Cowboys Cut Gurode (1 Viewer)

[DaWidowMaker]

Due 5.5 mil this season....Has Costa really proven enough in this abbreviated off season to show he can be that steadying force @ C? Here's hoping that Jason G. is making the right decisions because I can't sit through another missed block that causese Romo to be lost for the season.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/08/29/cowboys-cut-andre-gurode/

 

[rascal]

This can't be good for Romo or Felix.

Gurode wasn't the smartest guy out there, but I think he is better than currently injured Phil Costa.

 

[Fear The Turtle]

It'd be neat if the Pats picked him up.

 

[Joe Summer]

Can they re-sign him at a smaller salary?

 

[rascal]

Can they re-sign him at a smaller salary?

Of course, but why wouldn't they have done that instead of just cutting him?I think he wants the $$ and somebody out there will pay it. The Cowboys are cap limited.

 

[joffer]

he didn't play in the preseason game because of "business" reasons, but the local radio guys couldn't figure out what that meant.....surprising

 

[LarryAllen'sJockstrap]

Local word is that his knees have taken a lot of damage over the years and while he is still a mauler, he doesn't fit the new blocking scheme Garrett is installing. All of the OL they cut this year were similar players; Columbo and Davis. Gurode is more of a grappler with little knee bend, where as the Cows are looking for a cohesive unit that is athletic enough to move as one and get out to the second level.

That leaves only 2 starting OL from last season; Free and Losier. Look at the age difference from last year to this year:

2010:

LT: Free - 26

LG: Kosier - 31

C: Gurode - 32

RG: Davis - 32

RT: Columbo - 32

2011:

LT: Free - 27

LG: Bill Nagy - 23

C: Phil Costa - 24

RG: Kosier - 32

RT: Tyrom Smith - 20

They went from being an average age of 30.6 on opening day 2010 to a projected age of 25 on opening day 2011.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Dumb move by an arrogant owner. I encourage everyone to pull up the Charlie Rose interview Jones did a week or two ago with Richardson from Carolina next to him. I knew Jones was like Davis but he actually sits there and I think truly lets his guard down to Rose on that interview. I knew Jones acted like he was the GM, I didn't know he actually is the team's GM. It explains a lot.

Dallas could not afford to cut Gurode IMO, and they will take a big step back as a unit. Terrible news for Dallas skill position players. I would have called their bluff. Gurode will be picked up very quickly if his phone isn't ringing already. New Orleans can upgrade from Olin Kreutz now. ARIZONA would also be a nice landing spot for him.

Dumb. Sure Dallas had to cut salary but who is the GM that waited until the last minute to figure out his OLine is suspect? That's right, Jerry Jones.

GL Dallas

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Local word is that his knees have taken a lot of damage over the years and while he is still a mauler, he doesn't fit the new blocking scheme Garrett is installing. All of the OL they cut this year were similar players; Columbo and Davis. Gurode is more of a grappler with little knee bend, where as the Cows are looking for a cohesive unit that is athletic enough to move as one and get out to the second level.

Pro Bowl the last 5 years in a row, don't think i would allow Dallas to push me around. Nice post LA, there is some truth in what you are saying but Gurode is not coming off a bad year is all I'm pointing out.

 

[BroncoFreak_2K3]

Wonder if the Lions take a look....the Raiola hate is pretty deep in Detroit.

 

[hutchins929]

Local word is that his knees have taken a lot of damage over the years and while he is still a mauler, he doesn't fit the new blocking scheme Garrett is installing. All of the OL they cut this year were similar players; Columbo and Davis. Gurode is more of a grappler with little knee bend, where as the Cows are looking for a cohesive unit that is athletic enough to move as one and get out to the second level.

Pro Bowl the last 5 years in a row, don't think i would allow Dallas to push me around. Nice post LA, there is some truth in what you are saying but Gurode is not coming off a bad year is all I'm pointing out.

Don't know much about him... How old is he and what kind of OL is he? Is he a good Run blocker? if so hey, hey for the Lions... Don't you go lion around!

 

[Terpman22]

Smart move Jerry. I guess this guy wanted to be a Cowboy as much as Nnamdi. This definitely will help out Dallas' passing numbers, maybe not necessarily Romo's though...

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Local word is that his knees have taken a lot of damage over the years and while he is still a mauler, he doesn't fit the new blocking scheme Garrett is installing. All of the OL they cut this year were similar players; Columbo and Davis. Gurode is more of a grappler with little knee bend, where as the Cows are looking for a cohesive unit that is athletic enough to move as one and get out to the second level.

Pro Bowl the last 5 years in a row, don't think i would allow Dallas to push me around. Nice post LA, there is some truth in what you are saying but Gurode is not coming off a bad year is all I'm pointing out.

Don't know much about him... How old is he and what kind of OL is he? Is he a good Run blocker? if so hey, hey for the Lions... Don't you go lion around!

Gurode is top10 at his position, some would say a lo higher. He's 32, not ancient for an OLineman. 5 yrs in a row Pro Bowl including last year and he's just cut. He deserved the Pro bowl before he started getting voted in, he had to wait a while.

 

[Deranged Hermit]

I'm sure the Eagles will sign him like everyone else in FA....

 

[hutchins929]

Local word is that his knees have taken a lot of damage over the years and while he is still a mauler, he doesn't fit the new blocking scheme Garrett is installing. All of the OL they cut this year were similar players; Columbo and Davis. Gurode is more of a grappler with little knee bend, where as the Cows are looking for a cohesive unit that is athletic enough to move as one and get out to the second level.

