Why the Cowboys should covet this massive edge rusher

The Dallas defensive front is currently undergoing a massive transition. Losing a generational talent like Micah Parsons left a gaping hole that is hard to ignore, regardless of how much optimism you have. While the team is hoping for a jump from second-year player Donovan Ezeiruaku, and recently traded for Rashan Gary to steady the ship, the cupboard still feels a bit bare. Relying on just two guys to carry the load is a risky gamble in a league where having a viable pass rush is so important. This has put edge rusher at the very top of the priority list for the upcoming draft, and there is one physically imposing prospect who seems tailor-made to help strengthen the trenches.

EDGE, Keldric Faulk, Auburn

Height: 6’6” | Weight: 276 pounds | Speed: 4.67 forty time

Background

Faulk arrived at Auburn and immediately looked the part, earning significant playing time as a true freshman. He put the league on notice during his sophomore breakout season, where he racked up seven sacks and 45 tackles while developing a reputation for showing up when the lights were brightest in big games. His junior season saw a dip in raw production, but that was largely due to the Auburn staff moving him around in different alignments and asking him to play inside more often. Despite the shifting roles, his consistency as a Venus flytrap run-stopper remained clear as he led all edge defenders with 62 run stops over the last three seasons.

Strengths

When you see him walk off the bus, the first thing you notice is the size. He’s a big man. He possesses exceptionally long arms that allow him to control blockers before they can get into his chest. Combined with his massive frame is a level of functional strength that makes him a nightmare to move. He has a knack for anticipating the play before it unfolds and disengages from blocks with impressive speed.

He is an elite run defender who tosses offensive linemen out like they’re junk mail. Even if he does not get home to the quarterback, he is a constant nuisance because his hands are always up and ready to deflect passes at the line of scrimmage. It is that kind of high-effort play that keeps defensive coordinators smiling.

Weaknesses

While the physical tools are undeniable, he still has some rough edges to smooth over. He tends to play with an upright style, which can cause him to lose the leverage battle against savvy veteran linemen. His pure pass rush production has been inconsistent, and he occasionally looks like he lacks that twitchy explosiveness you see from smaller speed rushers. Currently, he does not have a fully developed pass-rushing plan, often relying on his raw power rather than a deep bag of technical moves to win his battles.

The Fit

The marriage between Faulk and new defensive coordinator Christian Parker looks like a match made in heaven. Parker thrives on alignment versatility, and we already know Faulk can handle playing everywhere from the edge to the interior. He excels at the concept of playing half a man to slip through gaps and possesses the high football IQ needed to thrive in a complex NFL system. He provides the size and smarts to be the anchor Parker needs to let the rest of the defense play fast and loose.

The Final Word

Most scouts have Faulk projected as a high-impact pick who could go mid-to-late first round, which could line up perfectly for the Cowboys, who own pick 20. He represents a high-floor prospect who can immediately solve their issues setting the edge in the run game while offering upside as a versatile rusher. He is a mountain of a man with the speed of a much smaller player and the intelligence to lead a room. If you want a guy who can play multiple positions and physically overwhelm opponents from day one, he is your pick.