New Cowboys cornerback was ‘pretty surprised’ to get the call from Jerry Jones

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Four hours after the start of the last day of the Draft, the Dallas Cowboys were on the clock, and selected yet another defensive piece for the team, this time to contribute in the secondary.

The Cowboys’ delay was due to the trade with the San Francisco 49ers in 2023 for Trey Lance. The quarterback acquisition meant that Dallas had to give up on a fourth-round pick.

Caelen Carson is the new cornerback for America’s Team. He comes from Wake Forest and is 22 years old.

He joins the squad to develop his skills alongside players such as Trevon Diggs, Daron Bland, Jourdan Lewis and C.J. Goodwin.

READ MORE: Former NFL general manager names the replacement quarterback Dallas should draft to replace Dak Prescot

College background

Carson demonstrates versatility as a defender, having served as a starting CB at Wake Forest for two years. Over his four-year career in college, he showcased his prowess by breaking up 26 passes and securing three interceptions.

He didn’t take part in the NFL Combine activities, but he’s a player who shows enough athleticism, as well as good height with an armspan.

What’s more, Carson gave an interview at the skills event that caught the media’s attention – he talked about his intensity and how he sees the game.

Carson was surprised to be drafted by the Cowboys

The cornerback had last spoken with the organisation at the Combine, so he wasn’t expecting to be selected by the star’s team.

According to Michael Gehlken, Carson was “pretty surprised” when he received the phone call from Jerry Jones. He was also listed to be taken in the third or fouth round, but ended up at fifth. Dallas’ freshman added: “This is God’s plan.”

The rookie suggested that he could be useful as a returner. He had some experience returning punts throughout his time in college.

“I think I did a real good job, not just winning the rep but usually destroying the gunner. I think I’m pretty good at that.”

Caelen Carson’s pros and cons:

PROS:

• Delivers a lot of intensity on the field.
• Very good in the run game with a great attitude.
• Good technique coming out of blocks.

CONS:

• Leaves opportunities to turn deflected passes into interceptions.
• His play recognition is average, as is his zone coverage.

READ MORE: Former NFL general manager names the replacement quarterback Dallas should draft to replace Dak Prescott