Cowboys linked to edge rusher Malachi Lawrence in draft buzz

TL;DR

The Dallas Cowboys are considering edge rusher Malachi Lawrence in the upcoming draft, potentially selecting him with the 20th pick. Lawrence, a standout from UCF, is noted for his explosive pass-rushing skills and has gained significant media attention recently.

Key points

Dallas Cowboys linked to Malachi Lawrence in draft buzz
Lawrence is a UCF edge rusher with explosive skills
Potential draft pick could be 20th or later in the first round
Lawrence has drawn comparisons to Boye Mafe
He has a 1.59 10-yard split time

Mentioned in this story

UCF

Malachi LawrenceBoye MafeDallas CowboysNFL Draft

This Thursday, the Dallas Cowboys could find themselves landing a new edge rusher in the first round, a lesser-known player with the potential to wreak havoc on offenses. His name is Malachi Lawrence, and over the past week, he's been linked to the Cowboys at an accelerated rate in the media. Not because they'll be wiped out, but instead because they see the juice Lawrence can bring to their pass rush.

Drafting Lawrence with the 12th pick is a bit rich, but taking him with the 20th pick or even trading back and taking him later in the round would be a great move for Dallas. The ascending UCF edge has shot up draft boards in the media, but draft scouts have had their eye on for quite a while now.

Standing 6-foot-4 and 253 pounds, Lawrence has drawn comparisons to former second-round pick Boye Mafe based on his body type and on-field testing.

Lawrence would bring an impressive pass-rushing skill set as he's able to beat offensive linemen with multiple moves. He's also one of the most explosive rushers off the line than the rest of the class with a 1.59 10-yard split, and paired with his ability to bend under tackles, he's a load to handle on passing downs.

His ability to defend the run is also solid thanks to his long arms, giving him a chance to disengage from blockers and make a play on the football. Pairing him with Rashan Gary and Donovan Ezeiruaku would have the makings of a pass rush opponents could struggle to handle.

Former defensive end Chris Long and NFL draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah had plenty to say about Lawrence on his Green Light Podcast.

They aren't outliers on Lawrence either; draft experts like Todd McShay and are very high on him. Even , the Shrine Bowl's Director of Football Ops and Player Personnel, talked about the interest Lawrence was getting at their Shrine Bowl practices from NFL teams back in January.

Q&A

What makes Malachi Lawrence a top prospect for the Cowboys?

Malachi Lawrence is considered a top prospect due to his impressive pass-rushing skills, explosiveness off the line, and ability to use multiple moves against offensive linemen.

Where might the Cowboys draft Malachi Lawrence?

The Cowboys could draft Malachi Lawrence with the 20th pick or potentially trade back to select him later in the first round.

How does Malachi Lawrence compare to other edge rushers?

Lawrence, standing 6-foot-4 and 253 pounds, has been compared to Boye Mafe based on his body type and on-field performance, particularly his explosive 10-yard split time.