The Cowboys have a well-documented history of making draft-day gambles on injured players. From Bruce Carter to Sean Lee, from Jaylon Smith to Damone Clark (that’s a lot of linebackers), Dallas has been willing to draft a battered and bruised prospect even if it means he could miss all or some of his rookie season.
At a time when delayed gratification has never been more unpopular, it’s a way for the Cowboys front office to separate from the pack and potentially get a leg up on the competition.
The decision makers in Dallas stand on solid ground. Unlike most front offices whose job security changes almost annually, the Dallas front office (occupied by Jerry Jones, Stephen Jones and Will McClay) aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.
This stability allows the decision makers at The Star the flexibility to invest in the future and take full advantage of a injured prospect. If the Cowboys sense a value, they have shown they have no qualms pouncing on it, even if it means they have to wait for the value to tangibly produce on the field. In this way, USC guard Andrew Vorhees could be that next value pick for Dallas.
On March 5, Vorhees tore his ACL running drills at the combine. The injury is expected to take a significant toll on his draft position since many teams aren’t eager to add a player who may not be available until 2024.
Vorhees, a top guard prospect with clear starter potential, is predicted by many to fall into the third day of the draft and could be an option to a team willing to exercise a bit of patience.