Dallas makes an offer to extend MB3 contract (1 Viewer)

[Mustang Man]

Cowboys | Team offers Barber new deal (FROM KFFL)

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:36:14 -0700

Calvin Watkins, of The Dallas Morning News, reports the Dallas Cowboys offered restricted free-agent RB Marion Barber III a financial package in the $30 million range Thursday, April 17. Barber apparently wants a package between $40 million and $60 million. The Cowboys are willing to give Barber a contract close to what the Baltimore Ravens gave RB Willis McGahee last year, a seven-year deal worth $40.12 million, according to sources.

I think you will hear Dallas trying to extend other players as well to open some cap room for a draft day trade for a vet wr.

 

[supa mann]

Just heard a quick blurb this morning on Sirius NFL. Said Barber reportedly wants a deal similar to the one just signed by LJ and Portis.

 

[{Syrus}]

I now fully expect Dallas to draft a RB in round one in case they need the rookie to start in '09, just in case contract talks break down with Barber and Rosenhaus.

1.22 Felix Jones, RB

1.28 Kenny Phillips, S (Ken Hamlin's or Roy William's successor)

 

[Mustang Man]

I now fully expect Dallas to draft a RB in round one in case they need the rookie to start in '09, just in case contract talks break down with Barber and Rosenhaus. 1.22 Felix Jones, RB1.28 Kenny Phillips, S (Roy William's successor)

Without question F.Jones will be drafted by Dallas and I could see Phillips or A CB.

 

[{Syrus}]

I now fully expect Dallas to draft a RB in round one in case they need the rookie to start in '09, just in case contract talks break down with Barber and Rosenhaus. 1.22 Felix Jones, RB1.28 Kenny Phillips, S (Roy William's successor)

Without question F.Jones will be drafted by Dallas and I could see Phillips or A CB.

This is a critical draft for Dallas. They're facing some costly contract extensions on the horizion: RB Marion Barber, S Ken Hamlin, CB Terrance Newman, DE/OLB Demarcus Ware. We all know D-Ware is going to get paid. Depending on the outcome of this draft, one or two of the others may be looking for money elsewhere in the future. With a team full of pro-bowlers the unfortunate reality is that not everybody can get paid.Edit to add: Which is why Jerry Jones knows this year and next are his best opportunity to bring home Lombardi trophies because once contract extensions start piling up some of these pro-bowl players may be as good as gone.

 

[IndyHavoc]

Anyone else feel like Barber has really dodged the injury bullet? He just runs so hard, I keep waiting for him to get serious injury over the last season (even with limited touches). Not a 'boys fan, but I think giving this guy more than McGahee money would be a big mistake. Hell, even KC might be regretting giving LJ...LJ money.

 

[Bankerguy]

Barber needs to put the crack pipe down. IF....he carries the load and performs well, he will get paid. He needs to show a little more before asking for the type of money. Although with BIG Drew as the agent, it doesn't surprise me.

 

[{Syrus}]

Anyone else feel like Barber has really dodged the injury bullet? He just runs so hard, I keep waiting for him to get serious injury over the last season (even with limited touches). Not a 'boys fan, but I think giving this guy more than McGahee money would be a big mistake. Hell, even KC might be regretting giving LJ...LJ money.

Barber has been durable, and maybe even lucky to avoid injury. One thing I've noticed is that with extended carries he does tone down his attacking style of running a bit. If he were an every down back, he'd almost assuredly have to run smarter and head out of bounds and live to fight another play. Though Dallas seems to want to keep his fire lit strong and have him share time with another back so he can keep punishing defenders and provide a spark for the team, which begs the question...why pay him top dollar?

 

[switz]

Cowboys | Team offers Barber new deal (FROM KFFL)Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:36:14 -0700Calvin Watkins, of The Dallas Morning News, reports the Dallas Cowboys offered restricted free-agent RB Marion Barber III a financial package in the $30 million range Thursday, April 17. Barber apparently wants a package between $40 million and $60 million. The Cowboys are willing to give Barber a contract close to what the Baltimore Ravens gave RB Willis McGahee last year, a seven-year deal worth $40.12 million, according to sources. I think you will hear Dallas trying to extend other players as well to open some cap room for a draft day trade for a vet wr.

I heard they are 20-30 million apart in what JJ offered and what Barber wants... Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard. I see the paper has 40, but I hadn't heard that at all. Steep money for an unproven back IMO.

