NFL Mock Draft 2013: Cowboys take Jonathan Cooper in SBNation's blogger mock draft

The Dallas Cowboys locked up Tony Romo with a new contract this offseason, but now they must continue their search for the right group of five offensive lineman to protect him. After selecting tackle Tyron Smith with the ninth overall pick two years ago, are they prepared to spend another first-round pick on a lineman? And this time, will it be a guard?

Dallas has several important needs that it will want to address in the draft this year if they are to improve upon their 8-8 record in 2012, many of which could be found on a defense that finished 19th in yardage allowed, 24th in points allowed, and 22nd against the run, but the offense isn't without serious needs as well. The Cowboys could consider a tackle like D.J. Fluker to play on the right side, but with Chance Warmack and Jonathan Cooper likely going in the first round, they could also slot one of those players to immediately start next season.

In the SBNation's blogger mock draft, comprised of writers for all 32 teams, the Cowboys site Blogging the Boys chose Jonathan Cooper, G, North Carolina:

The Cowboys offensive line, especially on the right side, has been a major problem. Mackenzy Bernadeau was signed as a free agent in 2012 and started at right guard, but was terribly inconsistent, and he’s battled injuries with another one this offseason. The Cowboys running game was a huge disappointment in 2012, even with stud DeMarco Murray in the lineup. Dallas has to get their run game restarted and protect Tony Romo. Adding the talented Cooper should help that cause.

And who better to tell you what the Cowboys need, than a guy that has to watch them all year long?

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