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2015 NFL Draft: Too-Early Dallas Cowboys 7-Round Mock

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By @Spencer_NFL

2015 NFL Draft: Too-Early Dallas Cowboys 7-Round Mock

Jerry Jones Dallas Cowboys
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The NFC East champions finished the season at 12-4. Based on how the team fares in the playoffs, Dallas could select anywhere from 24th to 32nd in the first round of the NFL Draft. Which players should Jerry Jones and the Cowboys target? Here's one way the draft may unfold.

Round 1: Todd Gurley (RB-Georgia)

Todd Gurley Georgia
Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Round 1: Todd Gurley (RB-Georgia)

Todd Gurley Georgia
Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

With Tyron Smith recently signed to a long-term deal and Dez Bryant expected to receive the franchise tag if he's not signed to an extension, DeMarco Murray may be on his way out. If that's the case, Dallas will need a No. 1 RB. Frank Gore and Ryan Mathews are the top free agents at the position besides Murray, so the draft is the best way to find a replacement. Gurley is an elite back who could fall to Dallas due to an ACL injury.

Round 2: Mario Edwards, Jr. (DE-Florida State)

Mario Edwards Jr Florida State
Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

Round 2: Mario Edwards, Jr. (DE-Florida State)

Mario Edwards Jr Florida State
Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

George Selvie and Anthony Spencer are both in the final year of their contracts, so defensive end should be a point of emphasis in the draft. Mario Edwards, Jr. is a powerful DE who knows how to win. He looked like a surefire first-round pick before the season, but has seen his stock slip due to injury concerns and declining production. If he can return to his 2013 form, Dallas will be getting a steal.

Round 3: Daryl Williams (OT-Oklahoma)

Daryl Williams Oklahoma
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Round 3: Daryl Williams (OT-Oklahoma)

Daryl Williams Oklahoma
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The Cowboys' offensive line has been stellar this season. Former first-round picks Tyron Smith, Travis Frederick and Zack Martin all appear to be in the team's long-term plans. The right tackle position is the one spot in which a change may be made. Starter Doug Free and backup Jermey Parnell are both free agents. Williams would add even more young talent to the line. He's a natural right tackle who excels in both pass and run blocking.

Round 4: Jake Ryan (OLB-Michigan)

Jake Ryan Michigan
Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Round 4: Jake Ryan (OLB-Michigan)

Jake Ryan Michigan
Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Despite drafting two linebackers and DE/OLB hybrid Demarcus Lawrence in the 2014 draft, Dallas still has major question marks at the position. Jake Ryan is a player the Cowboys could plug just about anywhere on the front seven. His knack for being in the right place at the right time shows off his great awareness. With all the injuries the Cowboys have had on defense this year, Ryan would be a valuable selection in the fourth round.

Round 5: Quandre Diggs (CB-Texas)

Quandre Diggs Texas
Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY Sports

Round 5: Quandre Diggs (CB-Texas)

Quandre Diggs Texas
Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY Sports

Only once in the last six drafts has Dallas taken a CB in the first three rounds. CB seems to always be a position of need, yet the team continues to ignore the position in the draft. Due to that recent history, I believe Dallas will once again wait until the later stages of the draft to address the position. Diggs is a very well-rounded CB who can play outside or in the slot. He can't play on an island, but would be an asset in nickel packages.

Round 7 (from San Diego): Bryce Hager (ILB-Baylor)

Bryce Hager Baylor
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Round 7 (from San Diego): Bryce Hager (ILB-Baylor)

Bryce Hager Baylor
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

This pick was acquired from the Chargers in exchange for defensive lineman Sean Lissemore. Hager isn't the fastest or most athletic middle linebacker in this draft, but his ability to find the football will land him a roster spot. He can immediately contribute on special teams and would be a solid backup to Sean Lee.

Round 7 (from Baltimore): Martrell Spaight (OLB-Arkansas)

Martrell Spaight Arkansas
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Round 7 (from Baltimore): Martrell Spaight (OLB-Arkansas)

Martrell Spaight Arkansas
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Not only did the Cowboys receive LB Rolando McClain in a trade with the Ravens, they also received this pick. At this point in the draft, teams are looking to add depth to the roster. Jerry Jones should be very familiar with Spaight, who is the leading tackler from his alma mater. With Bruce Carter, Rolando McClain and Justin Durant all being free agents, adding depth to the linebacking corps should be a priority.

Round 7: Mike Sadler (P-Michigan State)

Mike Sadler Michigan State
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Round 7: Mike Sadler (P-Michigan State)

Mike Sadler Michigan State
Getty Images

Mike Sadler would fill a position of need if the Cowboys don't re-sign Chris Jones. If the team does extend Jones, Sadler would create competition at the position in the preseason. Although Sadler has gained national notoriety for his social media account, he's also one of the best punters in the country. He's averaged over 42 yards per punt over his career and has pinned his opponent inside the 20 over 100 times.

Shawn Spencer is an NFL Draft writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @Spencer_NFL, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

Related: 2015 NFL Mock Draft: Top 20

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