Jourdan Lewis is the Cowboys best new addition for the 2017 season - Blogging The Boys

Just about a week ago, the question was asked on these pages - Could Jourdan Lewis already be the Cowboys best cornerback? That is definitely a good debate, both Anthony Brown and Orlando Scandrick could make their own case, but the fact that it is a debate shows just how good the rookie has been so far this season. Thrust into the fire because of injuries, while battling his own injury issue, Lewis is fast becoming a part of the defense that you can trust.

Lewis is in the running for Rookie of the Year from Pro Football Focus. He currently places tenth in their rookie rankings.

10. JOURDAN LEWIS, CB, DALLAS COWBOYS

PFF Grade: 83.4

Elite Stat: Lewis is allowing just 0.75 yards per coverage snap so far this season, the 23rd-lowest rate among cornerbacks.

Lewis ranks 17th among all cornerbacks in terms of overall grade and in addition to being a stalwart in coverage, he’s excelled in run defense, where his 86.8 grade ranks sixth. One of Lewis’ biggest strengths so far this season has been his tackling: the third-round pick from Michigan is one of 28 cornerbacks this season who have not missed a tackle, among that group his six total stops (four in pass defense, two in run defense) are the third-most.

Not only is Lewis playing well, he is defying expectations. Because of his size, it was generally believed that he would be a slot corner only and that he would have trouble tackling NFL backs and receivers. So far in his career, neither has been true. Lewis is playing on the outside and Scandrick is manning the slot in most three corner formations for the Cowboys. Matching up against the big boys on the outside hasn’t been an issue. And even more surprising is his tackling ability. As PFF notes, he hasn’t missed a tackle yet.

All of this from a guy picked in the third round, and who missed essentially all of training camp and preseason with a hamstring injury. He’s a rookie, learning on the fly, with very little practice in the Cowboys system. Imagine what he could become. He’s already the Cowboys best new addition for the 2017 season.

Enjoy a few highlights.