Pro Bowl the last 5 years in a row, don't think i would allow Dallas to push me around. Nice post LA, there is some truth in what you are saying but Gurode is not coming off a bad year is all I'm pointing out.

Don't know much about him... How old is he and what kind of OL is he? Is he a good Run blocker? if so hey, hey for the Lions... Don't you go lion around!

Gurode is top10 at his position, some would say a lo higher. He's 32, not ancient for an OLineman. 5 yrs in a row Pro Bowl including last year and he's just cut. He deserved the Pro bowl before he started getting voted in, he had to wait a while.

Is he a better run blocker or pass blocker or is he great at both?

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Local word is that his knees have taken a lot of damage over the years and while he is still a mauler, he doesn't fit the new blocking scheme Garrett is installing. All of the OL they cut this year were similar players; Columbo and Davis. Gurode is more of a grappler with little knee bend, where as the Cows are looking for a cohesive unit that is athletic enough to move as one and get out to the second level.

Pro Bowl the last 5 years in a row, don't think i would allow Dallas to push me around. Nice post LA, there is some truth in what you are saying but Gurode is not coming off a bad year is all I'm pointing out.

Don't know much about him... How old is he and what kind of OL is he? Is he a good Run blocker? if so hey, hey for the Lions... Don't you go lion around!

Gurode is top10 at his position, some would say a lo higher. He's 32, not ancient for an OLineman. 5 yrs in a row Pro Bowl including last year and he's just cut. He deserved the Pro bowl before he started getting voted in, he had to wait a while.

Is he a better run blocker or pass blocker or is he great at both?

Good run blocker, yielded 1 sack last season but Centers usually are in the 1-3 range over a season. He also is very good at setting screens so Felix will lose out with him moving on from Dallas.

 

[LarryAllen'sJockstrap]

Dumb move by an arrogant owner. I encourage everyone to pull up the Charlie Rose interview Jones did a week or two ago with Richardson from Carolina next to him. I knew Jones was like Davis but he actually sits there and I think truly lets his guard down to Rose on that interview. I knew Jones acted like he was the GM, I didn't know he actually is the team's GM. It explains a lot.

Dallas could not afford to cut Gurode IMO, and they will take a big step back as a unit. Terrible news for Dallas skill position players. I would have called their bluff. Gurode will be picked up very quickly if his phone isn't ringing already. New Orleans can upgrade from Olin Kreutz now. ARIZONA would also be a nice landing spot for him.

Dumb. Sure Dallas had to cut salary but who is the GM that waited until the last minute to figure out his OLine is suspect? That's right, Jerry Jones.

GL Dallas

Local word is that this was a 100% Jason Garrett move. He came in with an attitude that every position is open for competition, and is really adhering to it. Gurode was the last of the old "Fat Cats" (Williams, Davis, Barber...) that had been keeping their positions the last couple of years based on salary and reputation, not play. I'm sure opening up some money was a factor, but I really think it has more to do with Garrett trying to change the culture of the team.

 

[DevilDog919]

Cutting an aging Flozell Adams and starting a mostly unproven Doug Free last season was considered a bad move too, that worked out alright.

I am 100% sure that Garrett and the coaches signed off on this. Costa has looked good. Gurode was solid but was aging, and was also not as mobile as he once was. I don't think Jerry makes this move without Garrett's signoff though, and that is what gives me faith that Costa is good enough to fill his shoes. Garrett may have went to Jerry and said Costa would be starting over Gurode even if they kept him, which lead to Jerry being able to cut the huge salary that he would pay Gurode as a backup. Gurode was sat by the coaching staff, not by Jerry.

 

[Urinal Mint]

Gurode was an expensive player quickly becoming a liability. The botched snap counts over the last 4 years have increased and his athleticism is declining at a rapid pace. I think this was a Garrett move more than a Jones move.

 

[bigmiiiiike]

Cutting an aging Flozell Adams and starting a mostly unproven Doug Free last season was considered a bad move too, that worked out alright. I am 100% sure that Garrett and the coaches signed off on this. Costa has looked good. Gurode was solid but was aging, and was also not as mobile as he once was. I don't think Jerry makes this move without Garrett's signoff though, and that is what gives me faith that Costa is good enough to fill his shoes. Garrett may have went to Jerry and said Costa would be starting over Gurode even if they kept him, which lead to Jerry being able to cut the huge salary that he would pay Gurode as a backup. Gurode was sat by the coaching staff, not by Jerry.

As a Cowboys fan, I have faith in the Princetonian. It may be tested at times, but I have to think he is smarter than me at building his O-Line.

 

[Urinal Mint]

Gurode was making Pro Bowls on name alone. There were better centers in the NFC the last 3 years, but name recognition on the OL will get you picked a lot of times.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Cutting an aging Flozell Adams and starting a mostly unproven Doug Free last season was considered a bad move too, that worked out alright.

I am 100% sure that Garrett and the coaches signed off on this. Costa has looked good. Gurode was solid but was aging, and was also not as mobile as he once was. I don't think Jerry makes this move without Garrett's signoff though, and that is what gives me faith that Costa is good enough to fill his shoes. Garrett may have went to Jerry and said Costa would be starting over Gurode even if they kept him, which lead to Jerry being able to cut the huge salary that he would pay Gurode as a backup. Gurode was sat by the coaching staff, not by Jerry.

As a Cowboys fan, I have faith in the Princetonian. It may be tested at times, but I have to think he is smarter than me at building his O-Line.

