**** Official 2008 Dallas Cowboys Off Season Thread**** (1 Viewer)

[Texasmouth]

CB

CB

FS

RB

O Line

There is my wish list. In that order for the draft. I will expand on this when I have more time....

About two games earlier than I was hoping to start this thread......

 

[ceo3west]

I think you should take RB off the list, the Barber/Jones combo is money.

 

[Texasmouth]

I think you should take RB off the list, the Barber/Jones combo is money.

If Julius Jones wasnt an unrestricted free agent who wont be resigned....yeah, I would agree.

 

[ceo3west]

I think you should take RB off the list, the Barber/Jones combo is money.

If Julius Jones wasnt an unrestricted free agent who wont be resigned....yeah, I would agree.

Didn't realize that, I stand corrected..

 

[Texasmouth]

I think you should take RB off the list, the Barber/Jones combo is money.

If Julius Jones wasnt an unrestricted free agent who wont be resigned....yeah, I would agree.

Didn't realize that, I stand corrected..

That being said, I totally agree with you. I would much rather them resign both guys and continue with what they have but JJ thinks he is a #1 RB. He isnt. He is going to try and get paid somewhere else. I wish he would call Edge and ask him how that worked out for him......

 

[pgreenfan]

My wish list as a Cowboys fan...

1. Jonathan Stewart

2. CB

3. OT

4. FS

5. WR

 

[Brutis]

1. DB

2. OL

3. DB

4. OL

5. DB

6. OL

7. DB

 

[dickey moe]

1. Brains

2. Brains

3. More Brains

 

[doughboydeluxe]

1. Brains2. Brains3. More Brains

2008 Dallas Cowboys: Zombie Football

 

[Texasmouth]

Our coaching staff has been completely raided now....reports are that Garrett will be hired by the Ravens as early as today. Sporano was hired by the Dolphins weeks ago....

We lost Ireland.....

I am a little worried about the future now....

My hope is that the Cowboys can convince Cam Cameron to come in and be the Assistant Coach/Offensive Coordinator.

 

[Bankerguy]

CB-Draft (First round)

CB/S-Draft (First round)

WR-Trade/FA

RB- 2nd round

ILB-3rd round

Open competition for SS.....if Roy isnt the best on the team sit his ### down. I don't care how much he makes. This is part of the problem with this team. Jimmy used to cut guys after bad games and created competition for every position. The sense of entitlement on this team is through the hole in the roof.

Get even more aggressive on D. Get the CB's to play bump and bring the heat 60% of time with the strong front 7 this team already has in place.

 

[Bankerguy]

1. Brains2. Brains3. More Brains

2008 Dallas Cowboys: Zombie Football

Please visit Gurode first for the Brains!!!

 

[Texasmouth]

CB-Draft (First round)CB/S-Draft (First round)WR-Trade/FARB- 2nd roundILB-3rd roundOpen competition for SS.....if Roy isnt the best on the team sit his ### down. I don't care how much he makes. This is part of the problem with this team. Jimmy used to cut guys after bad games and created competition for every position. The sense of entitlement on this team is through the hole in the roof.Get even more aggressive on D. Get the CB's to play bump and bring the heat 60% of time with the strong front 7 this team already has in place.

Any way we could cut Roy Williams? Anyone know what the salary cap ramification would be? I completely agree with your draft scenario as well.

 

[Bankerguy]

CB-Draft (First round)CB/S-Draft (First round)WR-Trade/FARB- 2nd roundILB-3rd roundOpen competition for SS.....if Roy isnt the best on the team sit his ### down. I don't care how much he makes. This is part of the problem with this team. Jimmy used to cut guys after bad games and created competition for every position. The sense of entitlement on this team is through the hole in the roof.Get even more aggressive on D. Get the CB's to play bump and bring the heat 60% of time with the strong front 7 this team already has in place.

Any way we could cut Roy Williams? Anyone know what the salary cap ramification would be? I completely agree with your draft scenario as well.

6.6 million.

 

[Texasmouth]

CB-Draft (First round)CB/S-Draft (First round)WR-Trade/FARB- 2nd roundILB-3rd roundOpen competition for SS.....if Roy isnt the best on the team sit his ### down. I don't care how much he makes. This is part of the problem with this team. Jimmy used to cut guys after bad games and created competition for every position. The sense of entitlement on this team is through the hole in the roof.Get even more aggressive on D. Get the CB's to play bump and bring the heat 60% of time with the strong front 7 this team already has in place.

Any way we could cut Roy Williams? Anyone know what the salary cap ramification would be? I completely agree with your draft scenario as well.

6.6 million.

Williams has no business being in the starting line up. He is brutal. I hope they cut Reeves the second they can. He is worse than Williams.

