The New Cowboys Year Has Already Begun
by Rafael Vela on Feb 10, 2009 9:16 AM CST
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PrintUpdate: From Michael Lombardi of the National Football Post:
Now, for the real news out of Dallas regarding Terrell Owens. Peter King wrote this yesterday in his Monday Morning QB, and I believe he is dead-on accurate. When, not if, is the real question everyone is asking about T.O. He will not be back, but the team is still deciding when to make the announcement of his termination or trade.
Maybe Jones can work a trade out to send Owens to the Raiders since they have a huge need at wideout and have never been afraid to take on a big challenge. This will be interesting to follow as it develops.
Can you see that last scenario? Darth Raider bargaining with his football son over T.O.:
Darth Al: (haaah, haaaah) Jerry. (haaaah) I. Am. Your. Father. (haaaaah)
Jerruh: Then how can you turn your back on my son, Terrell? Remember what happened when you cast his brother Randy into the darkness?"
Darth Al: (haaaah, haaaaah) (raises eyebrow beneath helmet)
Stay tuned.
* * * * *
While the tabloids sniff at Tony and Jessica's underwear drawers and the T.O. saga continues to generate lines of copy, and the Roy Willies toss Molotov cocktails at their coaches, the organization has moved deep into its offseason preparations.
The scouting staff is working on completing its initial board, before jetting off to Indianapolis for next week's Combine. Certain positions, offensive and defensive linemen in particular, whose rankings do not depend on 40 times, are being completed first. I've been told that this will be the "purest" board the team compiles, since it's based wholly on tape study, and has not been modified by 40 times, psychological reports, interviews and agent smoke.
The pro personnel people also have piles of tape to review. New coaching regimes want their guys. I was told to watch teams that have new coaching staffs and new schemes, the Denvers, the Detroits, the Kansas Citys,and even those who promoted guys from staff, .like San Francisco or Seattle. Good players will be cut, because their coaches don't want them or don't feel they fit the new schemes to be installed. With eleven teams tapping new head men, there's a rare opportunity to land a talented vet or two.
A source advised me to pay closer attention to the needs and team targets expressed this week, because they are honest assessments. Once the Combine begins, teams and agents will throw up columns of smoke to hide their free agent and draft day targets.
The same source verified what we've been saying here for months -- the Cowboys need a safety and offensive linemen. He said he would not be shocked if Dallas took o-linemen with their first two picks, if that's how the board and the draft broke down.
We discussed the Cowboys inability to find quality o-linemen the past few years and he expressed confidence in scouting director Tom Ciskowski; he noted Ciskowski found Larry Allen and advocated against the drafting of Jacob Rogers and Stephen Peterman, two of Bill Parcells' biggest misses.
I got some more information on the Cowboys' draft profiles at various positions and will start rolling out breakdowns of each position later this week.
In the meantime, know that the organization is running at 10,000 rpm. The Roy Williams of the world may have a little too much time on their hands, but the scouts and coaches are eyeballs-deep in game tape.
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Following the board...
Jerry took alot of heat last year for not following their draft board. They purportedly, like most teams, had Mendenhall ranked over Felix Jones, but nevertheless went with the Arkansas stud. Whether the decision will ultimately be vindicated is still open. Rashard was hurt all year, and Felix missed much of the year after demonstrated flashes of brilliance.
Do you think the front office will strictly adhere to the board, once comprised, this year? Or is Jerry given to pre-conceived notions and draft day infatuations. I had no problem with taking Felix over Mendenhall if they thought he was a better fit for the team. But, if they did believe this, theny why have Mendenhall ranked higher? I bet Jerry plays his cards a bit closer to his vest this year in terms of the board.
they went off the board
Mendenhall and Jones have near identical grades. They were ranked right next to each other on the
board, and chose Jones because his game was complementary to Barber’s, while Mendenhall’s was not.
The big whine on draft day concerned taking Jones over Jenkins. A lot of people felt that they should have drafted Jenkins first. But they had Jones rated higher.
They went off their board.
Well, they got them both, but it begs the question...
Does a team (should a team) significantly alter their board to factor in perceived need. Cornerback was seen by many as the position of primary need last year. Or is the board designed strictly as a list of the best players, regardless of position, to use as a guide on draft day. Whatever the case, I would still think they have a list for the teams primary needs.
by Boundforbeach on Feb 10, 2009 9:42 AM CST up reply actions
Why was Felix rated next to Mendenhall?
Last year there was a clear RB first tier. Mendenhall was in that tier, Jones wasn’t. This isn’t my opinion (well it is) but look at just about any draft projection from a year ago. Some had Mendenhall top 10, almost all had him off the board before the Boys picked.
If the Boys staff thought Jones was equal value why didn’t they work harder to land a trade down. I don’t know how hard they worked, but certainly somebody wanted to get above the Steelers for a elite RB.
Likewise Jenkins was a top tier CB. He also was projected well before Jones.
How many projectors pick for money?
Who was projecting Jenkins ahead of Jones? And putting Jones in a second tier? Real NFL war rooms or guys who want to run them or were fired from them?
