With Free Agency A Month Out, Cowboys Have Eighth Highest Amount Of Carry Over Cap Space

by KD Drummond on Feb 12, 2012 9:00 PM CST in Dallas Cowboys News

Three cheers. Free agency begins in 28 days.

In the world of football economics, there are many ways to skin a cat. The Cowboys, for one shining example, managed the salary cap pretty badly after their dynasty run, but thanks to the apparent wizardry of Stephen Jones and his staff, avoided another such disaster as what befell them at the end of the 90's.

For years, the New England Patriots have avoided paying aging veterans high costs, often looking to release or trade them before they outlive their professional usefulness. This strategy seemed to work for them at the beginning of their dynasty, but hasn't allowed them to field a competitive defense over their last few attempts at greatness. We've seen that shortcoming manifest itself in two title games in five years; unable to stop game winning touchdown drives while trying to secure Lombardi number four.

The Washington Redskins miraculously stayed under the salary cap year after year, despite often signing some of the biggest free agent names available on the market, regardless of age or tread remaining on the tires. We all know how well that worked out for them, don't we?

Regardless, the Cowboys find themselves in a much different place than what was perceived at this time last year; able to spend with the rest of the competition. The new CBA allows teams to carry over remaining 2011 cap space and add it onto this coming season's available wiggle room. This might be where the previously unaccounted for $2-$3m of space is coming from.

According to Pro Football Talk, they rank eighth in the league, [UPDATE] of money available from the 2011 season's cap with just over $17 million available. Apologies, in the original write-up I claimed this total was their 2012 cap space, it is actually closer to the $12 million as discussed by Bill In DC and O.C.C. in the comments. [/UPDATE]

That is before the expected release of CB Terence Newman which frees up another $4-$6 million depending on when they do it, June 1st cut rules and all.

Follow the jump to see the full list from Pro Football Talk, including where the Cowboys NFC East competition ranks.

Here's a look at the 32 teams, ranked according to carry over cap space (as of 2/12/12), with the NFC East teams highlighted.

Position	Team	2012 Cap Space	Position	Team	2012 Cap Space
1	Jaguars	$31.66 m	17	Cardinals	$7.04 m
2	Broncos	$27.88 m	18	Patriots	$6.66 m
3	Buccaneers	$25.05 m	19	Ravens	$6.18 m
4	Chiefs	$24.01 m	20	Packers	$5.48 m
5	Seahawks	$21.27 m	21	Saints	$4.22 m
6	Bills	$19.29 m	22	Rams	$3.5 m
7	Bengals	$17.59 m	23	Raiders	$3.23 m
8	Cowboys	$17.14 m	24	Panthers	$2.8 m
9	49ers	$16.87 m	25	Colts	$2.5 m
10	Redskins	$13.6 m	26	Chargers	$2.1 m
11	Eagles	$11.01 m	27	Vikings	$1.95 m
12	Dolphins	$9.05 m	28	Lions	$1.47 m
13	Browns	$8.98 m	29	Texans	$1.08 m
14	Jets	$8.39 m	30	Giants	$1.06 m
15	Titans	$8.11 m	31	Falcons	$0.747 m
16	Bears	$7.74 m	32	Steelers	$0. 506 m

For a look at the entire free agency pool, check out Pro Football Focus' free agent tracker, here. Interesting to note that the Super Bowl champion New York Giants have some decisions to make with a lot of free agents and little cap space. CB Terrell Thomas and Aaron Ross are both UFA's as well as WR Mario Manningham. They also have to be considering getting Victor Cruz more money, after his phenomenal breakout campaign. All this is to say, in case Mat McBriar doesn't recover from his surgery. I'm sure his $2.2 million salary from 2011 could go to the true Super Bowl hero, P Steve Weatherford :).

Also note, the Saints will have a lot of restructuring to do after signing Drew Brees in order to keep G Carl Nicks in town. Remember though, all teams have the ability to do what Dallas did last year; extend their stars and turn "now" money into "later" money.

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Comments

would anyone be opposed to bringing back Tnew and Bjames

back at the vet minimum to be backups?

I wouldn’t hate the idea of another year of either james or tnew as long as it is at the bare minimum price. Say what you will about james, he was a very solid player for a long time and I really would like to see him retire as a cowboy and help to mentor lee and carter before he does decide to hang em up.

