Cowboys Defense: Breaking Down the Training Camp Battles
by Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) on May 4, 2009 6:00 AM CDT
in General
106 comments
[Ed. Note by Grizz]: We'll still be covering the ongoing situation surrounding the collapse of the indoor practice facility, but we'll also resume coverage of straight football subjects on the blog. Carl breaks us away from the tragedy of the weekend for a while to discuss the roster battles on the defensive side of the ball for 2009 training camp. [End note]
Looking at the Cowboys’ draft class, two things are clearly evident. The Cowboys are putting an emphasis on improving special teams play and also improving depth by churning the bottom third of the roster. It is unlikely that all 12 of the Dallas Cowboys 2009 draft picks will make the team, but some will. For every rookie who makes the roster, there will be a veteran left out in the cold. We have spoken at length about how this year’s training camp will be a relentless scrap for roster spots. Let’s take a look at the cast of Survivor: Dallas, and how each particular battle shapes up. In this edition, we will examine the defense.
There was little player movement along the defensive line. Igor Olshansky will step in for the departed Chris Canty, but other than that the unit will look about the same as last year. There will be no real position battles along the defensive line, but there are spots up for grabs just about everywhere else.
Inside Linebacker
Starters: Bradie James, Keith Brooking
Survivor Contestants: Justin Rogers, Bobby Carpenter, Steve Octavien, Matt Stewart, Jason Williams, Stephen Hodge.
Cowboys will likely keep: 4
Breakdown: It is not inconceivable that the Cowboys would roll with two rookies backing up James and Brooking. Jason Williams was the team’s first selection, and would have to do something unthinkable not to make this roster. Hodge impressed at the rookie mini-camp with his coverage skills, and is expected to be a core special teams player. Keeping only Williams and Hodge would however present a challenge, as both are more suited to play Brooking’s weak inside position. If the Cowboys went with James, Brooking, Hodge and Williams, the team would have to look hard for a player who can fill in both inside and outside in a pinch. That scenario would all but eliminate Matt Stewart, who is not athletic enough to play outside in a 3-4. Rogers and Carpenter both have some experience outside. Rogers is the best special teamer of the group, so that may give him the edge over the disappointing Carpenter. This battle could be affected by the battle at outside linebacker.
Who will survive?
Outside Linebacker
Starters: DeMarcus Ware, Anthony Spencer
Survivor Contestants: Greg Ellis, Brandon Williams, Victor Butler
Cowboys will likely keep: 4
Breakdown: The Cowboys spent most of this off season ridding the locker room of bad attitudes and whiners. The perpetually unhappy Greg Ellis was however spared; possibly an indication of what the team thought of it’s depth at outside linebacker. The Cowboys drafted a pair of pass rushers in Williams and Butler, but both are defensive ends making the conversion to linebacker. It is unlikely that either will learn enough in training camp allow the team to move on from Ellis. Still, the team seems to be moving towards youth and locker room chemistry. If the aging Ellis again becomes a malcontent, he just might get his walking papers. Will the Cowboys play it safe with the known commodity in Ellis, or continue the youth movement? This battle could be affected by the battle at inside linebacker.
Who will survive?
Note: The Cowboys would prefer to dress 7 linebackers, so they will be looking for a player who can fill in both inside and outside. Look for 8 linebackers to make the final 53, and 7 to make the game day 45.
Safety
Starters: Ken Hamlin, Gerald Sensabaugh
Survivor Contestants: Tra Battle, Courtney Brown, Pat Watkins, Jerome Carter, Michael Hamlin, DeAngelo Smith.
Cowboys will likely keep: 4
Breakdown: Once again it looks like the rookies have the inside track here. Michael Hamlin is the only natural strong safety of this bunch, so he has an edge there. DeAngelo Smith is being looked at as a punt returner and his experience at corner could possibly save the Cowboys a game day roster spot. Battle actually played adequately when called upon last season, but Watkins and Brown have to be running out of chances. Jerome Carter is a long shot to make the squad.
Who will survive?