Why didn’t they work harder to trade down? Let’s see:
1. They had the 22nd pick and Jones was rated higher than 22nd overall, so they were getting value where they were;
2. Tennessee wanted Jones and admitted so after the draft. If Dallas wanted Felix Jones, and they did, they did the right thing.
And tell me, what’s wrong with Felix Jones?
by Rafael Vela on Feb 10, 2009 11:38 AM CST up reply actions
Not a damn thing...
Not a damn thing is wrong with Felix and I can’t wait see him play a fully healthy year.
0 = The number of Super Bowls the Eagles have won.
He looked good for half a season
I don’t want to play the what’s wrong game, I hope Felix Jones becomes a Hall of Fame player. Jones was a Razorback, writers thought Jerry wanted a hog, would even trade up to top 5 to get his guy. Jones become the fallback position. Other than Dallas, I never heard a squeek about Jones as a first round prospect. He’s fast but the combine proved he doesn’t have elite speed like Chris Johnson (MacFadden, Stewart and Mendenhall run faster, these three are all bigger). His numbers were great, but he played out the Wildhog. The other four RBs were feature backs. Jones has good hands, but so does Stewart and Johnson started as a WR.
Beyond being a Boys fan, and focussing on value, are the Titans unhappy with their draft pick? Chris Johnson was not in the first RB tier either. If Titans wanted Jones more and would have kicked in 09 third to move up, wouldn’t that have been a good thing?
I have no clue what was offered, but Jones should not have been the trade bait. Mendenhall was rated much higher than the next Rb – any other wiggly break away speed bangers? Would the Cards have moved up for their Edge replacement? Getting Bolden for that pick last year would have left us with a different complement to Barber most likely selected in the second round and the benefit of a first and third now.
The real problem is believing that one player is the end all and then reaching(or not allowing others to reach) for that player. Certainly superstars are drafted after the top 10, but there’s little reason to believe any player outside those early elite picks has more potential than his peers. Trade down for picks be happy with Ray Rices of the world.
In all of JJ draft history, show me how many other hogs he has drafted. This is a
media perpetuated myth that JJ was partial to his alma mater becaue DM was available and wanted to create some predraft hype because JJ in the draft is a speculative story you could drive into the ground until draft day comes; and JJ will do nothing to convince anyone to not pay attention to him.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
The cards were not trading Boldin to anyone last year. The skins had a two 1st round pick
offer on the table last year and the Cards said no (now the second 1st rounder was based on some conditions tied to playing time and production) but still did not want to trade him. I have not seen any communication that they have changed their mind this year either.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
what?
“The real problem is believing that one player is the end all and then reaching(or not allowing others to reach) for that player.”
Jones was not a reach. YOU’RE the one spewing conjecture with nothing to back you up. Jones had a solid, first round grade.
I think he's refrencing a lot of the not-really-in-the-know web sites
that knocked Felix Jones because he wasn’t a full-time starter. I didn’t think it was a problem because neither was Joseph Adai or Willie Parker, and I like both backs
by AustonianAggie on Feb 10, 2009 1:57 PM CST up reply actions
Nah
I don’t believe Jones deserved a first round grade. Who gave him a solid first round grade? I do believe Felix was associated with Jerry Jones and draft sites started slotting him into the late first round due to the location of the Boys pick. I didn’t believe Chris Johnson deserved a first round grade, but due to his elite speed he was more likely to be a special player.
Jones was rated no better than the 4th RB in last year’s draft. Other than YPC from the wildcat formation, nothing really stands out. Certainly he’s good and has potential but when a prospect with a higher grade at the same position (Mendenhall) is on the table you make every effort to trade down.
he had legitamate 1st round speed and size
He really had no knocks; he had measurables alone that made him a first round back, like 40 times, height and weight
by AustonianAggie on Feb 10, 2009 3:51 PM CST up reply actions
+1
The draft sites I followed all had him projected to go in the late first round.
At any rate, he looks like he deserved a 1st round pick after half his rookie season. I can’t wait to see him back and healthy in 2009.
Mendenhall wasn’t without flaws. He had a problem with fumbles, and he only had one season at IL where he put up serious numbers.
Feb. 18-24 -- NFL Scouting Combine
Feb. 27 -- Veteran free agency signing period begins. Trading period begins.
April 25-26 -- NFL Draft
by APerfectStar on Feb 10, 2009 5:03 PM CST up reply actions
+1 Raf....I was the biggest advocate on this sight to select Felix Jones, and IMO, was the #1 rated RB in the draft for the Cowboys.
If Felix Jones stayed in college for his senior year, there is no doubt in my mind he would have won the Heisman Trophy this past season, and be a top 5 pick in this upcoming draft.
He will go down as one of the best backs in team, and league history by the time his career is over…barring a crippling injury…you wait and see…
by CowboysRnumba1 on Feb 10, 2009 7:50 PM CST up reply actions
Felix Jones projected top 15 pick in my rankings....so what's your point ?
