Fixing The Cowboys Offensive Line In Three Easy Steps
by One.Cool.Customer on Dec 31, 2010 8:18 AM CST
in Dallas Cowboys General
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PrintJerry Jones, Jason Garrett and Tom Ciskowski face a daunting task next year: their offensive line is broken and it needs a-fixin’. With 4.1 yards per carry, the Cowboys’ running game is ranked 16th in the league this year, the lowest rank since 2005, when the Cowboys ranked 25th in YPC.
And that year, 2005, carries a special significance to 2010 and the current Cowboys O-line predicament: A year later, in 2006, the Cowboys had jumped to 14th in the league -- with a completely reworked O-line that returned only one starter from the year before. Here’s a look at the starters in 2005 and 2006:
| 2005 | 2006 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Player | Games started | Age | Player | Games started | Age |
| LT Torrin Tucker | 10 | 26 | LT Flozell Adams | 16 | 31 |
| LG Larry Allen | 16 | 34 | G Kyle Kosier | 16 | 28 |
| C Al Johnson | 16 | 26 | C Andre Gurode | 16 | 28 |
| RG Marco Rivera | 14 | 33 | G Marco Rivera |
16 | 34 |
| RT Rob Petitti | 16 | 23 | OT Marc Columbo | 16 | 28 |
Granted, Flozell would have been the starter in 2005 if he hadn’t been injured after six games and Gurode had started at right guard the year before, but that is still a significant revamping of the O-line in one year. Can the Cowboys do it again this year, and what do you think are the least amount of moves it will take for the Cowboys to fix their O-line?
I propose that the O-line can be fixed in three easy-to-follow steps. How many will you need?
1. Tackle – Doug Free is here to stay at left tackle, the only obstacle here is that Free will be a free agent in 2011, and will want left tackle money for an extension. I’ll let Jerry worry about this one, I’ll trust him to get this done.
At right tackle, Marc Colombo should get a hero’s farewell for what he’s done for the Cowboys, but he will not be a Cowboy next year. Jerry & Co. will have to find a replacement, probably on the second day of the draft. Between Tyron Smith, Lee Ziemba, Marcus Cannon, DeMarcus Love and perhaps even a Nate Solder, there should be top quality tackles available at the top of the second round.
2. Center – Andre Gurode still has a year or two left in the tank, and while his habit of snapping the ball whenever he pleases is annoying, he is a solid center - at least compared to his peers across the NFC. No change here, finding a replacement will be a task for 2012.
3. Guard – Kyle Kosier has been serviceable this year and I would defer replacing him until I’ve fixed more critical holes all over the defense. Kosier stays if he agrees to a one- or two year contract, but will have to face some competition from at least Montrae Holland and Travis Bright.
Leonard Davis has been a complete disappointment, rivaled only by Marc Colombo’s decline. A solid free agent acquisition would do wonders here, and I’m not necessarily talking Logan Mankins or Carl Nicks here, although I wouldn’t mind either of them. Daryn Colledge from the Packers, Harvey Dahl from the Falcons or Chris Chester from the Ravens, among others, would all be very welcome too.
So there you go: draft a right tackle high and get a guard in free agency. This is what the line could look like:
| 2010 | 2011 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Player | Games started | Age | Player | Games started | Age |
| LT Doug Free | 15 | 26 | LT Doug Free | - - | 27 |
| G Kyle Kosier | 12 | 32 | G Kyle Kosier | - - | 33 |
| C Andre Gurode | 15 | 32 | C Andre Gurode | - - | 33 |
| G Leonard Davis | 15 | 32 | G Free Agent | - - | 27-29 |
| OT Marc Columbo | 14 | 32 | OT Rookie | - - | 22 |
But I did say three easy steps, and here’s the third:
Fullback/Tight End. Fullbacks are not easy to come by these days, and that’s why the Cowboys have been looking at blocking tight ends to fill the void. But why a fullback? The Cowboys have been in love with fullbacks since Daryl Johnston was a Cowboy in the 90s. A reliable lead blocker with some pass-catching ability will make the offensive line that much more effective.
With John Phillips hopefully returning next year, Chris Gronkowski with a year of NFL experience under his belt and FB/DE Alex Daniels on the practice squad, the Cowboys may already be heavier than most other NFL teams at that hybrid fullback/H-back/blocking TE position. But that only shows how important that position is in the Cowboys’ scheme. The 2011 draft looks to be a bumper year for fullbacks, and with Owen Marecic or Stanley Havili potentially to be had in the later rounds, this would be an ideal year to find a long term fix for a key but underrated position in the backfield.
Three easy steps: draft a right tackle high, get a guard in free agency and use a lower pick for a premium quality fullback. Five draft picks and a lot of free agency money left to shore up that decrepit defense.
How’s that sound, and how many steps would you need?
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Good Choices
I would keep Free and Gurode, and we may have to bite the bullet at LG with what we have on the roster right now.