 

[Bankerguy]

CB-Draft (First round)CB/S-Draft (First round)WR-Trade/FARB- 2nd roundILB-3rd roundOpen competition for SS.....if Roy isnt the best on the team sit his ### down. I don't care how much he makes. This is part of the problem with this team. Jimmy used to cut guys after bad games and created competition for every position. The sense of entitlement on this team is through the hole in the roof.Get even more aggressive on D. Get the CB's to play bump and bring the heat 60% of time with the strong front 7 this team already has in place.

Any way we could cut Roy Williams? Anyone know what the salary cap ramification would be? I completely agree with your draft scenario as well.

6.6 million.

Williams has no business being in the starting line up. He is brutal. I hope they cut Reeves the second they can. He is worse than Williams.

I believe he is a FA....regardless he wont be back with a star on his helmet.

 

[SR388]

IMHO we are still a few players away from being able to win a SB. Our Defense is great, except for two spots. Safety and nickle corner. All you have to do is spread the D and find either Roy or Reeves.

Draft: Ready to play nickle back and WR.

FA:

1 Wr

1 CB

1-2 OL

1-2 coverage LB's

Team changes:

Move Roy to LB-

Somebody please have the balls to move Roy to LB. He is just too much of a liability in the passing game. Find Roy, throw ball when the WR makes his cut = 1st down. This is partly the coaches fault. He should only be back there to hit people, not cover. I think he could be a MONSTER at LB. Im not sure what happened to him. He was great his first 2 years. I think his head and what people are saying about him is getting to him.

Start Marion Barber-

And actually use him in the second half of games, specifically after he torched the defense for 104 yards int he first half!!!!!

Pay Jason Garrett HC money to stay on as OC.

 

[Ridgelake]

CB-Draft (First round)CB/S-Draft (First round)WR-Trade/FARB- 2nd roundILB-3rd round

Thats almost exactly how I think it will play out as well. Though I would not be surprised if a top rated interior o-lineman became the second #1. Kind of like a Ben Grubbs type from last year. But the CB/S combo sure makes sense. Even after going CB with the early pick.And the FA/trade for a WR is spot on. Dallas isnt drafting one early.

 

[Andy Herron]

Some of you guys are really "wheels-off". And confused.

Draft a FS? In the first round??!

Ridiculous. They have Pro Bowler Ken Hamlin and currently negotiating a new contract with him.

I'll assume you're confused and are talking about Roy Williams. As for moving Roy Williams to LB, that's a pipe dream. He can't get off blocks well enough to play that position, whether he added weight or not. He couldn't even shine there as a nickel and dime package LB, and you want to put him there in the base defense? Get real.

Three Pro Bowlers on the offensive line and all-of-a-sudden we have a draft priority there? All-in-all, this unit played well throughout the season. They just didn't execute well in the playoff game vs. the Giants, especially in the 4th quarter. Come down off the ledge. If they don't resign LT Flozell Adams, they'll plug in Pat McQuistan, Doug Free or James Marten. Rest assured.

With their two picks in the back end of the first round, they'll be looking at CB, RB and WR. And rightfully so. Nickel back is a glaring need, obviously, and you can pencil in a CB with one of those picks right now. As for RB, Jonathan Stewart (Oregon) and Felix Jones (Arkansas) will draw most of their attention.

As for WR, this is probably where they'll put most of their focus. While there is some good prospects expected to be available in the back end of the first round of the draft, they come with no guarantees. See Robert Meachem. It is widely rumored that both Chad Johnson (Bengals) and Roy Williams (Lions) are seeking trades. This is where I would suspect Jerry Jones to make his offseason splash. Getting younger with proven talent at the position in most need makes this a very sensible move. Packaging out-of-place LB Bobby Carpenter along with a draft pick to Cincinnati for Johnson just might get it done. It's no secret that the Bengals are in dire need of linebackers, and the Ohio State alum would be a much better fit in their system than he is here. Returning to his home state would serve both he and the Bengals well. As for Roy Williams, he has already stated publicly that he would like to return to his home state of Texas, speaking of home states. Javon Walker (Broncos) would be another, but I don't like his baggage and injury history and I don't think the Cowboys do either. One other option would be UFA Bernard Berrian (Bears), bringing the much needed downfield speed to the offense.

This just in: The Dolphins have just announced they have signed Tony Sparano to a 4 year contract as head coach.

 

[Andy Herron]

Jason Garrett will stay in Dallas.

Jerry will bump his salary and make him Assistant head coach/offensive coordinator now that former assistant head coach Sparano is officially gone.

Not official. I'm just saying it now.

