Dallas Cowboys Training Camp: The Bubble Boys
by Jim Vance on Jul 22, 2009 1:00 AM CDT
in Training Camp
136 comments
Who are the Bubble Boys this year? Who are the Cowboy players standing on the proverbial bubble this training camp? Almost all rookies are somewhat on the bubble unless they are top-round draft picks. I'm defining a Bubble Boy as a veteran player, who has not broken into the starting lineup and has yet to show themselves to be a reliable backup. At some point the team has to make a change if a player doesn't develop. That change can mean being traded for another player or future draft choice, or being cut outright. For some of the Bubble Boys, the clock is ticking.
Make the jump.
Bubble Boys:
Pat Watkins - When you play the safety position and your team signs a free agent safety and then drafts two more, you should be looking over your shoulder. The safety play was poor last year and the team appears determined to upgrade. With Roy Williams' injury last year there was a real opportunity for Watkins to secure a spot. He didn't. Watkins will have competition for one of the backup safety positions and he will need to make it clear that he is worth the roster space. If it looks like a push between him and a rookie, the rookie will get the spot.
Courtney Brown - See Pat Watkins above. The safety play was poor last year, Roy Williams was hurt and Brown had a chance to win a spot. He didn't. He could be on the outside looking in. The Cowboys could possibly look at him back at corner again.
Isaiah Stanback - Have you seen the M. Night Shyamalan movie called Unbreakable where Samuel L. Jackson played a bad guy who was nicknamed ‘Mr. Glass' because he was very fragile? Well, that's who Stanback reminds me of. He has talent, but he can't seem to stay healthy enough to get on the field. How long can the Cowboys endure the opportunity cost of waiting for Mr. Glass to become Mr. Big Play?
Alan Ball - At cornerback, the Cowboys have gone from liability to strength with Terence Newman, Mike Jenkins and Orlando Scandrick. Ball was a 7th-round draft choice in 2007 and will be battling for a backup spot with rookie Mike Mickens, who was considered an elite cover prospect before suffering a knee injury. If Mickens knee is solid, Ball might be in trouble. DeAngelo Smith will also be in the mix.
Pat McQuistan - An offensive tackle drafted in the 7th-round in 2006. He has backed up Marc Columbo at RT and even Flozell Adams at LT but only for very brief stints. When Flozell had a bad wing last year and seemed a shell of himself, McQuistan had an opportunity to step in and help the team as well as himself. Flo had to come right back in. McQuistan needs to bring it during training camp or he just might lose it.
Bubble Boys (potential trade variety)
Bobby Carpenter - When you cost your team a first-round draft pick (18th) and first-round draft pick money, and you haven't played your way onto the field - that's a big problem. Since Carpenter was drafted by Parcells in 2006 he has not been able to earn significant playing time and the team surely won't want to continue to burn up a roster spot without reciprocal production. For the last few years I've heard Carpenter being discussed as moving inside and then outside and that he deserves more playing time and yet, he doesn't manage to get on the field except for special teams. If the guy has the ability and desire, I'm sure Wade will recognize it and find a way to use it. His big opportunity is a shot at the starting nickel-backer role. I see him as someone the Cowboys would love to talk up during camp and package him for a future draft pick.
Cory Procter - Procter signed a one-year deal in April and he has shown some versatility by backing up Andre Gurode at center, but last year while filling in at guard he got pushed around more than a Wal-Mart shopping cart. If the Cowboys really liked him it seems they would have locked him up for a longer term. That one-year deal sounds to me like, "If another G/C prospect comes on the radar screen, we won't be tied to you with a longer contract." We used to think Kyle Kosier was the weak link on the o-line, until Proctor took his place. Procter will be battling Montrae Holland as the primary backup guard, but his best chance for continued stability with the Cowboys is as a backup center. Playing center could save him this year.
The clock is ticking down for these guys to make an impact. Training camp may be the last time some of these men wear the star. Tick...tick...tick.
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Proctor needs to go
I’d like to see Barbie get some playing time this year though…
by ChrisRichey on Jul 22, 2009 1:10 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Camp will be very interesting...
I’m going to be watching those ‘bubble’ players closely, as I will the large group of ‘rooks’. The ‘Turk’ is going to have a tough job this camp for sure.