We might have to dip into the draft twice or three times to start stocking the shelves. My reservation with the free agent guards is their age. At the start of next season, all of them except Nicks will be between 28 and 30, which is not young. We’ll have to replace these guys in somewhere between three and five years, whereas if we learn to evaluate, draft and develop good linemen we get to keep them for ten, assuming we can resign them after their contracts are up.
Fundamentally, the problem that needs to be fixed is putting good young offensive linemen on the field. Other teams can do that, sometimes with late round draft picks on very good offenses. We need to start hitting on those players as well.
You had a very interesting article a few months ago about how the organization appears to be devaluing good offensive line prospects, rating them too low and allowing other teams to snap them up. The second round of 2009 is a great example. The team will need to learn to take those doctrinaire blinders off and select the best talent available. They will also have to improve on their coaching. I don’t know if Hudson Houck is the coach for our line any more. Sparano did better with worse talent; there are doubtless other good young coaching prospects available.
Once we overcome that, we won’t have to keep slapping band aids on the line. We’ll have a stable, sustainable pipeline of talent to provide the depth we need.
excellent points kindablue,
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Dec 31, 2010 9:11 AM CST up reply actions
Great post
I’ve been preaching hard to go after Nicks and Kalil i’m hoping they will come cheaper than Mankins and his price tag and both are young and 25 years old imagine getting them and adding two more from this draft who are good prospects. That’s what i want to see happen this off season the key is Jerry and his scouts you nailed it on how they rate these OL coming out each year clearly their system doesn’t work so let’s hope there’s a change in philosophy.
by cryinsilverblustars4eva on Dec 31, 2010 3:57 PM CST up reply actions
Columbo and Bigg
need to go. I wouldn’t mind getting a center even, and shifting Gurode over to RG, and a new RT. I think we should be set at Fullback/H-back/tight end with the return of John Phillips. Defense needs 2 new safeties, and some new DE’s, and Sean Lee to start over Brooking. We should be stronger up the middle, and that will in turn help our perimeter defense, the Patriots way…I think OCC Posted on that a while ago, and that has just stuck with me as the way to do business. Strong up the middle.
"Wade is no longer the coach." Jason Garrett
That's a realistic possibiliy OCC
I wonder whether the team still has hopes for Costa and Bright. As we know, the Cowboys at times are really reluctant to play the younger guys. Young has been rarely seen. Is he still injured. It sounds stupid to say that I’d trade Gurode in a minute being he made the pro-bowl, but Centres have to be much smarter than he has shown. But you are right, he is a lesser evil. Bigg and Columbo must go.
Do you think Jason will ever trust Gronk again after getting Tony killed. That kind of thing sticks with you a while. I like Gronk and I know he screwed up, but still feel he’s part of the answer in the run game. If we can draft better so be it. Just don’t give up on a good player because of a screwup.
Gurode to RG might be part of the answer short term if he is not traded [please ].
Getting rid of Houck will likley help as well
It seems like football has evolved greatly in the last 10 years, and I feel like some coaches like Houck and Campo have been left in the dust. Some old guys have kept up – Lebeau for instance, but not all.
Solder is being projected in the 1st round.
Knowing how teams love to draft OT’s high, perhaps in some cases overvaluing them, as many as five OT’s could end up sneaking into the 1st round. Right now the Cowboys look to be drafting anywhere from 6th to 10th. I propose trading down a few spots in the first to about 15th. Draft your OT there, and pick up an extra high 3rd rounder this year, or a 2nd rounder next year.
If you can't fix it with a hammer, you've got an electrical problem.
OTs in draft
Todd McShay has 5 tackles going in the first round. Now that still leaves about 3-4 “quality” OT prospects left on the board. One of them should be there if Dallas picks around #6.
It's fun to do bad things. -Latarian Milton
by TexasGarcia37 on Dec 31, 2010 10:50 AM CST up reply actions
in the second round
It's fun to do bad things. -Latarian Milton
by TexasGarcia37 on Dec 31, 2010 10:51 AM CST up reply actions
Check that...
it helps when I do my research before commenting. Right now 6 OT’s are being projected in the 1st. Both of the mocks I looked at have the Cowboys taking a DE in the first. Either Nick Fairley or Marcell Dareus. Other players like Prince Amukamura & Da’Quan Bowers look to be available as well. My fear is that if we go defense with our top pick we won’t get one of the top six OT’s in the draft, and we’ll be perpetuating what has haunted this team for far too long.
If you can't fix it with a hammer, you've got an electrical problem.
It's going to be hard call.
OL sucked (especially on the right side).
Defense sucked (especially the secondary).
Which sucking wound do you try to treat first?
If at first you don't succeed - blame someone else.
Not a hard call for me.
You gotta trade down a few spots, still get Derek Sherrod or Gabe Carimi at about 13-15, which lands you that extra pick. A high 3rd this year, or a 2nd next year is a good strategy. Chances are we can get a Safety, OG, and ILB in FA. We need to get our OT, DE, & another Corner in the draft. Still leaves us a couple of picks to play with. The only real question is will we have a good plan for the short preparation after the new CBA is signed? Once the CBA is in place you’re going to see some warp speed FA signings, and hasty preparation for games.