How is that working out the last 15 years?

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Dumb move by an arrogant owner. I encourage everyone to pull up the Charlie Rose interview Jones did a week or two ago with Richardson from Carolina next to him. I knew Jones was like Davis but he actually sits there and I think truly lets his guard down to Rose on that interview. I knew Jones acted like he was the GM, I didn't know he actually is the team's GM. It explains a lot.

Dallas could not afford to cut Gurode IMO, and they will take a big step back as a unit. Terrible news for Dallas skill position players. I would have called their bluff. Gurode will be picked up very quickly if his phone isn't ringing already. New Orleans can upgrade from Olin Kreutz now. ARIZONA would also be a nice landing spot for him.

Dumb. Sure Dallas had to cut salary but who is the GM that waited until the last minute to figure out his OLine is suspect? That's right, Jerry Jones.

GL Dallas

Local word is that this was a 100% Jason Garrett move. He came in with an attitude that every position is open for competition, and is really adhering to it. Gurode was the last of the old "Fat Cats" (Williams, Davis, Barber...) that had been keeping their positions the last couple of years based on salary and reputation, not play. I'm sure opening up some money was a factor, but I really think it has more to do with Garrett trying to change the culture of the team.

TY Larry, more good info. Just 1 point tough...and it always happens in these situations. Many fans start throwing ashes on Gurode, fact is 5 straight Pro bowls, still 32 yrs old, sure financially Dallas had to do it but let's not pretend Gurode is not a top Center in the NFL, his stats on sites that record everything these guys do rates him in the top5 IIRC...just hate to see folks act like Dallas will be better off this year at their skill position slots when I think you need to start downgrading a few of them. FYI...I don't think I put it past Jerry Jones to spin it like it was all his coaches decision, in fact makes it easier to keep rehiring himself as GM when he has others to blame.

 

[Hastur]

Cutting an aging Flozell Adams and starting a mostly unproven Doug Free last season was considered a bad move too, that worked out alright.

I am 100% sure that Garrett and the coaches signed off on this. Costa has looked good. Gurode was solid but was aging, and was also not as mobile as he once was. I don't think Jerry makes this move without Garrett's signoff though, and that is what gives me faith that Costa is good enough to fill his shoes. Garrett may have went to Jerry and said Costa would be starting over Gurode even if they kept him, which lead to Jerry being able to cut the huge salary that he would pay Gurode as a backup. Gurode was sat by the coaching staff, not by Jerry.

As a Cowboys fan, I have faith in the Princetonian. It may be tested at times, but I have to think he is smarter than me at building his O-Line.

How is that working out the last 15 years?

After how many years are we as fans supposed to stop having faith?

 

[LawFitz]

This is the type of move that either makes a coach or breaks him. This seems to be Garrett's line in the sand moment when it comes to that locker room. We'll see how it plays out for him.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

In the Cowboys locker room was a bronze stature of a lion in front of Gurode's locker. It was draped with Gurode's jersey and helmet on it after practice.





Sounds like the locker room has spoken.

 

[Liquid Tension]

Local word is that his knees have taken a lot of damage over the years and while he is still a mauler, he doesn't fit the new blocking scheme Garrett is installing. All of the OL they cut this year were similar players; Columbo and Davis. Gurode is more of a grappler with little knee bend, where as the Cows are looking for a cohesive unit that is athletic enough to move as one and get out to the second level.That leaves only 2 starting OL from last season; Free and Losier. Look at the age difference from last year to this year:2010:LT: Free - 26LG: Kosier - 31C: Gurode - 32RG: Davis - 32RT: Columbo - 322011:LT: Free - 27LG: Bill Nagy - 23C: Phil Costa - 24RG: Kosier - 32RT: Tyrom Smith - 20They went from being an average age of 30.6 on opening day 2010 to a projected age of 25 on opening day 2011.

But as a Cowboy fan, aren't you scared about this line?

 

[moondog]

Dumb move by an arrogant owner. I encourage everyone to pull up the Charlie Rose interview Jones did a week or two ago with Richardson from Carolina next to him. I knew Jones was like Davis but he actually sits there and I think truly lets his guard down to Rose on that interview. I knew Jones acted like he was the GM, I didn't know he actually is the team's GM. It explains a lot.

Dallas could not afford to cut Gurode IMO, and they will take a big step back as a unit. Terrible news for Dallas skill position players. I would have called their bluff. Gurode will be picked up very quickly if his phone isn't ringing already. New Orleans can upgrade from Olin Kreutz now. ARIZONA would also be a nice landing spot for him.

Dumb. Sure Dallas had to cut salary but who is the GM that waited until the last minute to figure out his OLine is suspect? That's right, Jerry Jones.

GL Dallas

Local word is that this was a 100% Jason Garrett move. He came in with an attitude that every position is open for competition, and is really adhering to it. Gurode was the last of the old "Fat Cats" (Williams, Davis, Barber...) that had been keeping their positions the last couple of years based on salary and reputation, not play. I'm sure opening up some money was a factor, but I really think it has more to do with Garrett trying to change the culture of the team.

 

[footballguy#1]

can he play G? I know a few teams with decent enough centers, but in need of G.

 

[moondog]

Dumb move by an arrogant owner. I encourage everyone to pull up the Charlie Rose interview Jones did a week or two ago with Richardson from Carolina next to him. I knew Jones was like Davis but he actually sits there and I think truly lets his guard down to Rose on that interview. I knew Jones acted like he was the GM, I didn't know he actually is the team's GM. It explains a lot.