Cornerback
Starters: Terence Newman, Mike Jenkins/Orlando Scandrick
Survivor Contestants: Alan Ball, Michael Hawkins, Mike Mickens
Cowboys will likely keep: 4
Breakdown: This ought to be interesting, because if DeAngelo Smith can serve as an emergency corner, this will be a 3-man scramble for one spot. Michael Hawkins is not a factor, so this will come down to Ball vs. Mickens. Mike Mickens was a highly-rated corner who slid only after a knee injury. Mickens is being tabbed by many to be one of the steals of this year’s draft. We’ve counted Alan Ball out before, but every time you look up he’s still got a star on his helmet. This one will be fun.
Who will survive?
I'll be back later in the week to break down the position battles on the offensive side of the ball.
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Good read...
Only the strong survive…
Hooah.
by .FRoST.USAF on May 4, 2009 6:35 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ba-na-na-waaaaayyy
Ba-na-na-way, Ba-na-na
Jerry Jones could go in his sock, slap you wit a stack of hundreds, then catch you again on the backswing wit 3 Super Bowl rings. So who the hell are you makin' fun of?
by Carl Shelton (GloryDayz88) on May 4, 2009 6:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was psyched to see a "football post"
… but find it difficult to “get into it” …
Great read, you get a real idea of the numbers game.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... top 5 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on May 4, 2009 7:39 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't think it's accurate to say Michael Hawkins isn't a factor.
The kid has talent and may push the team to keep 5 corners if possible. I think he has return skills too.
by sublimezg on May 4, 2009 8:18 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Actually
I’d be very surprised to see only 4 corners on the final 53.
by sublimezg on May 4, 2009 8:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't the Cowboys often roll with as many as 6?
Last year we had T-new, A. Henry, Scandrick, Jenkins, Ball, and Pacman
by AustonianAggie on May 4, 2009 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know about often, but last year we did.
I think it had a lot to do with the iffy pacman + 2 rookies. Only reason we may go 5 this year is because of the safety/corner versatility.
by sublimezg on May 4, 2009 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think we go with 5
In case of injury
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on May 4, 2009 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think they keep more players at LB and DB
I suspect they may drop the fullback position and go with 4 TE, so QB-3, RB-3, TE-4, OL-10, DL-6, LB-9, DB-9, ST-4, WR-5.
by Baked Potato Soup on May 4, 2009 8:30 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
There's a little competition at backup NT
There’s a group of no name guys fighting out that backup NT spot, and I guess the guy from Hampton might be in the mix at DE.
by Baked Potato Soup on May 4, 2009 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Marcus Dixon....
IMO will be in the mix for the final DE spot, and theres the battle as baked mentioned of Junior Siavvi and Tim Andersen for the backup NT spot
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on May 4, 2009 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I see the Cowboys signing a veteran NT
before the start of the season.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on May 4, 2009 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who would that be?
I dont see anyone out there who fills the bill
by Impatient on May 4, 2009 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we won't know until teams start cutting players in camp
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on May 4, 2009 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Most likely scenario. Look at the 3-4 teams that drafted NT’s and check out who the 2nd or 3rd string guys are. There is the crop of possible FA pick ups if none of our backups look like they can handle the spot.
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on May 4, 2009 6:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
With more and more teams going to the 3-4
its going to be slim pickens. New Orleans is hurting for Dlinerman and cut Hollis because of his lack of conditioning. He is a slob with asthma. He is also 1 step from a lengthy drug suspension. He might be a risk we avoid though Im sure someone will pick him up.
The Democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those willing to work and give to those who would not. Thomas Jefferson
by squidlo97 on May 5, 2009 7:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hollis Thomas?
I don’t know if he has any gas left or if he’s played NT in the 3-4, but he has the size.
by Baked Potato Soup on May 4, 2009 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
One factor with Wade...
He likes to keep ALL his draft picks on the roster. He’s cut guys like Oglesby and Elam in order to keep his draft picks like Ball even though they had horrible camps. I wouldn’t be surprised if he kept 10 of the 12 regardless of their performance in camp. I imagine several will make it through waivers to the practice squad. But I bet they are with the cowboys.
by JimmyJohnson on May 4, 2009 9:24 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't see Manuel Johnson making the team...
so I say 11 make it
"We play to win the game" - Herm Edwards
by nicholas.rodriguez on May 4, 2009 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he has a decent shot
considering how some of our receivers are china dolls.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on May 4, 2009 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it's hard for me to see manuel johnson making it
by AustonianAggie on May 4, 2009 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
why is that??