If you can't fix it with a hammer, you've got an electrical problem.
IMO since the offense is ranked in the top ten of the league,
and the defense has done it’s level best to give up: 1)crucial 1st dns 2)leads that should have won us the game 3) after battling all game to get a late lead and give it right back 4) basically just quitting all together. Yes,Bigg and Barron need to be cut and Colombo given a heroic retirement deal. Get a FA RG and draft a early round RT, get Sparano to coach Costa,Bright, and Young and who ever we can pick up in later rounds. This crap will not stop until we start drafting and developing o-line talent in-house.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 1, 2011 8:17 AM CST up reply actions
development had been brutal
in recent years, teams like PHI have done a good job of drafting OL in rounds 3-5, seasoning them for a couple of years, and then plugging them in. Other than Free, we have seasoned guys for a year or two, discovered they suck, and cut them.
Drafting is critical, but development is often overlooked. You still have to foster the talent you draft.
by I_miss_Switzer on Jan 1, 2011 10:56 AM CST up reply actions
Keep Free Kosier and Gurode
dump Davis and Colombo. With upgrades at RG and RT next season, our run and pass blocking should be good enough for our talented and explosive skill position players to shine big in 2011.
In Romo we Trust
I like it, too. A lot!
"You have to have the fighting spirit. You have to force moves and take chances" (Bobby Fischer)
The other problem with the OLIne
is the woeful lack of depth – see Alex Baron still on the roster for ref. Costa, Bright and Young may have potential, Brewster appears to be a bust. Holland is barely adequate. Problem is other than Holland we simply don’t know what we have.
Even if replace RG with a FA and RT with Rd – 1-3 draft pick, we need to draft for depth and to develop for the future – a la D Free. Hopefully it won’t take 4 years to get someone ready to play. The added bonus with him, is by the time we got him on the field, he’s in line for a new contract. I don’t see the Franchise Tag in the next CBA, but if it is, here’s my candidate.
As such, Columbo may have to stick around another year as a Reserve
We live life forwards and understand it backwards
IMO Holland is more than a descent back-up guard,
and if he could be taught the center position,he would be a very valuable part of this team.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 1, 2011 8:22 AM CST up reply actions
OCC's plan should work with or without JG
how does that have anything to do with it?
"You have to have the fighting spirit. You have to force moves and take chances" (Bobby Fischer)
Another FA OG we should look at is Justin Blalock from Atlanta
He is solid in pass pro and a true road grader. The Falcons will have a hard time paying him due to some other contracts they have and FA’s that are coming up. As to drafting a RT in the draft there should be several viable candidates at the top of the second, but if Wisiniewski is available we would be crazy not to draft him. Best C prospect in a long while. I am very skeptical of any plan that counts on Sean “brittle” Lee to fix anything. Personally if possible I would like to keep Sensy and find a smart S to play next to him and QB the secondary. Sensy makes plays he just needs to be put in the right position.
Interestingly enough
no ILB’s are projected in the 1st round so far. Not sure we’ll find a rook than can start in the middle. Fortunately, if Lee can stay healthy, and that’s a big if, we can get another year or two out of Brady James. We do need an ILB for depth. We can probably find one in FA.
If you can't fix it with a hammer, you've got an electrical problem.
Martez Wilson from Illinois was a machine vs. Baylor
He is projected to go in the 2nd though
I don't think an inside backer should be a priority with premium draft picks
If you can't fix it with a hammer, you've got an electrical problem.
I agree, but think it's more of a need than many people think
Brooking is gone, Lee is injury prone, and don’t get me started on James….I’m in a good mood
Hey...don't get me wrong...Lee's one of my favorite players
but he seems to get dinged up a bit, and he was like that at PSU also.
concussion just dont go away...
Lee remind me a lot of Dan Morgan, great MLB for Carolina, concussion ended his career
ILB may be need #3
after secondary and OL (which may both require multiple talent infusions). I don’t mind James, but Lee is pretty unproven and has trouble staying on the field, adn behind him we have ….
by I_miss_Switzer on Dec 31, 2010 12:09 PM CST up reply actions
I wouldn't put ILB at #3
DL should be ahead of ILB. Right now we’re not getting pressure on the QB because we have Ratliff being constantly double teamed, with a stiff that just gets in the way on one side and a revolving door of JAG’s at the other. If we can’t shore up the DL, any ILB’s you put back there is going to continually be exposed.
Rabid and luvin' it
by lonewolfz28 on Dec 31, 2010 12:25 PM CST up reply actions
but we are getting Spears back
and he is an upgrade to some extent. I agree DL is an area of need – I see OL and DB as urgent/code red, DL and LB as code orange. I say LB as a whole because I think Spencer is a question mark.
DL may well be more urgent but I think one decent player would help. LB we may need one more ILB and an OLB – not as urgent, but we need bodies in the system.
