NFL Mock Draft 2013: Cowboys projected to pick Texas S Kenny Vaccaro

SB Nation's 2013 NFL Mock Draft has the Dallas Cowboys taking safety Kenny Vaccaro of the Texas Longhorns in the first round next spring with the No. 17 overall pick. The selection order is based on current SB Nation power rankings.

The Cowboys have been in need of a playmaking safety for years since Darren Woodson retired and Roy Williams became a victim of the changing NFL game. While the Cowboys selected Matt Johnson in the fifth round in 2012, Vaccaro could represent the return to the big play at the position that the Cowboys have been searching for.

Says SB Nation's Dan Kadar:

The Cowboys fixed their cornerback situation last offseason and can finish the secondary by adding a playmaking safety. Vaccaro is an excellent coverage safety who can help over the top in zone situations. He's also big enough to cover tight ends in man and strong enough to play the run. Barry Church is a solid player but he'll be coming back next season from a torn right Achilles tendon. This could also be a spot for a pass rusher with linebacker Anthony Spencer approaching free agency after the season.

Vaccaro has 82 total tackles in 13 games last season, with two interceptions and eight pass breakups. In five games in 2012, the senior safety has 36 tackles, two tackles for loss, two interceptions and one forced fumble.