And IF he wasn’t injured early on, he was well on his way to becoming the hands down favorite to win Rookie of the Year…Felix Jones was on everyone’s top tier level of RB’s.
by CowboysRnumba1 on Feb 10, 2009 7:41 PM CST up reply actions
Ciskowski is the genius
behind all of our recent drafts. Ireland got the credit for us improving our recent drafts, but Ciskowski is the guy behind the scenes most fans didn’t know about who actually created the draft boards.
As long as we follow his board, I’m confident we’ll continue to have very good draft classes.
Over years, Parcells and Jones often deviated from the board, and guys like Jacob Rogers, Peterman were the result.
In Romo we Trust
Out of curiosity, any one catch Peterman playing in Detroit?
Was he doing anything? Maybe I’ll just wait for the Joiner metrics to come out
by AustonianAggie on Feb 10, 2009 11:09 AM CST up reply actions
It would really be fascinating...
to have access to the before and after draft boards. I would love to see just how different the “pure” draft board, based on film study alone, differs from the ultimate board after combines, testing, media input (ie "Kiperisms") and other factors are worked in. It would also be fascinating to historically compare the tape study boards vs. final boards in past years to the performance of the players who were taken. I wonder if any of the teams actually make these available for past years.
+1 Ciskowski is the man behind the scenes that matters the most...This years draft will be a make or break for us going forward..sustained success, or impending failure..we'll see..
I have much confidence in his rankings…If Jerry follows his guidance, we’ll be just fine.
I disagree
Talent isn’t the problem on this team, execution is the problem. The two don’t always and necessarily go hand in hand.
In Romo we Trust
Some of it is finding out what players fit though
a team like Pittsburg has had years to assemble the right personel in its 3-4, and has been replacing under performers while we have to live with them
by AustonianAggie on Feb 10, 2009 11:12 AM CST up reply actions
they found a good formula last year
for compiling data, building an effective board — and following it.
If they repeat that formula, I’m bullish on this year’s draft.
One thing I didn’t mention — the source agrees that Dallas will need to move up if they want a safety. I’m thinking this is almost a near certainty, because they need one so badly.
I know they need a safety badly BUT
this is a mediocre crop of safetys. I doubt there is a consensus first round grade in this years draft.
With all the vets sure to be available – due to coaching changes – why not go the UFA route? Mike Brown anybody? Ryan Clark?
Does the fact that there are THREE stud safetys coming out in 2010 mean anything? Three consensus first round grade guys?
Mays, Allen and the other kid ?
This is Marten and Free all over again. I would have rather gotten Cherilous and Gaither ….
That there are three stud safeties coming out in '10
doesnt’ do a damn thing for ’09.
Dallas can’t defer their season a year. They have a gaping hole to fill.
And if they get one, what’s to stop them from getting another one in ‘10.
It’s not like this team could only stand one quality S.
by Rafael Vela on Feb 10, 2009 11:58 AM CST up reply actions
But at what cost?
I agree completely that we can’t ignore safety in ’09. But is alan right that this years crop is deemed mediocre? If so, I think its a legitimate question whether we use a top pick on one, particularly, as your source indicates, that we will likely have to move up to get one and lose other picks to do so. If there is no stud safety available in the late 1st round, then why overpay to fill the gap? Maybe a serviceable FA is the way to go this year.
by Boundforbeach on Feb 10, 2009 12:06 PM CST up reply actions
Uh, moving up
means there are guys rated in the late 1st/early 2nd area. How did that become chopped liver?
That’s where Ken Hamlin, Bob Sanders, Mike Brown, Madeau Williams, Brian Dawkins and Lawyer Milloy went.
Good free safties will require a move up. If you want another SS Roy clone, you can wait.
by Rafael Vela on Feb 10, 2009 12:13 PM CST up reply actions
LaRon Landry was a Tier I safety
He was drafted #6 overall. None of the safeties this year are projected as being in his class. So are you comfortable using our top pick on a guy who would have been considered a Tier II safety in a better draft class? I don’t know. I’d love to see us lock up this position for years with a high quality talent. Just not sure its going to happen.
by Boundforbeach on Feb 10, 2009 12:28 PM CST up reply actions
09 Safety would be selected in the second round
There should be issues with using the first pick for a safety, it a legitmate need. Besides, what’s wrong with using a second round pick on a second round talent? My only concearn would be if a better player slips.
OGs are rarely drafted in the first round. Duke Robinson is widely considered the top OG prospect, but Mike Mayock listed him behind Andy Levitre. I hope Robinson misses the Combine and that Jerry has insiders at OU.
I don't see the argument
what’s wrong with a tier II safety? Tier II guys can still play.
Darren Woodson was a tier II safety. LeRoy Butler was a Tier II safety. Those were the two best safeties of the ’90s. Bob Sanders was a Tier II safety. So was Brian Dawkins.
Anybody want to throw those guys back?
Were they really Teir II? I thought that era just devalued high drafted safeties
Did everyone see Woodson as a Safety when he came out? I thought he was LB prospect
by AustonianAggie on Feb 10, 2009 2:00 PM CST up reply actions
Woodson played a hybrid type LB/DB at ASU
but he was a safety prospect as far as the NFL was concerned.
