Back to the Dallas Cowboys Newsfeed

Cowboys need these draft picks to contribute to defense from Day 1

Michael Conroy/AP

Nebraska defensive tackle Maliek Collins (7) works against Purdue guard Jordan Roos (70) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind., Saturday, Oct. 31, 2015. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

The Cowboys’ approach to last week’s draft provided a sneak peek of what their strategy will be in 2016.

They seem convinced they can win games by playing keep-away rather than defense.

The Cowboys began their draft by taking running back Ezekiel Elliott fourth overall and then selecting a linebacker in the second round - Notre Dame’s Jaylon Smith - who isn’t expected to play in 2016.