Cowboys TE Answer: 6-7 '5-Star Freak' Darnell Washington of Georgia in NFL Draft?

Letting go of veterans in exchange for rookies seems to be the trend in the NFL. Could the Dallas Cowboys do the same at tight end by letting Dalton Schultz walk?

The Dallas Cowboys cap space can best be described as "in between a rock and a hard space," as they have upcoming decisions to make, like whether or not they will franchise tag running back Tony Pollard or tight end Dalton Schultz. 

Hypothetically speaking, if Dallas decides to tag Pollard over Schultz and let the fifth-year tight end test free agency, not only do they have two potential replacements already on rookie deals, but they could add another by drafting Darnell Washington out of the University of Georgia. 

Turning on Washington's tape, his 6-foot-7, 260-pound frame jumps off the screen. His stature and strength make him one of the most effective run blockers in the class, and he was even commonly asked to win one-on-ones against edge rushers as a pass-protector. 

His size makes him a physical mismatch when used as a pass-catcher; despite not boasting the speed of others in the class, he is a handful to tackle due to not being afraid to leave his feet and hurdle a defender or lower his shoulder. 

The only real concerns about Washington as a prospect are his speed and ability to create separation as a pass-catcher. Unlike Kyle Pitts, Washington does not have the speed or crisp route running to get over the top of a defender, but with his frame, he does have the potential to go up and high-point the ball. 

Dane Brugler's top 100 players list has Washington at 29 in a class heavy on tight end talent. (See our look at Notre Dame's Michael Mayer here.)

Adding Washington as an in-line tight end could allow Dallas to stick with their multiple tight end sets, which they used throughout last season. Washington's ability and presence as a blocker essentially could give the Cowboys "another offensive lineman,'' allowing Jake Ferguson and Peyton Hendershot to be used as additional pass-catchers. 

As for where Washington might land, he currently projects as a late first- or second-round pick, which could depend on how he fares at the NFL Combine.

Does Dallas "need'' a tight end? The presence of Ferguson and Hendershot - even if Schultz departs - says "no.'' Should the Cowboys be in the "talent collection'' business, almost regardless of position?

That answer is "yes,'' maybe especially when it comes to affordable players (rookies) who've long been thought of as having "five-star freak'' ability.

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