The Dallas Cowboys don’t have a draft pick in the second round of the draft, but that didn’t stop them from ‘picking’ someone, as they acquired linebacker Dee Winters from the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a fifth-round pick, 152nd overall. While fans were eagerly watching the draft board for a potential rookie linebacker to slide, the front office took matters into their own hands by going after a proven young veteran instead. This move adds an incredibly fast playmaker to the middle of the Dallas defense without solely relying on an unproven rookie late in the draft.

Winters is coming off a breakout season where he showed just how productive he can be when given the opportunity. He started all 17 games for the 49ers and racked up an impressive 101 total tackles. He also showed off his big-play ability by returning his lone interception of the year for a massive 74-yard touchdown. Those are the kind of splashy plays the Cowboys’ defense was sorely missing in the second level last season.

Earned a 60.4 overall PFF defensive grade (ranked 46th)

When you turn on the tape, it is easy to see what the Dallas coaching staff fell loved about him. Winters possesses elite speed that allows him to fly around the field and erase mistakes. His sideline range is exceptional, allowing him to chase down fast running backs before they can turn the corner. He also brings some great natural traits to pass coverage, a massive plus in a league that loves to throw the ball.

Winters does have a few areas that need some polishing. He is a bit undersized for an NFL linebacker, which means he sometimes struggles shedding blocks when big offensive linemen get their hands on him. His aggressive nature is a double-edged sword because over-aggression can occasionally lead to missed fit angles. He also deals with some tackling inconsistency when he tries to deliver a big blow instead of wrapping up.

Despite those few flaws, his aggressive style makes him a fantastic fit for defensive coordinator Christian Parker and the Cowboys’ defense. Parker loves versatile athletes who can fly to the football, and Winters fits that mold perfectly. He should slot in beautifully next to DeMarvion Overshown to give Dallas one of the fastest young linebacker duos in the entire league.

All in all, this trade is a huge plus for the Cowboys because it brings in a young, ascending starter for a low-cost draft price. It gives the team immediate defensive insurance and raises the ceiling of the entire linebacker room. Cowboys fans have plenty of reasons to be enthusiastic about watching this high-speed defender fly around the star next season.