Dallas could not afford to cut Gurode IMO, and they will take a big step back as a unit. Terrible news for Dallas skill position players. I would have called their bluff. Gurode will be picked up very quickly if his phone isn't ringing already. New Orleans can upgrade from Olin Kreutz now. ARIZONA would also be a nice landing spot for him.

Dumb. Sure Dallas had to cut salary but who is the GM that waited until the last minute to figure out his OLine is suspect? That's right, Jerry Jones.

GL Dallas

Local word is that this was a 100% Jason Garrett move. He came in with an attitude that every position is open for competition, and is really adhering to it. Gurode was the last of the old "Fat Cats" (Williams, Davis, Barber...) that had been keeping their positions the last couple of years based on salary and reputation, not play. I'm sure opening up some money was a factor, but I really think it has more to do with Garrett trying to change the culture of the team.

I think the 12M Gurode was due the next 2 years had a lot to do with decision(5.5 this season, 6.5 next). In his daily press conference Garrett said the business side was a part of the decision too. If fact, Dallas tried for the past two days to get Gurode to accept a new deal. If they had agreed to a new deal I think Gurode would have remained the starter. There is no way I believe this was a 100% Garrett move.

 

[GroveDiesel]

Dear Buffalo: this would solve your LG problem. Gurode at C and Wood back to LG.

 

[Irish Chaos]

I'm sure the Eagles will sign him like everyone else in FA....

omgomgomgomg

 

[Amused to Death]

I'm sure the Eagles will sign him like everyone else in FA....

omgomgomgomg

Yup, first thing I thought of was the Eagles could use a center. And one that knows the Cowboys offense and blocking schemes couldn't hurt either.

 

[Urinal Mint]

I'm sure the Eagles will sign him like everyone else in FA....

omgomgomgomg

Yup, first thing I thought of was the Eagles could use a center. And one that knows the Cowboys offense and blocking schemes couldn't hurt either.

Gurode couldn't call the blocking assignments on that line. Kosier did the heavy lifting, and in his absence, I believe Davis did that work.

 

[Ridgelake]

If anyone watched him play the Sunday night preseason game 8 days ago, you got an idea of why he was cut. Andre is a shadow of his former self. Could not move. Could not bend at the knee. Could not adjust to quickness. Could not get to the 2nd level. Could not move his feet to pick up a surprise blitzer. Let defenders get underhim and move him out of the way. And oh, he looked at least 30 pounds overweight.

Andre has struggled in recent years with speed. He was good handling power, one of the best in the NFL. That's what got him his reputation and pro bowls. He used to be a very good center. But what mobility he did have is completely gone. And given his knee issues, which required off-season surgery, he cannot bend his knees anymore. He cannot get leverage any more. He cannot handle power any more.

Garrett is making the right move here. As much as I respect Andre's work for the Cowboys over the last 9 years, its time. To quote the coach who figured out how to unlook his potential, Bill Parcells, "It is what it is." Andre became a "progress stopper".

So in comes Phil Costa, the 2nd year man who was a UDFA lasst year. He's a RKG. "Right Kind of Guy". In Garrett speak, that means someone who's hungry. Someone who wants to be there to seize his opportunity. Costa works very hard. He's very smart. He plays with very good technique. There is play by play analysis of him this preseason on some Cowboy boards. Disecting his technique and effectiveness. He has played very well.

And he has good mobility, one of the big big things you're seeing from the new Cowboy O-line. They plan to get the ball in space a LOT and now all of the linemen can play that way. Last season, all the "space" plays were to the left side where mobile Doug Free and Kyle Kosier played and away from the lumbering Bigg Davis and Marc Columbo. Now, all 5 linemen can run. Garrett can call plays to both sides of the field, unlike last year.

This is a good thing for Dallas. Bad news for the defenses they will face.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

If anyone watched him play the Sunday night preseason game 8 days ago, you got an idea of why he was cut. Andre is a shadow of his former self. Could not move. Could not bend at the knee. Could not adjust to quickness. Could not get to the 2nd level. Could not move his feet to pick up a surprise blitzer. Let defenders get underhim and move him out of the way. And oh, he looked at least 30 pounds overweight.Andre has struggled in recent years with speed. He was good handling power, one of the best in the NFL. That's what got him his reputation and pro bowls. He used to be a very good center. But what mobility he did have is completely gone. And given his knee issues, which required off-season surgery, he cannot bend his knees anymore. He cannot get leverage any more. He cannot handle power any more.Garrett is making the right move here. As much as I respect Andre's work for the Cowboys over the last 9 years, its time. To quote the coach who figured out how to unlook his potential, Bill Parcells, "It is what it is." Andre became a "progress stopper".So in comes Phil Costa, the 2nd year man who was a UDFA lasst year. He's a RKG. "Right Kind of Guy". In Garrett speak, that means someone who's hungry. Someone who wants to be there to seize his opportunity. Costa works very hard. He's very smart. He plays with very good technique. There is play by play analysis of him this preseason on some Cowboy boards. Disecting his technique and effectiveness. He has played very well. And he has good mobility, one of the big big things you're seeing from the new Cowboy O-line. They plan to get the ball in space a LOT and now all of the linemen can play that way. Last season, all the "space" plays were to the left side where mobile Doug Free and Kyle Kosier played and away from the lumbering Bigg Davis and Marc Columbo. Now, all 5 linemen can run. Garrett can call plays to both sides of the field, unlike last year.This is a good thing for Dallas. Bad news for the defenses they will face.