Each week, play whoever is standing across the field from you, whenever and wherever. If you match up well, exploit it and win. If you don’t, then get very crafty in your game play and try to "steal" a win anyway. Repeat process until no more games remain, and confetti rains down from a retractable roof and Roger Goodell is handing out hardware. - hookerhome

in aeternum amicus meus vivit sua musica non morietur
A Friend of mine lives forever, his music will never die.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8J1FHzJruAg
RIP Chuck Shuldiner - Father of Death Metal

by Nick Castillo on Feb 12, 2012 9:22 PM CST reply actions

I actually would be for both these moves.

Both would still be decent backups. Idk if it can be worked out though. Especially with Tnew

by Dynamicduo on Feb 12, 2012 9:48 PM CST via mobile up reply actions

All that depends on if we can get an equivalent younger guy for the same price.

by Dynamicduo on Feb 12, 2012 10:05 PM CST via mobile up reply actions

noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo.......

Giants simply arent any better than the Cowboys and thats simply a fact - Terry
The Giants are NOT better than the Cowboys...thats the reality - Terry

by McLovin9 on Feb 13, 2012 8:48 AM CST up reply actions

Wow.

Someone with a clue.

It is time for a big crossroads here in Dallas. That point where humility and loyalty, which are both apparently non-existent in professional sports, must come into play if the whole RKG thing is ever expected to work.

The organization has held true to both TNew and Bradie James for a long time now. Granted, they have given us as fans A LOT of good plays, but they plain and simply are not able to bring that level anymore.

We’ve already got the current “big-time” contracts in check to work for the greater good of the team.

Now these guys need to work something out on a more realistic pay=performance level. I mean, they don’t have to do anything. But after 10 years, you’d think they have some sort of roots established.

Obviously, if someone is still willing to give you a career contract, you move on it. But, if we’re talking JAG contracts, I’d much rather have TNew than Ball or James than an unproven Lemon.

Limited snaps would be another thing to factor in. Should do wonders for these guys.

by mfoster on Feb 13, 2012 10:29 AM CST up reply actions

Almost co-signed,

but I feel the team should be aiming higher than this. TNew and BJames are liabilities in coverage. Don’t pay for what you know doesn’t work.
We have been VERY good about staying loyal to vets, and it has hurt us over the last several years.

What is the star now? A fallen piece of hardened plastic? The heaviest franchise in American sport? A false idol adored by many millions? The epitome of all that can be achieved with hard work? All that can be lost with too strong a sense of entitlement? A welcome coping mechanism, distracting from the real negativity on Earth? A bonding and separating agent?

by BlueNSilverBlood on Feb 13, 2012 2:13 PM CST up reply actions

No

For reasons beyond their deteriorating skills, age and progress stoppers, but more about too much comfort and complacency not enough hunger and competition on the team and they are main culprits.

Along with Alan Ball, Keith Brookings, Anthony Spencer. Each has to be replaced with more skilled, hungry, intensified, and tough players. The role players on a defense are just as if not more important than the star alone. Ware is evidence. This defense can never be dominant or consistently and over a full season but case the older veterans that have been around long have become less hungry, less skillful, and too complacent.

Keeping James or Newman stalls progression from players such as Mario Butler, creates a liability at depth at ILB as James can’t provide impactful minutes at this stage of his career.

by CowboyWay on Feb 12, 2012 9:59 PM CST via mobile up reply actions

let tnew walk

by lostar2009 on Feb 12, 2012 11:12 PM CST via mobile up reply actions

for the vet minimum I would welcome both back

but I would still try to find another FA CB as well as one in the draft

by somebodyquiet on Feb 13, 2012 1:28 AM CST up reply actions

Keep in mind that at their age, the vet minimum isn't really chump change.

There's always money in the banana stand.

by ary201 on Feb 13, 2012 11:13 AM CST up reply actions

about a million for each?

There's always money in the banana stand.

by ary201 on Feb 13, 2012 11:15 AM CST up reply actions

No, its far more than that.

Sam Hurd was scheduled to make 1.2 million his last year in Dallas.

Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not his own facts.

"Meanwhile, like a bitter wine, Philadelphia’s jealousy fermented in the dark cellars of pride and resentment. With no playoff hopes of their own, Eagles fans turned towards hating the Cowboys." Steve Sabol, NFL films

by Nickthegrip on Feb 13, 2012 12:41 PM CST up reply actions

Why even pay TNew vet minimum when he is still going to get burnt on the field and lose us games.

But at least we saved some money. Yea!

