in a man-to-man setting.

James has all of the tools to be a special player. The only question here is if the Cowboys will help him tap into his otherworldly potential.