From what I read about him, he was fairly productive for Oklahoma. He doesn’t have the great measureables, but is just a football player. Those kind of players always seem to find a way of sticking around.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on May 4, 2009 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he's got a chance there's just some established investments at the position
by AustonianAggie on May 4, 2009 1:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh and oklahoma's offense isn't much different from Texas Tech's
a lot of people put up numbers in it
by AustonianAggie on May 4, 2009 1:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't disagree
I’m just saying if some players get hurt, Johnson could step up and take their job.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on May 4, 2009 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know how the contracts work in this regard either
but I suppose on of the other guys like Hurd or Stanback could end up packaged in a trade with like Ellis or Carp for a NT or something.
by scottmaui on May 4, 2009 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Regarding the ILB battle Glory
and I’ve discussed this with Grizz in an earlier thread, I think if James would go down, the Cowboys would simply move Brooking over to fill James spot, and then one of the backups would take Brooking’s weak side spot.
Therefore, going with 2 or 3 backups as weak side backers isn’t out of the question IMO.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on May 4, 2009 9:52 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
good point, but I also agree we'll see 9 LBs in the 53
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... top 5 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on May 4, 2009 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought that, too.
They might roll with 3 TEs and 10 LBs. The problem there is that you lose Hannah who is supposed to really be coming on, since Phillips is more of a traditional blocking TE, and without a fullback, you need someone like that.
by Baked Potato Soup on May 4, 2009 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hannah won't make the team
unless one of the TEs ahead of him gets hurt.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on May 4, 2009 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do you consider Phillips ahead of him?
by Baked Potato Soup on May 4, 2009 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes, because of the reason you gave
He has a more well rounded game than Hannah, who is really just a pass receiving TE.
In Romo we Trust
by Terry on May 4, 2009 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I do
Hannah has trouble as a blocker supposedly; Dallas has two very good pass catching TEs already. If his blocking doesn’t pick up, he will be displaced by Phillips
by AustonianAggie on May 4, 2009 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes
I think Phillips makes it, they can stick Hannah back on the PS.
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on May 4, 2009 6:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Survival camp
The 12 draft picks will certainly make the training camp more competitive. Obviously, all 12 draft picks will not make the team but they will help weed out underachievers like Bobbie Carpenter and over priced Ken Hamlin.
by Dallas_Star on May 4, 2009 10:27 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yoko Romo
Good to get our minds off the facility disaster, if even for a little. Off topic, but on a lighter note, check out this Vanity Fair article on Jessica Simpson, whom they have dubbed Yoko Romo. My girlfriend showed it to me. Good stuff. http://www.vanityfair.com/culture/features/2009/06/jessica-simpson200906?
Lots of quotes from both Jessica and Tony on the Cabo affair last year. The article also waxes poetic on what it means to be a Cowboys fan. Here’s a blurb:
“The Cowboys are a religion in Texas. The quarterback of the Cowboys is the Pope. By dating the Pope, Jessica has put herself in a uniquely high-profile position….
* * * * *
Trouble began a week before the Cowboys were to play the Giants in January 2008. Romo went with Simpson and others to Mexico, was photographed relaxing and taking it easy, then came back and lost a playoff game to New York, who went on to win the Super Bowl. This was the crossing-of-the-Rubicon moment for many Dallas fans, after which Simpson went from being interesting trivia to being a grave threat.
"A lot of people head to Vegas, go back to their hometowns, colleges, and stuff [between games]," Romo explained. "I was just like, ‘Let’s rent a house and sit around and watch football.’ It seemed like a good decision. But when you’re in the public eye, things can be perceived differently." Locals now speak of a Jessica Jinx, and her presence at games is noted and figured into the odds made by bookmakers in Vegas….
* * * * *
"Jessica Simpson has hovered over this city like a dark cloud," Gary Cartwright, a writer at Texas Monthly, told me. "The great quarterbacks are 100 percent dedicated to the game. But Romo seems happy-go-lucky. If they win, he seems happy. If they lose, he seems happy. And all this is tied up with Jessica Simpson"….