In the 17 seasons from 1966-1982, the Cowboys went at least to the conference championship game 14 times. In the 16 seasons from 1996-2011, the Cowboys have won 2 wild card games.

by fs65 on Feb 13, 2012 4:16 PM CST up reply actions

If you're right

I don’t see how that’s really saving money. I think there are guys out there we can have that offers similar skillsets, but also can be coached up a little and maybe have upside.

There's always money in the banana stand.

by ary201 on Feb 13, 2012 5:37 PM CST up reply actions

I would only bring back

Bradie for the vet minimum or just a little above. Reason is that we will need some sort of Veteran presence in the middle of the field. Carter is still a bit of an unkown and I wouldn’t want to go into this upcoming season with him penciled in as the starter.

"Courage is being scared to death, but saddleing up anways" - John Wayne

by textaz03 on Feb 13, 2012 7:20 AM CST up reply actions

bjames yes, tnew, no

unless it was due to injury, that last game sealed his fate in my mind…..

He who laughs last, thinks slowest
The Weather is here, I wish you were beautiful"
Indecision, may or may not be my problem

by BigBad Joe on Feb 13, 2012 8:39 AM CST up reply actions

neither..

both are scrubs..

Bradie cant even play as a nickel LB because he can’t cover my Grandmother. He would be more of liabilty thatn Newman.

by Boyzfan94 on Feb 13, 2012 10:18 AM CST up reply actions

Would not want him as a nickel

would be insurance for Carter….we have all anointed him the starter based on what ????

He who laughs last, thinks slowest
The Weather is here, I wish you were beautiful"
Indecision, may or may not be my problem

by BigBad Joe on Feb 13, 2012 10:55 AM CST up reply actions

Based on he has to be.

The team has painted themselves into that corner. I’m all for forcing someone into learning their position, trial by fire as it were. YOu just can’t do it with too many people on one side of the ball – 3 max.

Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not his own facts.

by Nickthegrip on Feb 13, 2012 12:43 PM CST up reply actions

both need to go

Anthony Spencer is not the Egg McMuffin of 3-4 OLB's

by Archie Barberio on Feb 13, 2012 11:57 AM CST up reply actions

Seconds after I posted this comment below in another thread, you conveniently created a story which my comment was much more appropriate for. So with that said, I will repost

Priority #1 for me
Is Carl Nicks, give him 7year $63M, that’s $9M per year for a guy who is arguably the best player at his position and he’s only 26, will be 27 when the season begins. What this does is a multitude of things for our offense, we are able to have a more dominate running game with a road grater like Nicks, much more success with short yardage downs running between Nicks and Smith, once he is inevitably moved to the left side, and last, It will create more time for Tony to find his weapons in the passing game. That my friends is why I believe Carl Nicks is the most crucial signing for our beloved Cowboys.

"I still feel like I have something to offer, and the cynical fan can really kiss my ass. I really don’t care. There’s a bunch of true fans and the people who actually want to take the time to get to know me know who I am. The guy who sits in his mom’s basement and types on his mom’s computer, I couldn’t really care less about." - Chipper Jones

by KJDH2154 on Feb 12, 2012 9:23 PM CST reply actions

Same here

I’ve been preaching the importance of signing Carl Nicks. The doing or not doing of it will set the building blocks for the draft and ultimately the window for a championship run.

by CowboyWay on Feb 12, 2012 9:50 PM CST via mobile up reply actions

I can see the benefits, for sure.

He’d be a great addition, though I hope for 8 million rather than 9.

And it’s termed “road grader,” meaning one who grades (creates the slope on) roads, rather than a grater, which would shred the roads into strips.

My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles

by CotySaxman on Feb 12, 2012 9:56 PM CST via mobile up reply actions

Well I would like him to do a little of both

Like shred defensive lines into strips that DeMarco can run through :)

But yes, thanks for correcting me, I love being corrected!

by KJDH2154 on Feb 12, 2012 9:59 PM CST up reply actions

Haha no problem

A road grader is a rather obscure machine, so I figured it was worth throwing out there. Now, if someone starts clamoring for a “bull doser,” I’ll have to refer them to the local agricultural veterinarian…

My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles

by CotySaxman on Feb 13, 2012 12:11 AM CST via mobile up reply actions

Add DeCastro

. . . and find a veteran running back to compliment the duo of Murray and Jones; then you could take that offense to compete against the Eagles and Giants. We could run the ball down their throats and pass when necessary. The rest of the draft would of course be defense, and, Dallas could add a few pieces to the defense by way of free agency.

by Iowacowboy on Feb 13, 2012 7:34 AM CST up reply actions

Where's the rest? I can't stand cliff hangers...