 

[dickey moe]

Jason Garrett will stay in Dallas. Jerry will bump his salary and make him Assistant head coach/offensive coordinator now that former assistant head coach Sparano is officially gone.Not official. I'm just saying it now.

Lord I hope so. I dread the following season with Wade at the helm without Garrett or Sparano.

 

[Texasmouth]

Some of you guys are really "wheels-off". And confused. Draft a FS? In the first round??!Ridiculous. They have Pro Bowler Ken Hamlin and currently negotiating a new contract with him. I'll assume you're confused and are talking about Roy Williams. As for moving Roy Williams to LB, that's a pipe dream. He can't get off blocks well enough to play that position, whether he added weight or not. He couldn't even shine there as a nickel and dime package LB, and you want to put him there in the base defense? Get real.Three Pro Bowlers on the offensive line and all-of-a-sudden we have a draft priority there? All-in-all, this unit played well throughout the season. They just didn't execute well in the playoff game vs. the Giants, especially in the 4th quarter. Come down off the ledge. If they don't resign LT Flozell Adams, they'll plug in Pat McQuistan, Doug Free or James Marten. Rest assured.With their two picks in the back end of the first round, they'll be looking at CB, RB and WR. And rightfully so. Nickel back is a glaring need, obviously, and you can pencil in a CB with one of those picks right now. As for RB, Jonathan Stewart (Oregon) and Felix Jones (Arkansas) will draw most of their attention.As for WR, this is probably where they'll put most of their focus. While there is some good prospects expected to be available in the back end of the first round of the draft, they come with no guarantees. See Robert Meachem. It is widely rumored that both Chad Johnson (Bengals) and Roy Williams (Lions) are seeking trades. This is where I would suspect Jerry Jones to make his offseason splash. Getting younger with proven talent at the position in most need makes this a very sensible move. Packaging out-of-place LB Bobby Carpenter along with a draft pick to Cincinnati for Johnson just might get it done. It's no secret that the Bengals are in dire need of linebackers, and the Ohio State alum would be a much better fit in their system than he is here. Returning to his home state would serve both he and the Bengals well. As for Roy Williams, he has already stated publicly that he would like to return to his home state of Texas, speaking of home states. Javon Walker (Broncos) would be another, but I don't like his baggage and injury history and I don't think the Cowboys do either. One other option would be UFA Bernard Berrian (Bears), bringing the much needed downfield speed to the offense.This just in: The Dolphins have just announced they have signed Tony Sparano to a 4 year contract as head coach.

Yeah TO and Chad Johnson on the same team....... Talent wise they would be unstoppable but the drama would be overwhelming. No way that could work with those two head cases.Im also pretty sure everyone is talking about replacing Roy Williams, not Ken Hamlin who played well above what everyone expected. He definitely need to be back. I wouldnt have a problem with them taking a RB as long as it isnt in the first round. Defense is the problem, not offense. There are going to be plenty of COP or back up running backs on the market to choose from. No need to burn a high draft choice for one when our defense needs so much help.

 

[Restricted]

http://www.star-telegram.com/332/story/412533.html

Running Back: The Cowboys don't want to rely on Barber to be their only featured back if Julius Jones departs. That leaves players such as Michael Turner of the Chargers, whom Wade Phillips liked when he was in San Diego. Derrick Ward, Vernand Morency and Chris Brown are other options.

 

[Texasmouth]

http://www.star-telegram.com/332/story/412533.html

Running Back: The Cowboys don't want to rely on Barber to be their only featured back if Julius Jones departs. That leaves players such as Michael Turner of the Chargers, whom Wade Phillips liked when he was in San Diego. Derrick Ward, Vernand Morency and Chris Brown are other options.

I have thought about how well MBIII could hold up to the pounding of starting a whole season. The way he runs really could put a toll on his body. Seems like turner is going to want starter money.

Derrick Ward....meh

Verand Morency never seems to stay healthy.

Chris Brown....no thanks. He cant fart without pulling a butt muscle.

You know who would be a perfect COP back for MBIII? Julius Jones.....too bad he thinks he is a starter.

I wouldnt mind seeing the Cowboys grab one of the RB coming out in the draft, the draft is full of them. Jamal Charles out of Texas would be interesting if he falls to the second. The guy is an absolute burner and would be a perfect speed compliment to MBIII's pounding style.

 

[Ridgelake]

Serviceable RBs are easy to find. No need to burn high draft picks on them unless they are truly elite. Better to spend precious commodities (high draft picks) on areas where its tougher to find quality.

 

[redman]

I'm just stopping by to check out the discussion.

I think this draft will go a long way towards indicating which direction Jerry Jones Rivers is going to take this team without Parcells (and Ireland).

I agree with the sentiment that OL and DB are the big needs here, followed by ILB and WR.

