Former Cowboys safety and Pro Football Hall of Fame finalist Darren Woodson praised Donovan Wilson on Thursday. Woodson compared him to former greats who played the position, highlighting why he’s a possible X-factor in the playoffs.
“He reminds me of (Pro Hall of Famer) Brian Dawkins, especially close to the line of the scrimmage,” Woodson said in a news conference.
Dawkins made nine Pro Bowls in 16 seasons with Philadelphia and Denver. It’s a tremendous compliment for Wilson, who’s having a breakout season, and good news for the Cowboys.
In the past, Dallas benefited from having an elite safety. Woodson was a five-time Pro Bowler who helped Dallas win three Super Bowls in the ’90s.
Also, injuries have hampered Dallas secondary this season. Veteran cornerbacks Anthony Brown and Jourdan Lewis suffered season-ending injuries. As a result, the Cowboys allowed 120 points over their past four games.
The unit needs someone to step up since three of the league’s top-10 passing offenses (No.3 Tampa Bay, No.6 Minnesota and No.8 Philadelphia) are teams Dallas may face in the playoffs.
Perhaps Wilson can rise to the occasion.
Through 16 games, he has the Cowboys second-lowest passer rating (72.6) and completion percentage (54.1) allowed in pass coverage, per Pro Football reference. He leads the team in total tackles (75), too.
If Wilson has a solid postseason showing, he will keep drawing praise and prove he’s one of the best at his position and deserving of Woodson’s praise.
