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Cowboys Draft 2009: Room For One More Receiver?

Heading into this year’s draft, the Dallas Cowboys are fully stocked as far as starters are concerned. Depth however, is a question at every position across the board with the exception of running back. At the wide receiver position, the starters are set. Roy Williams will line up at split end, Miles Austin will likely man the flanker position, and Patrick Crayton will occupy the slot in 3-wide sets. After that, the Dallas Cowboys wide receiver depth chart reads more like a questionnaire.

Here are the wide receivers currently under contract with the Dallas Cowboys.

Roy Williams (6-3, 220)
Miles Austin (6-3, 216)
Patrick Crayton (6-0, 205)
Isaiah Stanback (6-2, 208)
Sam Hurd (6-2, 196)
Paris Warren (6-0, 213)
Travis Wilson (6-1, 213)

Star-divide

The only known commodities on this list are Williams and Crayton. While he has logged only one outstanding statistical season, Williams has proven that he can be an NFL difference-maker. Now moving into the "X" position (split end/#1 wide receiver in Jason Garrett's office), he will have ample opportunities to prove his worth. Say what you will about Patrick Crayton, but the team could do a lot worse for a third wide receiver. The guy is consistent if nothing else. Too much has been made of Crayton's crucial playoff drop two seasons ago. He is still a good, crafty route runner, and still has the most reliable pair of hands on the team.

51 receptions, 862 yards, 3 touchdowns. Pretty acceptable season for a #2 receiver, right? Well, those aren't season statistics for the Cowboys' #2 receiver, they are the combined career stats for wide receivers on the roster not named Williams or Crayton! That is frightening.

I want Miles Austin to succeed as much as the next guy, but it is foolish not view him as a huge question mark heading into the upcoming season. Don't let Austin's rare combination of size and straight-line speed fool you. Austin has stiff hips, and very little "wiggle" or lateral agility. His routes are undisciplined, and he only this past season began to display the ability to catch the football consistently. In his three NFL seasons, Austin has had a tough time getting on the field, and an even tougher time staying on it injury-wise. Austin's supporters cite his age as a reason for hope, but I defy you to find a Pro Bowl wideout who entered his fourth NFL season with only 18 career receptions. Don't worry I'll wait.

Similar to Austin, Isaiah Stanback looks the part of a top-notch NFL wideout. However, Stanback's injury history makes it difficult to even envision him ever reaching his full potential. Sam Hurd is a serviceable receiver, who has to this point maintained a roster spot on the strength of his special teams play. Paris Warren has been an NFL roster bottom-feeder going on four years now, and Travis Wilson has for all intents and purposes been a bust.

Currently holding 11 picks in this April's draft, the Cowboys have got to look at a wide receiver at some point. I for one would be shocked if the team selected one in the second or third rounds, but I was also shocked when the team selected Martellus Bennett last year. A more likely scenario would have the team looking at receivers in the middle to late rounds.

As Rafael has pointed out before, the Cowboys have a certain height/weight template for wide receivers. All of the Cowboys wideouts stand six feet or taller, and only Hurd (196) weighs in under 200 pounds. The Cowboys like their receivers big, but don't you at some point have to say to hell with the template? At some point talent has to prevail. If Steve Smith walked into Valley Ranch and said, "Mr. Jones I want to be a Cowboy," what are you going to do? Are you going to pat him on the head and say "Sorry little fella, maybe next year when you're bigger."

None of the Cowboys' current wide receivers are great after the catch. If the Cowboys do select a wide receiver in this year's draft, he will likely be called upon to return punts, so a smaller, shiftier guy would be ideal. Here are a few guys who might draw the Cowboys interest.

- Penn State's Derrick Williams may be back in the Cowboys' crosshairs. Williams stock is back on the rise after improving his flu-hampered 40-yard dash times from the combine.

- Williams' teammate Deon Butler is a burner, and in the eyes of most scouts his size is his only detractor. He currently looks like a mid round pick.

- Arizona's Mike Thomas was among the nation's top punt returners (14.0 average) in 2008. While his speed (4.40) and hands make him an intriguing prospect, scouts don't like his size (5'8"/195). He will not be an early selection.

- Ole Miss' Mike Wallace turned in the combine's second fastest 40-yard dash (4.33). At 6'0"/199 he has the size to be a legitmate wide receiver.

