The VRR: Patrick Crayton Ready to Move On from Cowboys
by Aaron Novinger on May 28, 2010 3:38 PM CDT
in Dallas Cowboys News
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PrintThe Patrick Crayton debate thickens. Earlier today, Crayton indicated that he wants the Cowboys to release him soon. With a logjam at wide receiver, which includes Pro Bowler Miles Austin, Roy Williams, and first-round pick Dez Bryant, Crayton could be inevitably buried on the depth chart.
Crayton does not want to be a fourth receiver and he does not want to be the team's "insurance" guy.
"For those guys to develop, they have to be on the field," Crayton said. "For them to be on the field, I'm not going to be on it, so I would love them to not dangle me around and everything because I have a family to think about."
It's hard to blame Crayton for wanting to get his groove on somewhere else. Entering his eighth NFL season, the wide receiver knows that while he may be considered an aging veteran, he would rather contribute to a new team for a shot at some consistent playing time.
Seeing that he's a native Texan and has played for the Cowboys his entire career, he is anxious to move on in getting acclimated to a new work environment.
"If I'm going to be with another team, I need to get used to another city, another franchise, a new coach, a new quarterback, a new coordinator, everything. Just a whole new environment. My wife and kids got to get settled in, got to get in schools and everything. I would love to have the opportunity to compete with another team versus come here and come here for a numbers thing where they're like, 'Oh, we're not going to pay you that to be our fourth or fifth guy,' or whatever the situation is and you kept me the whole training camp because you need camp bodies.
"To me, you're messing with people's careers and people's lives."
More VRR after the jump.
BTBers already have the great Crayton debate in full swing with Alexcomestokill's "Why we shouldn't keep Patrick Crayton". More recent Crayton posts are also featured here, here, and here.
Kevin Ogletree is one player who has been benefitting from Crayton's absence. In regards to the WR's offseason workouts with Joe Juraszek and his general maturity, Coach Phillips says that Ogletree is simply "getting it". "
Joe pushes them to the limit, and we say all of them are working hard," Phillips said. "But certain guys start going above and beyond. That is where (Ogletree) has gotten to.
"When Joe brags on a guy, he is doing some good things."
And what's a wide receiver-news day without some choice quotes from Roy Williams? With thanks to O.C.C.'s FanShot, Williams offers us some reflection on his days so far as a Cowboy.
"It’s been a nightmare," said the native of Odessa, Texas, which is roughly 350 miles from Dallas. "That’s the truth. I’m not going to hide from it. I understand the business. … I thought this was going to be a dream. It’s been a nightmare."
Throughout all the turmoil he's been through in Dallas, William$ remains optimistic even when constantly asked questions about Dez Bryant.
"Dez doesn’t even know how good he can be," Williams said in one of his typically effusive comments about a guy who could end up taking time from him.
"The dude is scary. The dude is good and he doesn’t even know it yet. Once the light bulb goes on he will probably be the best in the league. … He’s a man among boys. He’s got big hands. Real big hands. When he shakes my hand, his fingers come up to my elbows."
Gerald Sensabaugh's tender signing may be a step towards working out a long-term deal with the Cowboys. Here's hoping Sensei's agent, Kevin Conner, is burning the midnight oil.
"We are still very optimistic and extremely confident a long-term deal will happen," Conner said. "Gerald wants to focus on the upcoming season and playing at a high level."
Hat tip to lonewolfz28 for the FanPost.
Based on Jerry Jones' words, signing Sensabaugh and Miles Austin to long-term deals could be the Cowboys' next order of business--and rightfully so.
Jones has expressed previously his intention to work out new contracts for receiver Miles Austin and safety Gerald Sensabaugh, the Cowboys' only still-unsigned restricted free agents. He underlined that objective Tuesday.
"I can speak emphatically," Jones said. "They're very much a part of the future of the Dallas Cowboys. Emphatically."
Sensabaugh's second-round tender offer is worth $1.8 million.
One of the Cowboys' other 2010 RFAs, Marcus Spears, is working with the coaches to prove his value to the team.
"It helps that he's out here," said coach Wade Phillips, who also oversees Spears' role as the defensive co-ordinator.
"We've identified some things technique-wise that he can do better and he's been working on those things. I think we can get him better, and he's the type of guy that'll work at it. I think that helps both of us, short-term and long-term — and business-wise. The better player you are, the better you end up business-wise."
David Buehler's transition to placekicker is continuing to improve.
The early results have Buehler, who kicked field goals at USC, flourishing through the transition. Buehler has impressed teammates and, more importantly, coaches, at this early stage by lining up and consistently nailing field goals in practice. Wade Phillips, who is wont to gush at times, recently extolled Buehler for his progress, noting that, by his count, Buehler was perfect on attempts Monday.
Coach Phillips says that they don't necessarily want Buehler to boom every kick. Accuracy and control, of course, are in order for those short-ranged three pointers.
