After looking at cornerbacks yesterday, we continue our leisurely stroll through this year's crop of NFL free agents by taking a look at the available safeties.
The Cowboys have signed Gerald Sensabaugh to a contract extension, but have not renewed Abram Elam's contract, making Elam a free agent. The Cowboys still have Danny McCray and Barry Church on the roster, but as rabblerousr wrote, those two "are probably career special teamers (albeit darned good ones)." And recent practice squad signee Justin Taplin-Ross probably isn't the long-term answer at safety either.
The good news though is that Sensabaugh gives the Cowboys a little flexibility in their personnel choices, as he can play both free and strong safety. However, as we look at possible free agent additions at safety, keep in mind that the Cowboys spent $5 million last year on their starting safeties combined. Sensabaugh's contract pays him an average of $4.5 million per year, so it's unlikely the Cowboys are going to go after the top names in free agency this year. Look for the Cowboys to go after a lesser known and cheaper guy in free agency and/or shore up the position via the draft.
After the break, we look at 20 free agent safeties, how they held up in pass coverage, against the run and how they ultimately graded out.
Establishing a price range
The table below shows a sample of last year's free agents sorted by the size of the contracts they signed prior to the 2011 season. The first column shows where they ranked on PFF's ranking of safeties for the 2010 season, the age is their age per August, 2011.
The table is divided into two tiers. Tier one free agents commanded upwards of five million dollars per year last year, while the tier two players came in at between one and two million dollars on average. Note also the fairly strong correlation between the Overall Grade from Pro Football Focus and the contract figures (a similar correlation was observed by Brian Burke at Advanced NFL Stats), which is one reason why we'll focus on the PFF grades again this year as we evaluate the free agent safety class.
| 2010 Saftey Free Agent Class | |||||||
| Rank | Name | Team | Age | Contract per year |
Years | 2010 Overall Grade | 2011 Overall Grade |
| 2 | Michael Huff | OAK | 28 | $8.0m | 4 | +13.9 | -3.2 |
| 3 | Eric Weddle | SD | 26 | $8.0m | 5 | +12.6 | +12.9 |
| 11 | Roman Harper | NO | 28 | $7.1m | 4 | +7.1 | -14.6 |
| 1 | Quintin Mikell | STL | 30 | $7.0m | 4 | +17.0 | -2.8 |
| 4 | Dawan Landry | JAX | 28 | $5.5m | 5 | +10.5 | -4.9 |
| 7 | Danieal Manning | HOU | 28 | $5.0m | 4 | +9.5 | -2.1 |
| 53 | Donte Whitner | BUF | 26 | $4.0m | 3 | -3.4 | +8.4 |
| 10 | Gerald Sensabaugh | DAL | 28 | $2.5m | 1 | +7.4 | +0.2 |
| 61 | Abram Elam | DAL | 29 | $2.5m | 1 | -4.1 | -5.3 |
| 57 | Dashon Goldson | SF | 27 | $2.0m | 1 | -3.8 | -8.1 |
| 70 | Bernard Pollard | BAL | 26 | $1.4m | 2 | -6.1 | +5.3 |
| 71 | Jon McGraw | KC | 32 | $0.8m | 1 | -6.5 | -6.8 |
| 17 | Jordan Babineaux | TEN | 28 | $0.8m | 1 | +4.4 | -7.4 |
| 25 | Brodney Pool | NYJ | 27 | $0.7m | 1 | +2.5 | -0.4 |
| 55 | Reed Doughty | WAS | 28 | $0.7m |
3 | -3.7 | -14.3 |
Free agent safeties in pass coverage
We'll use the same stats we used for the corners yesterday, here are the definitions:
Burn rate: number of catches a defensive back allows versus the number of balls thrown at the receiver he is covering. For example, a burn rate of 80% would mean that opponents have completed eight of ten passes thrown at the receiver the cornerback is covering. The lower the number the better.
Defensive Passer Rating (DPR): uses the same data and formula used for the passer rating for the quarterback (i.e. completion percentage, yard per attempt, touchdowns and interceptions), but applies them to a defender, where they become completion percentage allowed (aka 'burn rate'), yards per attempt allowed, touchdowns allowed and interceptions made. The lower the number the better
NFL rank: DPR ranking among 86 safeties who played on at least 25% of their teams' snaps in 2010.
| Name |
Team | Snaps | Targets | Receptions | Yards | TDs | INTs | Burn Rate | DPR | NFL Rank | |
| Mike Adams | CLV | 847 | 21 | 11 | 147 | 1 | 3 | 52.4 | 51.2 | 5 | |
| Jim Leonhard* | NYJ | 798 | 20 | 11 | 138 | 0 | 1 | 55.0 | 55.8 | 7 | |
| Brodney Pool | NYJ | 561 | 17 | 11 | 118 | 0 | 1 | 64.7 | 60.4 | 10 | |
| Reggie Nelson | CIN | 1,049 | 33 | 21 | 275 | 2 | 4 | 63.6 | 70.5 | 19 | |
| Jon McGraw | KC | 496 | 26 | 19 | 220 | 1 | 2 | 73.1 | 79.0 | 25 | |
| Tyrell Johnson** | MIN | 335 | 14 | 8 | 123 | 0 | 0 | 57.1 | 86.3 | 36 | |
| Bryan Scott | BUF | 587 | 63 | 42 | 393 | 3 | 2 | 66.7 | 86.3 | 37 | |
| Tyvon Branch | OAK | 1,167 | 63 | 36 | 412 | 4 | 1 | 57.1 | 91.5 | 44 | |
| Thomas DeCoud | ATL | 965 | 35 | 24 | 368 | 3 | 4 | 68.6 | 92.0 | 45 | |
| Michael Griffin | TEN | 1,141 | 38 | 23 | 241 | 4 | 2 | 60.5 | 92.1 | 46 | |
| Dashon Goldson | SF | 866 | 43 | 29 | 458 | 4 | 6 | 67.4 | 94.1 | 50 | |
| Steve Gregory | SD | 782 | 30 | 19 | 335 | 1 | 1 | 63.3 | 98.6 | 55 | |
| Abram Elam | DAL | 1,050 | 33 | 23 | 253 | 1 | 0 | 69.7 | 102.2 | 58 | |
| Chris Harris | DET | 400 | 18 | 9 | 194 | 3 | 1 | 50.0 | 105.1 | 60 | |
| Craig Steltz | CHI | 419 | 16 | 9 | 76 | 2 | 0 | 56.3 | 108.3 | 66 | |
| LaRon Landry*** | WAS | 513 | 21 | 15 | 159 | 1 | 0 | 71.4 | 109.0 | 67 | |
| Brandon Meriweather | CHI | 425 | 16 | 11 | 227 | 1 | 0 | 68.8 | 132.3 | 81 | |
| Husain Abdullah**** | MIN | 588 | 23 | 16 | 322 | 4 | 1 | 69.6 | 133.6 | 83 | |
| James Sanders | ATL | 462 | 21 | 14 | 228 | 2 | 0 | 66.7 | 134.6 | 84 | |
| Sean Jones | TB | 1,011 | 31 | 18 | 374 | 4 | 0 | 58.1 | 140.3 | 86 | |
| * torn patella tendon, future unclear, ** torn hamstring, *** recovering from Achilles surgery, **** considering retiring due to concussions | |||||||||||
While there are more free agents available, these are the 21 that have seen significant playing time in 2011.
Defensive Stops
Again, just to get the definitions right:
Stops: The number of solo defensive tackles that constitute an offensive failure (defined as 45% of needed yards on first down, 60% of needed yards on second down, and 100% of needed yards on third or fourth down)
Stop percentage: Percentage of total solo tackles that are stops.