 

[Sweet Love]

Cowboys | Team offers Barber new deal (FROM KFFL)Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:36:14 -0700Calvin Watkins, of The Dallas Morning News, reports the Dallas Cowboys offered restricted free-agent RB Marion Barber III a financial package in the $30 million range Thursday, April 17. Barber apparently wants a package between $40 million and $60 million. The Cowboys are willing to give Barber a contract close to what the Baltimore Ravens gave RB Willis McGahee last year, a seven-year deal worth $40.12 million, according to sources. I think you will hear Dallas trying to extend other players as well to open some cap room for a draft day trade for a vet wr.

I heard they are 20-30 million apart in what JJ offered and what Barber wants... Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard. I see the paper has 40, but I hadn't heard that at all. Steep money for an unproven back IMO.

To say he is "Unproven" is a little extreme. In three years he has rushed for over 2100 yards, averages 4.5 yards/carry and has 33 total TDs.I know he does not have the yards (mostly due to opportunity), but when you look at his TDs, compare some of these all-time backs in their first three years:Curtis Martin - 37 TDsJerome Bettis - 14 TDS and averaged under 4 yards/carryThurman Thomas - 27 TDs and roughly 4.4 yards/carryTerrel Davis - 38 TDs, roughly 4.6 yards/carryHe is hanging with these guys in these two categories and you can't blame him for not having an opportunity to have the ball in his hands more...he makes the most of his oppy's...in fact, it is amazing he is doing what he has done with so few carries.Now to address the "goal line" vulture arguement (here are just a few I picked):Moe Williams: 25 TDS (career) and 4.2 averageLeroy Hoard (best three years with Minny): 24 TDs and about a 3.7 yards/carry averageIron Head Heyward: (total Career 11 years): 34 TDs, 4.2 yards/carryObviously he is not a "typical" goalline back and with this big salary cap (in '08) I see no reason why he does not deserve 30-40 million. It is the 'Boys fault for not seeing whether he could carry the load when they knew they would not retain Julius Jones.

 

[Mustang Man]

Cowboys | Barber to start in 2008 (from KFFL)

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:36:57 -0700

Calvin Watkins, of The Dallas Morning News, reports Dallas Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips has named RB Marion Barber III the team's starting running back for 2008.

I think this is a move to let MB3 know even when Dallas drafts a rb in the first round he WILL still be the starter. Just to ease what could be an emotional situation being he is looking for long term deal. I think they will get this deal done but they will not pay him LJ money and it will be( should be) below Willis money. If he needs more then that he will be gone after this year and Felix Jones will be the starter in 2009. Hope he stays cause he is a winner and a top half talent starting rb but just not an elite back. Very smart player and needs to get paid. I just hope Barber realizes the situation he is in is great and has given him the opportunity to get paid. If he goes to a team that over pays for him and then 2 years later sees he should have stayed cause the grass is not greener on the other side(ex- Edggerin James) . It will be to late and he will fade to nothing. Be smart and take a few million less to stay with a winner and you will make it back in the long run.

 

[switz]

It is the 'Boys fault for not seeing whether he could carry the load when they knew they would not retain Julius Jones.

I actually think they did try to see if he could carry the load last season, and he did very well overall when called upon.

09/23	@ CHI	15	102	6.810/21	MIN	19	96	5.111/04	@ PHI16	56	3.511/18	WAS  15	43	2.911/22	NYJ	18	103	5.711/29	 GB	17	81	4.812/22	 @ CAR	22	110	5.001/13	 NYG	27	129	4.8

The problem is in those games where he saw a higher number of carries, his second half performances weren't really good... just for example, in the last game, his longest run (once) in the second half was 4 yards, and most of his runs were 2 yards or less. In the 110 yard game against CAR, he was completely shut down in the second half until the final drive, where he ripped up a 9 and 11 yard run when the game was past CAR's reach.I've got a rep as a Barber hater, and I'm not. I just don't see the guy as being anywhere near a 300 carry back in the NFL. That's 18-19 carries a game, and with his running style and the abuse he takes, he'll wear down if not get injured.

 

[softball]

Cowboys | Team offers Barber new deal (FROM KFFL)Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:36:14 -0700Calvin Watkins, of The Dallas Morning News, reports the Dallas Cowboys offered restricted free-agent RB Marion Barber III a financial package in the $30 million range Thursday, April 17. Barber apparently wants a package between $40 million and $60 million. The Cowboys are willing to give Barber a contract close to what the Baltimore Ravens gave RB Willis McGahee last year, a seven-year deal worth $40.12 million, according to sources. I think you will hear Dallas trying to extend other players as well to open some cap room for a draft day trade for a vet wr.