- North Carolina's Brandon Tate was averaging an obscene 22.6 yards per return before being sidelined by a mid-season knee injury. Tate's inability to work out for scouts will certainly hurt his draft status. He should be available in the middle rounds.

- Don't sleep on Oregon State's Sammie Stroughter. He doesn't do any one thing great, but he does everything pretty well. Dude is tough as nails and looks a lot like a young Hines Ward.

What if Miles Austin doesn't live up to expectations? What if Stanback gets hurt again? What if Hurd gets hurt again? We have been promised that the post-T.O. era will feature an array of young playmakers, making plays all over the field. However, with only two proven legitimate NFL receivers on the roster, the Cowboys have got to believe there is room for one more.

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Comments

Display:

heh
Are you going to pat him on the head and say “Sorry little fella, maybe next year when you’re bigger.”?

(sucker punch)

Come and whisper in my ear, give us dirty laundry - ESPN

by Nelson... on Mar 25, 2009 5:47 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Size

I agree with you Carl. I don’t care if the guy is an oompa loompa, if he can move the chains whoopity doo.

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 25, 2009 5:58 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

My picks

If we’re keeping the mold I’m going with Dudley Guice .

If we’re breaking the mold, my pick is Jarett Dillard . He runs some of the best routes I’ve ever seen.

Both should be available in the later rounds. I wouldn’t mind seeing both in our training camp.

by sublimezg on Mar 25, 2009 6:32 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Jarett Dillard would be a great pick

I live in Houston and we see him on the local sports highlights. He had a great year at Rice. He has a chance to be a really good NFL receiver .

by cowboy1966 on Mar 25, 2009 7:43 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Dillard...

keeps his hips lower than I have ever seen making his cuts simultaneous. He would be a great pickup

by nicholas.rodriguez on Mar 25, 2009 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I guess this teams' structure dictates

that we are always one injury away from the wheels coming off. Maybe we really do need all 11 of those picks..

by Benthere on Mar 25, 2009 6:34 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

To clarify,

Double J has kind of screwed the pooch on some of the contracts, leaving us less money. At least he spends it though. I can’t fathom having Bud Adams-type owner

by Benthere on Mar 25, 2009 8:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree with you

He’s overpaid a number of guys, he’s too loyal.

by StillHateTheGiants on Mar 26, 2009 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hope at least 1 of the players now on the roster is replaced

It would be nice if a draft choice or FA earned their way onto the roster. You’re right about Austin/Hurd/Stanback. The odds that all 3 of them are legit NFL receivers are very slim.

by StillHateTheGiants on Mar 25, 2009 7:22 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I am absolutely not opposed to picking a WR

We’re not looking for a #1, and we think we have burner about to have a breakout season. Not to mention, we have an established slot receiver that has a great connection with our QB. I’ll even disregard our terrific TE twosome as receiving options.

If there’s ever a time to look for great value with a lower round pick, it’s right now. But I don’t know if I want to limit our pool of available draftees to small-ish punt returners. What I’m really hoping for is hitting on another Marques Colston.

Everything's looking up, Milhouse!

by accidental innuendo on Mar 25, 2009 7:24 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Colston...

Haha yeah you and every other NFL fan.

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 25, 2009 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

As, I understand it

we hope we have a burner about to have a break out season. I want Austin to rip it up as much as anyone here, but we have gotten our butts handed to us on so many punts and K.O. returns that we need one that can flip the field. If it turns out he can catch a couple of balls or cover a reciever too then so be it. I’m tired of watching Crayton fair catch it or Pac running sideways or backwards and ending up going no where. I want to see someone who can make the first one miss then go like a bat out of hell. Let’s get us a field flipper in the middle to late rounds so if he can’t do it we lose very little.

When did I become a Cowboy fan? When my mom told me I was.

by GunsUp on Mar 26, 2009 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree with that

I want a guy who has good PR skills as much as the next fan. I just don’t want anymore Skyler Greens in the 4th round. I would also prefer a player who although he excels at returning punts, has some upside at another position too. Like WR or CB.

There is no theory of evolution. Just a list of creatures Chuck Norris has allowed to live.

by kameleon_o on Mar 26, 2009 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

All depends on where we're looking to draft one...