NFL rank: Stop percentage ranked against 86 safeties who played on at least 25% of their teams' snaps in 2010.
| Name | Team | Age | Snaps | Tackles | Assists | Missed Tackles |
Stops | Stops in % | NFL Rank |
| LaRon Landry *** | WAS | 27 | 513 | 43 | 4 | 5 | 21 | 48.8% | 3 |
| Craig Steltz | CHI | 25 | 419 | 31 | 8 | 2 | 14 | 45.2% | 7 |
| Bryan Scott | BUF | 30 | 587 | 52 | 5 | 7 | 23 | 44.2% | 8 |
| Jon McGraw | KC | 32 | 496 | 36 | 5 | 11 | 15 | 41.7% | 10 |
| Tyvon Branch | OAK | 25 | 1,167 | 83 | 19 | 6 | 32 | 38.6% | 19 |
| Reggie Nelson | CIN | 28 | 1,049 | 64 | 16 | 8 | 24 | 37.5% | 22 |
| Michael Griffin | TEN | 27 | 1,141 | 62 | 7 | 10 | 21 | 33.9% | 30 |
| Husain Abdullah **** | MIN | 26 | 588 | 49 | 2 | 4 | 16 | 32.7% | 33 |
| Chris Harris | DET | 29 | 400 | 16 | 2 | 6 | 5 | 31.3% | 35 |
| Brodney Pool | NYJ | 27 | 561 | 29 | 3 | 7 | 9 | 31.0% | 37 |
| Abram Elam | DAL | 30 | 1,050 | 58 | 8 | 5 | 16 | 27.6% | 46 |
| Jim Leonhard * | NYJ | 29 | 798 | 39 | 3 | 9 | 10 | 25.6% | 51 |
| Steve Gregory | SD | 29 | 782 | 58 | 9 | 8 | 14 | 24.1% | 56 |
| Sean Jones | TB | 29 | 1,011 | 75 | 9 | 16 | 18 | 24.0% | 57 |
| Thomas DeCoud | ATL | 26 | 965 | 76 | 9 | 10 | 17 | 22.4% | 64 |
| James Sanders | ATL | 28 | 462 | 35 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 20.0% | 70 |
| Mike Adams | CLV | 30 | 847 | 47 | 10 | 6 | 9 | 19.1% | 74 |
| Brandon Meriweather | CHI | 27 | 425 | 22 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 18.2% | 75 |
| Dashon Goldson | SF | 27 | 866 | 57 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 14.0% | 82 |
| Tyrell Johnson** | MIN | 26 | 335 | 18 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 5.6% | 86 |
Overall 2011 Safety Grades:
We'll use the Pro Football Focus grades for this last exercise.
PFF Grades: PFF look at game tape, assign a grade for every play and then ‘normalize’ the data so that the average player for a given position is graded at zero. The higher the positive grading the better the performance and vice versa.
However, these grades are cumulative. Say you have two players who consistently are graded with a +1.0 per game. However, one is injured after eight games, the other plays the full 16 games. The result: one player gets a +8.0 for the season, while the other gets a +16.0 although they basically played the exactly the same.
|
Name |
Team | Age | Snaps | Overall Grade | Pass Rush | Coverage | vs. Run | Penalties | NFL rank |
| Craig Steltz | CHI | 25 | 419 | +4.8 | +1.2 | +1.1 | +1.9 | +0.6 | 12 |
| Michael Griffin | TEN | 27 | 1,141 | +4.7 | -0.5 | +2.7 | +2.3 | +0.2 | 13 |
| Jim Leonhard * | NYJ | 29 | 798 | +2.9 | -1.9 | +5.7 | -0.1 | -0.8 | 17 |
| LaRon Landry *** | WAS | 27 | 513 | +2.3 | -1.4 | -0.1 | +3.5 | +0.3 | 18 |
| Tyvon Branch | OAK | 25 | 1,167 | +1.7 | -6.8 | -1.8 | +9.0 | +0.6 | 20 |
| Mike Adams | CLV | 30 | 847 | +1.5 | -0.7 | +5.6 | -4.4 | +1.0 | 21 |
| Husain Abdullah **** | MIN | 26 | 588 | +1.0 | -0.4 | -1.7 | +2.2 | +0.9 | 24 |
| Reggie Nelson | CIN | 28 | 1,049 | +0.4 | +1.7 | +2.3 | -2.2 | -1.4 | 28 |
| Brodney Pool | NYJ | 27 | 561 | -0.4 | +0.2 | -0.4 | +0.7 | -0.9 | 30 |
| Thomas DeCoud | ATL | 26 | 965 | -0.9 | -0.4 | -6.4 | +4.4 | +1.5 | 32 |
| Brandon Meriweather | CHI | 27 | 425 | -3.2 | -0.3 | -2.2 | -0.3 | -0.4 | 46 |
| Abram Elam | DAL | 30 | 1,050 | -5.3 | -2.3 | -5.8 | +2.2 | +0.6 | 55 |
| Jon McGraw | KC | 32 | 496 | -6.8 | -1.1 | -3.2 | -2.2 | -0.3 | 59 |
| James Sanders | ATL | 28 | 462 | -6.9 | -2.2 | -4.0 | -1.4 | +0.7 | 60 |
| Chris Harris | DET | 29 | 400 | -7.3 | -0.2 | -8.0 | +0.3 | +0.6 | 64 |
| Tyrell Johnson** | MIN | 26 | 335 | -7.3 | -0.1 | -4.4 | -2.1 | -0.7 | 64 |
| Dashon Goldson | SF | 27 | 866 | -8.1 | -0.8 | -5.7 | +0.5 | -2.1 | 69 |
| Bryan Scott | BUF | 30 | 587 | -8.8 | -1.1 | +1.4 | -9.1 | 0.0 | 72 |
| Steve Gregory | SD | 29 | 782 | -11.3 | -0.8 | -7.6 | -1.7 | -1.2 | 74 |
| Sean Jones | TB | 29 | 1,011 | -14.7 | +1.7 | -12.2 | -3.7 | -0.5 | 82 |
Injury, age or simple not-good-enough-ism make this a very, very weak free agent safety class. On the plus side, we're not likely to see the number of large contracts we saw last year. On the downside, the Cowboys may be hard pressed to find an upgrade over Abe Elam and may actually end up re-signing Elam to another one-year deal
The Cowboys have limited options considering this safety class. They may decide to roll the dice with a short, "prove-it" deal for one of the free agents here like LaRon Landry or Michael Griffin, but they'd be well advised to look for a longer term solution at safety in this year's draft or even via trade.
Who do you think should play the safety spot next to Gerald Sensabaugh in 2012?
3 recs | 309 comments
None of the guys of the FA list
Is D. Woodson willing to come out of retirement?
My biggest franchise-peeve was the refusal to draft top notch LT in the first round. Now that Tyron Smith has cured that ache…
Stud safety is now at the top of the list with a bullet. We need one and haven’t had one in a decade.
Kegbearer - January 11, 2012
Your FA pieces still have more info than can be found anywhere else.
Keep ’em coming HAHA
Kegbearer - January 11, 2012
D-Wood would be an upgrade
And he wouldn’t even have to loosen his tie.
Lord Humungus - January 11, 2012
yup, need a player back there
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I think its bad practice to draft a saftey in round 1
Just seems to put to much on his plate and learning to control the secondary and getting use to game speed plus the NFL pressure its to much for a first rounder. To high of expectations and a long learning curve but 3 would be great
Sado44 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Where have I heard that before?