My most recent fanpost:
The Weekly Chessmatch: Cowboys @ Eagles

by CotySaxman on Feb 12, 2012 9:29 PM CST via mobile reply actions

Where is Tampa Bay?

They are 63+ million under the cap space believe it or not.

Cincinatti is projected to have over 36 million also

by Boyzfan94 on Feb 13, 2012 10:16 AM CST up reply actions

I see them now...

something isnt right with this list because Tampa and Cinci are alot more under the cap than this list has.

by Boyzfan94 on Feb 13, 2012 10:20 AM CST up reply actions

This is just a list of money that teams can carry over from this year to next year's cap.

Add this money to next year’s cap and you get the 63 million.

In the 17 seasons from 1966-1982, the Cowboys went at least to the conference championship game 14 times. In the 16 seasons from 1996-2011, the Cowboys have won 2 wild card games.

by fs65 on Feb 13, 2012 4:23 PM CST up reply actions

I don't get how the Eagles have so much cap space left

And they’re gonna trade Asante Samuel and they’re right tackle that was starting until they got a new o-line coach…

Favorite Prospects: Martin, Burfict, Rainey, Curry

by bitterlyhonest on Feb 12, 2012 10:05 PM CST reply actions

Lack of dead money.

Though the deals that they have done recently is going to lead to some interesting situations in 2012/2013.

by TheCowboyWay on Feb 12, 2012 10:56 PM CST up reply actions

"drum roll"

there you KD now you can drop the rest on us. ;)

finish the Oline rebuild

by yehti on Feb 12, 2012 10:13 PM CST via mobile reply actions

steelers i believe let Hines know he is to be released.

opening up 4-5 million for Pittsburgh

finish the Oline rebuild

by yehti on Feb 12, 2012 10:15 PM CST via mobile reply actions

Gotta get Nicks at G

We need solid interior linemen, one in free agency and one in draft

by westsidewolf1989 on Feb 12, 2012 11:22 PM CST reply actions

Mario Williams should be top priority

would much rather have a pass rusher opposite D-Ware than a freaking guard. Ware and Williams would be impossible to block.

And as the saying goes you can get a bum off the street to play guard.

Sean Lissemore = The next Bruce Smith

by Lissyyyyy on Feb 12, 2012 11:33 PM CST reply actions

I would agree

But all the Cowboys Super Bowl teams had great offensive lines, or at least ones that wouldn’t rack up false start and holding penalties like they were donuts.

by westsidewolf1989 on Feb 12, 2012 11:44 PM CST up reply actions

yup costa looked exactly like a bum

off the streets so did u like the results this past season?

"Some people wear Superman pajamas, Superman wears Chuck Norris pajamas. But Chuck Norris wears Sean Lee pajamas. That is all." --sirjason22

"I'm gonna punch you in the ovary, that's what I'm gonna do. A straight shot. Right to the babymaker." --Ron Burgundy

by DarkKnight88 on Feb 13, 2012 12:11 AM CST up reply actions

he's not comming to dallas , he doesnt want to play in the 3-4 def or olb, he is too stiffto cover...

redskins- bought by Snyder, OWNED by THE Cowboys !
Ryan- If only i could get that kind of aggression from my. Hey! You gonna eat that ?
Texans .....stand tall and REP !

by IRONRAVEN on Feb 13, 2012 2:23 AM CST up reply actions

I too think that Mario WIlliams is a pipe dream

He’s not what you’re looking for in an OLB. Square peg in a round hole.

Look at S.F.‘s OLB. Brooks, I think? He’d be a better fit. Had 7 sacks or so last season and was great against the run.

There's always money in the banana stand.

by ary201 on Feb 13, 2012 11:20 AM CST up reply actions

Yeah, I'm not sure Mario

is the answer but I think it’s a delusion to think that any guard is going to instantly upgrade this offense.

I know the O-line is important, but a) our young guards are coming along O.K., b) you can always grab one cheap, c) tackles get beat more than guards do (more sacks on Free than on Costa!).