We have 11 picks. We’ve all beat it to death on these threads. If we’re talking about using one of our first 4-5 picks on a WR, then no, PLEASE no. Jerry said (pretext) that we got rid of TO because we had so many young guys ready to step-up and fill the void. He better not turn around and use a high pick on WR. If we want to pick one with one of our many, many low round picks, then sure, why not. It’s unlikely all of these picks can make the team anyways. But if I had my druthers, I’d hope they avoid the position altogether. We still have plenty of projects.

by Boundforbeach on Mar 25, 2009 7:51 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I defy you to find a Pro Bowl wideout who entered his fourth NFL season with only 18 career receptions.

Keenan McCardell entered his fourth season with barely more than that: 24.

Jimmy Smith entered his fourth season with zero.

Not that I think the Cowboys have the next McCardell or Smith on their roster. I think the Cowboys are flat-out weak at wide receiver, from top to bottom. Roy Williams is a weak #1 and Hurd/Stanback are a weak pair of reserves. The excellent backfield and tight ends should compensate for this. I recall, however, that Romo did not perform well while Terrell Owens was out injured in 2007

by goats-milk on Mar 25, 2009 8:00 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I second that, everybody

is so up in arms about a receiver who wants the ball, but thats their nature.
Now close your eyes and imagine: Romo is just about to call a play in the huddle and your #1 WR says “whatever you do dont throw to me” open your eyes and tell me you feel better about our offense. LOL

by dcfanz on Mar 25, 2009 8:29 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

lol...dcfanz....
whatever you do dont throw to me"

Well, Come to think of it…At least 14 times that are documented, and several others just a wee bit off, didn’t appear to be going to that receiver, but the defender instead…

by CowboysRnumba1 on Mar 25, 2009 9:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

correction

McCardell had only 14 catches entering his fourth season. I wasn’t counting the ’91 season, which he spent on injured reserve.

by goats-milk on Mar 25, 2009 9:58 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Joaquin Iglesias is my boy

If we draft him and give him a little while to develop, we could have our own Steve Smith (NYG).

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 Mar 25, 2009 8:02 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Yeah...

Only way we get him is if we go with a wideout in the second. I like Iglesias too, but he’ll be too attractive to last till the third.

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 25, 2009 8:51 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

wr`s that could pay off bigtime.

Ogletree, *Kevin (WR), Virginia / Collie, *Austin (WR), BYU / McKinley, Kenny (WR), South Carolina / Knox, Johnny (WR), Abilene Christian / Gibson, Brandon (WR), Washington State / Wallace, Mike (WR), Mississippi / Tate, Brandon (WR), North Carolina / Dillard, Jarett (WR), Rice / Passmore, Darius (WR), Marshall / Kelly, Aaron (WR), Clemson / Stroughter, Sammie (WR), Oregon State / Foster, Brooks (WR), North Carolina / Butler, Deon (WR), Penn State / Hartline, *Brian (WR), Ohio State / Byrd, Demetrius (WR), LSU / Edison, Dominique (WR), Stephen F Austin

by ziggy19 on Mar 25, 2009 8:15 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

+1000

Dudley Guice looks good as well

by nicholas.rodriguez on Mar 25, 2009 10:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I find it hard to believe Austin and Roy are the same size.

I’m not doubting you, just the info.

But, hey, what do I know? Looks could be deceiving.

by jsams on Mar 25, 2009 8:15 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Matt Jones

Just say no to drafting a WR.

Res firma mitescere nescit

by Fighter15 on Mar 25, 2009 8:28 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

+1

Red and Black!! Red and Black!! Red and Black!! Congrats boys first time in team history over .500

by aussie_cowboy on Mar 26, 2009 12:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Jones will be a Cowboy

I’m not a fan of the move, but I fully expect Dallas to sign this guy and then not draft a WR unless its 6th round or later.

by TCBinNYC on Mar 26, 2009 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You guys are not serious about Matt Jones are you......lol

No chance it will happen…drafting a WR is a real possibility and I’m all for it. After RW, Austin and Crayton there are alot of question marks with the rest of them. I’m looking for that burner for the slot and right now we dont have it. Just reading some of the articles that have come out WR is on the mind this draft.

by Boyzfan94 on Mar 26, 2009 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No no no.. to Matt Jones.

Tremendous Athlete: CHECK

Cap Friendly Pickup: CHECK

Case of the Dumbass: DOUBLE CHECK

The only way I would sign Matt Jones is if there are TONS of stipulations. Plus he’s probably looking at a 4-8 game suspension after violating his parole.