I heard they are 20-30 million apart in what JJ offered and what Barber wants... Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard. I see the paper has 40, but I hadn't heard that at all. Steep money for an unproven back IMO.

Very steep money indeed. And not worth the investment. See Larry Johnson, Shaun Alexander, Jamal Lewis et al.Then go look a t the Giants and Colts the last two seasons. As much as WE all love LT@ and other great backs, when is the last time a truly great back won the SB? I say it was 34 with Marshall Faulk after that maybe Jamal.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Cowboys | Team offers Barber new deal (FROM KFFL)Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:36:14 -0700Calvin Watkins, of The Dallas Morning News, reports the Dallas Cowboys offered restricted free-agent RB Marion Barber III a financial package in the $30 million range Thursday, April 17. Barber apparently wants a package between $40 million and $60 million. The Cowboys are willing to give Barber a contract close to what the Baltimore Ravens gave RB Willis McGahee last year, a seven-year deal worth $40.12 million, according to sources. I think you will hear Dallas trying to extend other players as well to open some cap room for a draft day trade for a vet wr.

I heard they are 20-30 million apart in what JJ offered and what Barber wants... Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard. I see the paper has 40, but I hadn't heard that at all. Steep money for an unproven back IMO.

To say he is "Unproven" is a little extreme. In three years he has rushed for over 2100 yards, averages 4.5 yards/carry and has 33 total TDs.I know he does not have the yards (mostly due to opportunity), but when you look at his TDs, compare some of these all-time backs in their first three years:Curtis Martin - 37 TDsJerome Bettis - 14 TDS and averaged under 4 yards/carryThurman Thomas - 27 TDs and roughly 4.4 yards/carryTerrel Davis - 38 TDs, roughly 4.6 yards/carryHe is hanging with these guys in these two categories and you can't blame him for not having an opportunity to have the ball in his hands more...he makes the most of his oppy's...in fact, it is amazing he is doing what he has done with so few carries.Now to address the "goal line" vulture arguement (here are just a few I picked):Moe Williams: 25 TDS (career) and 4.2 averageLeroy Hoard (best three years with Minny): 24 TDs and about a 3.7 yards/carry averageIron Head Heyward: (total Career 11 years): 34 TDs, 4.2 yards/carryObviously he is not a "typical" goalline back and with this big salary cap (in '08) I see no reason why he does not deserve 30-40 million. It is the 'Boys fault for not seeing whether he could carry the load when they knew they would not retain Julius Jones.

I just wanted to applaud both you and Switz. I think you make a great argument or rebuttal to what Switz posted, however I also feel as Switz does and if I were Jerry Jones or any other owner for that matter I would seriously question the thought of forking over $50 Million or more for MB III...not saying he isn't a great RB but the fact is he hasn't had to carry the whole load and also the 2 back system seems to help us, so no matter what we pay our RB1 there will always be an RB2 with a prominant role on our roster. This means that the system is more important than the player...as a fan I would want this.

 

[supa mann]

Cowboys | Team offers Barber new deal (FROM KFFL)Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:36:14 -0700Calvin Watkins, of The Dallas Morning News, reports the Dallas Cowboys offered restricted free-agent RB Marion Barber III a financial package in the $30 million range Thursday, April 17. Barber apparently wants a package between $40 million and $60 million. The Cowboys are willing to give Barber a contract close to what the Baltimore Ravens gave RB Willis McGahee last year, a seven-year deal worth $40.12 million, according to sources. I think you will hear Dallas trying to extend other players as well to open some cap room for a draft day trade for a vet wr.

I heard they are 20-30 million apart in what JJ offered and what Barber wants... Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard. I see the paper has 40, but I hadn't heard that at all. Steep money for an unproven back IMO.

Very steep money indeed. And not worth the investment. See Larry Johnson, Shaun Alexander, Jamal Lewis et al.Then go look a t the Giants and Colts the last two seasons. As much as WE all love LT@ and other great backs, when is the last time a truly great back won the SB? I say it was 34 with Marshall Faulk after that maybe Jamal.

Not sure this is a fair statement or comparison. There are plenty of GREAT championship teams that had GREAT RB's. Just because Addai wasn't yet considered great, he is now and was a large part when Indy won it all. The Patriots teams would have won with or without a great RB. There are not many teams ever that compare to the Patriots teams. So ya, you don't need a great RB if the rest of your team and coaching staff is the New England Patriots. Likewise, what the NY Giants did this past season is not all that normal. That was a special team that played special football for all the playoffs. I would not agree to the argument that the NY Giant's would not be a better football team with LT. Barber is definitely part of the makeup of that Dallas offense. I agree with giving him big money. Maybe not LJ money, but if I have a choice of giving the money to MBIII or Portis, I would gladly hand it over to MBIII.