I’m not saying I’ll hate a Nicks or a DeCastro, but I do wonder about the mentality of throwing first-round picks (or big-money FA) at the O-line two seasons in a row. Let some guys develop.

by boyman on Feb 13, 2012 6:58 AM CST up reply actions

I Don't Think Mario

fits so well with Dallas’ schemes; and, he would blow the doors off the remainder of the budget.

by Iowacowboy on Feb 13, 2012 7:35 AM CST up reply actions

agree....

this draft is real deep at good Guards. No reason to blow our wad on a Guard with the #14 pick. Pass rush is the main concern for this team in FA and the draft.

by Boyzfan94 on Feb 13, 2012 10:26 AM CST up reply actions

Signing Nicks would be great

But guard isn’t even our biggest need on the line. Getting Myers would be more important.

MacGruber!

by Mojoness on Feb 12, 2012 11:51 PM CST reply actions 1 recs

+1

by Boyzfan94 on Feb 13, 2012 10:26 AM CST up reply actions

damn this is great news

18 mil in cap space BEFORE Newman cut? that is just great goddamn news guys

Anthony Spencer is not the Egg McMuffin of 3-4 OLB's

by Archie Barberio on Feb 13, 2012 1:19 AM CST reply actions

Hell yea its great news

I honestly thought this team would be in cap hell again this yr so stephen whatever u or the staff did big kudos to u guys.

"Some people wear Superman pajamas, Superman wears Chuck Norris pajamas. But Chuck Norris wears Sean Lee pajamas. That is all." --sirjason22

"I'm gonna punch you in the ovary, that's what I'm gonna do. A straight shot. Right to the babymaker." --Ron Burgundy

by DarkKnight88 on Feb 13, 2012 10:56 AM CST up reply actions

It all starts with nicks, he is the key! Signing him does so much for Dallas and jj did say he was going to spend that money so why not one of the best if not the best guard in the nfl who will only be 27 by the time the season begins so his best days are still ahead of him. BY adding Nicks he immediately upgrades our oline, will help the trnsition of tyron smith to the left side which helps a ton cause free can go back to right tackle where he is more comfortable, and our run game and pass game will only get that much better (and for the real Dallas fans we need romo healthy he is easily a top 10 qb not sure how you could think otherwise.) We do not need to sign Super Mario especially coming off an injury like that, as great as it would be to have two great pass rushers we need a guy who can do a lot more than just rush, we need a guy who can cover, run defend, stay home and do all the little things and I know many of you don’t like to hear it but Spencer did those things and he did them well we would just like to see him get to the qb more since that’s main stat anyone wants to see, we can’t keep comparing him to ware. So that’s my take Nicks is the key, signing him gives us a lot more flexibility in the draft being able to take a defender in the first 3 to 4 rounds but if Decastro is there at 14 I’m tempted to take him especially if he is one of the best guards to come out of the draft in 10 or so years. Smith, Nicks, ?, Decastro, Free you can’t tell me that doesn’t sound amazing! Those two guards would make any center look great! I’m all for it! Dallas could easily have one of the best if not the best oline for many many years, and many of the better teams who make it to the playoffs have good olines who don’t make mistakes.

by gator28 on Feb 13, 2012 4:52 AM CST reply actions

I'd like to be fair and point something out with regards to the last paragraph.

I’m as guilty as anyone when it comes to Jerry bashing, so when he deserves some credit, it should be mentioned.

The “now” money into “later” money conversion is generally done by taking non-guaranteed salary and converting it into a bonus that is payable immediately, thereby giving the team flexibility on the cap number of a player in a given future year.

It’s a win-win for the player, which is why they never say no, but requires a significant cash investment by the team. There’s no one I’d rather have than Jerry when it comes to willingness to do this.

True, every team could in fact do it, but I don’t know that very many owners are as willing as Jerry to part with so much immediate cash.

Of course his revenues are among the highest, but at least he is willing to (quite literally) pay for his own mistakes.

by fivetwos on Feb 13, 2012 6:24 AM CST reply actions

You make a good point about Cash

The cap space is an accounting fiction; the reality is that Jones must find the cold hard cash greenbacks to pay the players. Over the years, Jones has been generous to a fault. The stadium is on solid footing, even given the terrible economy, and, the new TV deals are done, giving Jones security for the next decade . . . so, I expect Dallas to have all the cash and space they want or need.

by Iowacowboy on Feb 13, 2012 7:39 AM CST up reply actions

Banks refuse to help homeowners refinance but

they fall all over themselves to give loans to corporations and businesses. Jerry has plenty of cash flow but even if he didn’t, he could easily get loans and the interest would be covered too, by future revenue increases.

