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Top 50 Players of 2016: Cowboys Talented O-Line Debuts At No. 27

Editor's Note: With the offseason in full swing, the focus is now shifting to the 2016 season, where the Cowboys have one of the toughest schedules in the NFL. Not only do the Cowboys face five playoff teams but many of the top players in football. So the writers of DallasCowboys.com have ranked the Top 50 players expected to be on the field this season, including the Cowboys. Today, we continue the list with Cowboys center Travis Frederick.)

Name: Travis Frederick
Team:Dallas Cowboys
Position: Center
Height/Weight: 6-4 / 312
Experience: 3 seasons
College: Wisconsin

What's the Deal: The two-time Pro Bowler is one of the anchors to the offensive line. Frederick had just two penalties all of last year, even when surrounding players were flagged in the double-digits. Consider the fact four different quarterbacks played behind him and still, Frederick had little issues with the snaps or penalties.

The Cowboys have more than a solid, heady player in Frederick, but someone who can adjust despite the changing circumstances.

The Cowboys needed to be better in short-yardage and goal-line situations, and some of that will fall onto Frederick and the rest of the interior line. That is a part of the game that needs to be improved, but the Cowboys are also hoping the addition of a dynamic back in Ezekiel Elliott, and the return of Tony Romo will help in the running game.

Expect This: Frederick will have to face some of the NFL's best defensive tackles this year in Cincinnati's Geno Atkins and Gerald McCoy of the Bucs – the only two interior linemen that made this Top 50 list. Still, Frederick always has his hands full, trying to make the line calls as well as handle the oversized tackles across from him.

Bryan Broaddus Scouting Report:

  • Has been rock solid during his three year career. Doesn't miss snaps. Outstanding leadership qualities and the smartest linemen in the room. Takes a great deal of pride about his intelligence and his game preparation.
  • Communication skill is outstanding. Is in lock step with the quarterbacks when it comes to identify fronts and potential problems scheme wise. Has been confident since day one of handling these responsibilities.
  • Is a better technique player than he is athlete. There were snaps in the past where he had balance problems and he would be on the ground too much. Did a much better job of playing on his feet whether he was blocking along the line or out in space. Better body control.[embeddedad0]
  • Much better job of handling a man on his nose than when he first started. There was time where he would have struggled with power but he has improved in that area. Can snatch a 1 or 3 technique with ease in an even front. Plays well on the move.
  • Stout in protection with the ability to help his teammates when uncovered. An aware player, not going to be fooled. Does a fine job of keeping the front of the pocket clean. Gives the quarterbacks an opportunity to slide forward if need be. Works very well with the teammates next to him.
  • When the coaching staff made the switch from Ronald Leary to La'el Collins, he didn't miss a beat. Able to help Collins get through some of his early games without issues. Is one of those players that is in the right place at the right time.
  • Had my doubts of how good he could really be with limited athletic ability but makes up for it with smarts and toughness. Is the hinge point of a very good offensive line.

The writers of DallasCowboys.com have ranked the Top 50 players expected to be on the field this season, including the Cowboys.

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