Regarding diamonds in the rough, Dallas Cowboys rookie linebacker Damone Clark is certainly that. After Anthony Barr injured his hamstring last season, Clark a fifth-round selection, who was barely seven months after his spinal fusion surgery, was thrown into the deep end in Week 8.
In the 49-29 win against the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium, Clark didn't flounder under the bright lights. Rather, he stepped up and proved he is more than capable of being a viable contributor to Dan Quinn's defense.
After playing some snaps on special teams, Clark was starting, and he totaled 57 snaps (40 defense, 17 special teams) and registered six combined tackles against the Bears.
Fast forward to the offseason, and with Anthony Barr a free agent, there could be a spot opening up for Clark to partner Leighton Vander Esch next season.
Is Clark the one to take that opportunity?
After his impressive showings last season, there is no reason to suggest otherwise. He moved clear of Jabril Cox in the depth chart, and Clark will surely be using training camp to stamp his authority on a starting spot.
The NFL Draft is fast approaching, and several offensive names have been touted as possible picks, but one defensive name has popped up - Arkansas linebacker Drew Sanders.
Should the Cowboys take the Razorback standout, then Clark will have his hands full, but he has something that Sanders doesn't ... NFL experience.
While he played just the 10 games (starting five), Clark has shown his impressive football ability, including his 22 MPH speed against the Bears along with his uncanny knack to stick a tackle. He possesses good size and range that he has utilized to perfection thus far in his career.
There could be an opening for the former fifth-round pick to become a consistent contributor for Quinn's defense and make giant strides in his sophomore season.
Maybe Dallas drafts another linebacker. Or maybe - Has draft guru Will McClay done it again? - Damone Clark is the next step-up in Dallas.
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