* * * * *
“When I asked Jessica about the controversy—her place in the psyche of certain fans—she said, "That’s how the story goes. Can’t help it. But we don’t let it affect our relationship. If we did, we wouldn’t be together, because it happened at the very beginning…”
Sounds like they’re happy . Guess the Jessica Jinx won’t be lifted this season…
by Boundforbeach on May 4, 2009 10:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
"My girlfriend showed it to me"
Oh come on, nice try……
by Realist Larry on May 4, 2009 10:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This article is not accurate
First, the projected numbers in the article come out to 22 defensive players. 6 DL, 8 LB, 4 S, 4 CBs. (DLs are not listed, so I’m putting in 6.)
Tha’s just wrong. Even if we keep two kickers, that leaves 49 offensive and defensive players, which will likely split as 24 on offense and 25 on defense. There’s no way we’ll ever get down to 22 defensive players. As a result, the article suggests much deeper cuts than will have to be made.
With 25 defensive players, I would expect it to look something closer to this:
6 DL
9 -10 LB
9 -10 DBs (since some guys will play both safety and CB, it makes more sense to merge these positions).
The battle will be whether to keep a 10th LB or a 10th DB.
Second, the article completely sloughs off the defensive line battles that will occur. Who is the backup nose tackle? What if it is Spears? Is Marcus Dixon in the mix? Where? Is Bowen safe? Hatcher? Will the Cowboys try to trade for someone here? This portion of the defense is not settled.
I think Shelton normally writes a nice piece. I thought this one was really off the mark.
by VAfan on May 4, 2009 10:54 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
while your math is correct...
you tact sucks a$$. It was a well written piece that highlights the camp battles we are likely to see.
by Impatient on May 4, 2009 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tact Tact
I thougt tact was something to help you ride a horse?
by Iowacowboy on May 4, 2009 7:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you can go plus one on 2 of the 4 positions disscussed
so lets not act like these estimates are so far off
by Becho on May 4, 2009 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
imho, VA fan is correct
The article IS wrong. Being 2 players short is a huge difference. Specially to our favorite whiner, Greg Ellis. I think he has to make the team because (a) his potential 8+ sack production in ‘09 will be worth much more than his trade value (probably a conditional 6th or 7th) and (b) he’s cap friendly
by Eagles suck on May 4, 2009 4:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Defensive Line might be the best battle of all
Going back to last year, the following numbers were kept on the Defensive side of the ball:
6 – DL (Spears, Ratliff, Canty, Hatcher, Bowen, Tank)
8 – LBs (Ware, Spencer, Ellis, James, Zach, Carpenter, Rogers, ??)
11 – DBs (T-New, Henry, Pacman, Jenkins, Scandrick, Ball, Thong, Hamlin, Brown, Killer, Watkins)
That’s 25 and hits a general roster cap for the Defense. One or two either way (most likely down 1 because of Buehler) is what should be expected.
D-Line: With the loss of Tank and an Igor-for-Canty swap, there’s few possibilities. In fact, without a FA signing (highly probable at NT) there’s still quite a battle shaping with:
= Dixon (PS last year) vs. Saivai vs. Spears (in a dual role). This may be the key battle of training camp.
LB: Carpenter has the inside track as the 6th guy/nickel LB. Ellis is really on the bubble because of his advancing age, declining coverage skill, and $6 Million cap hit. Carpenter has already proved that he can play both OLB and ILB (though to a much lesser extent). I would expect most of the rookies to stick, with one (most likely Hodge) going to the Practice Squad. Meaning the battle will be:
= Ellis vs. Williams and Butler. All he has to do is clearly beat both of the rooks, else he’s gone.
DB: Good breakdown above, except you sold the position short. There will be at least 10 kept which brings the battle down to:
All Rookies vs. Ball, Battle, Brown, Watkins, Hawkins. HUGE edge to all the draft picks replacing these guys. Only Ball has a realistic chance.