There is no right way to do the wrong thing. GO COWBOYS!!
by CCBoy on Jul 22, 2009 4:16 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
BOOM!
The Hives. I love that song…
Why no Doug Free? To me he’s the mystery man. Why was McQ the guy on deck?
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 5:30 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Dunk
Free is generally considered to have more upside. Here’s a great post by Aaron Novinger about Doug Free.
http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2009/7/6/935055/doug-free-the-future-at-left-tackle
"He has a peculiar felicity of expression." John Adams
by Jim Vance on Jul 22, 2009 7:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I used to think that too
but no one talks about him in the organization, and he’s seen less of the field than McQ. It’s weird.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 8:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
isn't mcq a year ahead of free?
a guy should get a few years to establish himself. if he can’t do it in that time, there’s always someone else to give a shot to…
by g8tgod on Jul 22, 2009 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I heard Free has looked pretty good in past training camps/practices.
Let’s just hope he improves on that next week.
Shoulda been Hawkins.
by Aaron Novinger on Jul 22, 2009 8:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you mean ... in LESS than a week!
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 8:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
tell me these last few weeks haven't been torture...
TORTURE!
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 9:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I should be careful who I think of as my "pet" draftee...
in recent years, I’ve found myself pulling for (in no particular order…)
Pat Watkins (showed sparks his rookie year)
Isaiah Stanback (crazy athlete)
Justin Beriault (good story/bad knee)
Rob Pettiti (near my home-town)
Tyson Thompson (home-town boy, how could you not?)
and Erik Walden (another feel-good)
This article is great – these guys deserve to be on the bubble, and despite my early support, the lack of production has definitely worn their welcome thin… but still hoping they don’t join my garbage pile!!!
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 6:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Curse of the Dalai!
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 7:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
This year’s dubious honor probably falls to Stephen Hodge … or maybe Buehler … I haven’t read enough on most of these guys… a blessing for them!
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 7:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We should pick our radioactive cat
and then have you put them on the cover of “DalaiLuke 2009”.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yea, talk about a snake-bit list...
maybe I should start pulling for some of the Eagles draftees
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Awesome idea
Please, please, please put Westbrook on your fantasy team.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and Brandon Jacobs please
I feel so miserable without you, it’s almost like having you here.
by CounterEMF on Jul 22, 2009 7:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was soo rooting for Beriault, too.
Hopefully, Hodge and M.Hamlin can provide what he was supposed to.
Shoulda been Hawkins.
by Aaron Novinger on Jul 22, 2009 8:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Let's admit it, these guys stink.
I vote to replace all the above with younger guys. Game film does not lie…these guys mentioned above just plain stink.
"The Most Dangerous Man in the world is the one with nothing to lose"
by SaratogaRacing on Jul 22, 2009 7:49 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I've never thought
Brown and Ball stink, I think they both and at least one will make the team this year.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jul 22, 2009 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
I think Ball has a good shot.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ball will probably be the 4th CB
Stanback won’t make it through camp I predict ….Carpenter stays….Watkins stays..Proctor gone, Brown gone…
by Boyzfan94 on Jul 22, 2009 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Watkins would have to...
be a special teams god to stay.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jul 22, 2009 4:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
I think Watkins might be done. Which is a shame, I always liked him and was hoping he’d show some ball hawk skills at FS as well as be the ST ace he was his rookie year.
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on Jul 22, 2009 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ball may be the "swing" DB
As a dime safety and 4th/5th CB, Ball or Brown have a big jump because it would give the Boys the freedom to carry only 9 DBs to free room at another position (3rd QB McGee/KO Buehler)
It's not personal, it's just business
by Fighter15 on Jul 22, 2009 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ball seems semi-safe
He’s improved his game and I would trust him as the #4 CB. Plus he’s got some practice time as backup FS. If he gets hurt or one of the rookies catches fire, though, he might be SOL.
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on Jul 22, 2009 5:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Petiti > Proctor
That is the only one I will stand by. He was a terrible starting RT. But he never got pushed around like Proctor.
by JimmyJohnson on Jul 22, 2009 7:52 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Protcor > Petiti
Not even close; everyone’s bogeyman Proctor made some great blocks in space to spring Choice. This Cowboy bandwagon running over of Proctor is way out of hand. At least he can snap the ball – something Gurode has trouble doing. The line had trouble last year and Proctor was only part of it. Proctor may not make the team but to say he is Rob Petiti is hitting below the belt.
by Iowacowboy on Jul 22, 2009 4:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cow manure > dog poop
It's not personal, it's just business
by Fighter15 on Jul 22, 2009 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree
Proctor slamming is over the top.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Jul 22, 2009 6:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why?