What do you guys think about a guy like Steve Slaton to compliment MBIII? Slaton probably will go early on the second day of the draft, and should therefore be a draft possibility for the Cowboys.

 

[Bankerguy]

I'm just stopping by to check out the discussion. I think this draft will go a long way towards indicating which direction Jerry Jones Rivers is going to take this team without Parcells (and Ireland). I agree with the sentiment that OL and DB are the big needs here, followed by ILB and WR. What do you guys think about a guy like Steve Slaton to compliment MBIII? Slaton probably will go early on the second day of the draft, and should therefore be a draft possibility for the Cowboys.

Redman...Other than Kosier where do improve the O-line? Gurode needs some brains and coaching but he's not going anywhere. Adams other than his false starts is an outstanding LT with very capable backups with Doug Free. Bigg is a beast and Columbo is fine and a good value at his current contract. I would be upset if we drafted O-Line with one of the first 2 picks. If the RG is addressed, I hope it's through FA. Or something like trading up into the mid second round to grab the G. Therefore having 2 firsts and 2 second rounders.Continue using draft picks on the hard to find positions (CB). Honestly if we drafted 2 in the first round I would be totally fine. Oh and hopefully one of them can be a return man as well.

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

Serviceable RBs are easy to find. No need to burn high draft picks on them unless they are truly elite. Better to spend precious commodities (high draft picks) on areas where its tougher to find quality.

That is very true but I will say that this year the RB class seems deep again. You could get a good running back for a 2nd or 3rd rounder. Dallas obtained J. Jones in the 2nd and Mb3 in the 3rd (I may be wrong, just going on memory) and we have the RB's.I say let J. JOnes go, not because of his talent at all, but he doesn't want to be in Dallas under the current conditions. We don't want anyone who doesn't want to be here or that kind of vibe. The key is to just find a hard working running back and build a good offensive line.

 

[redman]

I'm just stopping by to check out the discussion. I think this draft will go a long way towards indicating which direction Jerry Jones Rivers is going to take this team without Parcells (and Ireland). I agree with the sentiment that OL and DB are the big needs here, followed by ILB and WR. What do you guys think about a guy like Steve Slaton to compliment MBIII? Slaton probably will go early on the second day of the draft, and should therefore be a draft possibility for the Cowboys.

Redman...Other than Kosier where do improve the O-line? Gurode needs some brains and coaching but he's not going anywhere. Adams other than his false starts is an outstanding LT with very capable backups with Doug Free. Bigg is a beast and Columbo is fine and a good value at his current contract. I would be upset if we drafted O-Line with one of the first 2 picks. If the RG is addressed, I hope it's through FA. Or something like trading up into the mid second round to grab the G. Therefore having 2 firsts and 2 second rounders.Continue using draft picks on the hard to find positions (CB). Honestly if we drafted 2 in the first round I would be totally fine. Oh and hopefully one of them can be a return man as well.

IMHO as an outsider, Adams is declining, and Gurode and Columbo can/should be upgraded. I was impressed with Davis at RG - it's obviously his natural position. I think you draft the BPA at OG or C, which is ably done in the 2nd round.

 

[Texasmouth]

I'm just stopping by to check out the discussion. I think this draft will go a long way towards indicating which direction Jerry Jones Rivers is going to take this team without Parcells (and Ireland). I agree with the sentiment that OL and DB are the big needs here, followed by ILB and WR. What do you guys think about a guy like Steve Slaton to compliment MBIII? Slaton probably will go early on the second day of the draft, and should therefore be a draft possibility for the Cowboys.

Redman...Other than Kosier where do improve the O-line? Gurode needs some brains and coaching but he's not going anywhere. Adams other than his false starts is an outstanding LT with very capable backups with Doug Free. Bigg is a beast and Columbo is fine and a good value at his current contract. I would be upset if we drafted O-Line with one of the first 2 picks. If the RG is addressed, I hope it's through FA. Or something like trading up into the mid second round to grab the G. Therefore having 2 firsts and 2 second rounders.Continue using draft picks on the hard to find positions (CB). Honestly if we drafted 2 in the first round I would be totally fine. Oh and hopefully one of them can be a return man as well.

IMHO as an outsider, Adams is declining, and Gurode and Columbo can/should be upgraded. I was impressed with Davis at RG - it's obviously his natural position. I think you draft the BPA at OG or C, which is ably done in the 2nd round.

Gurode was fine until he got hurt, then he just seemed to be rusty. Columbo is solid in my opinion. Adams is definitely on the decline and he is a free agent so I doubt they try to resign him. I am hoping they dont try to move Davis back to tackle. He is so dominant at guard. They do need to address the line as well. Free agency might be the route to go for that though.