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 26, 2009 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

WR Position Needs To Analyzed With TEs and RBs

Considering the backfield receiving threats that exist; Felix and Choice can flat out run after catching the ball; MBIII proved last year that he is very very good at catching the ball; then you have to throw in Witten and Bennett; if Bennett matures into a threat at TE, then I feel better about the receiving corps – evern if we don’t add a draft pick . . . but we will take a WR late in the draft and probably sign a free agent or two.

by Iowacowboy on Mar 25, 2009 8:33 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Agreed

I don’t think there are any attractive WR free agents though, not that are that much better then what are on the roster.

Or let me restate that, there aren’t any free agent wr’s that are in Dallas’s price range out there that are that much better then what is on the roster.

If there were, a team like the Browns, Jags, Titans, Niners, or Rams would have at them.

Unless you’re talking about rookie free agents, which you probably are.

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 25, 2009 8:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Totally random thought but......

how about Sheffler from Denver? He’s not a blocking tight-end but more of a receiver/tight end. I know that we already have 3 tight-ends but Hannah-he’s okay but not exactly wowzer. Just an idea

by texstar on Mar 25, 2009 11:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

we really need a blocking tight end

preferably one with catching skills, Witten was great at moving in motion and lining up in the backfield as a fb and being a lead blocker but that has to take a toll. I`m rooting for Bear Pascoe in the draft.

by ziggy19 on Mar 26, 2009 6:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I love me some Sammie Stroughter

Whenever I’d be flippin’ da channels and Oregon State was on, I’d keep watching just to see what Sammie does with the ball — esp in the return game.

I’d be mad jacked if da King somehow found a way to draft him.

You’re dead on, Glory… he’s a tough playmaker with the ability to do so many things.

Loved the highlight reel, btw.

Celebrity or Imposter?
YOU Decide...
http://www.xanga.com/metaltometal/689036052/celebrity-or-imposter/

by silverblue5 on Mar 25, 2009 9:02 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

+1

I’ve watched Stroughter for a couple years now. The kid is a great (not good) receiver. He had some problems within the past 2 years when a close family friend passed away and he didn’t know if he’d return to football. Because of this and a freak injury, he missed alot of 2007 and could fly under the radar. Bottom line is that if you like a kid who doesn’t have alligator arms and can catch anything thrown near him, who is also a good punt returner, he could be your guy. It is also possible he could be a rookie free agent.

by BVandy on Mar 26, 2009 12:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I know this is going to sound like me being a homer since im a Tarheel.......

But i promise all of you that if we were to land Brandon Tate, you guys would love him. He is a pure playmaker. He is one of those guys that makes you hold your breath every time he touches the ball. Had he not gotten hurt this year you wouldn’t even hear of Hakeem Nicks. And that says a lot because im a big fan of his too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fS6L070REw0&feature=PlayList&p=82888F0C2D24FEAB&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=47

This link is not even his best highlight reel but its all i could find.

by TARHEEL PAUL on Mar 25, 2009 10:54 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

+1000

I would be excited to see who kickers kick it to, either him or Felix

by nicholas.rodriguez on Mar 25, 2009 11:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

fat chance

The kid is the real deal. He reminds me a lot of Calvin Johnson.

By the way, Carl, what a well-written article. We’re spoiled.

by Joey2zs on Mar 25, 2009 11:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Of Calvin Johnson?

That is a pretty high comparison and I can openly admit that I haven’t gotten to watch that many NC games, but they seem like they are built pretty differently.

Tate is six foot, Calvin Johnson is six foot five.

I figured he might be closer to a Santonio Holmes.. would that probably be closer?

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 26, 2009 7:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't think there is a receiver in the NFL

comparable to CJ, at least physically and talent wise.

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Mar 26, 2009 7:55 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah he's a freak of nature.

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 26, 2009 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If JJ bundles a bunch of picks

in order to move up the draft board, so that we only end up with, maybe 7 picks, one of them might NOT be a WR. But the more picks we keep, the more likely it is we take a receiver. I’m all for it – that is picking a Wideout! One injury to the guys we got now and we’re in trouble.

by BishopWest on Mar 26, 2009 12:51 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

thing is with a injury

hard to imagine a 6th rd`er jumping in and being able to contribute so if the Cowboys are thinking same as you maybe we grab

Williams, Derrick (WR), Penn State
Iglesias, Juaquin (WR), Oklahoma

by ziggy19 on Mar 26, 2009 6:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Its hard to really...

imagine many rookies contributing right aways anyways.