"We know he has the leg strength," Phillips said. "We worry about him overkicking it, trying to overpower it, but he looks like he's got his stroke down."
Darren Woodson shared his thoughts on the Cowboys' plans to start Alan Ball at free safety.
"They have to be nervous about Alan Ball starting at safety," Woodson said Thursday afternoon. "He's a cornerback playing safety. He has a cover mentality, and that's apparently what they want. They want a ballhawk back there."
Hat tip to TheAnsah for the FanShot.
The city of Dallas is ready for Super Bowl XLV. Wouldn't it be nice if the Cowboys were ready too?
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Not really.
It’s the Friday before a three-day weekend. Time to do yard work, party, and remember our countrymen!
Trust them...they know what they're doing.
by Aaron Novinger on May 28, 2010 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions
Happy Memorial Day!
It is the VETERAN, not the preacher,
who has given us freedom of religion.
It is the VETERAN, not the reporter,
who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the VETERAN, not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the VETERAN, not the campus organizer,
who has given us freedom to assemble.
It is the VETERAN, not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.
It is the VETERAN, not the politician,
Who has given us the right to vote.
I know there’s lots of veterens on this site, and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all for what you’ve given to us, and to your country.
Thank you a thousand times to you, and to all veterens everywhere!
When I die I want to go peacefully in my sleep like my Grandfather -- not screaming like the passengers in his car.
by White Wolf on May 29, 2010 12:54 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
proud to serve, sir.
it’s the American institutions that make me proud to serve:
-representative democracy
-civilian control of the military
-capitalism (although it’s seen better days)
-upward mobility
-Dallas Cowboys
We have the best nation in the history of the world. I’ll serve that!!! I also love the fact that Cowboy fans are some of the most patriotic people I’ve ever met. I think they go hand in hand.
Ich bin ein Berliner--JFK
+1
Anything said above is purely the opinion of AFB unless said otherwise.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on May 29, 2010 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions
+million and still counting
Woodson is a Hall of Famer!!!
by I'm a Cowboy on May 29, 2010 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions
Thank you
I am very appreciative of the opportunity to serve our country. Many good men and women have died doing so and many others are paying with disabilities but our country has also stood behind us and provided us with some financial support and medical care to compensate.
My era (Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia) did not enjoy this level of public support and the folks today are rightly honored and appreciated. I add my own appreciation with yours to them all.
Well said Lee
I’d like to think we’ve come a long way toward respecting sacrifice. Thanks for yours.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
Great stuff
Thanks for posting. Agree 100%.
Gave you credit on another site for these true, and inspiring words
It's a bummer that we'll probably lose someone as talented as Crayton without getting anything in return
but I hope he finds success elsewhere. He’s always been a great contributor to this team. Now is the time for the Tree though.
by JoeyJoeJoeJr.Shabadoo on May 28, 2010 3:49 PM CDT reply actions
I agree.
+84 +85
Trust them...they know what they're doing.
by Aaron Novinger on May 28, 2010 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions
we're getting snaps for super stud in waiting Kevin Ogletree in return
bright side my friend, bright side.
2009 BTB Part Deux Fantasy League Champion. 'Kill Everybody 13-2'. KDP knows football.
My Wiz just won the first pick in the NBA Draft- The basketball gods have shown mercy.
I feel comfortable w/ KO
He will be a better slot guy than Crayton, anyway.
We could have a scary-good WR corps this year!
Ich bin ein Berliner--JFK
as talented as crayton?
there are probably a hundred WRs in the NFL more talented than Crayton. There are four more talented WRs on the Cowboys roster today.
But he did do pretty well
in terms of on-field smarts. He seemed to do best in broken plays.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
Perhaps all the other receivers are more talented
but Crayton has a role on this team. Its clear the cowboys coaches believe that. Talent is one thing, production on the field is another.
And Crayton, to date, has demonstrated more consistant production than the other four receivers who are more talented than him.
Consider that Austin hasn’t played a full season healthy.
If you line up RW on one side, and Crayton on the other, does anyone think Romo will look to RW first?
Ogletree has not demonstrated he is all that yet (RW should be more worried about Ogletree than Crayton).
Dez is a rook. Granted, a very exiting one, but still just a rook.
Crayton is a very known entity. There is little doubt in the coache’s mind that Crayton is good for the same production he provided last year, in punts and receiving.
There is certainly a role for him on this team.
Having said that...
I think the Cowboys can move on without Crayton if they decide to go that direction (they’re not in a position where they HAVE to do that though, so why shoudl they).
My heartburn with Crayton right now is that he is not willing to accept his role on the team. This, in my mind, is what is truely wrong with his attitude.
He all but says that he is better than other WRs on the team (how else should we interpret his comments on “fair” competition?)
Fine, I have no problem with Crayton thinking he is one of the best WRs on the team. That does not mean his ego or feelings are more important than the team though.