Just to be clear because you did take the time to really lay this out so I don't want to be too feisty. You have some very good points. However you said if we saw a preseason game...how about the last 9-10 years body of work? Why 1 meaningless preseason game when we know he had surgery in the off season? You talk up Costa as being the RKG, he's hungry, there's a lot of guys in the league hungry, doesn't mean they should all be starting. Dallas OL has only Free left from the LT spot a year ago. Even if it needed to be done they are going to to take some time to gel, and I'm not talking a week or two. I would have to bump Felix down. Also you and everyone else is talking about how stiff this guy is, he's one of the better screen setting Centers in the NFL so I don't know where you all are pulling this from. Good post, highly disagree with it, but I appreciate the fact you went into a lot of detail and not just Gurode stinks Costa is great.

 

[Neofight]

In the Cowboys locker room was a bronze stature of a lion in front of Gurode's locker. It was draped with Gurode's jersey and helmet on it after practice.





Sounds like the locker room has spoken.

Perhaps Gurode put it there. Nothing like a little self promotion when hitting the market.

 

[Rick James]

If anyone watched him play the Sunday night preseason game 8 days ago, you got an idea of why he was cut. Andre is a shadow of his former self. Could not move. Could not bend at the knee. Could not adjust to quickness. Could not get to the 2nd level. Could not move his feet to pick up a surprise blitzer. Let defenders get underhim and move him out of the way. And oh, he looked at least 30 pounds overweight.Andre has struggled in recent years with speed. He was good handling power, one of the best in the NFL. That's what got him his reputation and pro bowls. He used to be a very good center. But what mobility he did have is completely gone. And given his knee issues, which required off-season surgery, he cannot bend his knees anymore. He cannot get leverage any more. He cannot handle power any more.Garrett is making the right move here. As much as I respect Andre's work for the Cowboys over the last 9 years, its time. To quote the coach who figured out how to unlook his potential, Bill Parcells, "It is what it is." Andre became a "progress stopper".So in comes Phil Costa, the 2nd year man who was a UDFA lasst year. He's a RKG. "Right Kind of Guy". In Garrett speak, that means someone who's hungry. Someone who wants to be there to seize his opportunity. Costa works very hard. He's very smart. He plays with very good technique. There is play by play analysis of him this preseason on some Cowboy boards. Disecting his technique and effectiveness. He has played very well. And he has good mobility, one of the big big things you're seeing from the new Cowboy O-line. They plan to get the ball in space a LOT and now all of the linemen can play that way. Last season, all the "space" plays were to the left side where mobile Doug Free and Kyle Kosier played and away from the lumbering Bigg Davis and Marc Columbo. Now, all 5 linemen can run. Garrett can call plays to both sides of the field, unlike last year.This is a good thing for Dallas. Bad news for the defenses they will face.

Just to be clear because you did take the time to really lay this out so I don't want to be too feisty. You have some very good points. However you said if we saw a preseason game...how about the last 9-10 years body of work? Why 1 meaningless preseason game when we know he had surgery in the off season? You talk up Costa as being the RKG, he's hungry, there's a lot of guys in the league hungry, doesn't mean they should all be starting. Dallas OL has only Free left from the LT spot a year ago. Even if it needed to be done they are going to to take some time to gel, and I'm not talking a week or two. I would have to bump Felix down. Also you and everyone else is talking about how stiff this guy is, he's one of the better screen setting Centers in the NFL so I don't know where you all are pulling this from. Good post, highly disagree with it, but I appreciate the fact you went into a lot of detail and not just Gurode stinks Costa is great.

Is it really hard to believe that Gurode isn't the same player?

 

[Chicago Hooligan]

Could not move. Could not bend at the knee. Could not adjust to quickness. Could not get to the 2nd level. Could not move his feet to pick up a surprise blitzer.

"Welcome aboard! I believe you already know Roy, Marion and Sam."

 

[LawFitz]

As a fantasy football player, this is a time when you ask yourself how much you really believe in Jason Garrett. I like the guy a lot so I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt on this one, but it certainly is a head scratcher and could portend a different season from Dallas this year than many expect.

 

[Bankerguy]

If anyone watched him play the Sunday night preseason game 8 days ago, you got an idea of why he was cut. Andre is a shadow of his former self. Could not move. Could not bend at the knee. Could not adjust to quickness. Could not get to the 2nd level. Could not move his feet to pick up a surprise blitzer. Let defenders get underhim and move him out of the way. And oh, he looked at least 30 pounds overweight.Andre has struggled in recent years with speed. He was good handling power, one of the best in the NFL. That's what got him his reputation and pro bowls. He used to be a very good center. But what mobility he did have is completely gone. And given his knee issues, which required off-season surgery, he cannot bend his knees anymore. He cannot get leverage any more. He cannot handle power any more.Garrett is making the right move here. As much as I respect Andre's work for the Cowboys over the last 9 years, its time. To quote the coach who figured out how to unlook his potential, Bill Parcells, "It is what it is." Andre became a "progress stopper".So in comes Phil Costa, the 2nd year man who was a UDFA lasst year. He's a RKG. "Right Kind of Guy". In Garrett speak, that means someone who's hungry. Someone who wants to be there to seize his opportunity. Costa works very hard. He's very smart. He plays with very good technique. There is play by play analysis of him this preseason on some Cowboy boards. Disecting his technique and effectiveness. He has played very well. And he has good mobility, one of the big big things you're seeing from the new Cowboy O-line. They plan to get the ball in space a LOT and now all of the linemen can play that way. Last season, all the "space" plays were to the left side where mobile Doug Free and Kyle Kosier played and away from the lumbering Bigg Davis and Marc Columbo. Now, all 5 linemen can run. Garrett can call plays to both sides of the field, unlike last year.This is a good thing for Dallas. Bad news for the defenses they will face.