The team has done a terrible job of developing depth to have this many areas of need. We don’t seem to develop our prospects very well, nor do we know what we have. That is how you end up deciding that your #4 corner is your #1 FS and spend a year watching him struggle.
by I_miss_Switzer on Dec 31, 2010 12:46 PM CST up reply actions
Spears is a free agent...
as are Bowen and Hatcher. I doubt all three will be returning. Spears may very well seek greener pastures elsewhere after the way he got jerked around during the off season. I wouldn’t say I’d blame him either.
It may all depend on whether they like what they’ve seen so far of Josh Brent (promising), Sean Lissemore (not much) and Clifton Geathers (even less). If they think those can develop them into the next Jay Ratliff, L’Roi Glover and Chris Canty, then they can afford to stand pat. I just don’t see it happening.
Rabid and luvin' it
Spears did get jerked
Any 3-4 team would probably take him if they need a sturdy DE. Jerry is odd in that he hardlines the likes of Spears but backs up the money truck when the likes of Austin and Williams have very little leverage. The sins of the few are visited upon the many?
Any time Dallas does in house talent evaluation I get very nervous.
by I_miss_Switzer on Dec 31, 2010 1:16 PM CST up reply actions
Keeping Spears is one of the keys IMO.
Spears made Rat and Spencer(just don’t know about Spencer) a lot better. It was his solid,if quiet,play that was the anchor of the defense last season.But a quiet 1st rd pick makes a lot of people nervous,they think a 1st rder should have his hands in mix every play.I would agree some what, but,the 3-4 we run makes the DEs space eaters,they take the doubles and that allows the NT and OLBs to make the key pressures. Spears needs to stay,he wants to,he took a lesser contract this season to stay.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Dec 31, 2010 3:23 PM CST up reply actions
Dump Olshansky and Hatcher,keep Bowen and Spears.
That would allow us to evaluate Spencer and Lissemore(should become a play maker),and Spears can play NT if needed. That would allow us to get a blue-chip safety or a d-lineman in 1st rd.Cutting Igor would free up some money for FA also.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Dec 31, 2010 3:31 PM CST up reply actions
for being picked where he was
Spears is probably a solid “B” as a draft pick. I would imagine he has started more games in his career than most players picked in his slot.
by I_miss_Switzer on Dec 31, 2010 7:29 PM CST up reply actions
I like Spears,Spencer is on my hit list!!!
I am very frustrated with Spencer,just when you think he has turned that corner and will be a dominating force,he reverts to the guy who can’t touch his butt with both hands,let alone the opposing QB.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 1, 2011 8:36 AM CST up reply actions
We just need a passrusher
whether it’s on the DE or we draft someone to replace Spencer
by somebodyquiet on Dec 31, 2010 5:36 PM CST up reply actions
Blalock is an interesting one.
I was a big supporter of us drafting Blalock in 07 and from what I read at that time Dallas apparently loved the guy.
He’s young (27) started virtually every game since his rookie year (61 games total) and from what I hear he has been solid though not spectacular. If he makes it to free agency I think he’s a definite target.
Just had a brief look at Atlanta and their free agent/contract situation and...
I think Justin Blalock will be resigned by the Falcons. They’re in a better cap situation than Dallas is and don’t have many big name guys coming off contract either. Blalock is having his best year as a Pro and they’d be mad to let him go now after spending 4 years developing him.
Yes but there will be.
And it seems very possible that the cap will come back less than it was or about the same as it was in 09. Right now Dallas is far, far beyond that figure where as Atlanta is just about on it. So overall it’s likely that their cap situation is going to be an easier one to manage than ours.
I feel the same way about Wisiniewski if they haven’t learned from the Max Unger draft they never will agree also about Mr. Brittle every time i look this guy is always hurt you can’t develop if you can’t stay healthy. I like Eric Weddle if the Chargers decide not to sign him Jerry needs to get on the phone fast and scoop him up he’s only 25 years old too.
by cryinsilverblustars4eva on Dec 31, 2010 4:36 PM CST up reply actions
I completely agree and have been pretty much the same thing for a while now.
I would add that we could drop down to the mid first round for an additional second or third round pick. Use the first round pick on an OT that can play left or right side. Then have three picks in the second and third round to address the defense. If there is a FS available in free agency I say we pursue that too.
JMHO but moving older corners to safety never has worked out well.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Dec 31, 2010 3:32 PM CST up reply actions
Rod Woodson
is the only one who really comes to mind.
by I_miss_Switzer on Dec 31, 2010 7:30 PM CST up reply actions
but he made the move quite young did he not?
Looks like he made the move after 4 years.
It was Timmy Newsome who mangled his finger.
by I_miss_Switzer on Dec 31, 2010 9:13 PM CST up reply actions
I Didn't Realize He Was Still That Young
Good research. In any event, the point is well taken. Veteran corners rarely successfully move to safety.
Plus Bailey would be looking for that last BIG payday before retirement.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 1, 2011 8:39 AM CST up reply actions
Depends upon our Pick position
Top 10 with an elite payer on the board, you got to make the pick – Fairly, Prince, Peterson. Outside the Top 10, I am all for trading to pick up extra 2’s or 3’s, but nothing higher. Accumulating a bunch of 4-5-6 picks has proven to be a waste.