In Romo we Trust
Dallas drafted him with the full intention of moving him to S
and he was what, the 38th overall pick?
How far up does Dallas have to move in the 2nd?
10-15 slots, or are you saying they need to get up higher?
Feb. 18-24 -- NFL Scouting Combine
Feb. 27 -- Veteran free agency signing period begins. Trading period begins.
April 25-26 -- NFL Draft
by APerfectStar on Feb 10, 2009 5:41 PM CST up reply actions
If the value is there take it.
I think the point being made is that a move up simply to fill a void reminds everyone of the days when ebenezer ekuban was drafted because they didn’t have a pass rush. I think that forcing a pick to fill a position, especially when you lose any draft picks that could bring in more young talent is a mistake. That being said, If the value is there this year then there is no argument as to what should be done.
Redskins spent two top 10 picks on 2 safeties in 3 years
I think…
and both were good. I think they would of been worth it, the power to shred passing attacks is great
by AustonianAggie on Feb 10, 2009 1:59 PM CST up reply actions
You are right Raf
at the same time when you wrote about all the UFA’s coming out because of all the coaching changes I wondered if the position might be better filled by a UFA knowing that ’10 is chock full of quality at the position.
(I’ve been praying for that Volunteer kid Allen) ………..
Can't that consensus change?
I know the Combine is a week away.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
The O-Line
I believe, is the biggest need on this team, even considering Raf’s excellent case for safety he made a week or so ago. The O-Line made the 90’s offensive teams great. It allowed Aikman, Smith, and Irvin to dominate, it forced its will on other teams, it allowed a fairly simply offense – one with not that many plays – to simply line up and shove the ball down other teams throat, which opened up the precision passing game.
They can more easily hide a bad safety than a poor O-Line. I think we can find a managable safety in FA that will be better than what we find at 51. I hope we do take O-Line with the first two picks. It is not a stretch to believe that a rookie lineman can crack a starting spot on the poor line we saw last season. They simply HAVE to dominate at the point of attack or our potentially great running backs will look average, and our potentially great QB will look lost.
O-Line, O-Line, O-Line!!!
co-sign
Celebrity or Imposter?
YOU Decide...
http://www.xanga.com/metaltometal/689036052/celebrity-or-imposter/
i don't agree...
safety is more important… why? well.. we have 5 starters playing on our O line…5 players who when healthy and playing together, have been good if not great…
safety, on the other hand, has been one of the most erratic positions on this team since darren woodson left…
safety is our top priority, with oline depth (key word) as something to keep in mind if players fall to us in the 3rd, 4th etc…
by CowboysFan4Life on Feb 10, 2009 10:11 AM CST up reply actions
OL.....Safety..no way
He said he would not be shocked if Dallas took o-linemen with their first two picks, if that’s how the board and the draft broke down.
I’ll believe it when I see it. NT and DE will be top priorities for this team. ILB may be if Zach and Burnett are gone and we don’t pursue Bart Scott or another. We could add a quality OL throught FA to bulster the depth. I agree, safety should be drafted, but I don’t see us drafting one until at least the 4th round. Don’t rule out Jerry moving up into the first round if there is a player he really likes.
Did you see what happened to our offense when our guard went down. Did you see our safety play.
We have a pro bowl NT and you think it will be one of our 1st 2 picks. Dude, thats not kool aid your drinking.
Yeah I agree...
I mean I’d love a big space eating NT, but I think when keith davis and pat watkins are your guys back there.. you need a safety.
by AirforceBat on Feb 10, 2009 11:09 AM CST up reply actions
Are Spears and Canty on the team?
If they both leave then 3-4 DE becomes a huge need. There are only a couple of guys in this draft. A space eating NT would free the Rat to move over tackle.
It’s impossible to identify the #1 draft need without considering the gains and losses of free agency.
If your looking for a immediate starter at safety....it's not happening in this draft
No matter who we draft, a rookie is not stepping in and starting. Get used to Watkins and Davis again this year unless we acquire a starting safety in FA.
I don't care if he starts immediately
most rookies don’t start immediately, regardless of position. That said, why not? What kept Chris Horton from being a great rookie starter? Or Laron Landry? Or Ed Reed? Or Brian Dawkins?
Some of these guys were top ten picks. Some were 2nd rounders and Horton was a 7th rounder.
How do you know, “it’s not happening in the draft?” There are too many counter factuals which refute you.
by Rafael Vela on Feb 11, 2009 12:40 AM CST up reply actions
I could flip a coin on OL vs Safety and they might blow us all away by staying loyal to the board
Also, I’ve noticed that Jerry is pretty slick about being informed of other team’s intentions. People that work under him are usually his friends later on.
The reason I say flip a coin is because size is a measurable commodity and the draft is about measurables, especially at the top.
by AustonianAggie on Feb 10, 2009 11:14 AM CST up reply actions
OL was THE top priority for the scouts back in August
what did you see last year that changed those priorities?
by Rafael Vela on Feb 10, 2009 11:42 AM CST up reply actions
The top 7-9 rated O Linemen in this draft are rated higher than the top 3 rated Safeties...