It was the same argument used against drafting an offensive lineman in the first round. I never agreed with it then; I don’t agree with it when it comes to safety either. If they will help you win games, and a top flight safety will, then draft them.
RenoCowboy - January 12, 2012
what proof do you have we drafted a franchise LT?
from my eyes i saw Tyron play RT in college & as a rookie.. hopefully he turns out to be a “franchise” LT but we wont know that until he actually plays the position.
DCNation73 - January 13, 2012
Kind of hard to start at LT when youre 18/19 and when the guy over there is named Ryan Khalil
StrosSouth - January 13, 2012
i also disagree with the value of a "stud" safety with the current rules favoring the WRs/Offense.
defenes can get by with average safeties but that wont work with the CB position.
DCNation73 - January 13, 2012
LaRon Landry
He’s had flashes of greatness. Is WAS actually letting him walk?
Kevin Templar - January 11, 2012
He's injury prone
Antonio S - January 11, 2012
Yeah, but he's a game-changer.
Lord Humungus - January 11, 2012
not if he's always in the hot tub
Terry - January 11, 2012
that depends on what game he`s playing.
ziggy19 - January 11, 2012
greatness against the run
i want a safety who can cover
ratware - January 11, 2012
a safety that cant cover is worthless in todays NFL.
+10000, on cover DBs.
DCNation73 - January 13, 2012
he tore his achilles
would take him only if CHEAP
WA_Cowboy - January 11, 2012
Like all positions there will be more guys out there than what we have on this current list
I’m sure there will be some guys released once the off season kicks in for everyone. Looking foward to seeing whats out there because I really don’t see the safety position getting fixed in the draft this year. Too bad theres not a Sean Taylor coming out this year. That guy was a beast.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
Those type of players are just JAGs
and we already guys like that in Sensabaugh and Elam.
Terry - January 11, 2012
All the guys on this list look like jags to me
You just don’t let top notch safeties get to free agency.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
I disagree
There are some good safeties in this class, not great but good…I think Nelson is one of them.
Terry - January 11, 2012
Why do you think Nelson is so good?
I’m not saying he sucks. Im just saying he hasn’t done anything as of yet. Was a top 20 pick of the Jaguars and they cut him. I mean, if you can get him on the cheap then why not give it a shot i guess.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
agreed
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
michael griffin and jim leonard are decent
ratware - January 11, 2012
Jim Leonard? You're buggin
djthumpl - January 11, 2012
I think Griffin is really good
he’s a 2 time pro bowler and was an all pro in 2010. He’s young and I think he can be an upgrade for us back there
somebodyquiet - January 11, 2012
Witner should
Be good pick up right that guy from buffalo sorry I’m horrible with names old war injury lol. But yea he had a very solid season.
Sado44 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
based on numbers and no injuries he looks good
oldtimer - January 12, 2012
Book'im Steven
Griffin would be a great pickup, IMHO.
RenoCowboy - January 12, 2012
someone said it's a weak draft for safeties this year?
DIRE WOLF - January 11, 2012
very weak.
clark - January 11, 2012
The only safeties worth drafting are Mark Barron and Markelle Martin
You’d be investing a premium pick to get them: 1st or 2nd round depending on the player.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
It's always a weak draft for safeties
And yet, teams draft them, they play them; some of them actually go on to become household names.
RenoCowboy - January 12, 2012
I would have no problem with Elam returning
for another 1 year deal. I think it was more the CB play this year than the back end IMO. In turn, you fix the DL problems by creating more pass rush and that makes the CB play better. This is the reason I say overhauling the DL with draft picks and FA is top priority. We really cant afford to be aggressive in FA this year.
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
I would sign...
Griffin to a sort teem deal that will allow us to draft a safety this year or next ad develop him!
mho - January 11, 2012 via iPhone app
Spelling is hard isn't it
matt575 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Almoist as diffecult as punchuation
RenoCowboy - January 12, 2012
I wanted to draft Reggie Nelson in 07
so let’s get him now, he’s 100 times better than either Sensabaugh or Elam and would be a substantial upgrade over both.
Terry - January 11, 2012
Just like most safties coming out he was overrated
There is a reason why he is a FA..
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
not true, he's much better than what we have now
Wes Welker will be FA this year too, you think he’s overrated??
Just because your contract runs out doesn’t mean you suck, that makes no sense, but par for the course for you.
Terry - January 11, 2012
Welker isnt going anywhere why would he?? lol
He is a loyal Patriot and wont ask for alot of money. He knows his career is closer to the end than the begining so he will be smart about it…
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
he's still a FA
Terry - January 11, 2012
he still want a honest contract for his worth..
This guy is a legit beast..
If i was him i want my worth, they paid brady and Mankins
lostar2009 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Yeah loyalty is dead.
Question what teams in the playoffs would be in a worse position for FA if they won a Superbowl? Meaning itll be harder to sign their own guys because they will be overvalued? Is there any team with a lot of FAs that could be in trouble?
thebigham - January 11, 2012
He is going to take a home town discount to stay with the Patriots
Why would he take more money to be with a team like the Redskins? Because of his age, his comfort level with that organization he will take less to stay with them.
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
Money talks.
If it is a big enough difference, who wouldn’t? Afterall it is just a job.
thebigham - January 11, 2012
why should a guy be loyal to an organization?
when football teams cut guys all the time and never let them finish out their contracts
somebodyquiet - January 11, 2012
I would be shocked if Welker went elsewhere
He doesnt come across like he is in it for the money and when you have a team like the Patriots who are good every year why would you leave?
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
Did YOUR crystal ball tell you that?
thebigham - January 11, 2012
I didnt make a guarantee like Terry did
I just said I would be shocked if he did go elsewhere. Heck, I would take him if Robinson doesnt come back.
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
i would be suprisee if they dont give this guy a honest contract
Business is business guy. Mankins got his money you pay Brady his worth why not Welker??? Im not talking record setting contract but you have to pay this man. A home team discount is a no go and would be frown upon on a business asect. A probowler WR who has over 1300 yards a season more than that all purpose. The bone of your offense.. come on guy. These guys in New England are high charcter guys most of them wont let contract talks sour them they just move on. So they may just do that. Teddy Bruschi took a hometown discount because he knew he only had 1 or 2 years lefr to play and was orginally drafted by NE… Football is football and business is business.
lostar2009 - January 11, 2012
I really dont see a top safety being signed
If Elam doesnt return I think Church gets the nod. Maybe you see a guy later in the draft. We have so much to do with very little money ie., Robinson who, I dont think we have a chance at resigning. He wants #2 money im sure and we cant afford that much. CB, I could see being signed to replace Newman and he would either play the #2 spot or slot.
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
we will re-sign Robinson, he'll be our #1 priority in March
Cowboys are a lot more money under the cap than you think, Stephen is a brilliant capologist.
Terry - January 11, 2012
I dont see it
He is going to test the market and someone is going to throw him alot of money. Stephen is already on record saying are cap situation is not good. We cant tie up 3 of the same positions with alot of money. I like him alot, but let’s be realistic here….he is gone!
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
You don't know if he'll test the market or not
He has stated on numerous occasions that he wants to return to Dallas so if Jerry makes him a good, reasonable offer, I think he’ll take it.
And actually Stephen is on record as saying the Cowboys can sign anyone they want, the cap won’t be a problem according to him.
I’m really glad you think he’ll be gone because it probably means he’ll stay going by your previous track record predicting these type of things…(we won’t draft a OL in the first rd…cough)
Terry - January 11, 2012
umm..no
Robinson is going to test the market dont kid yourself and thats the smart thing to do. He is looking for his pay day so that’s just smart business on his part. We can sign him now, but you dont here anyone saying they are talking a contract with him do you? He will test the market trust me…
Pipe dream on the Guard..Jerry wont go for a OL pick two years in a row. Ratliff going to DE..yeah that was me to..ha!!