He is the least stout O-lineman we have fielded since Torrin Tucker. You aren’t supposed to just run over NFL offensive linemen. Proctor gets knocked back 3 yards on every running play and is easily bullrushed on passes.
by JimmyJohnson on Jul 22, 2009 8:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stanback
will clinch a spot this year.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Jul 22, 2009 8:05 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Based on
his performance in Training Camp.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Jul 22, 2009 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He'll magically stay healthy and play like he never has before?
My point was I can’t imagine what basis you have for thinking he’ll magically be really good (and healthy)
by StillHateTheGiants on Jul 22, 2009 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stanback
came in as a project to start with. Team knew about the foot injury when he signed up. Banged up the shoulder playing ST, but that’s fixed. As for the knee scope, that is routine cleanup during the off season. I’m more than twice his age and had that surgery a month ago. Piece of cake.
Physically, he should be good to go. Mentally, we shall see how much he has picked up while he’s been on the mend. Athletically, well, that is why he made the team to start with. When guys like Jeff Ireland and Wade Phillips sing your praises, there is something there.
A chunk of the fan base has been riding Stanback since he came in, and that won’t stop. But I am looking for him to demonstrate why he was drafted.
Yes, it’s true, he needs to go hard or go home this TC. I think he is a player.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Jul 22, 2009 6:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nobody argues Stanback's Talent / Athleticism
It’s just that he never can get healthy enough to get on the field. I listed him as one of my “pets” above, and would LOVE to see him shine this year. I think most fans gave him a hall-pass his first year (memories of Skyler didn’t help) … but when he also missed last year and then is out this spring, well… at some juncture those dissenters start to have a point.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 7:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He has to
show up this year, no doubt.
But for a project player, he drew a lot of whiners early on.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Jul 23, 2009 8:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dead man walking...
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 23, 2009 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would rather keep this the guy who won Irvins fourth and long than Stanback at this point...
by Boyzfan94 on Jul 22, 2009 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As long as we have one dreadlocked WR, I'll be cool with that.
Shoulda been Hawkins.
by Aaron Novinger on Jul 22, 2009 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
… does Barber out of the backfield count?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 9:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, we need one on d outside too, mon.
Shoulda been Hawkins.
by Aaron Novinger on Jul 22, 2009 9:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, a spot on the all Burger King team at the drive-thru window
"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 Jul 22, 2009 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are these guys safe?
Hatcher & Bowen? (I like Dixon and I think the coaches do too, he could knock one of these out)
Hurd – I hope he makes the team – but he is a year 3 guy – if he has any injuries or doesn’t bring it in training camp then I think he loses out to the upside of a 1st year guy.
I wouldn’t be guaranteeing Holland a roster spot either. If he doesn’t come in in shape and doesn’t show the versatility to be a could swing guy, he could be gone. Both Isdaner and Bright were ranked highly by Sporting News WarRoom – ,who I think do better than most draftniks. 3rd and 6th rated guards respectively – I think a good chance one or both could develop to challenge for a roster spot – and Proctor may not be the one to go due to his versatility.
"Where's Woody? - We need another Darren Woodson
by BoyfromOz on Jul 22, 2009 9:12 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for mentioning Isdaner and Bright.
I think the young veteran OLinemen are in the same situation as the secondary veterans. The young guys are going to get the nod in a tie, certainly. I especially have hopes for Bright. He’s very explosive and quick, and played on a decent line at BYU.
And soon we won’t have to speculate anymore! TC is just around the corner!
"Everybody wants something but nobody wants to pay the price" - Michael Irvin
by 24Hz on Jul 22, 2009 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry, when I say the young guys are going to get the nod in a tie,
I mean the rookies, of course.
