Dallas Cowboys are candidates to trade up

A trip back to the drawing board was sped up when defensive end DeMarcus Ware and defensive tackle Jason Hatcher left in free agency and were replaced by defensive tackles Henry Melton and Terrell McClain and defensive end Jeremy Mincey.

While not the team’s biggest priority, a disruptive defensive tackle could add depth inside and still bring a much-needed pass-rushing element.

Ra’Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota: Hageman has shown glimpses of brilliance but has been inconsistent since moving to the Gophers’ defensive line in 2009.

There might not be a defensive tackle with more raw talent in this draft than the 6-6, 310-pound former tight end, but Hageman still must learn how to carry his strength and athleticism onto the field.

Aaron Donald, DT, Pitt: When Donald turned in one of the most impressive performances at the NFL combine, he might have moved beyond the Cowboys’ reach in the first round.

2 defensive tackle in the draft, Jernigan would represent good value for the Cowboys as a versatile athlete and three-down player.

Calvin Pryor, FS, Louisville: With a glaring need for pass-rushers, the Cowboys could be tempted to bypass Pryor and reach for a defensive end instead.

Dallas ranked among the NFL’s worst defenses in virtually every metric last season, including passing yards and touchdown passes, so a playmaking safety would be an instant upgrade.