Res firma mitescere nescit
by Fighter15 on May 4, 2009 11:06 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Hodge is going to make this team
and if he doesn’t he won’t make it through waivers. Count on it.
by sublimezg on May 4, 2009 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I disagree
He’s a safety that is way too “thongish”. Few, if any, safeties make a transition to LB. I think most teams will let the ’Boys make the investment and look to see whether or not he can do it.
Res firma mitescere nescit
by Fighter15 on May 4, 2009 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Glad you know so well
I’ll just toss out all the stuff I’m reading about how great he’s looked so far in pass coverage. Thanks for the insight.
by sublimezg on May 4, 2009 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As a safety...
As a LB, he should be doing good, and I’m really cheering for him.
However, there are just a handful of guys that have ever made the transition. If he shines, then you can kiss every veteran backup goodbye, with the exception of Carpenter, who I believe will be given his last year to succeed (at least that’s what Jerry and Wade have been consistently saying without hesitation).
My point of disagreement was not with whether or not he makes the 53, it was whether or not he would clear waivers. He’s the ideal candidate to slip to the PS because of the position change.
Res firma mitescere nescit
by Fighter15 on May 4, 2009 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No way
He wouldn’t pass waivers. Think of the Tampa 2 defenses that would take him as a backup LB/ST ace.
I really think he’s got one of the best shots of all the draft picks to stick.
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on May 4, 2009 6:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What about the recent presser...
…where he supposedly shocked everyone with superb coverage skills? That mighta been the only part of his game that Wade and Jerry brought up.
by KaceOFbass on May 4, 2009 1:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Too many DBs, too few LBs
We kept 11 DBs last year for many reasons, almost none of which will apply this year.
1. Thong got hurt and was always a horse collar from a suspension.
2. Pacman was always one swing from a multi-game suspension.
3. Henry hadn’t been healthy for a full season for years.
4. Watkins was also an injury risk the way he tackled
5. Jenkins/Scandrick were unproven
6. Newman also started to show some wear.
This season, I expect we will keep fewer DBs and more LBs. Thong, Henry, and Pacman are gone. Watkins likely will be. Where we kept 4 guys last year, we could get by with 2 this year.
by VAfan on May 4, 2009 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's a real possibility
Remember, we’re going to be one down on the total number to keep Buehler.
But keeping 9 LBs and only 10 DBs is a probability more than a possibility.
Still, Ellis with his salary cap number could easily be replaced in favor of both (all) rookies.
GM Jerry has begun the himming and hawing about it already. The only thing he could say for certain is the dreaded “He’s on our roster now”. Kind of like a vote of confidence for a coach…they usually get fired.
Res firma mitescere nescit
by Fighter15 on May 4, 2009 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would not feel good about cutting Ellis
I don’t think it’s smart to cut a guy with 20 sacks in the past 2 years in favor of a couple of project guys and Spencer who is just a small step above Carpenter in the bust department at this point. Ellis is annoying, but he’s a good player. He’ll be a free agent next year anyway.
by Baked Potato Soup on May 4, 2009 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good call BPS
Cant understand why everyone is so quick to ditch this guy. Hes still a productive vet albeit just a rotation guy. Plus hes reliable and never injured. Who listenes to his bitching anyway?
by fretman on May 4, 2009 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree, but..............
I agree on it’s face cutting him is not a good idea. His recent numbers speak for themselves. However, at his age and injury history, his decline might be really fast. He has had 2 very serious leg injuries, he could easily lose his burst pretty fast. Any signs of real or likely decline in training camp and I would roll the dice and cut him.
by StillHateTheGiants on May 5, 2009 7:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pass rushers always have a place but,
Based on last year Ellis was used more in coverage than Pass rushing. Bradie was doing such an excellent job in the scheme that it forced Ellis into coverage. If Bradie maintains his blitz abilities then Ellis may become more expendable based on the younger guys should be better in coverage. I dont think the real anwser will be known til we see how our play shakes out in different schemes.
Last year did Ellis pass rushing decline or was Bradie too successful?
The Democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those willing to work and give to those who would not. Thomas Jefferson
by squidlo97 on May 5, 2009 8:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Losing Tank is addition through subtraction
What a chump. He’ll fit right in with the Bengals work release program.
by GhostofGaryHogeboom on May 4, 2009 2:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's who I think the Boys will keep -- barring more roster moves
If the Cowboys go with what they have at the moment, and I would say the odds of bringing in someone else before we open the season are pretty high, here’s my guess of who might survive.