For the Cowboys to get to the next level, EVERY player, coach, equipment man, even the guy who takes out the trash, must accept their role on the team. They must shut up and play when their role is defined, whether they agree with it or not.
This is what Pat Watkins did last year. I was an advocate of cutting him, until he embraced his role as ST player and backup safety. Look at how he flourished when he did.
Crayton must accept that he is a role player at best on this team. He is a 3rd/4th WR who can return punts effectively. He is nothing more. He is depth, and good depth at that. There are younger players with much more upside who are going to take playing time with him.
If Crayton is too proud to accept that, he is a problem and I would not lose sleep if Dallas cuts him under those circumstances.
We aren’t there yet though. So lets let Crayton vent a little and see how this goes. Come training camp, if he wants to sulk, cut him loose and tell the rest of the team to check their egos at the door. We’re looking to win a SB, that goal comes first. If you cant get on board with that, there’s the door. I really dont care what you’ve done in the past.
Crayton
This is how it works in the world of pro sports. It ain’t fair, but it’s the only game in town. Raise hell and rock the boat enough and Jerry will cut you at the end of training camp. Maybe.
Agreed
The team has to do what is best for the team. It’s a business. Part of the business is sometimes having to relocate. So while I certainly understand Crayton’s perspective, the team can’t really make their decisions on that basis. Having said that, however, there is some element of a team treating it’s players well in these types of matters, taking their players’ interests into consideration, for the perception it creates for other potential players (FAs or UDFAs) who may see the team as a more desirable location because of how they handle these types of matters. There was even some speculation this may have been a factor in releasing Flo and Hamlin early; not sure if that’s the case or if they had simply made the decision to move on and there was no point in dragging it out, but it did give those players the opportunity to have a full offseason to try to find another team (the fact that they both haven’t yet found one notwithstanding).
That I agree with
But he won’t get that opportunity
by StillHateTheGiants on May 29, 2010 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions
What's best for the team
is to cut Roy Williams. PC is the better receiver. I’m fine with getting Ogletree more snaps. But let’s not pretend this move is being made because Roy deserves to be our #2 receiver.
by JimmyJohnson on May 28, 2010 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions
I disagree
I think Roy’s upside, right now, is still far, far greater than Crayton’s. Even after his crappy year last year.
I'm on the same boat there.
And I don’t particularly care for Roy right now.
Anything said above is purely the opinion of AFB unless said otherwise.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on May 29, 2010 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions
Roy Williams yards by year
2009 – 596
2008 – 432
2007 – 838
2006 – 1310
2005 – 687
2004 – 817
Why do we think he’s going to be anything this year?
by Blue Eyed Devil on May 29, 2010 3:46 PM CDT up reply actions
I would already be happy if he caught a decent amount of passes thrown his way,
regardless of how many.
In 2009 Roy caught 38 of 88 passes thrown his way for a reception rate of 43%. Miles Austin had 65% (81/125). If Roy had caught at a 65% rate, he would have needed only 58 throws for the same yardage.
In other words, that’s 30 wasted pass attempts, or almost a full NFL game worth of passes. Now for the stat geek in me:
- If we take those extra 30 throws out of Romo’s passer rating, he would move from 97.6 and 8th place in the league to 103.0 and 5th place in the league.
- If we add those 30 throws at Miles Austin’s 65% rate and 16.3 yards/reception to Austin’s total, he would have ended up last year with 1,638 yards and would have been the no. 1 receiver in the league.
- Patrick Crayton, with his ‘09 rate of 55% and 16.8 yards/reception would have had 900 yards, would have ranked as the 30th best receiver by yards, would have been the clear no. 2 and wouldn’t be on the verge of being cut.
- Jason Witten, at 75% and 11.0 yards/reception would have garnered 1,278 yards – making him the number 5 receiver in the NFL.
- At Romo’s 63.1% compl. rate and 12.9 yards per reception, those 30 extra throws would have been 244 extra yards. The Cowboys would have easily beat out the Saints as the most prolific offense last year.
Just saying.
by One.Cool.Customer on May 29, 2010 5:28 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah, it's Pathetic
and it’s not just the stats.
How much harder did it get for Austin and Crayton because the defense just ignored Roy? How much harder did it become for Romo because defenses didn’t mind blitzing from Roy’s side since they knew he’d just drop the ball anyway? How much harder did it become for the running backs because defenses knew they didn’t have to worry about keeping safeties back to deal with Roy Williams?
These are the things that don’t show up on stats sheets but add to the difficulties of our offense… just self-inflicted wounds caused by having Roy on the field.
by Blue Eyed Devil on May 29, 2010 6:24 PM CDT up reply actions
Things might have gotten harder for Austin but I think you would be hard pressed
to give an example of where a defense focused on Crayton while ignoring Roy.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
by Cowboyfan729 on May 29, 2010 9:47 PM CDT up reply actions
But since we're talking stats...