In the 17 seasons from 1966-1982, the Cowboys went at least to the conference championship game 14 times. In the 16 seasons from 1996-2011, the Cowboys have won 2 wild card games.

by fs65 on Feb 13, 2012 4:30 PM CST up reply actions

That is not the 2012 cap space

It’s the amount teams were under the 2011 cap that can be brought forward into 2012. It does not account for 2012 contracts/dead money.

After all is said and done the Cowboys are around 12.6 million under the projected 2012 cap (which we don’t really know what it will be, anywhere between 120-125 million) + teams can ‘borrow’ cap space from 2013 (which they should do because the cap in 2013 is going to take a big bump).

E Tan! E Epi Tan!

by Bill in DC on Feb 13, 2012 6:47 AM CST reply actions

This is correct

The $17.14 million is the amount of 2011 cap space the team can carry forward into 2012.

The current best estimate is that the Cowboys are at $128.910 m for 2012, so assuming a $124 m cap, this would indeed result in a cap space for 2012 of around $12 million, barring any further restructurings and releases.

by One.Cool.Customer on Feb 13, 2012 7:14 AM CST up reply actions

Yep, but, it certainly is MUCH better than the situation we faced last off season. :)

E Tan! E Epi Tan!

by Bill in DC on Feb 13, 2012 7:26 AM CST up reply actions

This is also true:-)

by One.Cool.Customer on Feb 13, 2012 7:31 AM CST up reply actions

thanks for the heads up fellas- piece has been fixed

Wish today wasn’t one of those ‘late logon days’ -

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by KD Drummond on Feb 13, 2012 10:37 AM CST up reply actions

I for one would like

to see a few contract restructuring. Scandrick, Ware, Austin, Witten, Romo or Ratliff are all options to restructure and free up some more room. They are the largest contracts we have, if I’m not mistaken.

A few restructures and cutting of Newman should net us about 10 mil to add to our CAP space for 2012.

I’m looking forward to the next few weeks to see what Stephen Jones does to get us ready for Free Agency. Then in 28 days, my top targets would be (in no particular order):
Brandon Carr
Carl Nicks
Mario Williams
Calais Campbell
Paul Soliai

"Courage is being scared to death, but saddleing up anways" - John Wayne

by textaz03 on Feb 13, 2012 7:30 AM CST reply actions

I like Soliiai

but I’m not sure how much he wants. He was franchised last year so he had a $13mil salary. I hope he doesn’t think he’ll get that.

From what I hear Williams does not want to play OLB in a 3-4. He wants to go to some 4-3 team as a DE.

Nicks would be awesome. A 26 year old multi probowl winner. He’d make the Cowboys O line one of the better O lines in the league overnight.

E Tan! E Epi Tan!

by Bill in DC on Feb 13, 2012 7:35 AM CST up reply actions

Seriously

Why does no one want a center? You want to draft one this year to start? Because I am not excited about any center in the draft yet it remains our biggest need.

If you want a dominant guard grab Decastro for a fraction the cost. You will still have enough left over for a half decent vet corner AND a decent vet center (heck Myers is pretty good… if a little older)

MacGruber!

by Mojoness on Feb 13, 2012 8:54 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs

Agreed

I’d rather have DeCastro (provided he is there at 14) and Myers/Wells, instead of Nicks.

The money saved on Nicks could be spend on defense.

by PhilipKDick on Feb 13, 2012 9:04 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs

The Cowboys must sign a center in Free Agency

There simply aren’t enough good center prospects in the draft – and therefore the risk of missing a prospect is extremely high.

But there are enough guards in the draft where you could get a good prospect in almost any round.

by One.Cool.Customer on Feb 13, 2012 9:13 AM CST up reply actions

You know now that I think about it

I remember Kosier playing center at one point. He is not that much older than Myers. I do not want to go about reshuffling Kosier unless I knew without reservation that the transition to starting center would be relatively easy for him but it may be an option.

Assuming we find his replacement at guard.

MacGruber!

by Mojoness on Feb 13, 2012 9:24 AM CST up reply actions

I don’t think Kosier has played a single NFL snap at center. I remember that he did take a few snaps as a center in camp the last two years, but that’s about it.

by One.Cool.Customer on Feb 13, 2012 10:10 AM CST up reply actions

there are a couple of good Center/Guard players in the draft

A couple I believe that are projected to go in the 3rd and 4th rounds

by Boyzfan94 on Feb 13, 2012 10:28 AM CST up reply actions

Any you want to start day 1?

Maybe Konz… If he falls to the second because 14 is too early. Even then the guy just doesn’t get me fired up. (Ben Jones has heavy feet which doesn’t fit the new Dallas linemen profile.)