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
no, we can't sign him now, doesn't work that way
UFA can only sign back with their team in March, not now.
And throw your pre-Garrett Jerry tendencies out the window, Garrett is controling the draft now, if wants DeCastro, Jerry will draft him no questions asked.
Terry - January 11, 2012
Your crystal ball told you that Terry..LMAO!!
Who says JG wants an OL pick? you? Hopefully Decastro is off the board to end this nonsense..
Robinson apparently can sign a new contract right now with us. They just said this on DC.com today. It didnt sound right because, I thought it was after March 5th, but thats what they said. Either way I think he is going to test the waters.
I would be happy as heck if they found a way, but you cant break the bank for a 3rd WR knowing we have alot of holes to fill.
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
Terry is right, we can't sign him now.
Rena - January 11, 2012
So March 3rd
Really doesnt matter because he is going to test the waters when he hits the market. Right now he really doesnt know what his market value is and by going out and meeting with other teams we may know what that is.
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
I guarantee you
March 3rd does matter.
That’s when the Cowboys can negotiate with him. His agent probably already has offers from interested teams (on the hush hush b/c it would otherwise be tampering).
Rohpuri - January 12, 2012 via mobile
I think the same goes with Spencer
Agents in both camps realize this is the pay day big contract for their clients. Neither is going to agree without testing the market first.
Kegbearer - January 12, 2012
I don't mind bringing Spencer back
but if a team wants to get in a bidding war for his services, I might have a hard time. I don’t want to break the bank.
Rohpuri - January 13, 2012 via mobile
There are a lot of big name FA WR's this year.
Robinson has already flamed out at multi other teams. Hopefully that will keep his price down to a reasonable level.
Rena - January 12, 2012
I think that will happen
Rohpuri - January 13, 2012 via mobile
he said he wants to be a cowboy
Robinson has said on record he wants to stay a cowboy.
rick67 - January 11, 2012
It does not happen too often that you hear a player
say that they DONT want to be on the team that they are playing for….take it with a grain of salt
BigBad Joe - January 12, 2012
Compensatory pick
I think we’ll resign Robinson, but if he does walk, my bet is that we get a pretty good compensatory pick because of it being that he was tied for #4 in receiving touchdowns last year with Jimmy Graham and he was also #13 in yards per catch (players with 50+ catches). Those are pretty good numbers which would make him a hot commodity and probably get a big contract, enough to get us a 3rd round compensatory pick (which I believe is the highest possible…)
ProBowlFactory - January 11, 2012
NOTE
That counts for next years draft though, not this year. But reports say we should get a 4th rounder for losing Stephen Bowen last year, so thank you Skins for overpaying him :)
ProBowlFactory - January 11, 2012
Read somewhere that no compensatory pick for Robinson...
Has something to do with his being classified as an undrafted free agent.
LDVFootball - January 11, 2012
i thought it was because he wasnt on the team at the beginning of the season?
yehti - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Robinson was drafted
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
3rd round 07
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Church
Played well this season. not sure I want to rely on him as starting SS, but he is great as a 3rd safety Ryan brings into his schemes
Kegbearer - January 11, 2012
and if Church is one of our starting safeties next season
our secondary will even be worse than this year, that guy can’t cover to save his life.
Terry - January 11, 2012
Disagree there Terry
Church should be “decent” in Coverage…..is he going to run step for step with the Elite TE’s? No but that is What Sensi can do….
If Church can learn the Calls, then I think him and Sensi would be a nice pair of Safeties
I am Ironman!!! - January 11, 2012
Church is worse than Elam and Sensabuagh in coverage
and those two sucked
Terry - January 11, 2012
are u serious ???
Church made some really great plays in coverge before he wss placed on IR.. He might push to be a starter next season.
lostar2009 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
church is not good on coverage
ratware - January 11, 2012
I think he improved
but I wouldn’t consider him “good” in coverage
he did improve though, when he was in man to man, he looked good
when he played off man in zone, he got beat badly
too much space and he doesnt have the speed
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
that may be the truth but i did see church make some real nice plays on the ball
We need some real play making safties….
lostar2009 - January 11, 2012
Church is definitely not a playmaker
Terry - January 11, 2012
I think he can carve out a niche role for himself and get snaps
but I wouldn’t trust him to be a full time starter
somebodyquiet - January 11, 2012
He did make some good plays
but it wasn’t from the safety position. He played one of the linebacker spots in the nickel with Sean Lee being the other.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
its kinda like a Rover position
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
McCray got a lot of snaps out of that too.
For some reason I really like McCray. No good reason why though. I just dig the way he plays.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
I like McCray a lot actually
same thing I see, I just like the way he plays
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
that old defense Buddy Ryan ran used a rover a lot
Virginia Tech uses a Rover almost every snap
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
speaking of Va Tech
where does J.Hoseley rank at CB? that kid is a beast
DCNation73 - January 13, 2012
serious as a heart attack...Church sucks in coverage
Terry - January 11, 2012
I like Church but yeah I agree, he would be a liability in coverage
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
exactly my point
Terry - January 11, 2012
I know, I agree
he is a nice player, good rover type extra LB/S, but in coverage it would get ugly
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Church is a decent role player but not a starter
Terry - January 11, 2012
exactly
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Plays like the other Roy Williams.
pfloyd1 - January 12, 2012
Church wont ever start in Dallas unless theres no other choice.
QBs would burn Church all day lol.
DCNation73 - January 13, 2012
On a different free agent topic
I just read that Bill Callahn was Carl Nicks coach at Nebraska. Probablly doesn’t mean anything but it couldn’t hurt. Fact is we need a guard. Fact is Stephen Jones said adding beef in the middle of the oline is a priority. Makes since to me.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
If we would sign him and draft DeCastro
I think we our OL goes from being sucky to elite real quick.
Terry - January 11, 2012
yeah i'm choking my lips
30 points per game or garrett is an idiot
ratware - January 11, 2012
That is an intersting visual image
“choking my lips”
Tom Ryle - January 11, 2012
I got a image of those big, red wax/candy lips you used to be able to get around Halloween.
Rena - January 11, 2012
Get the Guard in FA or later in the draft
You dont blow your wad on a Guard with a high draft pick. Just ask the Eagle fans how taking Guards in the first round has faired for them. There is a reason why they should be going later.
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
not if you pick the right guard
If DeCastro is an elite prospect you take him regardless.
BTW, just ask the Cowboys how taking OLBs in the first round has worked also..ie Spencer and your girl Barbie.
Terry - January 11, 2012
And Demarcus Ware?....
No position is perfect, but I am not sure you should be aiming your ire towards OLB. I mean after all, as I understand it, most would be okay with Spencer coming back. Plus, there were three OLB prospects last year and all three were hits with their respective teams. OLB is a very draftable position as long as you don’t take a 4-3 OLB in college and try to convert him to a 3-4 OLB like Dallas did with Carpenter.
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012
*taken last year in the first round
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012
my point is you draft the best prospect
not the best prospect at a certain position
Terry - January 11, 2012
Well I was just responding to your jab at OLB.
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
The OLB prospects from last year's draft are better than the prospects in this year's class.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
Well there is certainly no Von Miller.
I think Ingram and Upshaw may be a bit worse than Aldon Smith as a pass rusher, but I think both are better than Ryan Kerrigan was.