Meaning guys like Duke Robinson, Eben Britton, and Alex Mack are rated higher than Delmus, Johnson, and Moore..
I would prefer we draft an O Lineman over Safety if given the option in round 2. because they present better value for that spot.
Not knowing what will happen in FA leaves us all a bit cloudy as to what’s eventually going to happen in the draft..
Cut S-Roy Williams (which should be done right now), and replace him with a another FA, and we no longer have Safety as a early need…
by CowboysRnumba1 on Feb 10, 2009 8:10 PM CST up reply actions
This is money information, Raf.
Hopefully, we can sign an experienced player of need to a minimal contract — as a result of the massive HC turnover which include more teams changing defensive schemes.
Great points.
And I really like hearing this…
In the meantime, know that the organization is running at 10,000 rpm.
Offseason music to the ears of Diehard Cowboys fans!!!
Celebrity or Imposter?
YOU Decide...
http://www.xanga.com/metaltometal/689036052/celebrity-or-imposter/
Raf if Mike Huff was a cheap aquisition do you think that dallas should at least give him
a look to see if he could be a marginal player while a rookie safety is groomed this year, assuming they can draft the one they want.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
I bring that up as a way to fill in the a spot vacated by an expensive Roy Williams safety that could
net the team 3 mil in cap space.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
Why would you ever want Huff?
Just another 4-3 safety who won’t be able to transition to our D
/sarcasm
"When it's third and ten, you can take the milk drinkers and I'll take the whiskey drinkers every time." -Max McGee
Well put
We struggle enough having 4-3 corners playing out of position
(Romo) still gets excited when he buys a new t-shirt at Target for crying out loud
by I_miss_Switzer on Feb 10, 2009 10:28 AM CST up reply actions
Nope
me and Roy Williams have this all figured out.
(Romo) still gets excited when he buys a new t-shirt at Target for crying out loud
by I_miss_Switzer on Feb 10, 2009 12:28 PM CST up reply actions
You have to remember...
Just because he was a first round pick, there is a reason Oakland is releasing him.
I’m a Texas Longhorn fan as well, but Huff looks lost in coverage and has been a bad tackler.
by AirforceBat on Feb 10, 2009 11:07 AM CST up reply actions
I prefaced it with cheap, as to say that he may be on par with RW1 but will be significantly cheaper
as a depth issue on safety. I am aware that if the Raider’s cut you it’s a serious inditement of you as a player. But consider it as a cheap alternative to RW1 to free up cap space and have a safety in line for depth.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
At least he is fast. Roy didn't have that virtue
he once had the hips to turn and run like a CB too
by AustonianAggie on Feb 10, 2009 11:16 AM CST up reply actions
Yeah....
I don’t know, you might get him for depth, but it is definitly time to draft a safety in the first 4 rounds.
by AirforceBat on Feb 10, 2009 11:22 AM CST up reply actions
I agree the position needs to be addressed in the draft but you could see what huff has and
see if you could use him like pacman was used, but he comes with no off-field problems and since he was cut he would probably take what he could get from a team that would bring him into OTA’s and see if he could compete.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
Plus...
If your drafting him for depth he better be a good special teams player, if he’s not then its worthless.
by AirforceBat on Feb 10, 2009 11:44 AM CST up reply actions
They would not need to draft huff, and I am advocating a simple look-see for a cheap
FA safety that could fill RW1 role should they cut him and maintain safety depth. I do not see what they would be sacrificing any guranteed money or picks. I do not see the harm in it if he shows the team he can contribute.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
The Raiders
let Moss go for a 4th rounder. if you perceive weakness on the part of another team, don’t assume that weakness is knowing who to let go.
Yeah...
But Moss was a commodity that HAD been good.
I’m just saying I’d lower my expectations for Huff.
They Let
Randy Moss go too. Just because the Raiders release you means nothing. We let Jimmy Smith go, and so on. Being released is just one coaches evaluation.
When did I become a Cowboy fan? When my mom told me I was.
Even D'Angelo Hall
looked good in Washington. If you play for the Raiders, you will likely stink.
(Romo) still gets excited when he buys a new t-shirt at Target for crying out loud
by I_miss_Switzer on Feb 10, 2009 12:28 PM CST up reply actions
Possibly...
But I watched him alot just because he was a horn and he did look lost alot.
I also didn’t think Hall looked that good in Washington, he had a pick, but he’s been highly overrated his entire career.
There seems
to be alot of that going around.
When did I become a Cowboy fan? When my mom told me I was.
I know Skins fans were quite pleased with him
Oakland is like a car wash with brushes and jets that coat you in suckitude.
He looked like an NFLer again in Washington, at the very least.
(Romo) still gets excited when he buys a new t-shirt at Target for crying out loud
by I_miss_Switzer on Feb 10, 2009 1:50 PM CST up reply actions
Have you considered using that line as your new sig?
‘cause it’s damn funny.
NO!!!