That is why i like the idea of a vet to hold the fort while a guy develops.

MacGruber!

by Mojoness on Feb 13, 2012 12:42 PM CST up reply actions

Finally

Yes, Center has to be priority. Dallas OLine was atrocious in the middle.

by WestTxHornFan on Feb 13, 2012 9:46 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs

center of course

that’s the biggest need on dallas OL, i would love carl nicks but he will be too expensive

by ratware on Feb 13, 2012 10:17 AM CST reply actions 1 recs

Apologies for the accounting errors folks, original piece has been corrected.

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by KD Drummond on Feb 13, 2012 10:36 AM CST reply actions

as an accountant....

it happens and fixed, no harm no foul

He who laughs last, thinks slowest
The Weather is here, I wish you were beautiful"
Indecision, may or may not be my problem

by BigBad Joe on Feb 13, 2012 10:58 AM CST up reply actions

all good

got me pumped when I saw 17 mil in cap space at first lol

Anthony Spencer is not the Egg McMuffin of 3-4 OLB's

by Archie Barberio on Feb 13, 2012 11:58 AM CST up reply actions

20-23 once Oldman's gone too!

by Omar Little on Feb 13, 2012 11:59 AM CST up reply actions

Terence OLDMAN!!!!!

Anthony Spencer is not the Egg McMuffin of 3-4 OLB's

by Archie Barberio on Feb 13, 2012 12:06 PM CST up reply actions

It has been awhile since I posted but here is my opinion. You have to be elite at something to have a chance a the super bowl defense or offense. Our defense can not be fixed in 1 year or maybe even 2. So, we should draft Decastro, sign Nicks and a center, and Robinson. That would give us the opportunity to be elite at offense with that line and all of our weapons and Romo at qb. We could then take leftover cap of probably 3 million sign a safety or 2nd tier db or de. Then draft rounds 2 to 7 bpa on defense. That would give us the best chance to win now, and build a defense.

by Red Raider on Feb 13, 2012 11:08 AM CST via mobile reply actions 1 recs

Now money vs. later money............

After cutting Newman the Cowboys should see who might be tradable. Especially the larger contracts on defense.

I support younger player, more draft picks and fewer larger names by FA. The more “later money” the better as that is what encourages teams to play better at all. Reducing dead money should be a priority.

The article is helpful, I’d still like to see the list of “dead money” and/or “committed bonus” money as well. This is a very short-term view of the salary issues as presented. The Cowboys are committed payroll wise and top-heavy being my point.

by Cwon1 on Feb 13, 2012 11:28 AM CST reply actions

Really Simple way to look at the Current Roster

Those being kept over restriction;

Offense; Romo, Witten, Free. Those kept who could be traded at the right price; Austin, Jones. Everyone else doesn’t really matter i.e. Kosier for example.

Defense; All are tradeable over restriction in my book; Ware, Ratliff, Spears, Hatcher, Sensabaugh, Scandrick, Jenkins. Everyone else doesn’t matter at all either way or is already gone; Newman for example. Or restricted.

The top heavy defense with the dinosuar oline preservation society (07-10’) are why the current roster is weak and saddled by a poor/thin nucleus on both sides of the ball. Look like people want to repeat the same culture with their FA lists and “rollover” the bonus recommendations.

by Cwon1 on Feb 13, 2012 11:47 AM CST reply actions

This is not the NBA

The NFL is not set up for trades.

by PhilipKDick on Feb 13, 2012 2:41 PM CST up reply actions

That's true......

which is why avoiding dead money is the most important virtue in the first place.

NE isn’t going to fit Ware into a budget and give up picks at the same time. Perfect example. You need the “greater fool” and the Cowboys are in the first tier in the category, hard to top. Packers and NO have no room at all.

by Cwon1 on Feb 13, 2012 4:03 PM CST up reply actions

You guys have turned me into a freak who likes FA and the Draft almost as much as the season.

I’m not sure whether I should thank you or not ;)

by BlueNSilverBlood on Feb 13, 2012 2:06 PM CST reply actions

Of course you should!

And the underwear olympics are almost here! Just a few more days.

by Rena on Feb 13, 2012 4:01 PM CST up reply actions

In the 17 seasons from 1966-1982, the Cowboys went at least to the conference championship game 14 times. In the 16 seasons from 1996-2011, the Cowboys have won 2 wild card games.

by fs65 on Feb 13, 2012 4:37 PM CST up reply actions

Nevermind.