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Kerrigan was pretty good this yr
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
yea he was
one of the few times i was ever jealous of the skins.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
Which is exactly why I have high hopes for Ingram and Upshaw.
I think both are better than or equivalent to Kerrigan.
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
also greg ellis
lostar2009 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
drafted to be a DE
mahuebel - January 12, 2012
Fix the CB play and the pass rush we will be fine
Safety play was not the problem for the most part. We didnt give up alot of big plays this season so Elam was an improvement over Alan Ball by a mile. Sensabaugh was givien a pretty good contract so dont expect another one at that position. Again, can’t tie up alot of money on the same position…..Espesically, when we need so much help on the DL
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
not true at all
Our safety play was horrible all season which actually made our CBs look worse than they actually were.
Upgrade safety play and you upgrade our CBs automatically by default.
Terry - January 11, 2012
Newman sucked!
that was the problem and we all saw it against the Giants. He shouldve been cut last year. They already know the biggest prpoblems are up front the reason they are considering moving Ratliff to DE. Your probably going to see every position on the DL except for Ware being replaced or moved around. The DL was a freaking mess this year and they know change needs to happen. Defense early and oftem in the draft is coming
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
and so did Sensabaugh and Elam, those two weren't much better
When Newman intially gets beat by Cruz, Sensabaugh should have been there to help but he wasn’t thats the problem.
Can’t expect CBs not named Revis to cover receivers without help on occasion.
Our CBs got no help from the safeties this year at all.
Terry - January 11, 2012
why isn't anyone else seeing that?
Sensabaugh was out of position that entire game
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
one thing ive noticed about sensi.....
he may be fast after he takes a few steps, but he doesn’t change directions quick, he doesn’t have that change of pace and directional… twitch that you look for in a cover guy. yes he can jump with the best of em but if he has to change directions and get there fast he generally cant keep up or get there fast enough.
IRONRAVEN - January 11, 2012
stiff hips
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Well, i can see how you would think that on the Cruz play
but i’ve heard Newman say that he’s the one that screwed that up. Sensabaugh was coming up towards the line so he could take him if Cruz cut inside on the slant. Newman was supposed to play his outside shoulder forcing him to the inside. For some reason Newman decided to play the slant and force him to got outside where there was no one. On that play, i don’t know about the rest, but on that play Sensi was where he was supposed to be.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
I am talking about the entire game
in deep balls and coverage, Sensabaugh was not there to aid his CB’s
not once
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Do you know what the defense play call was on those plays ?
I get that you dont like his play, but without knowing what he was suppose to be doing it is kind of tough to judge whether he was out of position or not….IMO
BigBad Joe - January 11, 2012
well
when I see him 5-10 yards running up after the guy is tackled I know he didn’t do his job and was out of position
I see Scandrick frustrated as hell
every time Sensabaugh gets beat he throws his hands up in the air yelling at somebody else, he doesn’t man up too much either, he likes to blame others and call them out
remember when Newman almost fought him on the field? and that is Newman, the softest of the soft
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
but the entire team
is running to the ball. Thats not a very good way to know if he is out of position or not.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
but he is the FS
if I see the FS nowhere near a deep play, that troubles me deeply
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I agree
thats why i think its really tough to critize players when we don’t really know what they are supposed to be doing on certain plays. I mean, its easy enough to know when a player gets beat 1 on 1 but its though when you dont know what there assignment is/was. Its really tough to figure out what the safety is doing. Is he in cover 2, is he taking the TE, is he just playing deep, is he playing close to the line for run support, does he have Shady McCoy coming out of the backfield, there are soooooo many things they could be doing. Its just tough.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
all I know is that Giants game
Sensabaugh was the free, supposed to be giving help over the top in his zone and whenever Scandrick let his guy release, Sensabaugh was nowhere over the top to give him help
he is not a ballhawk
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
i give
you exhaust me……..lol
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
lol my bad
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
i don't think so, that was pure common sense he took and horrible angle
ratware - January 11, 2012
its not a matter of whether you or i think so and its not a common sense thing
this came from the players lips and I heard it discussed on some of the break down shows as well. I agree that at first glance it looks that way, but after i had it explained to me it made a ton of since.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
players said it because they don't want to throw sensi under the bus
but well isn’t hard to me believe it was Newman’s fault
ratware - January 11, 2012
thats another thing with the dude
he takes awful angles
I like this Henderson cat, he played the position and is extremely smart, well at least he comes off that way
give the guy some talent and let him coach
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
well were stuck with Sensabaugh so deal with it,,
If he sucked so bad then why did we sign him to a new deal? The point is we signed him and now we go in house like Church, resign Elam or find another Safety on the cheap, but were not investing alot of money on another safety.
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
if he is so awesome why didnt another team sign him in free agency?
saying, oh he is good because we gave him an extension, that isnt smart
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Not sure if that was to my reply Chia
For the record I didnt agree with the Sensabaugh signing. I think we couldve done better elsewhere, but now were stuck with him.
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
Maybe you two need to read the logic in this article again...
http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2012/1/10/2697433/dallas-cowboys-building-bridges-orlando-scandrick-gerald-sensabaugh-contracts
TheCowboyFan - January 12, 2012
I had no problems with Scandrick's contract
They shouldve rolled the dice and found another option other than Sensabaugh.He isnt horrible, but Im not sure he is worth the contract either. Were stuck with him so its a mute point.
Boyzfan94 - January 12, 2012
what i saw on that play was Newmans fault
Sensa had inside coverage & Newman had outside coverage. Newman screwed that up by not pushing the play to his help & Cruz took off the up the outside alley Newman left wide open.
i dont like Sensa anymore then you but Newman was at fault for that TD. just like he was when he let a Bear hurdle him.
DCNation73 - January 13, 2012
For more than one year
His game is built on speed – he lost a step and can’t keep up. He can’t get up against big WRs and he never could catch.
Let him go.
birdness - January 11, 2012
You got it backwards.
Fix the front 7 and the DB’s become better. Look at the Giants the past 3 games.
Mikellie - January 11, 2012
Bingo!!
Pass rush makes the CB play better, even with average CBs. Fix the problems up front and that solves some of the issues at CB and Safety.
Boyzfan94 - January 11, 2012
This has been said for 4 seasons.
It hasn’t been true yet.
TXHC - January 11, 2012
we havent fixed the front 7 in four seasons
thebigham - January 12, 2012
exactly
Boyzfan94 - January 12, 2012
+1000
fix the front 7 & the QB doesn’t have time to make the DBs look bad. compare the Jets having great DBs & average front 7 & the Giants have a dominate front 4 & average DBs.
its pretty obvious in the era of the QB (with three 5,000 yard passers) you better be able to get to the QB bc there going to complete passes no matter who the DB is if they have the time.
DCNation73 - January 13, 2012
given Ryan and our new secondary coach
I wonder if Mike Adams isn’t brought in as a 1-2 year stop gap.
clark - January 11, 2012
Just looking at the stats (plus age) alone...
Griffin, Branch and Nelson might be worth a look. Agree they’re JAGs, but they’re stat better and younger than the JAG we have now.
Some mocks have Alabama’s safetys right about where we draft in the 2nd.
What do our local mock guru’s say about Barron and Lester? (if he declares)
Cowtoys - January 11, 2012
Barron really impressed me
some might be surprised where I have him ranked in my new big board
Lester, I am not a huge fan but I wouldn’t mind him
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Lester is heading back to bama for another year
matt575 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Michael Griffin would be my preferred guy out of all of them.
He can tackle, cover, and was an all-downs player for Tennessee.