DL — 6 guys
Starters: Spears, Ratliff, Olshansky,
Backups: Hatcher, Dixon/Siavii, Bowen.
Comment: Hard to predict who will be the backup nose tackle. I think the Cowboys will play a lot of 46 defense and other groups where they won’t need a big run stuffer in the middle. My other comment is that only Ratliff and Olshansky are locks beyond this year, so the Boys will be looking hard at ways to improve this group.
LB — 9-10 guys
Starters: Spencer, James, Brooking, Ware
Backups: Ellis, B Williams, Butler, Rogers, J Williams, Carpenter, Hodge, Octavien, Stewart
Comment. Since Ellis is paid for, I see no incentive to cut him. He’s still a dangerous rusher and sack man while Spencer remains unproven there (and unreliable health wise). Jason Williams and Hodge seem like locks on the inside and on special teams. And I think Carpenter will keep a job because he’s not a rookie, plays special teams, and can swing inside and out.
That’s 8 guys. That leaves the main battle between B Williams, Butler, and Rogers for 1 or 2 slots, with Octavien and Stewart long shots.
DB – 9-10 guys
Starters: Newman, Jenkins, Hamlin, Sensabaugh
Backups: Scandrick, Ball, M Hamlin, D Smith, Mickens, Watkins, Brown, Battle, Hawkins, Carter
Comment. Scandrick is the only 100% lock in this group, but there are a few others almost certain to make it. I agree with Shelton and M Hamlin is in b/c he can play SS. I think Ball is also in because of his speed and play last year when he subbed for an injured Henry. I think Hawkins and Carter are out.
That leaves a battle between D Smith, Mickens, Watkins, Brown, and Battle for 2-3 slots. My guess would be that Watkins will be gone because he hasn’t excelled at anything other than special teams, and he’s an injury risk. Brown is fast, but lost big time when he backed off and let the Giant RB waltz into the end zone last year. If we keep 3 of these guys, I’m guessing it will be D Smith b/c he can swing CB/S and return punts, Mickens, and Battle. If we only keep 2, I think Battle will be gone.
by VAfan on May 4, 2009 11:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
I don’ t know about Ellis at this point. He’s being very smart by not talking, that’s for sure. After last year’s performance, he needs to mind his p’s & q’s.
Frankly, I wish they’d cut Carpenter after the Arizona loss last year to send a message. He’s not the sissy he’s been made out to be, but he’s just not a smash-mouth 3-4 linebacker.
It’s never good to see a cornerback, not with 4.21 speed, that is as scared of contact as he is. Scandrick is going to be a great one.
by GhostofGaryHogeboom on May 4, 2009 2:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
These are my projected cuts
DL — Dixon or Siavii back to the practice squad
LB — Rogers, Octavien, Stewart.
DB — Watkins, Brown, Battle, Hawkins, Carter.
That leaves all defensive draft picks making the team. It cuts only two guys we drafted — Watkins with a 5th and Brown with a 7th.
The team has already let go the bigger name guys on defense to make room — R. Williams, Henry, K. Davis, Z. Thomas, Pacman, Canty, Tank — filling only two of these slots with vets — Olshansky and Brooking.
by VAfan on May 4, 2009 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Another year of "Ugh" at Safety...
I look at the names and just can’t help thinking that Safety is the new impact position in the the NFL.
Hamlin is serviceable, Sensabaugh is an unknown in this defense and the backups wouldn’t make most other teams’ final cut.
I really hope the team is able to create more pressure from the DE’s this year, because if the DB’s have to try and cover DeSean Jackson, Santana Moss, Jeremy Maclin, Hakeem Nicks or whoever for too long, it’s not going to be pretty.
"Well, we didn't block real good but we made up for it by not tackling."