"Everybody wants something but nobody wants to pay the price" - Michael Irvin
by 24Hz on Jul 22, 2009 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hurd, Free, For Sure- McQ possibly/probably
Hurd is my biggest target just based on the fact that he seems to be further down the receiving ladder, and to me, he may have reached his limit as far as missed playing/practice time goes because of injuries, even though none of them has been serious; Other than his gunner play on kicks/punts ( which, I guess is no small thing) he does not stand out, no great size, quickness, speed or hands – just an ordinary journeymen receiver, this is the prototypical Bubble Boy. If your going to inject some new, young, inexperienced, talent into a position this would be the perfect spot, because, baring the loss of multiple receivers, it give the Cowboys the advantage of having control over the situation the young receiver is exposed too.
Free, because he has just not shown us, the fan anything. Has he shown the Cowboys anything? I don’t know. If he has then the will at the very least take McQuistens spot at utility Guard/Tackle. If he can’t he gets the boot. If he can McQ gets the boot.
Brown is another guy that’s high on my list despite the positive press. Now, I do think from everything I have read that he is better suited for Corner than for Safety; But you have to be able to tackle and support the run at CB also.
Ball? He is kind of like Brown,but in reverse. I can see were he may be a better FS than a CB. the Cowboy’s seem to like this guy for some reason. However, there is Deangelo Smith wanting a spot too, ( I fear the loss of what ever picks we try to sneak onto the PS).
Do, or Dies
Carpenter, I don’t know how close the other guys are to him, not the rookies, but Octavian and Rogers.
Stanback, goes with saying.
Already Gone, they just don’t know it.
Watkins- doesn’t show up and I know if I were an insurance company I wouldn’t want that neck injury.
Coleman- I know he’s just PS material, but this is his last year eligible for that why knot bring in some new talent?
Rodney Hannah- same as Colemen
by bad knees on Jul 22, 2009 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hatcher drives me nuts!
Perfect build for the position, all the tools, but just doesn’t have it.
The d-line needs some nasty scrappers in there and Hatcher (and Bowen) seem to play with a Cotton Candy streak.
"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 Jul 22, 2009 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hatcher was one of those guys I got really excited about
Memories of Leon Lett were dancing through my head, then we heard he was unblockable in training camp one year. Then he got hurt and poof. Now he’s a bubble guy.
by StillHateTheGiants on Jul 22, 2009 4:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yea, I saw Hatcher in his first training camp and...
he was knocking the hell out of everyone, but then he seemed to fade. It may be that he just didn’t do that extra 1% to get from okay to good to great…don’t know the guy, but this is my sense from just observing him on the field. I wish him well this summer!
"The Most Dangerous Man in the world is the one with nothing to lose"
by SaratogaRacing on Jul 22, 2009 8:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dixon Won't Unseat Hatcher or Bowen
This would shock me to Dixon make the final 53. Nice story but he is not NFL caliber – yet anyway.
by Iowacowboy on Jul 22, 2009 4:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dixon is not very big either.
I saw him at a charity basketball game recently and I was shocked that he wasnt bigger. He’s listed at 6-4, 285 (which isnt big enough to play NT in the 3-4 anyway) and I swear he’s not much over 270. He was built, but almost thin. Needs to add some weight.
by TCBinNYC on Jul 23, 2009 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What ever happened with Tyson Thompson?
I really liked this guy too, but it seems like he just disappeared. In some games, he looked really sharp and was, at one point, the leading kickoff returner in the League, right?
"The Most Dangerous Man in the world is the one with nothing to lose"
by SaratogaRacing on Jul 22, 2009 9:30 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wasn't his problem
blocking?
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Playing in UFL
in Las Vegas, taking handoffs from JP Losman, being coached by Jim Fassel.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Jul 22, 2009 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did he die and go to hell?
Lifetime Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
by Seanrude on Jul 22, 2009 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
broke his ankle
and was never as fast after that, from what I remember
by Troy H on Jul 22, 2009 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do I understand right that---
Doug Free has been training exclusivsly at left tackle and McQuistan has been training for both guard and tackle positions?
If true, I can understaqnd why Doug Free is not dressing but that does not mean he is not a better fit at left tackle.
I believe Doug is the future at left tackle.
by Musiccitynorm on Jul 22, 2009 9:52 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
The similarities of opinions on Free are nearly identical to those made for:
- Tuinei, considered a bust until he “showed up” his 3rd year.