Let’s talk 3rd down stats too where Roy was even more pathetic. Catching only 33% of 3rd down targets: 9 catches for 27 targets.
That’s right Roy took our offense off the field 18 times last season. On average, Roy cost us a little over one series a game just because he couldn’t hold onto the ball on 3rd down.
by Blue Eyed Devil on May 29, 2010 6:27 PM CDT up reply actions
Dude, I just ate dinner...this is gonna make me sick!
Trust them...they know what they're doing.
by Aaron Novinger on May 29, 2010 6:33 PM CDT up reply actions
Todd Lowber has more upside than anybody on our roster
That doesn’t make him an NFL football player. Besides, I’ve never heard anybody use the term “upside” in the context of a 7 year veteran.
by JimmyJohnson on May 29, 2010 5:20 PM CDT up reply actions
Crayton better than Roy.
What planet do you live on.
I know the hate for Roy is high but that is just ridiculous.
by Sharksbreath on May 29, 2010 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions
Look at their numbers
I admit Crayton is not the blocker Roy is. But Crayton put up similar numbers with fewer opportunities since Roy Williams got here. If you add in his Special Teams contributions, the two aren’t comparable.
Route Running – Adv. Crayton. Roy can’t get off the line of scrimmage
Catching – Adv. Crayton. No need to explain.
RAC – Push – Crayton had several big RAC plays. Roy had 1 vs. Tampa and 1 vs. GB… until he fumbled.
Getting open quickly – Adv. Crayton
Blocking – Adv. Roy – the best blocking WR in the league.
by JimmyJohnson on May 29, 2010 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Add experienced punt returner as well
(And the ONLY one on the team unless you count Newman’s occasional returns in opportune spots)
Love to hear that about Buehler
this should open up another spot on the 53 man roster. Plus I have a feeling he won’t have the same psychological issues other kickers have. I could be wrong on this, but he seems to be one of the guys and a football player, not just some skinny dude out there on an island with the game on the line.
True
I know a lot of folks have been worried about the K, but no doubt the best scenario by far is not having to carry two kickers. With Buehler, if he is able to get his accuracy down on the shorter kicks, his added benefit is his leg strength, so he’ll give us the option to try longer kicks with some confidence when needed. The way he booms kickoffs, it seems like he could kick 55+ yarders. Reports from this week’s OTA said he hit at least one from 59 yards. It’s different just kicking without any rush and hands in the air at the line, but still, he has the leg strength to do it. So when you’re doing your 2-minute drive at the end of the half, it would be a nice bonus to be get to like the 40 yard line and attempt a long kick, instead of having to get it closer to the 30.
Please dont use "folk" and "K" in the same sentence again
it still makes me quesy. lol
Semper Fi Do or Die
Not trying to be funny here but...
Wasn’t Patrick Crayton given permision to find a trade partner and nobody in the NFL would give up anything for him. I mean the guy is lucky he is getting an NFL pay check, If I was him I would not bite the hand that feeds me.
by Late for Dinner on May 28, 2010 4:52 PM CDT reply actions
true but
just because someone doesn’t want to give up a trade for him doesn’t mean he couldn’t find a job if he was a FA. The value in trade picks for players in general and especially WRs is just very low now, teams aren’t willing to give up a pick. But if he was on the open market, he could probably get a job somewhere.
I don't agree he's "lucky" to be getting an NFL check
The guy has worked his butt off to become what he is…………that is a very reliable NFL receiver. I wish him nothing but luck and wish there was a role he could be comfortable in for the Cowboys. His mouth has frustrated me at times but I would much rather keep him than Roy Williams. Good luck to Patrick Crayton.
by StillHateTheGiants on May 28, 2010 5:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Even though I love me some crayton
I do believe that if we cut him today, he would struggle to find work as anything more than a 4th wr. He just has such a good repertoire with Romo.
"Messing with people's lives" - Puh-lease!
get some perspective, Patrick.
+1
Seriously! Hey I am going to be an NFL player and get paid millions of $$$, then cry about … well being an NFL player. No sympathy there.
by spadesking131313 on May 28, 2010 5:48 PM CDT up reply actions
i completely disagree
Crayton is 100% right. and so are the Cowboys. They are stringing him along in a year where he does not have a guaranteed contract. But the Cowboys have an asset that has to perform because he is under contract and any good organization has contingency plans.
2009 BTB Part Deux Fantasy League Champion. 'Kill Everybody 13-2'. KDP knows football.
My Wiz just won the first pick in the NBA Draft- The basketball gods have shown mercy.
I dont understand why the Cowboys wouldnt tell him to shut up
And make him become a reserve WR, or trade him for a late round conditional. His contract isnt bad, and he is a decent possession guy
IMO
Bye...don't let the door hit ya....
where the good Lord split ya…. I will go a little Tex here and say Crayton will best be remembered for dropping a key pass againts the Giants in the 08 playoff game and for stopping on a route on the potential game winner in the same game……and for being slow. I still can’t/will not get over that game, I know it was not just him, but he did not help.
