2012 SB Nation NFL Mock Draft: Round 2, Pick 45

Dave Halprin explains: After picking the premiere guard in the draft in round one, David DeCastro, the Cowboys were initially looking at shoring up a troublesome secondary in round two. But, much to their delight, borderline first-round talent Nick Perry from USC was still on the board, and fits a need for Dallas. Although listed above as a defensive end, Perry’s size is more suited for an outside linebacker in the Cowboys 3-4 defensive scheme. Dallas franchised current strong-side linebacker Anthony Spencer for 2012, but has yet to work out a long-term deal. Spencer’s strength has always been against the run, and the Cowboys are looking for a pass-rushing bookend to superstar DeMarcus Ware. Perry’s best attribute in all of the scout’s eyes is his ability to rush the passer.

Dan Kadar responds: I'm not particularly high on Perry, only because he's limited in the run game and may need time to develop in the NFL. That's why I love this pick. If Perry goes to a team like the Cowboys, he could ease into the NFL and be relied upon simply to get after the passer. When Cowboys defensive coordinator Rob Ryan had the same job with Cleveland, one of the best blitz packages he had was using defensive end Matt Roth inside at tackle. With a player like Perry, Ryan could dust that old play off. The idea of Perry shooting an inside gap with Ware coming around the edge is scary. Because of how he'd be used in the Dallas defense, I like this pick. Other teams may not have as much success as Dallas with a player like Perry. There is third-round value this year at cornerback and safety, so secondary can be addressed later in the draft.

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