With each pick of the FanHouse mock draft, we get into the head of an NFL general manager and let you know who he'll pick and why.
Since my original selection of James Hardy, it seems, was already taken at #19 by the Eagles, I walk back to the draft podium, wearing my pink Big Ben jersey with my tail between my legs and make an alternate pick (thanks to commenter "IU Class of '91" for discovering the mistake).
Earlier in our mock draft, the Cowboys addressed their running back situation by picking Felix Jones. Now they can focus on receivers and cornerbacks.
Obviously, I wanted to bring in Hardy as a big possession receiver to be the heir apparent to Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn. With nothing else striking me as a great value at receiver here, let me go ahead and grab the first real problem child off the list: Aqib Talib.
No one doubts Talib's ability. He's one of those coveted playmakers at the cornerback position. He's got decent size, outstanding leaping ability and can make a big play for a defense. At the same time, he can give up a big play for the offense. Still, he's one of those talents that Dallas needs ... and covets.
Talib's stock has fallen a bit because of his past marijuana use while at Kansas (he reportedly tested positive for the hippie lettuce three times). Cowboys owner Jerry Jones will take a chance on a kid with some character issues -- more on that later. This is such a need for Dallas that they may overlook some past mistakes to fill the void.
The Skinny:
Team Needs: RB, WR, CB, OLB
Player Selected: Aquib Talib, CB, Kansas
Also Considered: Desean Jackson, WR, Cal; Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
Previous Pick: No. 27, Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
Next Pick: No. 29, San Francisco 49ers
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