Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns: Breakdown of draft picks/UDFAs

Previously we collapsed the offense of both teams and Defense for the upcoming game between the Dallas Cowboys and The Cleveland Browns. Now we dive back into the battle for positions, this time looking at how some of each team’s rookie classes compare to each other.

Dallas Cowboys

Tyler Guyton

First round

This is Guyton’s first big challenge. Not only is it his first official game in the NFL, but he’s going up against Myles Garrett, who can completely ruin the game. If Guyton can use his size and length to keep Garrett in check and protect Dak’s blind side, Dak can continue to run the offense through Lamb. If there’s one rookie on the field to watch closely this week, it’s Guyton. So much of the game this week depends on his blocking skills.

Class: N/A

Marshawn Knieland

Second round

Kneeland quickly came under scrutiny during training camp when Sam Williams was out for the rest of the season. The good news is that from what we saw in Oxnard, Kneeland seems to have responded to his role so far. He will play a major role by rotating behind the defensive ends. With Nick Chubb out, the Browns are starting their backup running backs, which will give Kneeland some breathing room since his run defense is setting limits, which is what he does best.

Class: N/A

Cooper Beebe

Third round

By all accounts, Beebe will start at center this week. He’s been seen in practice taking snaps with Dak, and from his start to this week, you can see the difference in his snapping ability. Beebe also has his hands full this week, as he’s going up against a formidable defensive line that can generate sacks and pressure down the line. But he has a big advantage over Guyton, as he sits between Zack Martin and Tyler Smith to help out.

Class: N/A

Marist Liufau

Third round

Liufau looks to be a solid addition to the linebacker corps. Last year the linebackers were extremely thin, this year things are looking much better. The biggest resource for Liufau’s development this year is Eric Kendricks. With Kendricks on the team, it’s no surprise that the rookie linebacker has taken off so well, and it will be interesting to see how he develops as the season begins.

Class: N/A

Carson Artists

Fifth round

Carson gets to start at fullback thanks to DaRon Bland’s injury. Carson will have to contend with Jerry Jeudy and Amari Cooper. Juedy has scored a total of 11 touchdowns since entering the NFL four years ago, but we all know the skills Cooper has. He can make life difficult for a rookie in his first game. Carson has proven in training camp that he is a reliable and athletic cornerback, but seeing how he fares against this wide receiver will be an important part of the game.

Class: N/A

Ryan Flournoy

Sixth round

Flournoy is another athletic prodigy in this year’s draft. He’ll look to add depth in this game if needed. He’s currently the WR5/6, but if he gets opportunities, he could climb the career ladder. Will that happen this week against a defense that allowed the fewest passing yards last year? Probably not, but keep an eye on his weekly snap count after this week to see how he develops.

Class: N/A

Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images

The Cleveland Browns

Zak Zinter

Third round

The Browns took the Michigan slugger in the third round, which isn’t a bad value. He’s waiting for his moment while sitting on the bench to start the season, adding depth to the offensive line. Zinter is a smart and intelligent blocker and struggled with talented defensive linemen in college. Given his experience and skill level, Browns fans can expect to see Zinter play at some point this year.

Class: N/A

Jamari Thrash

Fifth round

Thrash has excellent footwork and runs exceptional routes. He’s smart and knows how to put defenders under pressure. His problem is his physicality and strength, both of which he lacks. This can cause him to struggle to get off the line when facing strong cornerbacks who know how to block. He’s playing WR4/5 for the Browns this year, and with the team struggling to pass the ball beyond Cooper and David Njoku, there’s very little to be expected from a player like Thrash as a receiver.

Class: N/A

Nathaniel Watson

Sixth round

Watson is an understated athlete and has a huge wingspan to get to the ball carrier when they’re near him. The problem is that he does the hard part with ease, but makes the easier part look difficult. He gets himself in the right position, shows good instincts and knows where he needs to be, but then loses sight of the ball or the ball carrier when they’re coming at him. He also has trouble fending off blocks and getting the right angles when chasing from the outside.

Class: N/A

Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images