 

[Tyrion]

I have no problem with Barber asking for 50 million. Now will Dallas pay it? Probably not. I would split the difference and go with 40 million or let him play this year and see how he does. He will only be 25 next season so will still be young enough to sign a long term deal and it will give him a chance to show he can carry the load.

 

[kevinray]

7 years is a long time as well. If thats the kind of length they want Barber locked up for I'm not surprised he's trying to cash in. RB's don't have long to get that big deal and he's been as effective as any almost anyone when called upon. If they're this far off then the should try and work out a shorter deal and give Barber the chance at that huge money 3rd contract after he's proven himself. If you want a guy with his success locked up for the entirety of his prime you're going to need to break the bank.

 

[{Syrus}]

I think we'll get a good look at Marion Barber's future with Dallas on draft day.

If Dallas selects a RB in the first round, I believe Marion Barber plays only one more year in Dallas then leaves in free agency and the 1st round rookie takes over in '09 (Ex. Edgerrin James/Joseph Addai).

If Dallas doesn't select a 1st round RB then that points to Dallas hitching their wagon to Marion Barber for the long haul.

Jerry Jones is a smart man and has wisened up to managing a team in the salary cap era. If he's paid attention to Bill Polian's model, you don't invest heavily at RB. You keep the position young, talented, and being played under a rookie contract. As much as Dallas fans want Marion Barber to stay around (me being one of them), I don't want his contract negotiations hindering the team from locking up Demarcus Ware, Terrance Newman, Cris Canty, and Ken Hamlin for the defense.

Bottom line, you don't draft a part-time back in the first round...no way. If Felix Jones or Jonathan Stewart is drafted I'd expect them to start in '09.

 

[DWidmar]

Can Dallas really afford to take a rb in the first round? If they pay Barber $40 million or more, then they have to pay another rb first round money. Seems like a lot of money tied up at that position. We still need CB help, WR help and we have some upcoming contracts to deal with. I think we would be better off taking a 2nd or 3rd round RB and go from there.

 

[rzrback77]

It is the 'Boys fault for not seeing whether he could carry the load when they knew they would not retain Julius Jones.

I actually think they did try to see if he could carry the load last season, and he did very well overall when called upon.

09/23	@ CHI	15	102	6.810/21	MIN	19	96	5.111/04	@ PHI16	56	3.511/18	WAS  15	43	2.911/22	NYJ	18	103	5.711/29	 GB	17	81	4.812/22	 @ CAR	22	110	5.001/13	 NYG	27	129	4.8

The problem is in those games where he saw a higher number of carries, his second half performances weren't really good... just for example, in the last game, his longest run (once) in the second half was 4 yards, and most of his runs were 2 yards or less. In the 110 yard game against CAR, he was completely shut down in the second half until the final drive, where he ripped up a 9 and 11 yard run when the game was past CAR's reach.I've got a rep as a Barber hater, and I'm not. I just don't see the guy as being anywhere near a 300 carry back in the NFL. That's 18-19 carries a game, and with his running style and the abuse he takes, he'll wear down if not get injured.

Cautionary flag as 3.5 ypc against Philly, 2.96 ypc against Wash and 4.8 ypc against NYG. lowest numbers against division foes.

 

[Ghost Rider]

Given Barber's physical style of play, why would Dallas give them that much money? History has shown that most RBs who play with an extremely physical style like Barber does have a very short NFL shelf life.

 

[TheBaylorKid]

Can Dallas really afford to take a rb in the first round? If they pay Barber $40 million or more, then they have to pay another rb first round money. Seems like a lot of money tied up at that position. We still need CB help, WR help and we have some upcoming contracts to deal with. I think we would be better off taking a 2nd or 3rd round RB and go from there.

Pick1st Rd22. (from Cleveland) Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie28 Felix Jones2nd RdTrade up to around pick 50 and take Ray RiceWould this be a cheaper option than Barber?And what would you do with Barber then? Let him hold out?