Just to be clear because you did take the time to really lay this out so I don't want to be too feisty. You have some very good points. However you said if we saw a preseason game...how about the last 9-10 years body of work? Why 1 meaningless preseason game when we know he had surgery in the off season? You talk up Costa as being the RKG, he's hungry, there's a lot of guys in the league hungry, doesn't mean they should all be starting. Dallas OL has only Free left from the LT spot a year ago. Even if it needed to be done they are going to to take some time to gel, and I'm not talking a week or two. I would have to bump Felix down. Also you and everyone else is talking about how stiff this guy is, he's one of the better screen setting Centers in the NFL so I don't know where you all are pulling this from. Good post, highly disagree with it, but I appreciate the fact you went into a lot of detail and not just Gurode stinks Costa is great.

MOP,You are a good guy and know your football. You are off on this one imo. Ridge is a WELL respected Cowboys homer. He and I have debated many issues and I can assure you he knows his Football and his Cowboys football.Its a good move and I understand why they did it.Camp Cupcake is OVER.If Garrett coached this team 2 years ago they win the SB.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

If anyone watched him play the Sunday night preseason game 8 days ago, you got an idea of why he was cut. Andre is a shadow of his former self. Could not move. Could not bend at the knee. Could not adjust to quickness. Could not get to the 2nd level. Could not move his feet to pick up a surprise blitzer. Let defenders get underhim and move him out of the way. And oh, he looked at least 30 pounds overweight.

Andre has struggled in recent years with speed. He was good handling power, one of the best in the NFL. That's what got him his reputation and pro bowls. He used to be a very good center. But what mobility he did have is completely gone. And given his knee issues, which required off-season surgery, he cannot bend his knees anymore. He cannot get leverage any more. He cannot handle power any more.

Garrett is making the right move here. As much as I respect Andre's work for the Cowboys over the last 9 years, its time. To quote the coach who figured out how to unlook his potential, Bill Parcells, "It is what it is." Andre became a "progress stopper".

So in comes Phil Costa, the 2nd year man who was a UDFA lasst year. He's a RKG. "Right Kind of Guy". In Garrett speak, that means someone who's hungry. Someone who wants to be there to seize his opportunity. Costa works very hard. He's very smart. He plays with very good technique. There is play by play analysis of him this preseason on some Cowboy boards. Disecting his technique and effectiveness. He has played very well.

And he has good mobility, one of the big big things you're seeing from the new Cowboy O-line. They plan to get the ball in space a LOT and now all of the linemen can play that way. Last season, all the "space" plays were to the left side where mobile Doug Free and Kyle Kosier played and away from the lumbering Bigg Davis and Marc Columbo. Now, all 5 linemen can run. Garrett can call plays to both sides of the field, unlike last year.

This is a good thing for Dallas. Bad news for the defenses they will face.

Just to be clear because you did take the time to really lay this out so I don't want to be too feisty. You have some very good points. However you said if we saw a preseason game...how about the last 9-10 years body of work? Why 1 meaningless preseason game when we know he had surgery in the off season?

You talk up Costa as being the RKG, he's hungry, there's a lot of guys in the league hungry, doesn't mean they should all be starting.

Dallas OL has only Free left from the LT spot a year ago. Even if it needed to be done they are going to to take some time to gel, and I'm not talking a week or two.

I would have to bump Felix down. Also you and everyone else is talking about how stiff this guy is, he's one of the better screen setting Centers in the NFL so I don't know where you all are pulling this from.

Good post, highly disagree with it, but I appreciate the fact you went into a lot of detail and not just Gurode stinks Costa is great.

MOP,You are a good guy and know your football. You are off on this one imo. Ridge is a WELL respected Cowboys homer. He and I have debated many issues and I can assure you he knows his Football and his Cowboys football.

Its a good move and I understand why they did it.

Camp Cupcake is OVER.

If Garrett coached this team 2 years ago they win the SB.

Your a good guy too and it definitely means something when you vouch for another poster. I thin I was pretty soft in my response. That said, these types of statements is what drives Dallas hate and also makes folks think "You can't talk to Cowboys fans"...you all have the best stadium, big screen TV, Jerry understand all that stuff but actually getting it done on the field, the hype is far ahead of the product right now.

That OL is going to need time IMO.

 

[Ridgelake]

Just to be clear because you did take the time to really lay this out so I don't want to be too feisty. You have some very good points.

However you said if we saw a preseason game...how about the last 9-10 years body of work? Why 1 meaningless preseason game when we know he had surgery in the off season?

You talk up Costa as being the RKG, he's hungry, there's a lot of guys in the league hungry, doesn't mean they should all be starting.

Dallas OL has only Free left from the LT spot a year ago. Even if it needed to be done they are going to to take some time to gel, and I'm not talking a week or two.

I would have to bump Felix down. Also you and everyone else is talking about how stiff this guy is, he's one of the better screen setting Centers in the NFL so I don't know where you all are pulling this from.

Good post, highly disagree with it, but I appreciate the fact you went into a lot of detail and not just Gurode stinks Costa is great.