I’m just concerned a high pick will give JJ another Shiny Toy to take his attention off need.
ILB should be a FA short-term fix, we’ve drafted poorly at the position, it doesn’t merit a high pick and we have greater needs elsewhere.
We live life forwards and understand it backwards
NO more dropping down!
Jerry-you didn’t see this.
You have a chance get real talent with these high picks-this team hasn’t had one for a few years. They need a blue chip prospect, not 2 red chips.
You can get a difference maker w/ a high pick.
Now,if they win and end up picking 12th or something, a few spots down won’t matter much-but I’m hoping they lose and pick top 8, it’s all there is to get out of this sorry season!
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, isn't it both? Realist Larry, 2009
by Realist Larry on Dec 31, 2010 12:22 PM CST up reply actions
hoping they lose?.
for a draft pick,that’s what we have become?.
unless the whole system in dallas changes-drafting and signing FA’s then how high in the draft we are won’t matter a jot.
sign the next HC,let him get his own staff hired.
then draw up a plan going forward,draft and sign players to fit “our system” ,stick with it .
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Dec 31, 2010 12:30 PM CST up reply actions
what's the diff between anding 5-11 or 6-10? None.
What’s the diff between picking 7th or 13th? Could be huge.
I want what’s best for the team, long term. This season was over week 4 anyways.
Thank goodness when they sunk in the late 80’s, they sunk all the way, because that’s how they got Irvin and Aikman. Without those 2, there’s no SB’s.
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, isn't it both? Realist Larry, 2009
by Realist Larry on Dec 31, 2010 1:29 PM CST up reply actions
it's not the difference between 5-11 or 6-10,
it’s hoping we lose .
this brings about a mindset that draft order is what you look forward to and not winning every week.
may have read you wrong Larry but this does seem to be a common thought on this blog (draft position) ,if we start down that road then we are no better than a lions team.
ironic as our records are the same so far.
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Dec 31, 2010 1:56 PM CST up reply actions
Thinking that for one year doesn't mean we'll get stuck in that frame of mind
We’re still the franchise that gets furious when we don’t bring home a lombardi every year
by somebodyquiet on Dec 31, 2010 5:38 PM CST up reply actions
Heck, it's really just thinking that way for one or two games
Since it seems that JJ has a specific HC candidate in mind, a win or loss is pretty meaningless.
Of course, all of JJ’s ramblings and bloviating may just be smoke and mirrors, and he will make his call on JG based on what he sees this week.
As for me, I need some JD, JB, or JW.
If at first you don't succeed - blame someone else.
That's for the players
I’m a fan!
My mindset doesn’t afect the team.
I don’t have to be a “warrior”.
My only concern is getting ‘my’ team back to a SB. And losing next week may help.
I had this discussion before w/ someone, if I was a player, I’d be pissed, embarrassed and wanting to kick some ass Sunday. Especially against the Eagles!
But as a fan, I’d actually prefer they lose, weird as it seems.
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, isn't it both? Realist Larry, 2009
by Realist Larry on Dec 31, 2010 7:03 PM CST up reply actions
Makes perfect sense Larry.
Of course it’s reasonable to want to pick 6th instead of 13th and if losing an essentially meaningless game gives us that so be it.
As you said, we’re not the players and our mentality has zero effect whatsoever on the team. I mean seriously, do people think Garrett and the players read these blogs before the game to decide whether or not they should put in maximum effort? Do these players get "warrior mentality" from a fan blog? It’s really quite silly.
I want the team to play hard, I would like McGee to have a good game and I would like to end the game behind on the scoreboard (preferably because of some defensive mishap or Oline tragedy just to ram the point home to Jerry how bad these units are and that major changes are needed here).
yeah, I'd love to see some promise from McGee, and would like the team to perform well overall
I don’t want them to look horrible and get embarrased!
And your last paragraph is perfect, as long as no one gets hurt…..
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, isn't it both? Realist Larry, 2009
by Realist Larry on Jan 1, 2011 9:18 PM CST up reply actions
I would never hope for us to lose a game,that is the problem.
This team under W Phillips lost it’s “Warrior Mentality”.If you don’t have that win or die attitude you shouldn’t even suit up.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Dec 31, 2010 3:37 PM CST up reply actions
is it wrong to want the "cowboys" to win?.
i hope to god it is’nt .
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Dec 31, 2010 3:40 PM CST up reply actions
That didn't come out properly......What I meant was....
Winning should ALWAYS be our first order of business.These players have to have that mentality or we become the Cowboys that played the Green Bay game this season.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Dec 31, 2010 3:44 PM CST up reply actions
agreed on "winning should always be our first order of buisness".
that’s why we are Dallas Cowboys fans………..
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Dec 31, 2010 3:57 PM CST up reply actions
Keith Brooking agrees...
http://espn.go.com/blog/dallas/cowboys/post/_/id/4676704/whats-on-line-other-than-draft-status
"But when you’re inside, when you’re in the battle, when you’re in the grind, we’re professionals. We get paid to do a job and you’re evaluated on everything that you do. The biggest evaluation is what you put out there on the field. That goes throughout the whole league, and obviously our personnel people are going to viewing that and evaluating you off of that."