 

[Sweet Love]

Cowboys | Team offers Barber new deal (FROM KFFL)Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:36:14 -0700Calvin Watkins, of The Dallas Morning News, reports the Dallas Cowboys offered restricted free-agent RB Marion Barber III a financial package in the $30 million range Thursday, April 17. Barber apparently wants a package between $40 million and $60 million. The Cowboys are willing to give Barber a contract close to what the Baltimore Ravens gave RB Willis McGahee last year, a seven-year deal worth $40.12 million, according to sources. I think you will hear Dallas trying to extend other players as well to open some cap room for a draft day trade for a vet wr.

I heard they are 20-30 million apart in what JJ offered and what Barber wants... Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard. I see the paper has 40, but I hadn't heard that at all. Steep money for an unproven back IMO.

To say he is "Unproven" is a little extreme. In three years he has rushed for over 2100 yards, averages 4.5 yards/carry and has 33 total TDs.I know he does not have the yards (mostly due to opportunity), but when you look at his TDs, compare some of these all-time backs in their first three years:Curtis Martin - 37 TDsJerome Bettis - 14 TDS and averaged under 4 yards/carryThurman Thomas - 27 TDs and roughly 4.4 yards/carryTerrel Davis - 38 TDs, roughly 4.6 yards/carryHe is hanging with these guys in these two categories and you can't blame him for not having an opportunity to have the ball in his hands more...he makes the most of his oppy's...in fact, it is amazing he is doing what he has done with so few carries.Now to address the "goal line" vulture arguement (here are just a few I picked):Moe Williams: 25 TDS (career) and 4.2 averageLeroy Hoard (best three years with Minny): 24 TDs and about a 3.7 yards/carry averageIron Head Heyward: (total Career 11 years): 34 TDs, 4.2 yards/carryObviously he is not a "typical" goalline back and with this big salary cap (in '08) I see no reason why he does not deserve 30-40 million. It is the 'Boys fault for not seeing whether he could carry the load when they knew they would not retain Julius Jones.

I just wanted to applaud both you and Switz. I think you make a great argument or rebuttal to what Switz posted, however I also feel as Switz does and if I were Jerry Jones or any other owner for that matter I would seriously question the thought of forking over $50 Million or more for MB III...not saying he isn't a great RB but the fact is he hasn't had to carry the whole load and also the 2 back system seems to help us, so no matter what we pay our RB1 there will always be an RB2 with a prominant role on our roster. This means that the system is more important than the player...as a fan I would want this.

Thanks and I definitely appreciate the arguement both you and Switz are making in favor of not paying Barber that type of money. I normally would agree, but I think Barber is a very special case here. He has (1) proven that he can be productive and (2) has very little NFL and college (IIRC) wear on him and is only 25. Many times in cases like this we are looking at a 27 year old RB who has ben grinding it out for 5-6 years (ala Alexander) and this is just not the case for Barber. I am not sure what the Dallas cap situation looks like, but if they have the room, they could always lock him up and instead of going with Felix Jones, draft a guy like Slaton a couple of rounds later and still have that 1-2 punch that has made them successful. There are a lot of guys each year like Slaton and Jones, but it is much tougher to find the bruising complementary back that can stay healthy.

 

[DWidmar]

Can Dallas really afford to take a rb in the first round? If they pay Barber $40 million or more, then they have to pay another rb first round money. Seems like a lot of money tied up at that position. We still need CB help, WR help and we have some upcoming contracts to deal with. I think we would be better off taking a 2nd or 3rd round RB and go from there.

Pick1st Rd22. (from Cleveland) Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie28 Felix Jones2nd RdTrade up to around pick 50 and take Ray RiceWould this be a cheaper option than Barber?And what would you do with Barber then? Let him hold out?

They would sign Barber to a one year deal. Then draft a RB in the first round and pick up another back next off season or next year in the draft. I dont think you draft two this year although I like the depth this year.

 

[Boston]

IMO Barber is worth somewhere between Turner and LJ money. While the kid hasn't been a legit #1 with Dallas he's shown far more than Turner has. It's not even close. Barber and Dallas are a great fit and it makes a lot of sense for both parties. I really think they get something done. If not I think Barber will cash in in a big way next offseason.

Whether Dallas drafts a first rounder or a second-third rounder (and they should draft a RB because they need one) I see Barber's role increasing (as long as the back drafted isn't McFsadden...than all bets are off). Barber is just hitting his stride and I feel he can definetly increase his workload from last year in a successful manner. He's young, tough, has good size, is in a great situation and so far has been durable. One other thing I really like about him is he's a scorer. Whether it's hockey, hoops or football some guys just have a knack for putting points on the board and Barber definetly has that talent. 28 TDs in two seasons is the real deal.