He can’t replace the current one…
by AikmanNailedMySis on Feb 10, 2009 1:59 PM CST up reply actions
I thought it poignant
(Romo) still gets excited when he buys a new t-shirt at Target for crying out loud
by I_miss_Switzer on Feb 10, 2009 2:02 PM CST up reply actions
i wouldn't mind having huff...
listed on the depth chart… young, fast… look what campo did with the young and fast scandrick
by CowboysFan4Life on Feb 10, 2009 2:25 PM CST up reply actions
An interesting point
On the Ciskowski-Allen correlation.
From what I’ve heard, Allen’s biggest proponent was actually Hud Houck, which speaks well on two counts to the O-linemen we target this year.
Kanye, you want to be the voice of this generation? Get in line! It goes me, Obamagirl, the Freecreditreport.com guys, then It's a tie between you-and Crocs.
-Stephen Colbert
Trade MB3
I have a gut feeling that Dallas will attempt to trade the Barberian in an attempt to move up. Any idea if this is being floated around there, Raf?
I'd really doubt it
His value is very low right now; he’s seen as a part-time runner who just averaged 3.8 yards a carry.
Also, I think Jerry values having him on the team because of his attitude on the field and the quiet, controversy-free persona he displays in the locker room.
Kanye, you want to be the voice of this generation? Get in line! It goes me, Obamagirl, the Freecreditreport.com guys, then It's a tie between you-and Crocs.
-Stephen Colbert
by Conjunction on Feb 10, 2009 10:39 AM CST up reply actions
That would be a decent cap hit since he only has one year in of his deal.
by Mandmeisterx on Feb 10, 2009 11:52 AM CST up reply actions
If you're gonna trade a back
you trade Choice.
He’s cheap and has no wear. But only if he gets you a pick in say the 2nd.
Dallas has proven they can draft backs. Choice and Barber were 4th rounders.
They can find a replacement for one of those guys if they have to.
by Rafael Vela on Feb 10, 2009 12:00 PM CST up reply actions
The other major point on trading Choice instead of Barber
is the salary cap hit. Its minimal for tranding Choice. But is quite large for Barber.
Here’s a summary of Barber’s contract. 5/20/2008: Signed a seven-year, $45 million contract. The deal contains $16 million guaranteed, including a $12 million signing bonus. 2009: $620,000, 2010: $3.86 million, 2011: $4.25 million, 2012: $5.75 million, 2013: $6.25 million, 2014: $7 million, 2015: Free Agent
So this means the accelerated signing bonus would be $12 million x 6/7, or $10.285 million. Subtract off the base salary of $620K and you’re left with a $9.67 million cap hit if he’s traded.
We have about $10 million of cap space right now. I don’t think using it all up to trade Barber is the right move.
No, the only back we can feasibly trade is Choice.
i'll get sick to my stomach
if we trade choice
by CowboysFan4Life on Feb 10, 2009 2:27 PM CST up reply actions
You are than
making another hole in an attempt to fill another one with a prospect. Not very smart if we did that
I'm not saying they're going to do this
just answering the hypothetical
Quick response there did you feel that you were turning your back on the ocean if you did not post
that?
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
No, just don't want thinking out loud to suddenly morph into
a claim that I said that’s what the team would do.
by Rafael Vela on Feb 10, 2009 12:04 PM CST up reply actions
Raf could you please weigh in on your opinion on huff as a cheap safety for depth purposes so
dallas could free up cap space. I thin the situation could work out that way if they get him cheap and maybe he could be as much help as RW1 would be. Do you see any harm in having him on for OTA’s or TC to see what he could do?
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
I don't know
cause I didn’t see Huff play in Oakland.
Though I heard very early on in his Raiders career that he was struggling.
by Rafael Vela on Feb 10, 2009 12:14 PM CST up reply actions
Huff's stats were
really down in 08 vs 07. 28 tackles, 5 passes defensed and no ints. That is compared to 07 when he went 85, 11, and 1 respectively. That decline could get you cut even in Oakland.
Any reason
for the decline. Or, is just playing in Oakland reason enough?
When did I become a Cowboy fan? When my mom told me I was.
07 the whole D was better I think
People though the Sapp anchored Oakland D might bring that team back up to mediocrity
by AustonianAggie on Feb 10, 2009 2:05 PM CST up reply actions
Just kidding on the last comment,
I remember the last time you answered a hypothetical quesiton and the coversation was hi-jacked by that comment.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
Cause I've seen conjecture
come back at me weeks later quoted as if somebody in the Metroplex wrote it, off a team source.
I think it's about a month too early
to project what our biggest needs will be heading into the draft because some of our depth needs might be addressed in FA.
My feeling is if we don’t address safety in FA at all, thats going to be our top priority heading into the draft.
Its the only position where we don’t have a decent starter. Now of course if Thomas, Burnett and Canty all leave, ILB and DL become top priorities as well.
In Romo we Trust
Keith Davis vs. Roy Williams
I agree that we need to address our strong safety position. But, honestly, I was impressed with KD as our backup. He showed heart, decent tackling, and even more skill in coverage than Roy (all while running on 1 leg). He isn’t what I want in a starter, but he is exactly what we need in a backup / special teams ace. Williams? Watkins? Let them go. But I hope we hang onto Killer.