 

[Ridgelake]

Julius Jones is as good as gone. Just like Sparano was (and is). So we'll need a COP back to compliment Barber.

Incidently, MB3 was a 4th rounder. He is a restricted FA this year. I'd expect Dallas to put at least a 1st round tender on him. Drew Rosenhaus is his agent, so it may cost Jerry quite a bit to retain his services. But that should happen.

Bankerguy, I agree with you. Using both #1s on CBs seems like a reasonable idea to me. Especially if 1 can return kicks and punts. Teams are using more and more spread offenses today, especially the better teams. Its not an accident that the 4 teams with the best records in the NFL this past season were all predominately passing teams. And given the age of the starting CBs, having a couple of talented guys learning the ropes now would make for a nice transition.

In other subjects, is anyone else worried about the brain drain going on in Dallas? They've lost a lot of higher end guys. A couple of talent/scout guys. Sparano. And he hasnt filled his staff yet which he'll probably pull over some Cowboy coaches whos contracts expired. Who knows what happens to Garrett. But the end result is that there's a lot of quality minds leaving the organization. Don't know who's replacing them. I expect a net loss overall. That cant be good.

 

[Bankerguy]

I think there is some decent talent out there for replacing some of the loss we will experience. Ireland was a huge loss and Garrett would also be a huge loss. Other than that, I am not overly upset about losing Sparano, and Paul "Pasq" (I can never spell his name). The biggest non loss is Bowles if he goes to Miami as expected.

I hope we target the KC OL coach Mike Solari to replace Sparano as O-Line coach.

 

[Texasmouth]

I think there is some decent talent out there for replacing some of the loss we will experience. Ireland was a huge loss and Garrett would also be a huge loss. Other than that, I am not overly upset about losing Sparano, and Paul "Pasq" (I can never spell his name). The biggest non loss is Bowles if he goes to Miami as expected.I hope we target the KC OL coach Mike Solari to replace Sparano.

I hope we bring in Cam Cameron. With or without Jason Garrett he would be a great mind to have in the booth, filling Sporano's vacated job. I still think Garrett stays and gets promoted. No way Jerry lets his prodigy go. Jerry wanted to make him the HEAD coach last season and from what I have heard, Parcells talked him out of it. Gonna be a good off season....interesting to say the least.

 

[redman]

I think there is some decent talent out there for replacing some of the loss we will experience. Ireland was a huge loss and Garrett would also be a huge loss. Other than that, I am not overly upset about losing Sparano, and Paul "Pasq" (I can never spell his name). The biggest non loss is Bowles if he goes to Miami as expected.I hope we target the KC OL coach Mike Solari to replace Sparano.

I hope we bring in Cam Cameron. With or without Jason Garrett he would be a great mind to have in the booth, filling Sporano's vacated job. I still think Garrett stays and gets promoted. No way Jerry lets his prodigy go. Jerry wanted to make him the HEAD coach last season and from what I have heard, Parcells talked him out of it. Gonna be a good off season....interesting to say the least.

If you promote Garrett, you necessarily fire Phillips and would need a new DC. Who would be qualified to replace Phillips in running that 3-4?Also, given the talk about Saunders possibly being let go in D.C., Cameron's name has come up there too as a replacement for him, and I'd personally like him as he runs much the same system as Saunders. Interesting indeed.

 

[Texasmouth]

I think there is some decent talent out there for replacing some of the loss we will experience. Ireland was a huge loss and Garrett would also be a huge loss. Other than that, I am not overly upset about losing Sparano, and Paul "Pasq" (I can never spell his name). The biggest non loss is Bowles if he goes to Miami as expected.I hope we target the KC OL coach Mike Solari to replace Sparano.

I hope we bring in Cam Cameron. With or without Jason Garrett he would be a great mind to have in the booth, filling Sporano's vacated job. I still think Garrett stays and gets promoted. No way Jerry lets his prodigy go. Jerry wanted to make him the HEAD coach last season and from what I have heard, Parcells talked him out of it. Gonna be a good off season....interesting to say the least.

If you promote Garrett, you necessarily fire Phillips and would need a new DC. Who would be qualified to replace Phillips in running that 3-4?Also, given the talk about Saunders possibly being let go in D.C., Cameron's name has come up there too as a replacement for him, and I'd personally like him as he runs much the same system as Saunders. Interesting indeed.

You dont have to fire Phillips to promote Garrett. Garrett can get moved up to assistant head coach, just like Sporano was. Bring in Cameron to be some other BS job with a fancy title, just like Sporano had.