I do watch most every Cowboy game. I have for years. So I am not dismissing his long term contribution. But also by watching him over the years, his significant decline is quite evident. He has been declining materially for the last couple of years. Last year, he was easily confused and was regularly beaten by speed. This was before his latest knee surgery. And substantial weight gain. What little mobility and athleticism is now completely gone. And so is his ability to use good technique. He can no longer bend. He can no longer use leverage.I am not going to say that every thing is now rosy on the OL. They will be starting 2 rookies and a 2nd year UDFA. It would be foolish to believe there won't be growing pains. But just as Tyron Smith replacing the faded warrior Columbo to become a material upgrade, Phil Costa is the same thing over Gurode. Costa will get overpowered occasionally. He will get fooled from inexperience. To quote Parcells again, he will be "less than perfect". But he will play with technique. He will make line calls. He will get out in space and the 2nd level. He will make the team better THIS YEAR.

Lets not fool ourselves. Dallas is rebuilding this year. They are remaking the OL this year. Next year gets the DL and DBs. But their hands were forced on the OL. Gurode, Davis, and Columbo are all done.

 

[Ridgelake]

And MOP, I do appreciate the candor that you've been using. Some would wade in bashing. But I recognize the class and quality post that you represent.

Cheers.

 

[LarryAllen'sJockstrap]

Local word is that his knees have taken a lot of damage over the years and while he is still a mauler, he doesn't fit the new blocking scheme Garrett is installing. All of the OL they cut this year were similar players; Columbo and Davis. Gurode is more of a grappler with little knee bend, where as the Cows are looking for a cohesive unit that is athletic enough to move as one and get out to the second level.That leaves only 2 starting OL from last season; Free and Losier. Look at the age difference from last year to this year:2010:LT: Free - 26LG: Kosier - 31C: Gurode - 32RG: Davis - 32RT: Columbo - 322011:LT: Free - 27LG: Bill Nagy - 23C: Phil Costa - 24RG: Kosier - 32RT: Tyrom Smith - 20They went from being an average age of 30.6 on opening day 2010 to a projected age of 25 on opening day 2011.

But as a Cowboy fan, aren't you scared about this line?

Definitely; it's the unknown, especially with esentially three rookies. They knew what they had in Gurode/Davis/Kosier, which for their share of warts, wasn't all that bad. They didn't lose those guys to free agency or have to cut them to clear cap or save money. They did it to go in a different direction, and as a fan, you gotta have faith and hope the coaches/mangement made the right call. We'll know in a couple of weeks.

 

[Ridgelake]

As a fantasy football player, this is a time when you ask yourself how much you really believe in Jason Garrett. I like the guy a lot so I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt on this one, but it certainly is a head scratcher and could portend a different season from Dallas this year than many expect.

You may be plesantly surprised. People who only follow the Cowboys occasionally usually don't understand how limited Garrett was last year in his play calling. He did not trust the OL. They could not effectively run block in short yardage. They could not be trusted to pass protect for long. They became extremely left handed with screens and space plays because only the left side of the OL could move. Garrett was forced to run shotgun from inside the opponent's 5 yard line because they could not run effectively. He could use very few slow-developing plays because the line was unlikely to pass block long enough. Dink and dunk was what they had to do. Especially after Romo when down and his ability to buy time in the pocket.This year, the OL is balanced. Now all 5 guys can move and be effective in space. It is zero coincidence that the 2 holdovers from last year are the 2 that could move. Garrett will be able to call plays to both sides of the field this year.Training camp also showed WRs doing something new relative to last year. They were working on long developing routes. Double and triple moves. Garrett didn't even try those last year.I have a good bet that Romo's YPA goes up this year. When he came on the scene in 2006, Dallas devestated defenses with TO and Glenn getting deep. The OL was still good then. But each year, as the OL declined, the passes were shorter and shorter. Romo had less and less time. Garrett reverted more and more to quick passes. I have a feeling you're going to see more long plays this year.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

So his teammates placed an expensive, stationary object in front of Gurode's locker, and that's a vote in his favor?

 

[Mr. Fusion]

Dear Buffalo: this would solve your LG problem. Gurode at C and Wood back to LG.

 

[thayman]

If anyone watched him play the Sunday night preseason game 8 days ago, you got an idea of why he was cut. Andre is a shadow of his former self. Could not move. Could not bend at the knee. Could not adjust to quickness. Could not get to the 2nd level. Could not move his feet to pick up a surprise blitzer. Let defenders get underhim and move him out of the way. And oh, he looked at least 30 pounds overweight.

Andre has struggled in recent years with speed. He was good handling power, one of the best in the NFL. That's what got him his reputation and pro bowls. He used to be a very good center. But what mobility he did have is completely gone. And given his knee issues, which required off-season surgery, he cannot bend his knees anymore. He cannot get leverage any more. He cannot handle power any more.

Garrett is making the right move here. As much as I respect Andre's work for the Cowboys over the last 9 years, its time. To quote the coach who figured out how to unlook his potential, Bill Parcells, "It is what it is." Andre became a "progress stopper".

So in comes Phil Costa, the 2nd year man who was a UDFA lasst year. He's a RKG. "Right Kind of Guy". In Garrett speak, that means someone who's hungry. Someone who wants to be there to seize his opportunity. Costa works very hard. He's very smart. He plays with very good technique. There is play by play analysis of him this preseason on some Cowboy boards. Disecting his technique and effectiveness. He has played very well.

And he has good mobility, one of the big big things you're seeing from the new Cowboy O-line. They plan to get the ball in space a LOT and now all of the linemen can play that way. Last season, all the "space" plays were to the left side where mobile Doug Free and Kyle Kosier played and away from the lumbering Bigg Davis and Marc Columbo. Now, all 5 linemen can run. Garrett can call plays to both sides of the field, unlike last year.