- John McKay, the first coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
by 5Blings on May 4, 2009 12:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
If the SS can play well, Hamlin can return to CF
I’ve seen it written that Hamlin had to cover too much for weak SS play, bringing him down inside and cutting down on his INTs last year. I think this year we will see better safety play and more turnovers. Sensabaugh is an upgrade. Jenkins and Scandrick are more experienced and just as fast. And Wade is going to be in charge of the D from game 1. That means we’re going to be bringing the house a LOT, using 46 packages, and trying to wreck havoc.
If you think of how this D played for the Pittsburgh game, that’s its potential. We won’t get 16 games like that, but I expect we’ll get a lot more than we did last year.
by VAfan on May 4, 2009 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
in reality though
the only rival wrs who have proven anything in this division are jackson and moss. both are made for our secondary with newman, jenkins and scandrick
by foyesboys on May 4, 2009 5:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You don't like Mike Hamlin?
He’s one of those cerebral safeties in the draft, but also has the size and ability to fill in for Sensi.
Then I predict DeAngelo Smith being moved to backup Ken Hamlin. I feel like they covered their bases pretty well.
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on May 4, 2009 7:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here is my quick and dirty breakdown of our roster:
I think we’ll at least keep 5 CB’s; 9 linebackers, 4 safeties, and 6 D-lineman. That would be 24 players on defense.
then I think we’ll keep at least 9 o-lineman, 3 QB’s, 1 FB, 3 TE’s, 3 rbs, and 5 WRs. That would be 24 players on offense.
Then we’ll carry 1 LS, 2 kickers, and 1 punter. That is 4 players on special teams.
That leaves us with 1 wild card roster spot. We would probably use it to carry an extra d-lineman, o-lineman, WR, or TE.
by quincyyyyy on May 4, 2009 12:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
that is my thinking
Not sure how you can roll with just 4 CB’s.
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
by Wmillion on May 4, 2009 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
YR 53-man roster
Yakuza Rich, whose analysis I always enjoy reading, has his Projected 2009 Cowboys Roster – Version 1.0 showing how all 12 draft choices can make the team, with one (Jordan Williams) on the PS, the rest on the 53. That includes 3 QBs, 2 Ks and 6 CBs. Worth checking out…
by scottmaui on May 4, 2009 1:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
oops. i mean Brandon Williams
I repeated his mistake from his post…
by scottmaui on May 4, 2009 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cool read.
Wow, he’s got M.Johnson ahead of Stanback—don’t know if that means anything.
So is too early to put the Rookies-Making-the-Squad Over/Under at say…11?
Go Pacquiao!
by Aaron Novinger on May 4, 2009 1:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not out of the Question
I could see Manny beating out Stanback. The only way Stanback makes the team is if they choose to not use Felix on returns anymore. He’s just not suited to be a WR.
Nobody in football should be called a genius. A genius is a guy like Norman Einstein.
Joe ThEEsman
by SB Six on May 4, 2009 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kosier
Cut? McQ starting?
Carp out- I could see that.
Good info-thanks
"No matter where you go, you are what you are playa"-Jay Z
by Wmillion on May 4, 2009 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
McQ couldn't beat out Proctor
And now he is going to beat out Kosier? I thought Kosier was part of the excuse for underwhelming last year…?
by I_miss_Switzer on May 4, 2009 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah I don't agree with that projection
Although in his write up, he has Holland starting and Brewster as backup, which is more plausible.
But, I still think it’s a long shot to say Kosier won’t make it.
The rest of his projected 53 looks like a good guess.
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on May 4, 2009 7:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he has McQ starting
He is the fifth listed, and it appears to be a depth chart deal.
McQ might be selling insurance come October, or waxing Parcells’ Lincoln.
by I_miss_Switzer on May 4, 2009 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Waxing Parcells' Lincoln
LMAO
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on May 5, 2009 1:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is the Michael Irvin Reality Show Still On?
I hope and pray Jerry will cut that distraction off at the bud, but who knows. Imagine with 12 rookies, a half-dozen non-roster invitees, AND some clown Irvin scraped out of the pile what kind of a convoluted mess this would be.
Other teams are going to be licking their chops, looking over the Cowboys waver wires once the preseason gets into full swing. Hopefully the team’s talent evaluators will be in full gear…
by GhostofGaryHogeboom on May 4, 2009 2:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Any rook
who wasn’t there when the roof cave in need not apply.