Either way though, I think Dallas has to pick up one good FA secondary player this year whether it be at safety or cornerback. They can’t go into the draft with huge needs at both positions and expect to shore them up in time for the season. Take care of one need (at least partially) in FA and then focus on the other in the draft.
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012
I cant even begin to imagine how good our defense would be with a player like Griffin
we don’t have that type of player, frankly we haven’t had one at FS in years
god I would kill for someone like that
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
There you go killin people again
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
the Cowboys make me want to kill
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
me too....lol
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
i agree .. loudly hahahaaa
IRONRAVEN - January 11, 2012
Agreed. I’ve always thought he was a good player
somebodyquiet - January 11, 2012 via mobile
I would take Griffin or Branch in a heartbeat
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Branch, Landry, Griffin
Yeah, they top my list too…but not in a heartbeat
Kegbearer - January 11, 2012
I would
we haven’t had that type of player back there in almost a decade
this defense would be so much better with a player like that
I would kill for a safety like that, kill kill kill
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Question
Would you trade a 1st for Polamalu or Ed Reed? Steelers and Ravens have been known get let go of older players. I know the long term value takes a hit, but it is a crazy immediate boost to go along with a closing window when stud young safeties seem overly rare.
I am starting to think I would.
Kegbearer - January 11, 2012
No way he would trade a 1st
but he would kill
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
I would kill for a player like that
I would trade the first
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
But you wouldn't trade a 1st
for where they are right now would you? As far as age.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
no
its too risky with the age
I think I would rather take Barron at 14 then trade that pick
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
no they are on the decline.
Poorly run organizations trade 1st away for anyone but a young star.
thebigham - January 11, 2012
for Polamalu yes
idk about Ed Reed and he is my all time 2nd favorite Cane next to Sean Taylor
Reed is getting old
but if the Steelers called me today and offered me Polamalu for my 1st I would do it
then I would try to weasel a 3rd round pick back too, but yes I would do it in a heartbeat
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
No way Troy is worth a first.
That dude is going to go down hill fast! He takes too many plays off because his body just can’t take it anymore. Ask Terry he’ll learn you up.
thebigham - January 11, 2012
well I desire safety play, so I am biased
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Me too. All elite D's have them
But trading a first for a quickly aging player is what got us in the mess we are in now.
Good teams grow em and sell em, not buy em. Thats another reason why I think taking DeCastro is the smartest move. Because hey if the young guys turn out to be players then we will have some nice trade bait.
thebigham - January 11, 2012
weak safety classes have killed us
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I know its going to take a few years to turn this D around
And by that time Ware will be gone. Thats reason #1298756 I want DeCastro. With one pick our Offense instantly is elite. Imagine Murray running through Mack Truck size holes on the left side, Romo having time to let Dez juke a DB on a double move for a 60yd td. Mmmm.
thebigham - January 11, 2012
I am with you there
an improved OL will do a lot
and if that takes DeCastro and a drafted C, thats fine by me because this Murray kid is the real deal
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Defn, I am really excited for him.
I hope he’ll be healthy for mini camps.
thebigham - January 11, 2012
he will be fine
its basically the same thing Dez did last year in the Colts game
nothing serious
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
No doubt is a HOF player
and I think he could make a huge difference on our defense. But I think a lot of teams are starting to take advantage of his agressiveness. He seems to be getting caught out of position a lot more. They give him the freedom to kind of do what he wants back there and its starting to catch up with him. And I agree with Ham, when he starts to decline, I think its going to be fast.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
He is declining. When hes not hurt, hes banged up and when hes not banged up he is tired.
Just watch the Bronco game, the dude was wore out and took a lot of plays off.
thebigham - January 11, 2012
you know who I really like?
TJ Ward
I want a guy like that
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Troy at 40 percent is better than Sensabaugh at 100 percent
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
That might be true but still not worth a 1st
Now a 4th or something maybe.
thebigham - January 11, 2012
2 or 3 imo
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I would even consider Barron at 14
he is really growing on me, we wont take him that high but man I would love to have him
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I'd say screw it. I despise the play of Elam and Sensebaugh that
I’d draft Barron in the 1st and Markelle Martin in the 2nd round. Those two can’t be anyworse than the 2 Jags we’ve been playing at safety.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
thats exactly how I feel
I would much rather replace Sensabaugh than Spencer, but I feel that Melvin Ingram is such a better prospect than Barron
Barron has grown on me though
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I need to be sold on Ingram or Upshaw
Their career sack totals aren’t all that impressive, nor are their career tackles for loss. Plus, the numbers they accumulated in the SEC came against mostly crappy offenses and crappy QBs. I may be wrong, but think Arkansas was the only SEC school with a legit offense in 2011.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
actually I would say 17-18 tackles for loss is pretty damn good
I am sold on both, Ingram first because he is one of my favorite players in the entire draft
I love that guy
Upshaw really impressed me the other night
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
It's not that hard to look good in the SEC
When Jordan Jeffersons and Jarrett Lees are common place at the QB position.
But 17-18 tackles for loss are impressive, I misread the numbers.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
the SEC is loaded with talent man
just because LSU doesn’t have a good QB doesn’t mean what Ingram and Upshaw did any less impressive
I would draft from the SEC over any other conference
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I'm not saying the SEC doesn't have talent
What I’m saying, is that the schools for the most part don’t evenly distribute their talent among the offense and defense.
SEC offenses are a joke outside of RBs and WRs. The QB play overall is pathetic. And the play calling is either spread option or straight up 2 yrds and a cloud of dust, and only throw if desperate. Therefore, it’s easier to rack up strong numbers on the defense.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
SEC OL are pretty good
they just dont have the QB’s
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
They are pretty good
But a quick look at their prospects:
Their top 2 OT prospects are projected to be in the 3rd and 4th rounds.
Their top 3 C prospects range from fringe 2nd round to 6th round.
Their top top G prospect is a fringe 1st rounder.
The talent at offensive line in the SEC is pretty weak as well.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
Upshaws career hasn't been that productive
But over 25 combined sacks and TFLs this year is extremely impressive.
And I don’t know what to tell you about Ingram. The guy was the leading sack artist in 2010 in the premier football conference in college football. He also played all over the line from DT to DE. If you watch his tape, you can see he oozes talent.
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Again, the offenses that these numbers were put up against are not that good
It can’t be disputed that offense in the SEC is an after thought. It shouldn’t be hard to pile up big tackle for loss numbers against teams running the ball a majority of the time, especially on first and second down. Call me crazy, but I think guys like Perry, Mercellius, Curry, or Branch would’ve bested the totals that Ingram and Upshaw posted.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
You think the offenses are noticeably better in the Big Ten and the ACC?
As a Georgia Tech student and a huge Michigan fan, I certainly don’t feel that to be the case (especially for the ACC, which is basically a second tier football conference at this point).
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Look, I've seen the highlights, especially the game against
Especially the Georgia game, and came away impressed. I just have my doubts about this guy in a 3-4 defense as an OLB.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
I did too for a while mainly based off of his weight.
But I think when you watch him close on the QB and intercept fake FGs like he did against Auburn, I think it’s clear the guy has a special brand of athleticism that will show up in combine testing. Now of course if he tests terribly, my opinion could change, but I think he will put up a great vertical number and a short shuttle that will be impressive for his size.
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Fair enough
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
Ingram is my pick right now. Really big fan.
DCyanks21 - January 11, 2012
I don't want to play with fire and screw up the 14th pick
I’d like to get DeCastro, if he’s there, and never look back with the pick. Address the defense after that.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
I don't think he'll be there.
Trying not to get my hopes up.
DeCastro
Ingram
Kirkpatrick
My top 3 realistic picks I guess.