 

[redman]

I think there is some decent talent out there for replacing some of the loss we will experience. Ireland was a huge loss and Garrett would also be a huge loss. Other than that, I am not overly upset about losing Sparano, and Paul "Pasq" (I can never spell his name). The biggest non loss is Bowles if he goes to Miami as expected.I hope we target the KC OL coach Mike Solari to replace Sparano.

I hope we bring in Cam Cameron. With or without Jason Garrett he would be a great mind to have in the booth, filling Sporano's vacated job. I still think Garrett stays and gets promoted. No way Jerry lets his prodigy go. Jerry wanted to make him the HEAD coach last season and from what I have heard, Parcells talked him out of it. Gonna be a good off season....interesting to say the least.

If you promote Garrett, you necessarily fire Phillips and would need a new DC. Who would be qualified to replace Phillips in running that 3-4?Also, given the talk about Saunders possibly being let go in D.C., Cameron's name has come up there too as a replacement for him, and I'd personally like him as he runs much the same system as Saunders. Interesting indeed.

You dont have to fire Phillips to promote Garrett. Garrett can get moved up to assistant head coach, just like Sporano was. Bring in Cameron to be some other BS job with a fancy title, just like Sporano had.

I mean "promote (to head coach)". Sorry if I wasn't clear.

 

[simmonjm]

My dream off season would go something like this

Sign Donte Stallworth (assuming New England doesnt renew his contract)

Through the draft get

Felix Jones

Aquib Talib

Dejuan Tribble

 

[Bankerguy]

Here were my thoughts for Jason Woods blog.

=============================================================================

The Dallas Cowboys

What worked in 2007

Wade Phillips more laid back approach and player friendly demeanor was a big hit with the team. He had success getting TO's buy in which was a major coup. TO was not a distraction and widely embraced as a leader for this club. Phillips brought a more attack oriented defense that enjoyed greater success over the previous years squad.

Tony Romo proved the skeptics wrong who thought the fallout from the infamous fumble in the play-offs would be too great to overcome. He showed poise and lots of moxie leading his club to a 13-3 year. He won the respect of his team and earned a handsome new contract. Some would say that if not for Tom Brady, Romo would get some MVP votes. The scramble play against Seattle pretty much sums up Romo for me this year. Give Romo lemons, and he'll make Gin and Lemonade out of it. Cheers Romo!

Double digit sacks for both Ware and Ellis.

Jason Witten was a stud plain and simple as he was the NFC leader in completions. He was Romo's favorite target and excelled in running deep seem routes that outmatched any and all LB's. Witten finally started to get credit for the excellent blocker he is. You gotta love the play were he took that big hit that ended up knocking his helmet clear off. Jason just bounced off the hit and kept going for 25 more yards. Dude is straight up old school.

Nick Folk the rookie kicker has been money. I was lucky enough to witness his winner (twice) in the Buffalo game. Not too shabby for a 6th rounder.

Jay Ratliff filled in extremely well for Ferguson being lost for the year. Making Ferguson expendable now.

Jason Garrett proved to be a good play caller and was adept at moving TO around the various sets and often put him in motion. He will be a hot commodity in coaching searches this off season.

Free Agency. Jerry hit BIGG (Pun intended) with the addition of Leonard Davis and Ken Hamlin. Both Pro Bowl players.

What didn't work

Julius Jones. While I am still a fan of the 2 back system for Barber's benefit. Jones displayed he is not the guy for the Cowboys. I partially blame the coaching here as they are not calling plays that he runs well (Draws especially).

Roy Williams. He simply cannot cover in space and now seems to take bad angles to the ball carrier. I have seen 2 plays (Ryan Grant and Clinton Portis) where he only ends up blowing up one of his team mates in the process of trying to make the tackle. I am not a cap expert by any means, but the Cowboys will look to either deal or cut Roy this year if the cap hit is not too punitive.

Injuries. This season was the most injuries I have seen the Cowboys endure in some time. In no particular order the following players missed significant game time (Terry Glenn, Jason Ferguson, Anthony Henry, T New, Greg Ellis, and then Gurode and TO recently).

***Added this in after the playoff loss.*** This team needs to improve it's special teams play outside of the two kickers. The coverage teams flat out sucked this year. The return game was average at best. Both are in need of definate attention.

This is more of a disapointment then something that didn't work. However, Cowboy nation was a little sad to see how well the Browns played this year and our visions of a top 7 pick (Via the Brady Quinn trade) went down the toilet. Kudo's to the Browns on a great year. A team to watch out for!

What I want to see in the Off-Season

Let me prefice what I am going to say. In no way do my feelings represent all Cowboy fans views. In fact I expect some to critize some of my thoughts.

Do NOT trade up to get McFadden. Simply not worth the salary and loss of the extra first round pick. Sign Barber and draft a Rookie RB in the 2-3 round to take over for Jones. If it ain't broke...you know the rest.