Storm Trooper Parking Only
All Others Will Be Towed
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on May 4, 2009 5:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i'm not a pc freak
but I still think using direct Nazi terminology should be avoided!
by scottmaui on May 4, 2009 8:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Storm Troops
were first used in World War I, before the Nazis were around, as shock troops to storm trenches. The Canadians were first to use the technique, followed by the French and then the Germans.
And, yes, you most definitely are a PC Freak. Get over yourself.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on May 5, 2009 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah well Lucas borrowed a lot of Nazi symbols for the movie
the names, shape of the helmets, etc… to make them the really bad guys…
personally, I don’t want to refer to my favorite team’s ‘09 draft class with the same name as " a paramilitary organization of the Nazi Party [that] played a key role in Adolf Hitler’s rise to power in the 1920s and 1930s." (via Wikipedia). Maybe that’s just me.
Look, you can do what you want, but I can state my opinion on it that I hope others don’t pick up on this…
by scottmaui on May 5, 2009 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sooooo... We eliminate blitz and all other military refrences from terminology.
I think its pointless. The whole persona of football(and sports in general) is about going “to war”. The whole thing is actually silly but I think most people know this. The ones that dont, there is no helping them regardless of what you do so let it ride.
The Democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those willing to work and give to those who would not. Thomas Jefferson
by squidlo97 on May 5, 2009 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes the whole thing is about going to war
I love the George Carlin piece on the language of baseball and football.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYS_1bQ-rXo
but blitz is an accepted football term that can be used without other connotations.
everyone can do what they want, but I’m just putting in my 2¢ that I’d prefer this blog didn’t adopt this terminology as some semi-official moniker for this draft class. Same reason some objected to the “death camp” name for training camp this year, in favor of “Survivor: Dallas” or some other less loaded name.
by scottmaui on May 5, 2009 4:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Football
is a metaphor for war at every level.
The rookies who were on the field when the storm blew the building down need to think of themselves as Storm Troopers.
Let’s keep politics out of it.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on May 5, 2009 5:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
STORM TROOPS
were used by the German army, but so was axle grease. Both were also used before and after the Nazi Party rose and fell in Germany.
Storm Troops is the perfect name for the 2009 Rookie Class of the Dallas Cowboys.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on May 5, 2009 4:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well put...
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... top 5 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on May 6, 2009 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I imagine
the winner of the Irvin show was there as one of the undrafted players. They said 70 people were in the tent.
by JimmyJohnson on May 5, 2009 3:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Totally disagree about cutting Irvin's show
Main reason – Jerry could use the $$$ … if there is no other good reason, this will ensure the show goes on
Secondary reason – don’t be so sure we don’t find a guy that can compete… here is one example:
From Inside Carolina / Scout.com – Jessie Holley
For Holley, this show represents a big opportunity to re-establish his professional resume. The Roselle, N.J. native finished eighth in career receiving yards and career receptions as a Tar Heel, and was third on the team with 37 receptions for 466 yards in 2006. His best season occurred in 2005, when he earned honorable-mention All-ACC after catching 47 passes for 670 yards.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... top 5 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on May 4, 2009 9:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe better than what we have
None of these guys will be much bigger projects than Hurd, Austin, Stanback. None came into the league with any receiving skills and, thus far, none have contributed in the NFL. A reasonably talenter receiver with 6 weeks of Irvin coaching may be just as good as any of these guys.
by JimmyJohnson on May 5, 2009 3:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mickens should not only survive but prove to be a hot commodity!
If Mickens get a chance to shine… He will not only survive, but could easily move up the roster quickly. The guy is one of the fastest most natural corners I have seen since Neon Deon!!!
by hakrjak on May 4, 2009 3:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'd love to believe that
but its an impossibility. If he were that obviously great, he’d have been taken no later than the early 3rd round given his injuries. Having written this, there’s always room for error by the drafting community and perhaps he is the steal of the (Cowboys) draft. Let’s all hope so.
by Eagles suck on May 4, 2009 7:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks to everyone for the great reads.
Family, Friends, Cowboys, Beer & BBQ. Life is good!
by CowboyMan on May 4, 2009 4:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
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