I also think he'll be better if Dallas has another quality back that can give him a breather and keep him fresh. He's proven he doesn't need to get the ball 20 carries a game to make a big impact...but I do think he'll get it more this year than at any point of his career. I think he's hitting the prime of his career and I expect him to keep his value with his next contract as well as being a top 10 fantasy RB that will make his owners very happy.

 

[fun-b]

Barber needs to put the crack pipe down. IF....he carries the load and performs well, he will get paid. He needs to show a little more before asking for the type of money. Although with BIG Drew as the agent, it doesn't surprise me.

Are we forgetting MBIII was a Pro Bowler last year? I would think that counts as "performing".

 

[BigJim®]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

 

[Beergogglz]

You do not pay RB's big bucks when there are so many potential workhorses out there. Is this really news to most NFL GM's at this point in time?

 

[Bob Magaw]

not too many people think barber has earned LT money...

if rosenhaus isn't really expecting that but using it as a negotiating tactic to get more money in a compromise, maybe they can get something done... i could see more than mcgahee money as a benchmark, as he has outplayed mcgahee...

it would make things very interesting if negotiations get acrimonious, & jonathan stewart were available with the 1.22 (i'd say about 50-50?)...

if they were confident barber was going to sign, felix jones would be better complementary RB...

stewart is the pick if they think they are in need of feature RB insurance... if DAL thinks stewart can be as good or better, & they can get him for 1.22 money, maybe franchise barber or trade him, they could use the $40-50 mill it might take to sign barber instead on ware (possibly hamlin)...

i think DAL wants to get something done, but on their terms, with a deal that makes sense to them & represents approximate market value... if he is looking for crazy money, the cowboys could have options if pushed...

 

[Bob Magaw]

Barber needs to put the crack pipe down. IF....he carries the load and performs well, he will get paid. He needs to show a little more before asking for the type of money. Although with BIG Drew as the agent, it doesn't surprise me.

Are we forgetting MBIII was a Pro Bowler last year? I would think that counts as "performing".

he had a good season... a well deserved pro bowl season...but to suggest he deserves LT money is to say his body of work equals LT...it doesn't... not even close...

 

[Bankerguy]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

5 years...not 8.By MAC ENGEL

tengel@star-telegram.com

Marion Barber is expected to be the starting running back for the Cowboys in the fall, and now he’s hoping to be paid like one of the best in the league.

The Cowboys on Wednesday offered him a five-year deal worth a total of about $30 million, according to an NFL source. Barber was originally hoping to land a contract worth at least $40 million.

The Cowboys tendered the restricted free agent a $2.5 million offer, which would require another team to give Dallas its first- and third-round draft picks to sign Barber.

Barber’s agent is Drew Rosenhaus, who also represents other Cowboys players, including Terrell Owens and Zach Thomas. Rosenhaus wanted to land Barber a contract in the same neighborhood as some of the more established starting backs in the league, such as San Diego’s LaDainian Tomlinson and Kansas City’s Larry Johnson.

Barber is coming off his most productive NFL season, in which he backed up Julius Jones in all 16 regular-season games. Barber rushed for 975 yards on 204 carries with 10 touchdowns. He was named to the Pro Bowl, and started in the the Cowboys' only playoff game, a loss against the Giants.

Jones signed as a free agent with the Seattle Seahawks during the offseason. Barber will be the starter this season, but it’s expected the Cowboys will use a high draft pick on a player to back him up.

Mac Engel, 817-390-7760

 

[Tyrion]

Barber needs to put the crack pipe down. IF....he carries the load and performs well, he will get paid. He needs to show a little more before asking for the type of money. Although with BIG Drew as the agent, it doesn't surprise me.

Are we forgetting MBIII was a Pro Bowler last year? I would think that counts as "performing".

he had a good season... a well deserved pro bowl season...but to suggest he deserves LT money is to say his body of work equals LT...it doesn't... not even close...

Market value usually determines a player's contract and it seems like body of work is not the managing factor. Need, available free money in the market, age of the player, potential of the player and then body of work. The problem Barber is going to run into is that most teams are not hurting in the Running back position and this year's draft appears to be very deep. So while you can say that Dallas "needs" his services, Dallas has the necessary picks to solidify the position. Now if Dallas doesn't fill that need in the Draft then Barber's value will go up into the 50 million dollar range.

 

[BigJim®]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

5 years...not 8.

Thanks for the link; 8 sounded preposterous.