If that is they way he feels, the G.T.F.O…..
that game is so frustrating
We were primed for a superbowl run, and because of about 5 missed plays on the offensive side and a couple jacque reeves meltdowns, we were left watching Eli win a title. We played them really well the first 3 quarters and should’ve been up about 10 entering the fourth.
I don't know about being ready for a SB run.
At least a title. I remember 48-27 against the Patriots.
Romo put that ball right on him, and if he'd just not slowed down, he would have
been there for it. I don’t know if he’d of actually caught it, but it was there, and Crayton wasn’t.
Family, Friends, Cowboys, Beer & BBQ. Life is good!
He just needs to STFU already...thats one of the biggest reasons I dont like this guy...
He is going to be cut or be the 5th WR on the roster so just shut your pie hole already..
"First rounders need to be starters" Jerry Jones.
Go Philadelphia Flyers!!!!
Enough with the dropped pass against NY in the playoff game
on balance PC’s contributions on the + side have far outweighed the negatives
I'm not losing my memory, I'm living in the now
I know that is how it will be for me.
The drop that Crayton had was criminal considering how athletic a play Tony had made to even get to that position.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
by Cowboyfan729 on May 28, 2010 10:27 PM CDT up reply actions
Nice write up, Aaron
Lot’s of good info. We need to be hearing about all the little things, and you’re the one who puts it together. With any luck Miles should be signing his tender in the next day or two.
As a tidbit, did anyone see Antonio Pierce on NFL Network? He demonstrated how to rattle Romo before the ball is even snapped. Basically, he said, show blitz, when Romo checks out of the play, move back into a base defense. Oh my, what a lucky win will do for your confidence. The way I remember it is the Giants beating us with some of the most amazing lucky bounces in NFL history.
When I die I want to go peacefully in my sleep like my Grandfather -- not screaming like the passengers in his car.
Thanks.
I’m just sitting down to watch Total Access now.
Stupid Pierce.
Trust them...they know what they're doing.
by Aaron Novinger on May 28, 2010 10:02 PM CDT up reply actions
Antonio Pierce is a blowhard and also unemployed.
If handling Romo was that easy you would think his Giants would have had more success against him when Pierce was playing.
If I had a nickel for every Super Bowl the Eagles have won, I would have zero nickels.
by Cowboyfan729 on May 28, 2010 10:28 PM CDT up reply actions
I saw it last night, so this may be a new edition.
You know I don’t watch BSPN anymore over this same kind of $hit. If NFL Network keeps this up they’re going to run me off too. Eisen played the part of Romo in their little demonstration, and had to get in his little crybaby routine about playing Romo.
When I die I want to go peacefully in my sleep like my Grandfather -- not screaming like the passengers in his car.
That's funny
considering that Romo since starting has put up QB ratings of…112.1, 113.7, 128.5, and 123.1 against them. Now he’s got 3 bad ones too, but it’s not like that was a magic formula.
I hate Pierce, if Brandon Jacobs didn’t exist he would easily be my most hated player.
Anything said above is purely the opinion of AFB unless said otherwise.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on May 29, 2010 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions
I just can't work up any venom against Crayton.
He’s just lookin for work, the Cowboys are looking for insurance. Bad spot to be in for both but that’s how the NFL works. And god help us if one of our WRs goes down..
"The greatest test of courage on earth is to bear defeat without losing heart."
+1
Agreed. The thing that bothers me is watching NFL network Total Access earlier; immediately after covering this story Eisen brings up the Williams ‘nightmare’ story on Y! earlier. While neither Eisen, Dukes or Lombardi were painting it this way, the caption at the bottom of the screen read, “more receiver discontent at Valley Ranch”. More stirring the pot when there’s nothing to stir.
Cowboys=news=ratings.
At this time of year every story out of Valley Ranch, whether newsworthy or not, is going to get the billboard treatment (either by caption or talking heads). A lot of it is St Elmos’ fire..and it is annoying but that’s what you get before training camp.
"The greatest test of courage on earth is to bear defeat without losing heart."
I think some people are missing the point with P Cray...
It seems to me that if the Team could guarantee him a roster spot then he would be @ OTA’s being a good cadet. I think he is getting paranoid that the Cowboys will release him @ the end of training camp and he will then be $h*t out of luck. He has already gotten his bonus a few years ago and if cut will not be getting his $2 million base salary for the year as that part of his contract is not guaranteed. Also as we all saw with Peerless Price(although he was never that good of a player) signing a guy after training camp gives him no chance to make any kind of impact for the year. So Patrick will be stuck waiting until next year to try to get another contract with another team at the age of 32 going on 33….I think the guy is just really worried about his job security and is kind of afraid the Cowboys are going to send him up the river without a paddle.