Last year was strange, because of the success of rookie wideouts.

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 26, 2009 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Only if we get one with PR skills.

Then they can learn the WR position while still contributing to the team.

There is no theory of evolution. Just a list of creatures Chuck Norris has allowed to live.

by kameleon_o on Mar 26, 2009 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

don't forget about Witten

who in reality will be the #1 receiver in this offense, not RW. Romo will go to Witten even more now that T.O. is gone and I think thats a good thing because if teams ever start to double or even triple team Jason, that will leave all the WRs with single coverage.

Say what you want about this WR corp being inexperienced or unproven but I guarantee everyone of them can beat single coverage.

I’m not concerned about our receiving corp at all, there are many other positions that are more of a priority.

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Mar 26, 2009 7:36 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I really hope you're wrong

I think Witten will have another monster year, it’s basically expected of him now. I’ve got my fingers crossed about RW though. I think this team will be better if he plays like a true #1. I’m not necessarily predicting it (I haven’t been a fan of his and didn’t want the trade) but I think if it plays out that way it will mean the team will have been more successful. To me, he is one of the biggest question marks on the team and as he goes the team will go offensively.

by StillHateTheGiants on Mar 26, 2009 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Witten will have more catches than RW

although hopefully RW has more TDs

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Mar 26, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

well if Witten is the #1 receiver......

we’re in big trouble. Don’t get me wrong, cause I love Witten, but teams don’t fear him like they would a receiver.

by texstar on Mar 26, 2009 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I disagree

Gates is the #1 receiver for the Chargers and their offense is pretty good if you ask me.

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Mar 26, 2009 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

you are correct on number of receptions but.....

Jackson WR had 59 receptions-1098 yds-Gates 60 receptions-704 yds. Who is your big threat? Look at another example: NE Patriots: Welker 111 receptions 1165 and Moss 69 receptions 1008 yds. Look at Colts Reggie Wayne 82 receptions for 1145 yds with Dallas Clark 77 receptions for only 848 yds. Yeah, your tightend may have more receptions but your wide receiver will take it to the house.

by texstar on Mar 26, 2009 4:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Welker

is the smallest TE EVER!

by sublimezg on Mar 26, 2009 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

huh?.....

I didn’t say Welker was a TE. I was naming off the top 2 reception leaders for the Pats.

by texstar on Mar 26, 2009 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

looked it up......

For the Pats.-Welker at WR-111 catches for 1165 yds. Moss-69 catches for 1108 yds, TE Ben Watson 22 receptions for 209 yds. My point is that your tight end normally is not going to be your leading receiver. He may have more catches but he won’t have more yds. Look at Pats,San Diego, and Colts. Teams are not afraid of TE’s taking it to the house like they are WR’s because of their slower speed.

by texstar on Mar 26, 2009 5:48 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If Witten has too high a reception total, it's probably bad.

Like in the neighborhood of 105.

It will most likely mean Romo hasn’t developed enough chemistry with his other receivers and has checked down to Witten too often which will also definitely result in forces to Witten and more wacky wild turnovers.

As has been mentioned before, ideally Witten/Bennett can form a TE duo as effective as Chmura/Jackson were for the Packers.

by MadMick on Mar 27, 2009 5:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

actually texstar

your leading receiver is the player with the most receptions, not yards.

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Mar 27, 2009 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

and of course I never said otherwise

if you actually read my comment, I said Witten will catch more balls but RW should catch more TDs.

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Mar 27, 2009 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I did read your comment so quit talking down to me......

Again, you are splitting hairs as usual. Typically, your wide receiver will have more receptions/td/yds. than your tight end. In most offenses, your tight end is a safety valve. They do not have the speed to take it to the house. Ya really think that Witten scares anyone? My point was if Witten is our leading receiver that is not good because it will typically be the underneath stuff. If you don’t believe that, look at tape from 2007 when T.O. went down. Since there was not an WR threat, the opposing teams were double-teaming Witten. His receptions went down.

by texstar on Mar 27, 2009 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

you should know, being a Cowboys fan

that Witten is not your typical TE, he’s the very best in the game, a probable future HOFer who essentially is like having another WR on the field. You wanna know why? Its because he gets open better than any receiver on the team.

In 2007 when our offense set all kind of franchise records and went 13-3 Witten was our leading receiver with 96 catches, T.O. had 81.