Tough decisions to be made on both the human false start machine (Flozell Adams) and Ken Hamlin. I suspect we keep Flo and make a run at Hamlin, but come up short $$$ wise. I think Hamlin bails for a pay day.

I do NOT want to see Red leave. Garrett needs to be the next coach of this club. I am confident that Jerry knows this too and will do whatever needs to be down to make sure this happens.

Here is where I expect many to disagree on "my" wants. I want both our first picks to be CB's. You can never have too many corners. With Henry and TNew both missing time this year, we need depth at this position. Jacques Reeves was barely servicable and was the target by many opposing QB's. This is a passing league and the best way to be successful defensively is to bring pressure and cover those 3 and 4 WR sets. Some fellow Cowboy fans are going to also be clamoring for a WR or ILB, they can wait until the 2-4 rounds...imo.

I fully expect Dallas to sniff the FA/trade market for one of the following WR's (Fitzgerald and Williams in Detroit). Heck, Ocho Cinco with a star on his helmet.....you never know?

Final thought. If the Cowboys address a couple of weak spots, this team has to be considered a legit superbowl contender in 2008.

 

[Maroney=Speed]

Dallas will finish 4th in 2008, lets talk about 2009.

 

[redman]

Dallas will finish 4th in 2008, lets talk about 2009.

What? I'm a 'Skins fan and I don't buy that for a minute unless there are huge injury problems. We don't know what my team's doing just yet, but assuming no radical changes from this year to next I'd say the team most likely to finish in fourth in that division is the Eagles. The Cowboys have some holes, but I don't see how you can project them worse than second going into 2008.

 

[Bankerguy]

Dallas will finish 4th in 2008, lets talk about 2009.

What? I'm a 'Skins fan and I don't buy that for a minute unless there are huge injury problems. We don't know what my team's doing just yet, but assuming no radical changes from this year to next I'd say the team most likely to finish in fourth in that division is the Eagles. The Cowboys have some holes, but I don't see how you can project them worse than second going into 2008.

Don't feed the troll.

 

[Ridgelake]

Bankerguy, I think you reasonably summed up well my thoughts. Only a couple minor differences.

I think Ken Hamlin is signed to a long term deal. He wants to stay and Dallas wants him back. A deal will get done. I'd say the odds of him coming back are 90%+.

Flozell, I'd put odds at 75% he'll be back. Someone may throw ridiculous money at him. I think he's wanted back, but not at ridiculous money. Dallas has been grooming McQuistan, Free, and Marten to play tackle at some point. Maybe next year it will be. I hope not, but it might happen.

I also agree with taking CB with BOTH first rounders. Or at least 1 CB and the other a safety.

I think Terry Glenn will be gone, as well as Jason Ferguson. Although I could see Fergy coming back and moving Ratliff back to DE. But I think Dallas will want the salary cap dollars for other things.

Oh, and Julius Jones is almost certainly gone. Probably to a team with zone blocking schemes where his cutback style works well. Denver perhaps?

WR will be addressed through either trade of FA. Not early draft pick. Names I've read possibly being available include Roy Williams, Javon Walker. I seriously doubt with Ocho Cinco or Larry Fitzgerald would be available. FA WR include Benard Berrian. And you say Stallworth? Didnt realize he might be available. That might work too.

 

[Bankerguy]

Ridge......I could be wrong, but I was almost certain Hamlin only signed a one year deal with the Cowboys. I am going to check.

Edit: Yep...1 year deal at 2.5 million.

 

[Ridgelake]

Bankerguy, what I meant is that I think he will be signed to a long term deal. Sorry my phrasing wasnt clear.

 

[Bankerguy]

Bankerguy, what I meant is that I think he will be signed to a long term deal. Sorry my phrasing wasnt clear.

Oh OK. Yeah, my worry though is that he is looking for a "pay day", hence signing the one year deal last year. Well, I am definately in the "PRO" camp for Hamlin returning. He was a solid player all year, not perfect, but an upgrade from previous years. Roy...well that's a whole other problem.

 

[Andy Herron]

You guys are driving me crazy with all of your offensive line talk. There are no glaring needs there, period.

First of all, despite the false start problems with Flozell Adams, he's still one of the better LTs in the league. He's a UFA and will turn 33 in May. He'll be a hot commodity in free agency, regardless of opinions. He may even land in Miami. Pat McQuistan and Doug Free will compete for LT if he leaves, and both are perfectly capable. They will not consider free agency for this position. It's not necessary.

*****THIS JUST IN!*****

It just came across the wire that Jason Garrett has declined the Ravens offer and will stay in Dallas.

Of course, I told all of you yesterday morning he was going to stay. You're going to have to start learning to trust me.