What happened to Courtney Brown? He came out of college as a raw talent, with blazing speed and extreme intelligence. I was hoping somebody would coach him up. He may be the 3rd Safety we jettison this offseason if he can’t compete for backup duty.
people say he's contact shy, I don't know myself
Ball player well in (an estimate) of the 13 snaps he had, if we need a safety who can play at an NFL level, use him, it may even get him out of the roster cellar
by AustonianAggie on Feb 10, 2009 2:08 PM CST up reply actions
Davis wouldn't be a big loss
I’m for keeping him cheap as a backup SS only who can help out on ST. But that’s a position that could and should go to a rookie.
Feb. 18-24 -- NFL Scouting Combine
Feb. 27 -- Veteran free agency signing period begins. Trading period begins.
April 25-26 -- NFL Draft
by APerfectStar on Feb 10, 2009 5:51 PM CST up reply actions
THANK YOU, RAF!!!!
I know that’s shouting but I am so-o-o-o-o glad to finally be getting more insightful, logical nuts and bolts information than all the “he said, T.O. said” garbage we are getting from the mediots and way too many blogger fans. I’d almost gotten to the point that I stopped reading about the ’Boys because it was nothing but finger pointing, rumor mongering and speculation. Thank goodness for you and Grizz et al.
Thats what Raf does
No filler. All Killer.
NY Giants cut 2 DB's
Sam Madison and Sammy Knight. Always thought Madison was more of a corner, Knight worth a look ? Agree there will be a few minor surprises in FA availability
'It is not enough for me to win. My enemies must lose' - David Merrick
Sure seems like a lot of media pundits
think T.O. is a goner, boy I sure hope they’re right.
I’d trade him to Oakland for their 40th pick in a heartbeat.
In Romo we Trust
That would be beyond fantastic
to get #40 overall given the stuff floating around right now. Doubt it would happen, but would love it to.
why would you trade the 40th pick for somebody that is supposedly going to be released anyways?
i dont think the raiders are that dumb….
really?? I think they are that dumb
Just look at their FA signings as of late, they have moronic written all over them.
In Romo we Trust
If the Raiders tried to create the Moss deal in reverse
and offered a 4th for him,
I would call that the swindle of the century.
I’d take a 6th, to be honest.
i think you put a media ban on all players (a la Parcells)
and go one more year with the guy and make a run at it…if it doesn’t work – hopefully 2010 is uncapped
media ban would also serve to get guys like Crayton, RW2 and Bennett to close their mouths and concentrate on playing
if this guy is released – i pray he doesn’t end up on another NFC EAST team….i could not watch him abuse anthony henry twice a year for the next 2-3 years
You think Philly would take him back?
You think New York would take him over Plaxico?
Anybody really think Snyder would pursue him after taking what, eight wide receivers in last year’s draft?
well Raf - unsure about Snyder - but i could totally see it...
obviously no to Philly….
GMEN – he’s not their kind of guy…but Plaxico could be in jail….you dont know what is going to happen to that guy….i think there is a 2-year minimum jail sentence for the gun charge that he is facing
Snyder would lead the bidding
Now that Chucky is out, I could see TOol back in Tampa.
Yeah...
At this point, a trade would at least take the cap hit away.
Which is what you’re looking for the most.
It wouldn't take the cap hit away
A trade accelerates the bonus into this year.
by StillHateTheGiants on Feb 11, 2009 10:08 AM CST up reply actions
40th for TO, let's do it.. Hur-E
McLovin9 -
I think they trade it because they know there is no way TO elects to sign there if he is released. Only way they TO is if they trade for him..
What WR will available around 51? Safety at 40
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
well TO to Oakland is crazy talk....
sure the Raiders have made ridiculous decisions but they gotta know that TO would completely destroy that team and Russell would be bagging groceries within a year…no way they would elect to trade for TO and put him into that powder keg….you saw what happened here in a 9-7 season on the verge of the playoffs…imagine what happens on a perennial 4-12 team with Russell as its QB
Raf nice starwars reference, man can we go one day without speculative news,
not complaining about this site reporting it but just the whole stay tuned stage this issue has reached is just too much sometimes.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
Lombardi is just guessing on what King said
Nothing else. He responded to someone in a mail bag. I’m agnostic on TO as well, but let’s not forget that people were wondering whether TO is going after his first season here.
i'll tell you this....if TO is released - there is going to be a lot of moaning and groaning
because his on-field contribution will be sorely missed
we better pray that Austin is the real deal because we have nobody to stretch the field
The bitching will continue regardless of anyone until the offense gets back in sync.
Sometimes there is addition by subtraction. Lets say his production is 1500 and 12 TDs. I could easily see this be scooped up by RW2 and Felix without breakin a sweat.
well if they are winning - everything takes care of itself (like 2007)
its only when the wheels fall off that TO becomes a nightmare
Potentially
If 1500/12 was easy, more WRs would do it.
not only that - but keep in mind that without TO
there is one less home run threat for the opposing defence to account for….RW2 caught 19 passes while he was here with TO attracting safety coverage over the top….guy had no separation at all……understandably, he had the foot issue
you think if we roll out RW2 and Crayton that anybody is going to be scared?? i think Witten will be lucky to catch 50 balls next year without TO
but hey – if Austin can do the job – and FeJo stays healthy…maybe it can happen…i dont know
If Witten has less than 50 catches next year, it will be because the Williams/Austin/Crayton triumvirate absolutely sucks.