Agreed
PC thinks he makes too much to be a 4th or 5th receiver, and is expecting to be used simply as insurance during training camp. If the other guys stay healthy he gets cut. Pretty reasonable expectation, I’d think the same thing.
I think his complaints are fine. He’s trying to get himself in a better situation, knowing that this year will be a waste if he’s cut after training camp. If we really intend on keeping him, Jerry should let him know that he won’t be cut and guarantee his base salary. I’m in favor of keeping him around. We have a lot of unknowns at the WR position. He’s a dependable vet who can do a lot of things.
Check out my movie - Standards of Ethical Conduct
by cowboysuberfan on May 29, 2010 6:22 AM CDT up reply actions
Just got back from the bar
and haven’t read any of the comments above… but to say he has to think about his wife and kids….really??? He’s already made more than most poeple will in a lifetime being a slot receiver. He should be happy with what he gets at this point in his career. Tobe bitching and moaning…obviously we have shopped you and can’t get anything decent in return, so why not be content with being a 4th receiver? Your wife and kids are already here, so no move to worry about…be a 3rd somewhere else or be a 4th here where your family is already settlede down. I DO want crayton as our 4th….BE the insurance guy at this point in your career, jesus.
by Thehomerpimpson on May 29, 2010 2:32 AM CDT reply actions
I actually read his comments as demanded from his wife
Dude has a point but she is likely to want to get on with the rest of their lives. Does not excuse the whining but it does mollify her that he tried. I think he and the team both know he is not going anywhere. But he wants to live with her for the next 30 years.
The very problem will be that he dosen't think the team will want to pay $2 million for a #4 WR.
I think he is ok with being the #4 WR if the people in front of him are better than he is…but I believe that he believes that JJ cannot justify paying a #4 WR $2 million to play like 4 plays a game. This is the reason that P Cray think that he will be cut when training camp is over if there are no injuries.
great play by Free
wanna see a great play by Free?
@ NO Marion Barber 2 yard TD, from RT Free pulls left and on the left side of the line seals the LoS against 2 guys, preventing their penetration into the backfield and giving Barber the time to get outside enough to avoid the final tackler… and as he runs into the end zone at the far sideline, the closest guy there with him is Free from RT. There’s a lot of good blocks on this play, but it is just a good example of Free’s athleticism.
http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-videos/09000d5d81518ea6/Marion-Barber-Highlight-WK-15-vs-Saints-2009
Let's
just be classy ya’ll. Forget about the money for a second. His kids really do need to get settled in to a new environment. Hasn’t anybody moved as a child? It’s not easy, I commend him for putting his family first. That’s what all realmen should do.
Also you guys need to be realistic. He’s definitely not the most athletic wide receiver but he definitely has one of the strongest wills. Unfortunately, we have four supremely gifted wide receivers who will just keep improving (hopefully for RW – caveat) and another younger version of Crayton who’s a special teams ace.
Right now this is his future, right now he still has value. For the Cowboys old slot receiver who almost put up as many numbers as their “2” (for arguments sake at least) I can see a conditional pick being given. Or if that guy’s cut you definitely take a good hard look. Now, if he stays what would he really get as the Cowboys’ 4th / 5th string receiver who’s about to turn 33 in a year football may not happen?
I personally thank PC for all the great memories – good and bad. He’s been a microcosm for the team if you think about it, very ironic and yet uncannily poetic. His rookie year is the year when we began to really turn things around with hard work and dedication. The years he began to emerge is when the Cowboys themselves were back on the map as a serious Super Bowl Contender. The year we went 13-3 and he quit on his route in that Giants playoff loss is the year the ‘Boys just became so full themselves they didn’t think they had to give it their all because everything would be handed to them. And last year, the year EVERYONE was sleeping on the Cowboys, maybe even us (I just remember the way the season started and got an uneasy feeling in my stomach P;) he proved that with sheer tenacity we would prove the doubters wrong. Just when things looked the bleakest the sun would break through. Do I even have to mention his 2 punt return TDs after the Cowboys signed Rossum? Do I even have to mention us beating the Eagles 3 times baby!!!!!!
We’re all fanatical here, but none of us own him and we should just give him our best Godspeed so that he can do what he needs to do for himself.
I understand PC's frustration but
this is the nature of the business. Sometimes you just have to suck it up and act like a professional. As for moving… since this is Memortial Day weekend, I’ll make the point that military families pick up and move all the time without much notice and most of the time NOT to someplace awesome. And that’s if their husband or wife isn’t deployed. PC should maybe have a little perspective and realize that not only is he truly fortunate, but he’s labeling himself as a malcontent and reducing his eventual market value.
FREE THE OGLETREE!!!
AND
while I like PC, it’s not like he’s the only guy in the league that this happens too. Dallas isn’t the only team that does this.