In the 17 seasons from 1966-1982, the Cowboys went at least to the conference championship game 14 times. In the 16 seasons from 1996-2011, the Cowboys have won 2 wild card games.

by fs65 on Feb 13, 2012 4:37 PM CST up reply actions

HA!

In general it amuses me how uncomfortable most people, including myself, are while in underwear in front of a crowd. I would either be running extra fast and jumping high reaching for some shorts, or unable to run at all.
Under Armour protects houses, but not privacy, you know?

by BlueNSilverBlood on Feb 13, 2012 6:17 PM CST up reply actions

WE HAVE MONEY FOR ONE BIG SPLASH IN FREE AGENCY....SO SPEND WISELY

Jason Garrett KNOWS that you shore up your biggest weakness via Free Agency and then DRAFT wisely with the BEST AVAILABLE PLAYER. That being said, what position does he convince Jerrah and Stephen to FIX that will give us the biggest IMPACT going into the DRAFT.

Adding a stud NT moves RAT to DE and gives us two-for-one impact…..better Run Defense and better Pass Rush with RAT, SPENCER, & WARE. A stud NT will also push BACK the pocket on opposing QBs so they can’t step up allowing WARE and company to get SACKS, STRIPS, and FUMBLES. Our secondary automatically improves due to more rushed throws leading to more interceptions. Our Rush Defense automatically improves due to a stud NT manning the middle of our Defense Line. No more easy 3rd&Short or 1st&Goal for opposing running backs.

Adding a stud OG will add a new dimension to our improving running game. Being able to get first downs on 3rd&short and score in the redzone on 1st&Goal will take tremendous pressure off of Romo and our Defense can play more aggressive knowing our Offense can move the ball and score at will.

Adding a stud DE will add another elite Pass Rusher to our Defensive Line (think Giants model). With Ware and Spencer rushing from the outside, Opposing QBs would have to step up into the pocket….right into the waiting arms of RAT and a new stud DE. It would have a huge impact on our Run Defense unless we drafted a NT in this coming DRAFT or one of our younger NT’s stepped up this year.

Adding a stud Center to our Offense may be deemed important as well. But, a full off-season with our elite Strength Coach may produce wonders for both Centers Costra and Kolwaski. If so, this may not be a position of need although neither are elite Centers.

Let’s examine some potential Free Agents for Jerrah and Stephen:

1. Mario Williams (DE): He cost the Texans $18M last year and ‘franchising’ him again would cost them $22.9M (20% increase) this season. He’s probably too expensive for our current Salary Cap structure.

2. Carl Nicks (OG): He signed a 1yr contract and cost the Saints only $2.6M last year. If Brees doesn’t resign, he’ll be franchised. Unfortunately (for us), if Brees does get resigned, Nicks will be franchised instead. Also, Saints OG Jahri Evans signed a seven-year, $56.7 million contract in 2010 and Nicks expects even more “due to inflation” (his own words). So, the Cowboys could expect to pay him $9M to $9.5M per year. Sounds manageable but only if he’s NOT franchised by the Saints….a huge IF.

3. Paul Soliani (NT): He was franchised and cost the Dolphins $12.38M last year. Franchising him again would cost the Dolphins $15M this year.

4. Calais Campbell (DE): He is opened to being ‘franchised’ by Arizona. The projected franchise tag for defensive ends is in the range of $10.5M – $11M so I don’t really expect him to be available although he’d be a great pickup for our Defense.

Bottom Line: It will be very hard to acquire any one of these top tier talents for the 2012 NFL Season. NT Paul Soliai seems doeable and at 6’4" and 355lbs, his impact will be felt in both the Rush Defense and Pass Rush. If this happens, this would also allow the Cowboys to DRAFT the best available OT and move Left OT Doug Free back to OG , move Right OT Tyron Smith to Left OT, and play our drafted rookie OT at Right OT. In the 2nd RD, the Cowboys draft a quality CB to compete with CB Mario Butler for the nickel CB job (if CB Scandrick moves into T-New’s old Left CB spot). In the 3rd Round, the Cowboys draft RB Terrence Ganaway (6’1" 241lbs) to provide a stud backup RB for Demarco Murray. If Murray he gets injured again, our Running game and entire season could be in jeopardy (again). Besides, we would have our own Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs with Demarco and Terrence!!! In the 4th-6th RDs, draft BPA on our draft board.

by Pacerman on Feb 14, 2012 8:37 AM CST reply actions