He had 87 and 66 catches in ‘04 and ’05 with old versions of MeShawn and Glenn flanking him and even more elderly QB’s throwing him the ball.
But yep, Austin is the X-factor. For the offense to work, he has to be either Terry Glenn or at least an Alvin Harper; who even when he had seemingly paltry sums like 33 catches half of those catches spanned 20 yards or longer and a third 40 yards or longer.
I just mean spread out his touches to other guys.
Not to mention you guys keep on talking about production that has been steadily declining. The Giants did better when Tiki left and he had great numbers for a number of years. He was a distraction and caused other guys production to fall.
you wanna see production fall ??? LMAO...wait till you see our "after TO" offense....
right down the crapper….for sure.
by CowboysRnumba1 on Feb 10, 2009 8:26 PM CST up reply actions
What will really be interesting
is who are the Romo apologists going to blame once TO is gone? Everyone wants to blame TO for all of Romo’s flaws but who’s fault will it be then?
I'm not assuming he will fail
but he will never make it thru a whole season without making mistakes. The question is, who are you going to blame when Romo makes ill advised passes,fumbles etc. at that point when TO’s not here. Right now, you want to blame TO for every one of Romo’s miscues and I don’t see it that way.
thats not true at all
If you actually read my posts carefully, I never said once Romo was without fault or that T.O. is solely to blame.
You generalize my comments way too much. I’ve always maintained that everyone on the offense is at fault. It might seem like I never blame Romo, but thats everyone refuses to see the errors of the other 10 guys that are out there with Romo. The offense works in unison and usually when it fails, more than one player is responsible.
For the record, I’ve never blamed T.O. for anything other than running poor routes, failing to beat press coverage and dropping too many balls.
In Romo we Trust
-1
"Ask Philly was it hard tryin' a stop TO, he da main reason that the fans would come fo'."
by aussie_cowboy on Feb 11, 2009 8:17 PM CST up reply actions
I guess he wouldn't have led the NFL in TD receptions since he's been then....
and made Romo, Witten, and MBIII Pro Bowlers.
by CowboysRnumba1 on Feb 10, 2009 8:22 PM CST up reply actions
New Mock
I was sent -
2. Dorell Scott, DT, Clemson
3. Patrick Chung, SS, Oregon
4. Anthony Parker, G, Tenn
4. Louis Vasquez, G/T, TTU
5. Selvish Capers, OT, WVU
5. Frantz Joseph, ILB, Fl Atl
6. Quan Cosby, WR, TX
7. Nader Abdallah, DE, Ohio St.
7. Darryl Richard, DT, Georgia Tech
Scott is not a first day prospect
Chung would be more than throw up worthy in the third.
This is '95 all over again
Only Chung of those first four is near his draft position. Scott could probably be had with
Detroits pick in the 4th. Maybe with Dallas’ pick in the 4th. Parker and Vasquez could be had
in the 5th or maybe later. Cosby isn’t a type of WR the Cowboys draft.
In short, Chung would have to be Darren Woodson Jr. to redeem this draft.
dude..."bak to the mock draft sites with that one"
and don’t come back till you actually study the rankings of players available.
I like Scott, but not as our first pick…late 3rd-4th rounder more like it..
I agree with Raf….give me a bucket…
by CowboysRnumba1 on Feb 10, 2009 8:30 PM CST up reply actions
Raiders, hell I hope the belt-buckle shrimp gets in on bidding for TO, I would love to see
how much FA dead money that deal would generate for the skins.
Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!
Waht is the cap hit in trading Owens?
I read on the team site that releasing him would count “$9mil” and only "$600k" less if he stays, so how does it work in a trade? Are the Cowboys still responsible for the signing bonus they just dished out?
As they say, follow the money. That amount of money for no return is insane.
If you are beating a dead horse, you might be a Cowboys fan.
I was StarStruck at TBB/BSR, now...
It's the same cap hit with a trade, as it is with outright release.
I believe.
Feb. 18-24 -- NFL Scouting Combine
Feb. 27 -- Veteran free agency signing period begins. Trading period begins.
April 25-26 -- NFL Draft
by APerfectStar on Feb 10, 2009 6:00 PM CST up reply actions
If they traded him before his roster bonus, they'd owe 6 million, and the new team would owe this years roster bonus...i believe...
they would be complete fools to succumb to media pressure and release TO.
by CowboysRnumba1 on Feb 10, 2009 8:35 PM CST up reply actions
I dont wanna see T.O. die slow in Oakland.
He’s been too great to have it end like that. No one can succeed in the black hole.
IF YOU'RE LOOKIN FOR ME...I'M AT THE SCRIP CLUB WITH PACMAN......AND WE'RE BEING REBELLION!!
by Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) on Feb 10, 2009 10:09 PM CST reply actions
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