Several mock drafts have the Cowboys taking Alabama safety Mark Barron with the 14th overall pick in tonight's NFL draft.

There's the chance Barron is gone by the time the Cowboys pick. We look at five players, including Barron, whom the Cowboys might select at 14 or at another spot.

Mark Barron, safety, Alabama: He makes plays on the ball and is a strong tackler. He picked up seven interceptions his sophomore season. He's someone who can cover tight ends, but questions loom about his ability to cover a wide receiver or maybe an athletic-type tight end. The Cowboys and several other teams are high on him.

Fletcher Cox, defensive lineman, Mississippi State: You can move him to defensive tackle or end. With the Cowboys he would most likely play end. Almost every top SEC school wanted him, including powers Alabama, Auburn and LSU. But he decided to stay in his home state. He's very athletic with good footwork but just needs to play more consistent.

Michael Brockers, defensive lineman, LSU: Brockers can play end or tackle depending on where he can make the most impact. He's got an 83 7/8" wingspan. He's long, lean and physical. In his redshirt sophomore year, he had 10 tackles for loss. A very impressive player, but he started only one season and needs more game experience.

David DeCastro, guard, Stanford: This is where many expected the Cowboys to go early in the draft process. Now, we're not so sure. He made 39 consecutive starts at right guard and here's why: He's a mauler who drives defenders out of the play. The Cowboys might move him to center but there's concern if he can do it.

Dre Kirkpatrick, cornerback, Alabama: He has decent speed -- 4.5 40 -- and is good at getting to the ball and staying with receivers. After playing 12 games as a freshman, he moved into starting lineup the next season. Brockers is good in press coverage and has 16 career pass breakups. The Cowboys did extensive background on Kirkpatrick. They went to his hometown of Gadsden, Ala., to speak with family and friends.