 

[switz]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

I would think "from what I heard" would indicate there was no link. I didn't say "from what I read"... it was a quick blurb earlier that day on ESPN.

 

[switz]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

5 years...not 8.

Thanks for the link; 8 sounded preposterous.

You take issue with my hearing 8 years in a quick blurb on ESPN, but not with the post I was replying to saying he wanted a 7 year deal? What gives?

 

[BigJim®]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

I would think "from what I heard" would indicate there was no link. I didn't say "from what I read"... it was a quick blurb earlier that day on ESPN.

Your track record presenting fiction as fact speaks for itself. That's why I didn't even bother asking you. Of course you didn't have anything to substantiate and would go straight to the semantics defense. You were apparently the only person on the board, or in the NFL media for that matter, to hear that 8-year report. Basically the theory in Dallas is "We don't believe in you to pay you as a top flight starter, but we want to make sure we lock you up for 8 years?" Riiight. FWIW, I think Dallas should shoot for the mythical 10-year contract.

 

[Bankerguy]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

I would think "from what I heard" would indicate there was no link. I didn't say "from what I read"... it was a quick blurb earlier that day on ESPN.

Your track record presenting fiction as fact speaks for itself. That's why I didn't even bother asking you. Of course you didn't have anything to substantiate and would go straight to the semantics defense. You were apparently the only person on the board, or in the NFL media for that matter, to hear that 8-year report. Basically the theory in Dallas is "We don't believe in you to pay you as a top flight starter, but we want to make sure we lock you up for 8 years?" Riiight. FWIW, I think Dallas should shoot for the mythical 10-year contract.

To think Dallas would even bother to offer 30mill for that duration is just silly. Barber and Drew would wipe there ### with the paper it was written on. If you heard it as a blurb, it must have been from someone who:a) Meant to say 5 years

b) Is an idiot

 

[switz]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

I would think "from what I heard" would indicate there was no link. I didn't say "from what I read"... it was a quick blurb earlier that day on ESPN.

Your track record presenting fiction as fact speaks for itself. That's why I didn't even bother asking you. Of course you didn't have anything to substantiate and would go straight to the semantics defense. You were apparently the only person on the board, or in the NFL media for that matter, to hear that 8-year report. Basically the theory in Dallas is "We don't believe in you to pay you as a top flight starter, but we want to make sure we lock you up for 8 years?" Riiight. FWIW, I think Dallas should shoot for the mythical 10-year contract.

#1 I didn't present that it was a fact they offered an 8 year contract. I just said I had heard that... I'm sure you've heard things that aren't fact.#2 - what "track record"? - One thing you disagreed about me with?

#3 - If I misheard, I misheard. But even at that, what I thought I heard was close to what was in the newspaper, about a 7 year contract. I guess those newspapers are staffed with people who believe in mythical things too.

If you really have issue with what I post, don't read my posts. It's really that easy.

 

[switz]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

I would think "from what I heard" would indicate there was no link. I didn't say "from what I read"... it was a quick blurb earlier that day on ESPN.

Your track record presenting fiction as fact speaks for itself. That's why I didn't even bother asking you. Of course you didn't have anything to substantiate and would go straight to the semantics defense. You were apparently the only person on the board, or in the NFL media for that matter, to hear that 8-year report. Basically the theory in Dallas is "We don't believe in you to pay you as a top flight starter, but we want to make sure we lock you up for 8 years?" Riiight. FWIW, I think Dallas should shoot for the mythical 10-year contract.

To think Dallas would even bother to offer 30mill for that duration is just silly. Barber and Drew would wipe there ### with the paper it was written on. If you heard it as a blurb, it must have been from someone who:a) Meant to say 5 years

b) Is an idiot

It was a quick blurb while I was walking by the TV getting ready to leave. For all I know they guy could have said the Boys offered 30-40 million over a 7-8 year contract.One of the benefits of this forum is that a lot of people post what they hear, and deciphering the commonalities of everything gives you an idea of what's accurate.

My time period may have been off, but the total dollars was on... and again I only heard a quick blurb.

 

[BigJim®]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

5 years...not 8.

Thanks for the link; 8 sounded preposterous.

You take issue with my hearing 8 years in a quick blurb on ESPN, but not with the post I was replying to saying he wanted a 7 year deal? What gives?

at the feigned hurt.You claim to have ESPN as your source for an 8 year, $30 million offer ($3.7 mil per year). The first post did report 7 years but for a $40 million deal ($5.7 mil per year). The only thing your 'report' had similar is they both involved years and money. When other reports out of Dallas suggest the Cowboys view Turner's 6 year/$34.5 million ($5.75 million per year) as a reasonable benchmark, I think your report might just be a tad off, oh say by about half the value of the contract. Other than that it is almost exactly in line with the initial report.