Rabid and luvin' it
AMEN
Why people think Jerry can do what Jimmy did is crazy.
Stop messing around and pick the BPA for the spots you need help at.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Man, so much of what you say I usually agree with, but...
You’re so unrealistically (see what I did there? ;) out-to-lunch on this one, Larry, I don’t know where to begin.
From draft positioning reasoning through “chance [to] get get real talent” to “difference maker” you just completely astonished me in going counter to your realist moniker.
And “hoping they lose” I’m not even going to get into.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
thats the plan
RT RG keep Kosier another year and Martez Wilson is a beast also Casey Matthews and the kid from Maryland
by Archie Barberio on Dec 31, 2010 11:47 AM CST via mobile reply actions
Oh come on OCC!!!
No love for Gronk?
He’s a blue collar guy who sells out on lead blocks and can actually catch the ball with his hands. He’s my guy. Roll with him.
This team has immediate needs at DL (2 spots?) OL (2-3?) FS, SS, CB, PK and RB if Barber is gone.
No way do I draft a FB knowing that I can’t possibly fix all of those positions in one offseason.
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
3rd RB...
I’m not ready to give up on Lonyae Miller just yet. At least not enough to spend a draft pick on one.
Rabid and luvin' it
by lonewolfz28 on Dec 31, 2010 12:31 PM CST up reply actions
Oh, don't get me wrong, I love me some Gronk
But if you’re talking strictly O-line, the FB’s we’ve had there over the last few years were Cricket (6th rounder) and now Gronk (FA), who’ve been ok in blocking, but not terrific. Compared to Daryl Johnston (2nd rounder) … nope, let’s not go there.
I think a great fullback would help the running game tremendously, would help the line in pass blocking, and if the guy could catch passes, all the better.
And I agree we have more needs than draft picks, we need to chose wisely, but we probably can’t expect to fill more than 3-4 spots immediately through the draft. Jerry has got to open his wallet, though RB is probably not high on any list.
by One.Cool.Customer on Dec 31, 2010 12:37 PM CST up reply actions
+1
Gronk is average at best . . . need an upgrade at FB to help running game and provide more consistent pass protection . . . freeing up the TEs to become offensive threats . . .
I don't think we know enough to say that yet, do we?
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Gronk looks above average to me (other than the missed Romo block)
FB is important, but will it help us win in the future the same way an OL or a DL would?
I say the combo of Gronk, Phillips, and Bennett will be effective. This will keep Witten at the true TE position.
So long as they aren’t blocking for Barber, that trio will be good.
Ich bin ein Berliner--JFK
Stop hedging your bet. Let's build a dominant o-line!
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
I read some where that Gronk was ranked the 6th best FB in the league!!
Can’t recall the link though,sorry.Shouldn’t post stuff without being able to prove what I am saying.I think it was BTB,another treasure trove of stats from the fathomless OCC.
Next season Gronk will shock a lot of people with what he will be capable of. An off season of strength and conditioning and having Phillips back,can’t wait.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 1, 2011 8:56 AM CST up reply actions
I agree. Gronk could be the FUTURE
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Why should you...
…without being able to prove what I am saying.
Be any different than the rest of us? ;)
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
Gronk-love grok'd.
FB’s low, low priority.
Pride, Avarice, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth.
5 outta 7 ain't bad. Working on the other 2.
And see if anyone will give you a decent pick (4th?) for MBennett. Phillips has a lot more upside
and will be back. He’ll be hungrier and more focused.
I think we’ve seen all we’re going to from Marty B.’s “potential” and “athleticism” .
I know, some stat guy said he’s a really good blocker. Awesome! Is that why he’s on the team? That’s why he was drafted? And that only makes him more valuable to some other GM. He’d be a decent starter for a team like Caroline or the Rams.
Love to get another pick for him, stock up another OLineman in the draft, and go w/Phillips and a young FA at TE.
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, isn't it both? Realist Larry, 2009
Agreed on Bennett
He just doesn’t seem to have the reliable receiving TE skills that you expect at this level. He also hasn’t shown the heart and competitive fire I see from Witten and Phillips. I’m beginning to dread ever having to rely on him as the starting TE.
Rabid and luvin' it
by lonewolfz28 on Dec 31, 2010 12:40 PM CST up reply actions
Thankfully the day we have to rely on Marty B as #1 TE is a long time away
Jason Witten just had the best year of his career. Reports of his demise have been greatly exaggerated.
oooh oh-oh-oh oh oh. ooooh oh-oh-oh ohoOOOooh. oooh oh-oh-oh oh. oh.
- Buckeye Bounce
Ohio defeats Michigan 7 times in a row.
by Blue Eyed Devil on Dec 31, 2010 12:46 PM CST up reply actions
Hopefully never.
And definitely agreed on Witten. I know it’s inevitable that he will decline. But, that time is definitely not now.