If that scenario plays out this season with RW getting the 81 catches, I think we’ll be just fine.

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Mar 27, 2009 12:48 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Terry.....

T.O. 2006-85 rec 1180 yds 13 tds. 13.9 yd per catch, 2007 81 rec 1355 yds 15 tds 16.7 avg. per catch, 2008 69 rec 1052 yds 10 tds and 15.2 avg.

Witten: 64 rec. 754 yds. 11.8 per catch 1 td in 2006
               96 rec 1145 yds. 11.9 per catch 7 td in 2007
               81 rec 952 yds. 11.8 per catch 4 td in 2008
Whether you wanna admit it or not, the WR is typically going to be the Lead guy-not just reception but total production. Quit splitting hairs. Do you see above anywhere that Witten lead in anything besides number of receptions? Yeah , he might have had more receptions but that doesn’t equate to TDs.

by texstar on Mar 27, 2009 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

"Leading Receiver"

IS a term that is generally reserved from leader of receptions.

But… eh. Who cares.

Witten probably will lead in receptions, he’s the best tightend in the league and he’s a safety valve.

It’s all according to name, kind of like when Julius Jones was the “starting runninback” psssh yeah but like it mattered.

It’s all wordplay from there.

Roy is the #1 guy, or you hope he is.

Kind of like Randy Moss and Owens were the #1 guys on their team even if they weren’t the lead in receptions.

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 27, 2009 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Airforce.....

thanks, that’s what I have been trying to explain but apparently I’m doing a poor job of explaining myself. Did you understand by my wording what I was trying to say because I may not be very good at it? Just wondering.

by texstar on Mar 27, 2009 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Moss and Owens are big play receivers

and should make the majority of big plays for their respective teams. However, there is absolutely nothing wrong with Welker or Witten being the leading receiver on those respective teams as texstar implied.

Your leading receiver is the guy who obviously gets open the most ans there is nothing wrong if your big play receiver isn’t that guy.

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Mar 27, 2009 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not spitting hairs

Witten will be our leading receiver because he’s our best receiver. You keep using the word “typically” and like I said, their is nothing typical about Witten, he’s the best in the biz so stop thinking of him as a “typical” TE, he isn’t.

leading receiver=receiver with most catches. Witten will be targeted the most by Romo this year not because they’re buddies, but because he will get open more than any other receiver. When Romo is looking through his progressions, Witten will be open 95% of the time, the other receivers will not get open that much.

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Mar 27, 2009 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

If teams don’t fear Witten, then I say great, because if Romo can get him the ball, all he does is make 1st downs. Keep moving the chains and control the clock, sounds good to me.

Feb. 27 -- Veteran free agency signing period begins. Trading period begins.
April 25-26 -- NFL Draft

by APerfectStar on Mar 27, 2009 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If Jason Witten is open 95% of the time...

Then defenses are mildly stupid.

I think your exagerrating JUST a bit.

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 27, 2009 6:34 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I just threw a number out there

but my point is that Witten is open far more than our other receivers and it’s not even close.

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Mar 28, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah,

I don’t know that RW has to be a true #1, although he’s being payed like one, but he’s the biggest question mark out of all our WR’s. I’m sure Austin will improve if he’s healthy. I think Crayton and Witten will give us about what they always do. Hurd is Hurd. I’m not counting on Stanback for anything. So I think RW is the one guy who I have no idea what to expect from.

There is no theory of evolution. Just a list of creatures Chuck Norris has allowed to live.

by kameleon_o on Mar 26, 2009 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

RW is in a great situation

Yeah, he’s perceived as the #1 receiver, but if you honestly look at it, Romo’s at his best when he gets to spread it around — and he has a bunch of great options. So, RW is not going to be asked to take over a game a la Steve Smith.

All RW needs to do is run the right routes and to catch the balls that come his way. Yeah, just that simple.

Everything's looking up, Milhouse!

by accidental innuendo on Mar 26, 2009 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh

He should probably develop some chemistry with Romo over the offseason, because what they had last season was just not working.

Everything's looking up, Milhouse!

by accidental innuendo on Mar 26, 2009 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree though, the succesful model of QBing right now

is the Tom Brady Point Guard type QB, spread it around, hit every reciever… It’s been a good formula for a long while

by AustonianAggie on Mar 26, 2009 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He should, where have you been, he has and is working with Romo right now and has

been for the entire month.