DCyanks21 - January 11, 2012
Kirkpatrick
plays very good near the line of scrimmage and I wonder how he benefited from the obscene talent around him and the QB pressure that Alabama provided.
Bottom line is maybe there`s no such place as Kirkpatrick Island meaning we might be wise to address pressuring the QB first and looking at db`s later in the draft such as rd 2 or 3.
ziggy19 - January 11, 2012
Consider that D-Ware was considered playing with fire at the time
while Anthony Spencer was considered a safer pick. I don’t think there is any definite way to do it.
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Why do you say D-Ware was considered playing with fire?
Shawne Merriman was the bad boy, but considered more talented, Ware was the low risk pick.
DIRE WOLF - January 11, 2012
Both were expected to play very well in the league.
DIRE WOLF - January 11, 2012
Ware was from Troy. No such thing as a low risk pick from Troy.
You can never be sure that small-school guys will adjust to playing bigger guys. He was also a late-riser and I think these reasons spoke to why a conservative guy like Bill Parcells preferred the “safer” pick in Marcus Spears (another great example of draft perceptions being way off).
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012
As far as that goes
you can never be sure of a large school pick.
See Barbie.
DIRE WOLF - January 11, 2012
We agree there.
I still can’t believe Parcells tried to convert a 4-3 LB to 3-4 OLB. It’s kind of unbelievable when you think about it.
Creasy729 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Parcell's made a mistake because of Carpenter's father.
pfloyd1 - January 11, 2012
Carpenter isn't a good anything LB
just4fun - January 11, 2012
+ 1,000,000,000,000,000, Rohpuri
I am no expert, nor do I play one on TV. But unless something changes, I feel very strongly about this. Get DeCastro IF he is there and our running game and our passing game both improve immediately. we keep Romo healthier, extend his career, and barring the unforseen, we do not need to address this facet of our team, (the O-Line), for possibly most of a decade.
I have seen Chias’, the Bighams and others here whom I have a great amount of respect for early draft wish lists, and they all make a lot of sense. And if that is the way our FO goes, I think we will be in a better position than we are right now by far. But my insticts as a career Chef tell me- You finish one project completely and then move on. we have done a good amount of work shoring up our O-Line so far, with Nagy, arkin, et al. They will have an entire offseason with a premier strength coach and will be much improved next year. But we need that difference maker at guard, and DeCastro is it. we will not have a chance to complete a superior, DOMINATING O- line like this for a loooong time.
We need to fill several holes on our D, we only need one guy to give us a superb Offensive line for the next several years. Certainly enough time to protect Tony for the rest of his career and groom our next starting QB without having to have him run for his life every time the ball is snapped.
That is just the way I see it.
JMHO, and as always YMMV
Unfortunately, having bloviated al of that, either he will not be there, or we will probably pass on him
Willy H - January 11, 2012
Growing on me too Chia
just listened to Draft Talk with Wes Bunting last night and he and the guest were RAVING about Barron and how good he is. Not Eric Berry good, maybe not quite Earl Thomas, but he isn’t far behind in his grade and will start and be effective right away.
Good player that can come down in the box, great instincts, can play as a centerfielder, but concerns arise about his ability to guard Tight Ends
ProBowlFactory - January 11, 2012
yeah he is growing on me for sure
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Nah. Both have injury problems.
DCyanks21 - January 11, 2012
i doubt anyone would trade a 1st rd pick for a either player
you might get a 3rd but draft picks are just to important. also Palamalu always seems to get banged up with knee issues.
DCNation73 - January 13, 2012
Anyone know anything on Mike Adams from Cleveland?
Just a question since he’s familiar with Rob’s defense.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
nothing at all
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Never heard of him
but OCC seems to like him
Antonio S - January 11, 2012
Of course Abe Elam proved
that knowing the defense doesn’t make you a good player.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
yeah
he wasn’t bad, but he wasn’t good
he was average
I was wrong about him, but I will say this, I would rather have Elam than Sensabaugh
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I think Elam will be back on another 1 year deal
Unless we get that Mike Adams guy
Antonio S - January 11, 2012
I wouldn't mind Elam back another year
problem is, we have 2 SS’s starting
we have no FS
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Not me
I just dont see where you are coming from with the dislike for Sensabaugh. He was pretty decent all year. Look at the numbers up above by OCC, did you notice where Elam was? I just know that I saw Elam missing a lot of tackles and playing catch up with some wr’s.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
I am not a PFF fan
I have major issues with PFF
another thing, Sensabaugh doesn’t want to lead, this is a fact, he isn’t comfortable making the calls
so if Elam isn’t here and there is a rookie FS, that leaves a rookie making the calls
Sensabaugh is out of position, he is a SS playing FS, he is too leggy and very uncoordinated
for a guy with a 46 inch vertical, he sucks at jump balls
Riley Cooper out jumped him
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I'm not going to change your mind on it
and you’re not going to change mine. I dont think he’s great but I dont think he’s anywhere near as bad as you make him out to be sometimes. Oh well, different opinions, want be the last time.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
true that
what if he didnt go to UNC?
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Touche
But he did. But believe it or not i really don’t where carolina blue glasses when it comes to my cowboys. For instance, I don’t want anything to do with Coples in the first. 2nd is fine but he wont be there then. Not many prospects coming out of UNC this year that I really want. I could handle Zach Brown in the 2nd but im not sure how he fits a 3-4. I got my dream pick last year with Bruce Carter. So excited about that.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
yeah I give you that
you havent been high on either all year
I for one wanted to drop BOTH of them out of my TOP 50
that is how low I am on Coples and Brown now
Carter on the other hand, idk man, he looks like the real deal, I much rather have Carter than Brown
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Don't get me wrong on Zach Brown
I think he can be a serious player. I just don’t think he fits a 3-4. But I have no doubt that he can be very good in a 4-3. He reminds me of an old school guy like Darren Smith.
I 100% believe in Bruce. He is going to be special.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
Brown has to go to a 4-3
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
what do you think about deunta williams tarheel paul
he once was projected to go in the second round, i wouln’t mind him now, he would be a low risk move
ratware - January 11, 2012
boy did I love that guy before he got hurt, such a shame
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
yeah i liked him too
ratware - January 11, 2012
He's one of the guys that I really wanted badly
From what I understand the injury was pretty devastating. Apparently he could have signed with a couple of teams last year but he decided against it for whatever reason. Word is that he wanted to get 100% so he would have more options. I haven’t heard anything for quite some time so im not sure where that situation stands.I would love love love to see them give him a chance.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
yeah he could worth the while
ratware - January 11, 2012
and as soon as we pay this guy
he falls off
I just don’t like him at all
when he played good, I recognized it, I gave the guy his props
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I agree with Chia
Gerald’s level of play dipped the moment he got paid.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
yup, I think that was very easy to see
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
He was playing the last part of the season with a foot injury guys
StrosSouth - January 11, 2012
Yup.
Sensi was playing with some hurt and has a lot of pride this year. Big player for us next year.
DCyanks21 - January 11, 2012
Sadly the same thing happened with Free
Antonio S - January 11, 2012
I think if you put Free back at RT
he will have an awesome year and be in the pro bowl for years at RT
I just think he is such a great talent at RT, on the other hand I think Tyron Smith looks like a better LT
his footwork is amazing and he has the long wingspan, he gets his hands on you its a wrap
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
Oh Def
Not even close, Tyron NEEDS to be the LT next year
Antonio S - January 11, 2012
solid gold move there ....
IRONRAVEN - January 11, 2012
Why didn't we do that this year?