- Rayfield Wright, his 4th year
- Pat Donovan, his 4th year (taking over for Neely)
- Flo, who was going to be cut after his 5th year, until BP came in (though unlike the rest of the list, he played early…just not well)
There are others, like Nate Newton, Gogan, and even Gurode, but I stuck with the OT’s that made up the Cowboys Top 50 players (minus Neely, who was a 1st round draft pick in the early years).
It's not personal, it's just business
by Fighter15 on Jul 22, 2009 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really hope you are right
If he turns out in any of those guys league, we should be very excited.
by StillHateTheGiants on Jul 22, 2009 4:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Ecstatic!
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on Jul 22, 2009 5:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Future Left Tackle
Is not on the team yet. We seem to focus our draft in a reactionary fashion on whatever postion we struggled with the previous few years. I think the line will be our next focus and I hope that it doesn’t prove to be our downfall this year.
by staubachfan on Jul 22, 2009 10:05 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Probably not...
But you don’t know that.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jul 22, 2009 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dalai
Thanks for cursing Buehler, I was really pulling for him but I guess I’ll write him off now.
by staubachfan on Jul 22, 2009 10:07 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yep
Scratch him now and move on.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
damn... the snowball builds!
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dude's as good as dead
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but, but, but...
i like him?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 7:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Midas loved food
but that didn’t help him, did it now?
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 23, 2009 7:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Keep Stanback thru the season
Dump the rest.
Watkins – Too stupid for the NFL despite great athleticism.
Brown & Ball – Just don’t have it.
McQ – Slow, very average lineman.
Barbie – See Brown & Ball
Proctor – He’d make a great bouncer at Ghost Bar.
by GhostofGaryHogeboom on Jul 22, 2009 11:06 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't see the hate on Brown and Ball.
Perhaps one of them is cut, but to just say “they don’t have it” is seriously over the top.
This is year 3 for both of them and from everything I’ve heard they’ve improved immensely.
I think Ball’s versatility gives him a damn good shot.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jul 22, 2009 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yea
They both did pretty good last year.
by Musiccitynorm on Jul 22, 2009 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good one Ghost
you hit the head on the head
"The Most Dangerous Man in the world is the one with nothing to lose"
by SaratogaRacing on Jul 22, 2009 8:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with all but 2
Ball and Barbie stay this year. I think Barbie still hasn’t had his fair shot and I’m certain he’ll get it this year. I also think he’ll deliver. It’s a shame though, taking this long to get on the field.
Ball to me is a fantastic backup, especially now that he seems to be taking to the safety role well.
by sublimezg on Jul 22, 2009 11:13 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Barbie? Really?
Not sure I buy that. #1 picks shouldn’t be playing just on Specials and in sub-packages at this stage of their development.
I think it’s safe ffor me to call him Bustie Carpenter.
"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 Jul 22, 2009 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He may be a bust as a #1
but that doesn’t mean that he’s not better at this point than the rooks they are bringing in. I am guessing they’ll keep him on unless those guys knock Phillips socks off in training camp.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The thing about Carpenter to me is--
He played really good in that Seatle playoff game and him having a great trainig camp last year.
Two positives I can’t overlook, the kid has some talent. I’m not sure why he can’t get on the field.
I personally believe that Carpenter should have started last year if he had such a great camp but the cowboys seem obligated to play its veteran players even when they are not the better choice. I don’t fear Carpenter playing linebacker like I fear Proctor playing guard. I believe Carpenter at the very least will do ok.
I also believe the Cowboys let Burnett go because of Carpenter. I might be wrong but I think Carpenter is already pened in as the starting nickle linebacker.
by Musiccitynorm on Jul 22, 2009 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I never heard that Carpenter had a great camp.
I am with you though, I don’t feel horrible with Carpenter in the lineup, especially in the nickel where I think he has adequate pass defense.
In all fairness, Bobby just isn’t really built to be a 3-4 linebacker, certainly a 3-4 inside linebacker.
He lacks something, but even if he had it, that isn’t his natural position. In all honesty Dat Nguyen was undersized too for the position but he was so tough and so intelligent that it made up for any deficiencies that he might have had.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jul 22, 2009 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Terry always says that as well - Carp is made for the 4-3
I think his problem may be fighting off linemen, which is a must-have skill in the 3-4, as well as at several local bars….