 

[Bankerguy]

Cowboys were offering 30 million over 8 years from what I heard.

Can anyone link this? This I have to see.

I would think "from what I heard" would indicate there was no link. I didn't say "from what I read"... it was a quick blurb earlier that day on ESPN.

Your track record presenting fiction as fact speaks for itself. That's why I didn't even bother asking you. Of course you didn't have anything to substantiate and would go straight to the semantics defense. You were apparently the only person on the board, or in the NFL media for that matter, to hear that 8-year report. Basically the theory in Dallas is "We don't believe in you to pay you as a top flight starter, but we want to make sure we lock you up for 8 years?" Riiight. FWIW, I think Dallas should shoot for the mythical 10-year contract.

To think Dallas would even bother to offer 30mill for that duration is just silly. Barber and Drew would wipe there ### with the paper it was written on. If you heard it as a blurb, it must have been from someone who:a) Meant to say 5 years

b) Is an idiot

It was a quick blurb while I was walking by the TV getting ready to leave. For all I know they guy could have said the Boys offered 30-40 million over a 7-8 year contract.One of the benefits of this forum is that a lot of people post what they hear, and deciphering the commonalities of everything gives you an idea of what's accurate.

My time period may have been off, but the total dollars was on... and again I only heard a quick blurb.

Switz....i'm not calling you out at all. Just saying if you heard elsewhere that person is not well informed. So the ESPN reference makes it very believeable you heard it there.

 

[stubby]

sigh.....maybe FBG should open up an official "board cred" forum for the people that care about these sort of things...

 

[BigJim®]

It was a quick blurb while I was walking by the TV getting ready to leave. For all I know they guy could have said the Boys offered 30-40 million over a 7-8 year contract.

Which is why you would report 8 years $30 mil? And this is why you said in that very post you had not heard anything about $40 million report, which you viewed as steep for an unproven RB? Guy, just quit digging deeper here. You posted a ridiculous contract report which roughly reflects and supports your own opinion of MBIII.

 

[Tyrion]

Cowboys | Team offers Barber new deal (FROM KFFL)Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:36:14 -0700Calvin Watkins, of The Dallas Morning News, reports the Dallas Cowboys offered restricted free-agent RB Marion Barber III a financial package in the $30 million range Thursday, April 17. Barber apparently wants a package between $40 million and $60 million. The Cowboys are willing to give Barber a contract close to what the Baltimore Ravens gave RB Willis McGahee last year, a seven-year deal worth $40.12 million, according to sources. I think you will hear Dallas trying to extend other players as well to open some cap room for a draft day trade for a vet wr.

Wow who ever Calvin Watkin's source was he was good. Barber's deal was very close to McGahee's deal.

 

[switz]

It was a quick blurb while I was walking by the TV getting ready to leave. For all I know they guy could have said the Boys offered 30-40 million over a 7-8 year contract.

Which is why you would report 8 years $30 mil? And this is why you said in that very post you had not heard anything about $40 million report, which you viewed as steep for an unproven RB? Guy, just quit digging deeper here. You posted a ridiculous contract report which roughly reflects and supports your own opinion of MBIII.

You really need to learn to read better. I posted what I heard, as I said in my original post. In the post you quote hear, I said the guy could have said. There is a huge difference between the two.If you think I posted something I heard and then framed based on my opinion, you don't know me very well. And well, you don't know me at all, so that's that.

As for the final contract, it was 7 years - close to the 8 I had thought I heard.

And it was 40 million - between the 30 I heard and the 50 he was reportedly demanding.

Everything I said was on par with what The Dallas Morning News reported, yet I don't hear you calling Calvin Watkins out.

Whether I think 40 is a bit much or not is really an opinion. It's hard to argue against an opinion.

Now don't you think in the future it would be better to actually take the time to read and comprehend what people type before calling them out?

I also wanted to edit this to add: I find it rather flattering that of all the people in this that posted negative things about Barber, you want my attention so much that you bothered to reply to mine, and attack my post. I also saw in another thread, you popped in to comment on my post, something short and rather worthless. You really don't need to follow me around, you just need to go find some friends. I'm pretty sure that if you had friends you would feel better about yourself, and maybe then you could find some time to add something useful to these boards, instead of stalking people.