Back to the topic at hand:

There are no guards or centers first round worthy this year, which is fine considering WE DON"T NEED ANY! RG Davis is a stud and will remain there (they will not consider moving him to tackle any time soon). LG Kosier has remaining years left on his contract and he is a perfectly capable starter. Gurode is solid at center, and Cory Proctor is a capable backup at both G and C.

RT Columbo is a fine starter as well, and James Marten is solidifying that backup role nicely.

To sum it up, there are no glaring needs or insufficiencies on the offensive line.

 

[Bankerguy]

You guys are driving me crazy with all of your offensive line talk. There are no glaring needs there, period.

First of all, despite the false start problems with Flozell Adams, he's still one of the better LTs in the league. He's a UFA and will turn 33 in May. He'll be a hot commodity in free agency, regardless of opinions. He may even land in Miami. Pat McQuistan and Doug Free will compete for LT if he leaves, and both are perfectly capable. They will not consider free agency for this position. It's not necessary.

*****THIS JUST IN!*****

It just came across the wire that Jason Garrett has declined the Ravens offer and will stay in Dallas.

Of course, I told all of you yesterday morning he was going to stay. You're going to have to start learning to trust me.

Back to the topic at hand:

There are no guards or centers first round worthy this year, which is fine considering WE DON"T NEED ANY! RG Davis is a stud and will remain there (they will not consider moving him to tackle any time soon). LG Kosier has remaining years left on his contract and he is a perfectly capable starter. Gurode is solid at center, and Cory Proctor is a capable backup at both G and C.

RT Columbo is a fine starter as well, and James Marten is solidifying that backup role nicely.

To sum it up, there are no glaring needs or insufficiencies on the offensive line.

It's not the most pressing need for sure....I agree.However, we do need a LG Kosier sucks. Also, you have to admit Flo is on the down-side and a tough decision is needed there.

 

[Andy Herron]

They've been working on an extension for Ken Hamlin since shortly after extending Crayton. He'll be back with a 4-year contract.

As I posted yesterday, their focus with their two first-round picks will be CB, RB, and WR. Talib would be a very nice pick, and Felix Jones would not only fit nicely with Barber, but could also return kicks. Julius Jones will not be back. You can put that in ink.

Again, as I mentioned yesterday, Jerry Jones will look to make his offseason splash with a trade for a WR but it won't stop them from taking a prospect early in the draft.

Anything else?

 

[Ridgelake]

I agree with you about Roy. I'd really like to see his passing metrics though. Usually a guy like KC Joyner publishes a bunch metrics on players at some point in the offseason. It would be good to get a real analysis of what he was actually doing. Its not like other safeties aren't thrown on successfully as well.

But even so, it may be time to cut bait on him. The explosiveness just didnt seem to be there this year.

 

[Andy Herron]

You guys are driving me crazy with all of your offensive line talk. There are no glaring needs there, period.

First of all, despite the false start problems with Flozell Adams, he's still one of the better LTs in the league. He's a UFA and will turn 33 in May. He'll be a hot commodity in free agency, regardless of opinions. He may even land in Miami. Pat McQuistan and Doug Free will compete for LT if he leaves, and both are perfectly capable. They will not consider free agency for this position. It's not necessary.

*****THIS JUST IN!*****

It just came across the wire that Jason Garrett has declined the Ravens offer and will stay in Dallas.

Of course, I told all of you yesterday morning he was going to stay. You're going to have to start learning to trust me.

Back to the topic at hand:

There are no guards or centers first round worthy this year, which is fine considering WE DON"T NEED ANY! RG Davis is a stud and will remain there (they will not consider moving him to tackle any time soon). LG Kosier has remaining years left on his contract and he is a perfectly capable starter. Gurode is solid at center, and Cory Proctor is a capable backup at both G and C.

RT Columbo is a fine starter as well, and James Marten is solidifying that backup role nicely.

To sum it up, there are no glaring needs or insufficiencies on the offensive line.

It's not the most pressing need for sure....I agree.However, we do need a LG Kosier sucks. Also, you have to admit Flo is on the down-side and a tough decision is needed there.

I wouldn't say Kosier necessarily sucks, but with Pro Bowlers surrounding him it would appear he stands out as a lesser player. Proctor could very well compete with him next season, but they're not going to find a player in the draft that will just step in and take that starter's role, I can assure you of that.Flo is getting up there, yes, and personally I don't expect him back. Somebody else will overpay for his services and the Cowboys would prefer to save that money. There may be a few growing pains with McQuistan or Free, but I have confidence in both of them. Once again, there's not a player in the draft that could move past them to take that starter's role where they are picking. They won't spend free agency money there either.