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wait, not linemen
just Steelers’ QBs who are as chunky as linemen. My bad.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jerry wouldn't cut Barbie
He wants the team to be more Romo-friendly. Romo needs Bobby to go vacation with him and Witten.
by Troy H on Jul 22, 2009 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT - Roethlisberger.....
you guys find it funny that on BSPN you cannot even find mention of the Roethlisberger civil complaint / rape accusation??? I couldn’t find one word on it
if this was Romo….as a matter of fact – if this was anybody on the Cowboys – dont you think this would be all over ESPN?? am i paranoid?
by McLovin9 on Jul 22, 2009 2:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Who cares?
Seriously, I don’t even pay attention to those four letters anymore, let alone actually watch the channel.
by ChrisRichey on Jul 22, 2009 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, Romo
apparently doesn’t need to use to force…
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 22, 2009 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
only necessary when getting Jess away from the buffet
by McLovin9 on Jul 22, 2009 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are unfortunately speaking the truth...
I can see it now. Trey Wingo making little backhanded comments towards the Cowboys. Trent Dilfer questioning how this will affect the team and its goals. Mark Schlereth telling us how this will really hurt the Cowboys. And of course, there would be nothing quite like watching Ed Werder report from Valley Ranch.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
by Cowboyfan729 on Jul 22, 2009 4:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wingo is actually a Cowboys fan
Everything's looking up, Milhouse!
by accidental innuendo on Jul 23, 2009 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah I've never thought...
Wingo has ever taken any cheap shots at Dallas. He makes sarcastic remarks, but its toward any team.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on Jul 23, 2009 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope he replaces Berman soon
There’s a pompous wiseass if you’re looking for one — especially a Cowboys’ hater.
Everything's looking up, Milhouse!
by accidental innuendo on Jul 24, 2009 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Procter is terrible
No team with access to any of our game tapes from last year would ever trade for Procter. He was horrible. Anyone can shown some versatility by backing up a couple of positions. But when your number is called and you suck on game day you have NO VALUE. Please cut him now.
by eightball on Jul 22, 2009 4:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree he is terrible. But the statement about no other teams wanting him is false. I didn’t see how anybody could want Torrin Tucker until TB gave him a fat contract.
by JimmyJohnson on Jul 22, 2009 5:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His saving grace is the ability to backup C/G
He lacks the sand in his pants to hold up a bull rush, but he can pull and you can’t break up the band man.
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on Jul 22, 2009 5:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I fear you are right
If any coach will keep a weakling O-lineman around so as not to break up a band, it is Wade.
There are other guys out there who can play G/C. Average (or slightly below average) would be a big improvement over Proctor.
by JimmyJohnson on Jul 22, 2009 8:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're close
his saving grace is his ability to back up… into the QB.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 23, 2009 7:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll guess
Watkins – the draft has made him expendable.
McQ (The Big Ugly) – last season proved the staff has no confidence in the guy to play LT or LG. Backup RT and ST units are probably not enough to save him. (Plus he’s not in the band.)
Brown – if he can’t play CB by now, he’s gone.
Carp – same as Watkins, the draft (Jason Williams and Hodge) makes him expendable. If Jerry can trade him for anything of value, he should. I don’t think he’s in the team’s long term plans.
Stanback – I’m rooting for him, but if he misses time with any injury, he’s could be gone. Therefore, have to say he’s on the bubble since he can’t seem to shake the injury bug.
Training Camp '09 = Mega Thunder Dome....80 men enter, 53 men leave.
by APerfectStar on Jul 22, 2009 6:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Rediculously early to predict...
But here’s my list of bubble boys:
NT: Siavii. He has to be better than all the other DTs, a part-time Spears and/or Olshansky, all other FAs and late roster cuts, AND better than the 10th DB, 9th LB, AND 7th WR…that’s a lot to overcome.
LB: Stewart, Rogers, Octavian. Barring a collapse by the rookies or injuries, these guys are gone. One of the rooks is heading for the PS, or has to beat out another position (see above). My guess is Brandon Williams or Hodge
DE: It’s Hatcher, Bowen, and Dixon for one spot.
OL: Too many to mention. Actually, you could put every single non-starter for 4 positions.
WR is obvious and discussed ad nauseum.
No other bubblers that I can see. Just a bunch of camp bodies auditioning for the practice squad.