Rabid and luvin' it
It's amazing how long TE careers can be in the NFL
Tony Gonzalez is still doing pretty well in his 14th season. Here’s hoping Jason can give us 6+ more years too!
oooh oh-oh-oh oh oh. ooooh oh-oh-oh ohoOOOooh. oooh oh-oh-oh oh. oh.
- Buckeye Bounce
Ohio defeats Michigan 7 times in a row.
by Blue Eyed Devil on Dec 31, 2010 2:10 PM CST up reply actions
Marty seems like a very mechanical player
I’m not sure if the game moves too quickly for him or what. He is apparently a gifted athlete, but somehow looks paralyzed out there.
by I_miss_Switzer on Dec 31, 2010 12:47 PM CST up reply actions
Definitely not natural or comfortable.
Could that come with reps and time? Maybe, but I’m not holding my breath.
Rabid and luvin' it
he just seems to play stiff
like he is overthinking things out there.
by I_miss_Switzer on Dec 31, 2010 1:13 PM CST up reply actions
Agree on Bennett
He does not have the passion or intelligence for the NFL game . . . he shows no spark in the red zone . . . where is the mismatch promised by his purported athleticism?
exactly
they’ve fed us that 2-TE mismatch crap from the beginning. Since Parcells was here! I’ve never bought it-when has a team ever run an offense based on 2 TE’s??-
but many here have been waiting for that since they traded a perfectly good Fasano and drafted this guy.
Pessimists say the cup is half-empty, while optimists say it's half-full. Well, isn't it both? Realist Larry, 2009
by Realist Larry on Dec 31, 2010 7:06 PM CST up reply actions
trading that pick
was Jerry getting too cute – dumping a serviceable player to get a new toy in the second round. Part of the ongoing neglect of the OL and general depth of the team
by I_miss_Switzer on Dec 31, 2010 7:32 PM CST up reply actions
should have kept Fasano and the pick
In his first year, Martellus had a moment or two where he looked like the sort of athlete that could create mismatches, but now he just looks like a decent backup TE.
I wonder what G/T/S/ILBs we could have had in his stead.
by I_miss_Switzer on Dec 31, 2010 7:32 PM CST up reply actions
Gronkowski, Phillips, and a free agent fullback can't all make this 53 in 2011
I’m not a huge Gronkowski fan. I like his versatility (running and catching) but think he’s nothing special as a lead blocker (which just happens to be his job).
But I only draft a fullback in these following conditioins:
1) It’s 5th round or later
2a) He’s by far and away the best player availiable on the board
OR
2b) we get a trade offer for Gronkowski
Round 1 I’m getting a game-chaning player
Round 2 I’m getting a right tackle
Round 3 I’m getting a guard/center or safety
Round 4 I’m getting a “damaged goods with high upside” player (i.e. a Doug Free or AOA)
My shopping list is so full I’m not even sniffing a guy that’s only going to give me 11 snaps a game until the 5th round — or later.
oooh oh-oh-oh oh oh. ooooh oh-oh-oh ohoOOOooh. oooh oh-oh-oh oh. oh.
- Buckeye Bounce
Ohio defeats Michigan 7 times in a row.
by Blue Eyed Devil on Dec 31, 2010 12:45 PM CST reply actions
But if I can trade Gronk for a draft pick and flip that pick on a new fullback
I’ll take that chance
oooh oh-oh-oh oh oh. ooooh oh-oh-oh ohoOOOooh. oooh oh-oh-oh oh. oh.
- Buckeye Bounce
Ohio defeats Michigan 7 times in a row.
by Blue Eyed Devil on Dec 31, 2010 12:46 PM CST up reply actions
You Round 4...
sounds tailor made for Deunta Williams.
I’m not down on Gronkowski as a lead blocker. I’ve seen him make some really nice blocks in the last couple games. Remember, he’s an UDFA learning a position that wasn’t his primary in college. I think he’s got the tools and determination. I believe he’ll be very good if he keeps developing like he has this season.
Rabid and luvin' it
Think Williams will fall all the way to 4th due to that injury?
If he does I say YES YES and YES again to drafting him there. I don’t know if the leg injury will knock him down that far, but it’s good news for us if it does.
On Gronkowksi, answer me this: Do you think he is a better blocker than Jon Phillips? Because I sure as hell know he isn’t the pass catcher Phillips is. I think I might want Phillips to be our combination FB/TE3 next year. Not to say it’s an ideal situation, but I want Jon Phillips to be on the field more than the 0-8 snaps a game a TE3 is and doing that would improve a position on this team without using a draft pick.
oooh oh-oh-oh oh oh. ooooh oh-oh-oh ohoOOOooh. oooh oh-oh-oh oh. oh.
- Buckeye Bounce
Ohio defeats Michigan 7 times in a row.
by Blue Eyed Devil on Dec 31, 2010 2:07 PM CST up reply actions
Anything is possible on Williams.
He already had a slight knock on him for character questions due to his suspension. He was getting decent hype for the draft before the injury, but nothing like what Taylor Mays and Nate Allen from last year or even Rahim Moore from this year were getting.