Ignore the Mainstream Media, EMBRACE THE HATE!!!!

by cowboy78 on Mar 26, 2009 3:41 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I just read that although they're working out together

RW isn’t running many routes because he’s still hurt. That kind of sucks.

http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/03/roy-williamstony-romo-workouts-might-not.html

There is no theory of evolution. Just a list of creatures Chuck Norris has allowed to live.

by kameleon_o on Mar 26, 2009 5:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what a wuss.....his foot still hurts from 4-6 months ago ???

geeeeeeez…that’s bush league….he better suck it up…….tired of all these panzy azz’s

by CowboysRnumba1 on Mar 26, 2009 8:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Are you serious or being sarcastic?

Because foot injuries take a while to heal, and they suck because its really hard to still do physical activities without putting some pressure on it.

He’ll probably be all right by the time it’s all said and done, but I don’t think your a wuss because your foot still hurts.

Webster's definition of irony: Keyshawn Johnson calling another football player selfish.

by AirforceBat on Mar 27, 2009 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I have to agree that

Witten will be the number one target, but he and RW will recieve double coverage until another reciever can prove they have the ability to beat single coverage. Until that happens or Garret establishes the run game don’t expect Witten or RW to have a lot of production. As it stands right now I don’t see any Defensive Coordinator losing sleep over our recieving corps.

When did I become a Cowboy fan? When my mom told me I was.

by GunsUp on Mar 26, 2009 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If at any given time, 4 out of the following are on the field, I like our chances

RW
Witten
Barber
F. Jones
Bennett
Crayton
Austin

I think the #‘s 2 and 3 WR’s are less important than the TE’s and RB’s. That’s a scary crew and I’m sure Crayton, Austin, Hurd etc will at least be competent.

by StillHateTheGiants on Mar 26, 2009 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Look at history

Go to www.DraftCountdown.com and look at the archive section. Just go back to 2000 or so and look at the position rankings for WR.

Of the Top10 ranked receivers, an average of less than 2 (most often the #1 guy) have made it…and they were all drafted in Round 1 or 2. The rest are a bunch of also-rans.

In the lower rankings, usually you can find one or two of the next 20 guys that have made any kind of impact at all.

Just way too hard to draft one. In a previous thread I listed all the Cowboys WR draft picks. It’s freakin’ ugly.

Just say no…chances are you’re wasting a pick.

Res firma mitescere nescit

by Fighter15 on Mar 26, 2009 10:47 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

However, the very best teams seem quite capable of finding good ones through the draft.

Case in point; the past four Super Bowl Champs starting receivers consisted of six 1st-rounders and two 2nd-rounders. I’m not flat-out ignoring your evidence about how big a crapshoot it is but taking the stance of never picking one is a little on the pigheaded side. I mean couldn’t you say trading for other teams’ outcasts and misfits is as much of a crapshoot as finding a receiver through the draft?

by MadMick on Mar 27, 2009 5:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'd go with Tate - his stats read like Dante Hall's

Dante was a good college RB without a position in the NFL – but in College he always led the Big 12 in Punt Return yardage, then got to the NFL and exploded on punt returns – Tate’s return average says something very good about him

by AustonianAggie on Mar 26, 2009 1:23 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I may catch some flack for throwing this out there...

But I still like Pat White. I know, I know, it’s rare that a transitioning QB actually pans out, but he blew up at the Senior Bowl. Obviously, he’s a very mobile guy, he can catch the rock, and can certainly throw it. I don’t know where his head is at as far as being a QB or WR, but I think he’ll be a decent pro. That’ll scratch Jerry’s itch for Wildcat potential too, seeming that Crayton and Stanback don’t suit him well enough…

by AikmanNailedMySis on Mar 26, 2009 2:30 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Excellent article Carl

The receivers we have do have potential. If we draft one later with return capabilities all the better. Does anybody really believe that we are going to get through training camp with everybody healthy. Don’t think so. I think you covered most of the names that have been brought up on this site as possibles. Well done.

by oldboysfan on Mar 26, 2009 6:22 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Carl, what do you think about Harvin?

I hear he is slipping and will fall to the 2nd round.

by 325424 on Mar 31, 2009 3:50 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Wallace

I am an Ole Miss fan and Wallace is fast but not a great route runner (he got bad coaching his first three years). He is good catching the ball on fly routes but seems lacking on slants. I think he is a great athlete but an average WR.

by 325424 on Mar 31, 2009 3:51 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

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