The Dallas Cowboys previously chanced upon an opportunity to draft linebacker T.J. Watt with the 28th pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. Instead, the team's decision-makers used the asset to select defensive end Taco Charlton — a move that is still being regretted by team Vice President Stephen Jones to this day.
“Absolutely,” he said this week, laughing a bit at the painful memory when asked by “G-Bag Nation” on 105.3 The Fan about regretting the selection. “You always do that if you're truthful and you're honest about what might could have been.
T.J. Watt turned out to be the better player out of the two although they still have plenty of years ahead of them to further prove themselves in the league. The Wisconsin product has been named to the 2017 PFWA All-Rookie Team, a 2018 second-team All-Pro inclusion, a 2019 first-team All-Pro selection, and two Pro Bowl appearances in just his fourth season as a Pittsburgh Steeler.
On the other hand, Charlton has bounced from Dallas after three seasons with the team. In September of 2019, two weeks into the season, the former Michigan product was released by the team to make room for the activation of suspended defensive end Robert Quinn, after the team failed to find a trade partner. His tenure with the Cowboys was one of the shortest for a first-round draft choice in franchise history which didn't involve a career-ending injury.
He was eventually claimed off waivers by the Miami Dolphins but was ultimately released after a season. After five days, he was then picked up by the Kansas City Chiefs where he continues to suit up until this day.
After seeing how their respective careers panned out, Stephen Jones and the rest of the team's front office would've made a different decision if they were given a chance to do so. America's team won't be finding themselves with a dismal 2-6 record if only they had a talent like Watt at the helm on the defensive end.
With their backs against the wall, the Cowboys will aim to stop their three-game losing skid as they face T.J. Watt and the undefeated Steelers in Week 9 action.
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