It's not personal, it's just business
by Fighter15 on Jul 22, 2009 8:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The LB positions are gonna be great TC battles.
I’m predicting Butler will be the practice squad guy.
Shoulda been Hawkins.
by Aaron Novinger on Jul 22, 2009 9:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Butler is getting love from Wade & JJ
I had him listed originally, but he’s getting too much press.
But is that the same as the One.Cool pet cat curse?
It's not personal, it's just business
by Fighter15 on Jul 23, 2009 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What about the NT that played for the Giants?
… which brings to mind… when is the last time we truly had a SURPRISE in Training Camp? Guys like Romo don’t count, they snuck up on us… I’m talking about a ONE-CAMP WOW kinda guy.
Ever?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 9:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
McBriar?
That would be cool if Seawright can right the backup NT ship. He was the reason dinosaurs went extinct.
Shoulda been Hawkins.
by Aaron Novinger on Jul 22, 2009 10:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
do you think he can stop this economy's free fall?
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 11:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Every end of camp/preseason has at least one surprise cut, like Aaron Glenn...
one dissapointing but necessary cut, like Terry Glenn…
and one why-didn’t-we-keep-him cut, like Matt Moore.
All of those guys that Jim discusses have younger players behind them looking to prove themselves. This could be one of those years where a couple UDFAs make it, like Austin and Hurd did.
Like someone said above, I’m looking for Isdaner, Bright, or even FightingIrishman, Turkovich, to supplant McQuistan. With Free able to play behind the tackles and Brewster getting all punky at guard, McQ may already be on the phone with the Miami version of the Cowboys.
Watkins, Brown, and Ball? Give me one of the three. I think Wade likes Ball the most, especially if he’s bulked up this offseason to help out in dime/nickel slots (casino reference?). For whatever reason, I kinda like Brown. But Ball will probably take it. Watkins gets packaged in with McQ.
Carp stays. We got lucky (I guess) that Zach didn’t get hurt last year. Still, we had Burnett. Unless JWilliams or Hodge completely gain Wade’s trust, Bobby C is all we have behind Brooking and Bradie. Justin Rogers/Matt Stewart will be a good battle too.
Procter sticks because he’s versatile and the Cowboys would be playing with fire by having no experience at 2nd-team center.
Stanback may be the heartbreak cut, which would suck becuz we have yet to see what he’s made of. With Felix back, maybe Austin, maybe Jenkins, it’s unlikely he’ll be asked to return KOs. Hurd and one of the rooks will fight him off for alot of the coverage units. Stanback may need the reality of the Razorback while also pushing Hurd out of the #4 role.
The why-we-didn’t-keep-him cut could be one of the D-Linemen, Bowens or Dixon. If the team reaches on the “potential” of one of the nose guards, then that could hurt the chances for one of these guys—which brings me to my surprise-cut guys.
Hatcher, Holland, Kitna and/or Crickett. Call me crazy or whatever, but there’s always at least one surprise cut. Who would a surprise cut be for you guys?
Shoulda been Hawkins.
by Aaron Novinger on Jul 22, 2009 9:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I think this is an excellent post, except...
First, I totally agree with your thoughts on McQ, Carp, Procter and Stanback.
But can’t agree that Hatcher and Crickett are so close to the bubble. And Kitna would be a very strange cut… it would be saying “if Romo goes down, we go into rebuilding mode” … I don’t see us putting a potential SB team on the shoulders of a rookie QB.
Surprise cut for me = Sam Hurd … but the upside of this would be that Stanback finally caught fire and one of the rooks surprised.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 10:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I sure hope it's not Hurd, but that's a good one.
There just always seems to be a weird cut that makes everybody WTF.
I may be stretching with Kitna, but what if the coaching staff gets some wild hairs up their arses and just want to keep 2 QBs and Rudy on the practice squad? That would be pretty lame considering what happened last year. But we can’t live in the past!
Shoulda been Hawkins.
by Aaron Novinger on Jul 22, 2009 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
if you assume the coaches are keeping 3 QBs and 2 kickers (3/McBriar) ...