Most mocks I’ve seen had him anywhere from the upper-mid 2nd to middle of 3rd. A drop to the top 10 of the 4th would be conceivable. He likely won’t be able to do physical testing at the combine so teams will be going off of tape and interviews.
He could really blow some people away during interviews like AOA did to our scouts. Somebody could see something they really like on tape. Then there are teams like the Broncos that are willing to gamble like they did with Demaryius Thomas in the 1st round last year. He was in a similar predicament, although he did have a higher ranking before his injury. So who really knows.
As for Gronkowski’s blocking compared to Phillips, I don’t think he’s as good as Phillips was right before his injury in the pre-season. But, I don’t think he’s far behind where Phillips was at this time last season either. Like I said in another thread, I’d wait and see how Gronkowski develops during the off season before I’d go spending a draft pick on a FB.
Rabid and luvin' it
Demaryius Thomas broke his foot in Feb 2010.
He was able to participate in practices the 1st week of June. I imagine a clean break above the ankle wouldn’t be too much worse for a Safety. It’ll be interesting to see if Williams is running by UNC’s Pro Day in mid April.
Rabid and luvin' it
I actually had another tar heel in mind for that pick; Bruce Carter.
But yeah Deunta might fit that bill now as well.
Formerly Cowboyfan729
If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels
by Creasy729 on Dec 31, 2010 3:35 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Keeping Kosier is not a fix
but a stop gap. At his age, he will get injured during the season. We still need to look for his replacement.
i am really worried about the players 32 years of age and over. Newman, Kosier, Colombo are a high probability of getting injured next year.
We can't get rid of them all,we don't have the picks.
Keep Kosier and we have Holland to back-up if needed.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Dec 31, 2010 3:50 PM CST up reply actions
i wouldn't mind stocking up on the TE/Hybrid FBs bc they are monsters on ST.
if we could replace a RG & RT that would be a huge upgrade but i would still keep Colombo (only cost 1.9 million) as a backup until we know what we have in Young, draft pick or FA.
it might be easier to find a starting Guard in the draft over a RT but its to hard to predict the draft slots. i know the Solder kid from Colordo will probably be gone in the 1st rd & most of other RTs were kinda weak this season from what i read but then agiain you never know how the draft falls until its time to pick, unless Jerry moves up to catch a falling Solder in the bottom of the 1st rd.
the definition of insanity should have a picture of Jerry Jones next to it. he has no idea what he is doing or that its wrong...
There are always several...
2nd and 3rd Tier LT’s that get moved over to RT and do well.
Some names to watch:
Demarcus Love
Marcus Cannon
Lee Ziemba
Jason Pinkston
Chris Hairston
Ben Ijalana
Darius Morris
Cannon and Ijalana will likely move inside to Guard but might be interesting at RT before making that move if needed.
Rabid and luvin' it
I would really like to see what Brewster can do at guard
I think people are writing him off too soon.
Sean Lissemore = The next Bruce Smith
Wasn't Brewster cut in November?
Did they pick him back up later?
by Bayou Cowboy on Dec 31, 2010 5:38 PM CST up reply actions
hopefully they changed that awful body of his
dude was so fat he could fall of both sides of the bed at the same time.
Ich bin ein Berliner--JFK
lol nice one Hud..
Davie Wilson
"how bout them cowboys"!!!
by scotscowboyfan on Jan 1, 2011 5:14 AM CST up reply actions
Brewster has actually done well in the short time he has been on the field.
Guard seems like his natural position to me,his body type and speed seem ideal either guard pos.
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 1, 2011 9:09 AM CST up reply actions
seems ideal for either.....................oops
Cowboys For Life!!!! Win,Lose,or Lose Horribly!!!
by NVCowboy4Life on Jan 1, 2011 9:10 AM CST up reply actions
No, I wrote him off at the right time, TYVM
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
Dust Off that FA Checkbook
Without delay…This is the first move.
And I want to see how Alex Daniels plays….like next Sunday.
Golden Rule: He who has the gold makes the rules.
Happy New Year Cowboy's Nation!
If you can't fix it with a hammer, you've got an electrical problem.
One minute early
LOL
Happy New Year fellow fans and friends!
Rabid and luvin' it
by lonewolfz28 on Dec 31, 2010 11:01 PM CST up reply actions
Happy New Year!
"You have to have the fighting spirit. You have to force moves and take chances" (Bobby Fischer)
DeMarcus Love's draft stock will soar once the scouts get a look at his game film.
One sack, playing in the SEC, in the past two years, if I’m remembering my stats correctly. He’s an absolute beast of a lineman and will be a starter in this league for years to come. Dallas would be lucky to land him.
Let's see Cannon vs. JJ Watt today...
"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."
- John Wooden (God rest his soul)
He is looking dominant today.
Marcus Cannon isn’t looking too bad as a 2nd rounder option at RT or RG either.
Rabid and luvin' it
Carini as our rt and cannon in the rg spot
Our line would be much younger and stronger
by scandrick32 on Jan 1, 2011 8:25 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Alrighty then...
I’ll get Jerry drunk and you impersonate him in the War Room.LOL
Rabid and luvin' it
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