Anything said above is purely the opinion of AFB unless said otherwise.
by The Immortal Iron Fist AKA AFB on May 29, 2010 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions
I agree completely
And I will never forgive him for the drop in the Giants game. I would easily see it as just one drop if not for the “urinating” comment that came before. It’s like he was letting them ‘mark their territory’ in Dallas by dropping that ball.
Think any of those guys chuckled to themselves when they used the urinals in the visitors locker room after that game?
That’s what I’ll always remember Patrick most for…. that and accusing my Cowboys of messing with his family when all they are doing is business best for the team.
by David Scheppler on May 30, 2010 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions
Honestly...
This bothers me a bit about Crayton. He portrays himself as the ultimate team man, but he’s really done a good job of hiding his ‘me’ attitude. I’m not sure if he channelling his man crush T.O., but it appears that starting is more important than the team. I realize his concerns that he could be the last man out at training came when the final cuts are announced, but it appears he’s more interested in starting than playing on a Super Bowl contender. When most people want nothing more than to be a part of a Super Bowl team on that championship run, Crayton is crying about not being wanted. Dez Bryant fell into the Cowboy’s lap. That’s not a knock on Crayton, it’s just how the business of football is. But when superstars are willing to sign low single year contracts with the Patriots to get just a sniff of a chance of being in a Super Bowl, it makes you seriously question Crayton’s team first attitude that he claims to have. His desire to play for a team that has no chance to even view the playoffs instead of participating in a possible playoff run simply because he can start seems to showing is ‘me’ first attitude instead.
Perhaps much to do about nothing
I predict Crayton will be with the team through training camp and maybe through the regular season. He is trying for a new contract or at least a guarantee. I do not see that he has given up on the team. He is one of the few quarterbacks that successfully convert to WR in the league. He is one of the few ultra-small college players that has carved out a place in the league. To have done both is a solid testament to his toughness and commitment to the team.
He is our only returning punt returner isn’t he? He has the trust of the coaching staff and Romo. I don’t yet see him as gone. Someone is going to have to earn that spot on the field. Next year he is almost certainly gone so his need is to latch on to another team now to get two or maybe three more years in the league. He speaks out but has never been a cancer on the team and I really doubt he is that now. By speaking out he probably placates his wife who is, hopefully, going to keep him more than one more year!
LOL. I'd say she signed him to a long-term contract.
When I die I want to go peacefully in my sleep like my Grandfather -- not screaming like the passengers in his car.
I'd be sad to see him go
He’s really one of the most underrated and unappreciated players on the roster. A very consistent sure-bet to catch a ball.
Before you ask why I'm a fan of both the Cowboys and Jets, I'll just say the answer is complicated and that it just turned out that way.
Good roster managment
I’m not a big Crayton fan and i think he’s going about this the wrong way, but is it a smart thing for the Cowboys to basically show him the door? Austin has proven himself one year and has injury history. Roy has proven himself one year in 6 and has injury history. Dez with all his talents, is making a huge jump in competition. It’s well chronicled about how rookie WR’s struggle their first year. Asking a second year undrafted FA in Ogletree to play a key role is very ambitious. Hurd is just a guy, decent special teamer and a little WR ability. Then Johnson, Ryan and Holley round out the rest. Leaving Miles and Roy out, the depth behind them has a combined 37 NFL receptions, 31 by Hurd. Roy and\or Miles will get hurt. On a super bowl contending team, can they afford that little experience behind them? Crayton is a good #3 and can start a game or two and not lose much offensively. If Dez goes straight into the spotlight, you still wanting him returning kicks? While Crayton isn’t the flashy-ist WR, he serves a vital role on a contender.
Crayton is not a good option as a starter!
He has been the 2 a few times and I wasn’t impressed, he would just disappear; I think I am willing to give Ogletree a shot, as compared to Craytons preformance as a 2; should we have to go with out 2 of the 3 WRs for long I don’t know what are chances would be anyway, but I don’t think Craytons presence coming in from the 4 or 5 spot would improve our chances significenly.
Raf posted metrics from KC Joyner several times....
That demonstrated just how mightily Crayton struggled to beat 1st and 2nd tier corners. I believe he was pretty ordinary against 3rd tier corners. Even Crayton’s career year in ’07 was puffed up by one monster game against the Rams horrible defense and specifically ultramegabust Tye Hill.
I consider it very forward thinking of the Cowboys of an organization to trust that the promise Ogletree has shown justifies giving Crayton the boot.
Don't want him starting.
