New York (April 26, 2012) -- The Dallas Cowboys have selected LSU cornerback Morris Claiborne with the sixth overall pick in the NFL draft after making a trade to move up eight spots in the first round.

Dallas moved up from the No. 14 overall Thursday night, giving that pick and their second-round pick (45th overall) to St. Louis.

It is the 59th draft-day trade for the Cowboys since owner Jerry Jones bought the team in 1989, and helps fill a pressing need by getting a playmaker for coordinator Rob Ryan's defense.

Claiborne, an All-American at LSU, led the Tigers with six interceptions last season and won the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation's top defensive back. He was also LSU's top kickoff returner, averaging 25 yards per return with a 99-yard touchdown at West Virginia.