Where does the suffering start? I hate to think about being slim anywhere else. Defensive secondary is the only other spot, and if anything I’d like to see them have MORE depth here, not less. Same with the D-Line, O-Line… I think they’ll keep 3 TEs and Cricket…
Which seems to leave WRs holding the short end of the stick. (by the way, would you want to be the 4th RB on this depth chart? You got NOTHING)
Even if we keep 6 WRs, the 7th still has a shot at getting picked up… we appear that deep. If we keep only 5, then we’re definitely letting go of some real potential… but that seems to be a likely scenario.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 22, 2009 11:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Disagree on WR depth
To this point, nobody past Williams, Crayton, and Austin have proven themselves to be anything special. Our 4th-7th receivers are equivalent to the late-round / UDFAs that every team in the league has competing for the same 4th – 7th spots. They are pretty much interchangeable.
by JimmyJohnson on Jul 23, 2009 3:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe I'm wearing rose-colored glasses...
But I still have high hopes for this crop of receivers. Unless the coaches are blowing smoke up our butts, Stanback supposedly has a bit of talent, and we’ve already seen flashes from Hurd.
But that is only 5, so perhaps you have a good point. I’m a Tar Heel, so my thoughts on Holley are biased in the same way Longhorn fans see stars (pun intended) when talking about Roy Williams. Manny’s a rookie, just like so many untested late-rounders. So you’re probably right to call me on that post!
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 23, 2009 5:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They didn't cut Moore
if I remember correctly they lost him off the PS
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 23, 2009 7:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm pretty sure they waived him and Bartell in the final cuts...
hoping he’d clear waivers to stash him on the PS. Little did they know the Panthers were licking their fangs.
Shoulda been Hawkins.
by Aaron Novinger on Jul 23, 2009 7:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hurd's the surprise and/or heartbreak (agree with the pos.)
Proctor’s gone. Your argument for the UDFAs (which I think we hit a homerun on, even the center) is dead on, but logically your argument for Proctor not getting cut is mutually exclusive.
Stanback would be my heartbreak as well.
Hatcher, Holland, and Kitna are stone-cold locks. McGee, Hurd or Flo would be my best bests to surprise everyone…especially Flo. Given the contract, Flo could very well join Ellis and t.o. as the clean sweep of shockers that don’t make (initial) logical sense.
It's not personal, it's just business
by Fighter15 on Jul 23, 2009 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But who is
the back-up center if Procter is cut? Unless Holland is decent there, that probably saves Turnstile Tommy’s bacon.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 23, 2009 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Deon's getting cut
Sad to say
Everything's looking up, Milhouse!
by accidental innuendo on Jul 23, 2009 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm excited about that competition
We have a few FB’s and 3rd-4th TE’s competing for 2-3 roster spots. None are special. But it will be interesting to see who steps up. Perhaps, we will keep Tulius together 1 more season.
by JimmyJohnson on Jul 23, 2009 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They may very well be special
Cricket, Scwepps/Swapp/Swab, and especially Croslin all are classic FBs.
Antonio Gates II (Hannah), Phillips, and the FA pickup Chandler all could be very, very good. Most (if not all) could make the 2nd TE on just about every other NFL team.
It's not personal, it's just business
by Fighter15 on Jul 23, 2009 3:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can have all these guys ...
… for a 6th round pick. I’m done with them. I’ve rooted for these guys for too long and they’ve shown NOTHING. Good thing we drafted 27 late round rookies. Someone needs to take these guys’ places.
by TCBinNYC on Jul 23, 2009 1:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Bottom-churning draft, my friend
Not the most exciting, or terribly promising…but it was way overdue for us.
Everything's looking up, Milhouse!
by accidental innuendo on Jul 24, 2009 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right, plus
they indicated that they were looking for a certain type of player – smart, hard-nosed, athletic. Not divas or draft day darlings, but guys who bnring it on the field. Sort of the traditional Steelers approach. I like it as well.
Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty and the pig loves it.
by dunkman on Jul 24, 2009 3:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep
tough-nosed kids, the kind you want at your side when the roof falls in. Literally.
Keep doing what you been doing, keep getting what you been getting.
by OskieOskie on Jul 24, 2009 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
remember one thing about this "bottom churning draft" ...
I believe about 20% of the guys in the pro-bowl were 6 -7 round and UDFA guys…
Don’t be so sure all our late-draft picks are worthless… at least not yet.
Tar Heels = National Champs in Basketball ... #1 in Baseball ... Top 10 this year in Football?
by DalaiLuke on Jul 26, 2009 4:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
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