This is a good thing for Dallas. Bad news for the defenses they will face.

Just to be clear because you did take the time to really lay this out so I don't want to be too feisty. You have some very good points. However you said if we saw a preseason game...how about the last 9-10 years body of work? Why 1 meaningless preseason game when we know he had surgery in the off season?

You talk up Costa as being the RKG, he's hungry, there's a lot of guys in the league hungry, doesn't mean they should all be starting.

Dallas OL has only Free left from the LT spot a year ago. Even if it needed to be done they are going to to take some time to gel, and I'm not talking a week or two.

I would have to bump Felix down. Also you and everyone else is talking about how stiff this guy is, he's one of the better screen setting Centers in the NFL so I don't know where you all are pulling this from.

Good post, highly disagree with it, but I appreciate the fact you went into a lot of detail and not just Gurode stinks Costa is great.

MOP,You are a good guy and know your football. You are off on this one imo. Ridge is a WELL respected Cowboys homer. He and I have debated many issues and I can assure you he knows his Football and his Cowboys football.

Its a good move and I understand why they did it.

Camp Cupcake is OVER.

If Garrett coached this team 2 years ago they win the SB.

Your a good guy too and it definitely means something when you vouch for another poster. I thin I was pretty soft in my response. That said, these types of statements is what drives Dallas hate and also makes folks think "You can't talk to Cowboys fans"...you all have the best stadium, big screen TV, Jerry understand all that stuff but actually getting it done on the field, the hype is far ahead of the product right now.

That OL is going to need time IMO.

Bankerguy and Ridgelake are quality guys. Coming from a Redskins fan they are among the few Cowboy fans you can talk to honestly about either team. Definitly have good info.....well maybe not Bankerguy about Bennet a couple of years ago...........

 

[Bankerguy]

If anyone watched him play the Sunday night preseason game 8 days ago, you got an idea of why he was cut. Andre is a shadow of his former self. Could not move. Could not bend at the knee. Could not adjust to quickness. Could not get to the 2nd level. Could not move his feet to pick up a surprise blitzer. Let defenders get underhim and move him out of the way. And oh, he looked at least 30 pounds overweight.

Andre has struggled in recent years with speed. He was good handling power, one of the best in the NFL. That's what got him his reputation and pro bowls. He used to be a very good center. But what mobility he did have is completely gone. And given his knee issues, which required off-season surgery, he cannot bend his knees anymore. He cannot get leverage any more. He cannot handle power any more.

Garrett is making the right move here. As much as I respect Andre's work for the Cowboys over the last 9 years, its time. To quote the coach who figured out how to unlook his potential, Bill Parcells, "It is what it is." Andre became a "progress stopper".

So in comes Phil Costa, the 2nd year man who was a UDFA lasst year. He's a RKG. "Right Kind of Guy". In Garrett speak, that means someone who's hungry. Someone who wants to be there to seize his opportunity. Costa works very hard. He's very smart. He plays with very good technique. There is play by play analysis of him this preseason on some Cowboy boards. Disecting his technique and effectiveness. He has played very well.

And he has good mobility, one of the big big things you're seeing from the new Cowboy O-line. They plan to get the ball in space a LOT and now all of the linemen can play that way. Last season, all the "space" plays were to the left side where mobile Doug Free and Kyle Kosier played and away from the lumbering Bigg Davis and Marc Columbo. Now, all 5 linemen can run. Garrett can call plays to both sides of the field, unlike last year.

This is a good thing for Dallas. Bad news for the defenses they will face.

Just to be clear because you did take the time to really lay this out so I don't want to be too feisty. You have some very good points. However you said if we saw a preseason game...how about the last 9-10 years body of work? Why 1 meaningless preseason game when we know he had surgery in the off season?

You talk up Costa as being the RKG, he's hungry, there's a lot of guys in the league hungry, doesn't mean they should all be starting.

Dallas OL has only Free left from the LT spot a year ago. Even if it needed to be done they are going to to take some time to gel, and I'm not talking a week or two.

I would have to bump Felix down. Also you and everyone else is talking about how stiff this guy is, he's one of the better screen setting Centers in the NFL so I don't know where you all are pulling this from.

Good post, highly disagree with it, but I appreciate the fact you went into a lot of detail and not just Gurode stinks Costa is great.

MOP,You are a good guy and know your football. You are off on this one imo. Ridge is a WELL respected Cowboys homer. He and I have debated many issues and I can assure you he knows his Football and his Cowboys football.

Its a good move and I understand why they did it.

Camp Cupcake is OVER.

If Garrett coached this team 2 years ago they win the SB.

Your a good guy too and it definitely means something when you vouch for another poster. I thin I was pretty soft in my response. That said, these types of statements is what drives Dallas hate and also makes folks think "You can't talk to Cowboys fans"...you all have the best stadium, big screen TV, Jerry understand all that stuff but actually getting it done on the field, the hype is far ahead of the product right now.

That OL is going to need time IMO.

Bankerguy and Ridgelake are quality guys. Coming from a Redskins fan they are among the few Cowboy fans you can talk to honestly about either team. Definitly have good info.....well maybe not Bankerguy about Bennet a couple of years ago...........

Thanks. You are dead right about Ridge too. Yup....that was a miss. Although he (Bennett) was given every opportunity that year. Hell I saw the opener in Tampa that year and Bennett must have had 6 red zone targets and zero scores.