A closer look at the positions the Dallas Cowboys could target at the NFL combine in Indianapolis:

Positions of need: Maybe it is better to eliminate positions they don't need to fill. Start at running back because the Cowboys have Ezekiel Elliott. They won’t go early for a quarterback with Dak Prescott. They like their young secondary players drafted last year (Chidobe Awuzie, Jourdan Lewis, Xavier Woods) but can always have more. That leaves every other non-special teams position.

A lot will be dictated by what happens in free agency, but the Cowboys need linebacker, wide receiver, offensive line, defensive line, safety and tight end help either in major or minor ways. It is always worth remembering a draft is not just about the current year but the future. Finding a pass-rusher always makes sense, even with DeMarcus Lawrence back in 2018. The offensive line has three Pro Bowlers but can use a left guard. Dez Bryant's future will have an impact on when a receiver will be selected. Nose tackle is a major need, but the Cowboys have not put much value in the position.

Three players the Cowboys should focus on at the combine:

Vita Vea, defensive tackle, Washington: He might not be around when the Cowboys pick at No. 19, but he could change the way the Cowboys think about a nose tackle. He is big (6-4, 344) and can clog the run lanes, but he is a terrific athlete as well with some pass-rush ability. The Cowboys have simply "gotten by" at nose tackle since Rod Marinelli has come on board, but Vea would be an upgrade on the interior.

Anthony Miller, wide receiver Memphis: After entering the program as a walk-on, he finished his career with 31 touchdowns in his final two seasons. He is a big-play threat, and the Cowboys' offense needs big-play threats even if Bryant remains. Miller had six games with more than 140 yards receiving. He can track the ball, has the ability to adjust and has good awareness. Perhaps he could be an option in the second round, but he could have the type of combine that boosts his stock.

Derwin James, safety, Florida State: The Cowboys are looking at moving Byron Jones back to cornerback in 2018, which opens up a spot at safety. James has the skills to be a starter from day one after leaving Florida State early. He missed most of 2016 with a knee injury, so there might be some medical concerns, but he has enough to warrant an early pick. He easily could go before the Cowboys select in the first round, but the Cowboys need to find out everything there is to know about James.