I can understand giving Ogletree a shot. Why in the world would you want to get rid of Crayton, who we all know can play the #3 and every other WR position in the hopes Ogletree can provide the same performance? If you want Crayton as the 4 WR, great, he’s a nice fall back if Ogletree\Dez struggle or an injury occurs. You dump Crayton, Miles misses a few games, Dez and O-tree struggle, the lineup of Roy and Hurd starting is very poor. Crayton has performed and while he’s not an elite WR, he is still a better option than the rest on the roster. He was ranked the 46th best WR in the league last year, Roy 100th. Getting rid of you second best WR from last year makes no sense to me. At a 2 mil salary, not too pricy for what he brings.
by volume_shooter on May 31, 2010 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions
Any starting combination of Roy, Hurd and/or Crayton means one thing.
The passing offense is basically screwed. Crayton’s not nearly that caliber of a receiver to carry the passing game if Austin was to get dinged up. Also I can’t envision the scenario where Ogletree or Dez fall behind Sam Hurd on the depth chart. That’s way out there.
Whatever spin you want to put on it, if Austin went down and Crayton was the best option they had left at receiver because Roy sucks or the other guys are too young or whatever; hello 17 points a game(realistically far fewer than that against top ten defenses) as the ceiling and plenty of wimpy six-yard completions to Jason Witten every week.
Didn't say they would be behind Hurd.
the probability of Dez struggling is there. Ogletree is in the same boat. Undrafted FA’s don’t just set the league on fire in their second year, it usually takes a couple years to even be a factor in the offense, see Miles. its known that most rookie WR’s struggle their first season. now, if Austin misses more than a few games, it won’t matter, but for one or two, Crayton will do just fine. my point is the Cowboys stance of not needing Crayton is ridiculous. there is NO proven depth behind a one year wonder and a career achiever. it makes about as much sense getting rid of Crayton as it would letting Kitna go and going with McGee as the #2. after all, if Tony goes down its over anyways. right?
by volume_shooter on May 31, 2010 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions
But they don't really need him.
Also rookie WR is the new rookie QB. In other words, while in the past both positions have required young players 2-3 years to fully adapt, I’m not sure that’s the case anymore. In the last three seasons, I can name at least five rookie receivers who have stepped right in and been able to produce at a level better than Crayton’s best; Dwayne Bowe, DeSean Jackson and last season Michael Crabtree, Hakeem Nicks and Jeremy Maclin all had rookie campaigns that exceeded or were at least equal to Crayton’s career best.
I hate the term insurance, but
that’s his role here. sorry, but he’s a better producer than Roy despite his lack of elite talent. It’s true you can name at least 5, but i can name at least 20 who didn’t. Once again, it seems people want to use his numbers against him. You can’t compare his numbers to that of a starting caliber WR. Has Crayton been asked to start? Yes, but that’s not his game. Why fault the guy for being in a role he’s not suited for? I want him to be the #3-4 WR on this team. The team can get by a game or two with him if he has to start, same as most backup QB’s. If Witten and Bennett got injured in camp, would we complain that Phillips didn’t produce starting TE #‘s? Nope, that not what he is. I think you are comparing apples to oranges here. All these guys you mentioned were drafted with the intent of them being a #1, their talent dictates that. Crayton is a former small school QB drafted in the 7th round. I would think it would be hard to find me 5 better #3 WR’s in the league today. Add to that the top 2 WR have injury history’s. Personally, i think Dez will be the #2 by week 4, but that doesn’t change the fact that Crayton is still a better option than Roy.
by volume_shooter on May 31, 2010 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions
Roy Uno-Uno is not a good option as a starter!
Crayton does a much better job against 1st and 2nd tier corners than Williams.
by JimmyJohnson on May 31, 2010 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions
Agree,
that’s where I’m lost as to why the team has no interest in him.
by volume_shooter on May 31, 2010 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions
If the team had no interest in him he would've already been cut...
just like Adams, K. Hamlin and Proctor.
I’d say don’t get caught up in the anti-Crayton attitude of some on here. I’ve been there, done that. It does no good. You’re not going to change the minds of several members here.
More importantly, that attitude doesn’t reflect the Cowboys FO attitude towards him. The people that count (Cowboys FO) have already said Crayton’s not getting cut.
Those that don’t want him here interpret that as “he won’t be cut…until after camp/preseason”. Those of us that appreciate Crayton’s contributions (which seem to include the Cowboys FO) are taking it at face value.
Rabid and luvin' it
I wasn't there, but I doubt there was a gun
to Crayton’s head while signing the 20+mil contract he got. There was a time when that looked like an awful contract for the team, and maybe it still does, but this is the flip side of that for Crayton. While a team is often handcuffed from releasing a player at the beginning of a contract, it holds the hammer at the end of it. Crayton is exactly right in what he says, but needs to understand that this is the price he pays for the security he had at the beginning of the deal. So…deal with it pal. I think he’s done OK for himself as a 7th round, small school QB. He should be able to make things work on what he’s made thus far, even if he never plays another down in the league.
you're totally misremembering craytons contract
4 years, 14 million. I’m not saying I agree with him, but hes a bargain.
Everything else you said I absolutely agree with.
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