DCyanks21 - January 11, 2012
No offseason
and scary for Romo with a rookie LT
BigBad Joe - January 11, 2012
Free is not a LT
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
He was in 2010
Thats what sucks. I have no idea what happened to him this year.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
Free got paid that's what happened.
Antonio S - January 11, 2012
yea, i really dont think thats it
i just think thats an easy cop out for us fans.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
yeah that's too easy
That’s why I said there is more tape on him therefore Defenses can attack him better, but Swapping Free and Tyron should make the O-line better.
Antonio S - January 11, 2012
Or...
There is more tape on Free, Defenses probably know how to attack him better.
Antonio S - January 11, 2012
I'm leaning towards this conclusion
should’ve probably traded the guy for picks
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
we would be in a world of hurt without Free
imagine if we didnt have him?
we would be talking about taking a OT at 14
puke
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
If we traded Free, we could've gotten back a 2nd or 3rd
I would still take DeCastro at 14 and then take Nate Potter from Boise State with the Free pick. Boise St invests scouting resources on the offensive line and on defense.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
I agree with that
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
what JG needs to do is pull a Jimmie .....
these players that light it up till they get paid then declines, JG needs to make an example of one of em, and just plain call em out in a meeting, tell em around here son we don’t pay you well to screw off after a pay day,, see ya ! find the unemployment office. that might just wake a few peeps up in that locker room !
IRONRAVEN - January 11, 2012
I'd also send players to the sick field
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
i do miss the asthma field
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
hahahah i remember that from Jimmie ......hahahahaaa
loved it… i remember him tellin a guy the asthma field is right over there.. hit it ! hahahahaaaa
IRONRAVEN - January 11, 2012
ah memories
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
He has had a few interceptions each year he has started a decent amount of games
So he is more prone to interceptions than Elam ever was or probably ever will be.
ProBowlFactory - January 11, 2012
Assuming the Colts take Luck, the Rams will be sitting pretty to trade the #2 pick to a team who's in love with RG3.
I could see them staying in the top 10 and getting the trading partner’s #1 and #2 this year and a #1 and #2 next year, maybe more.
DIRE WOLF - January 11, 2012
I somewhat expect the skins to jump on that
They got QB issues that they need to resolve so I think they will consider that move, or maybe wait a bit and leap frog Cleveland and take him #4…
ProBowlFactory - January 11, 2012
Skins will sign Flynn in FA and draft Jeffrey with their first round pick. Instant upgrade of their O.
pfloyd1 - January 11, 2012
Robert Lester is returning to school
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
interesting note I want to include here with Callahan hiring
he had Nick Mangold, a dominant center
we dont have that
I guarantee C is a high priority now, I doubt we take Konz over DeCastro, but a guy like Michael Brewster from Ohio State in the 2nd round is looking like a real possibility now
6’5 310, he is a big center like Mangold too
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
can you imagine the uproar here if we draft two OL with our first two picks?
Though Ill be cheering because our O will be elite but also it means Jerry is stepping back or the trinity is working!
thebigham - January 11, 2012
tell you what
our defense would suck but I would love our OL
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
We'd light up the score board early and then use our big rig guards to bulldoze teams in the 2nd half
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
Beef the o and d lines and we'll see a 10 win season.
Good secondary play comes with a good pass rush. Solidify that first then go after DB’s.
DCyanks21 - January 11, 2012
Whoever we sign in free agency at DB would immediately raise the level play over last year
We could take two DBs early but it’s not an absolute must. I think interior OL is the first position that needs a facelift.
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012
I am not 100% for or against this
However I would love to get Konz as it is looking like the guys I wanted in the second might still be there in the third from what I hear (except maybe Trumaine Johnson). Although, I would really like to pick up a guard in FA like Nicks or Grubbs, then I think you let Kosier stay another year unless Arkin is ready to start. Hopefully by 2013 Arkin is ready then you have a great O-line set for at least the next 4 years or so.
ProBowlFactory - January 11, 2012
Amen brother, amen
Willy H - January 11, 2012
Sorry, that was in response to Chias post about taking two O- linemen
Willy H - January 11, 2012
With a great O, the D would be more rested and fresh for the 4th Q.
Our D doesn’t need a massive upgrade to be a top 10 D, but a top 3-4 O would be really nice.
pfloyd1 - January 11, 2012
You know, if the draft fell that way
and OLs are the BP(s)A, I wouldn’t have a problem with it at all.
Cowboys have so many needs that early in the draft, the only BPA positions where we might look elsewhere are RB, QB and WR (if we resign LR), I’d skip TE in the 1st too, but that’s about it. Otherwise, bring on the BP(s)A.
Cowtoys - January 11, 2012
+1
BigBad Joe - January 11, 2012
It worked for the 9ers
birdness - January 11, 2012
I'll take Laron with injury risks.
Playmaker.
DCyanks21 - January 11, 2012
I'd be shocked if Danny boy
dosen’t pay out the wazoo to keep him.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 11, 2012
True.
DCyanks21 - January 11, 2012
I'd take a shot at him
He does get injured but other then Elam so did all of our safties. He may not cover well but he does HIT without horse collaring.
Final Frame - January 11, 2012
The safety situation is depressing,
The options are not good. Barron is the best, but not at #14, especially if DeCastro is there. Martin in the second is even too high, but I guess I could live with it. Of the above FAs, if Deunta is healthy I’d seriously evaluate him. Griffin, Landry , Branch ore OK, but nothing makes me smile or feel comfortable this year.
Hope RR can pull a rabbit out of a hat.
pfloyd1 - January 11, 2012
Markelle Martin in the 2nd
Would make me happy. Not just because I’m a Pokes fan, but because he would best fit our needs. Barron is more of a SS, albeit a darn good one. Martin is a FS who quarterbacked their secondary and led them in passes defensed for 3 years. He’s great in zone and good in man coverage. A little awkward in the backpedalling, but hes by no means a liability in coverage. He also has fluid hips and 4.4 speed.
Can you imagine having a safety that can actually cover most slot receivers? And can lead? And likes hitting people?
sirjason22 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
I can!
He’s called Tyvon Branch. Don’t get me wrong I am all for drafting Martin, but I like to pick up Branch in the off season instead.
rawrrawr - January 11, 2012
Sign me up for Markelle Martin in the 2nd Rd
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012 via mobile
+1
somebodyquiet - January 11, 2012
You guys left out the most important facts
Having some better safetys and CBs is all good but it don’t mean squat if we can’t get pressure on the QB. We could clone Revis a few times and put them back there and they still will get burned if we give a QB all day to throw. Let’s face facts here. Ware as great as he is can’t be our only serious pass rusher. It still makes me sick there wasn’t a way to get both Tyron Smith and JJ Watt. Watt was there when we drafted Smith but we couldn’t take both.
nospinzonefactor - January 11, 2012
Revis still does his job at an elite level despite the fact
that the Jets pass rush is garbage
Rohpuri - January 11, 2012 via mobile
yeah HIS job
what about the 4 other guys in coverage? Where are the JETS?
thebigham - January 11, 2012
Give barry church his shot. Defense
fell apart once he got injuried
bige444 - January 11, 2012 via mobile
Tyvon Branch
Would be an epic upgrade. Dude has speed. Ryan can and would use him all over the field.
rawrrawr - January 11, 2012
Brady Tinker
“I was shocked at the contract Sensabaugh got, that’s a lot of money to give a guy who is OUT OF POSITION too many times”
same thing I have been saying
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I wonder if Brett Maxie will be leaving for Tennessee?
And I wonder how the team would replace him? The Callahan and Henderson hires look pretty good. Maybe the team is wanting him to go to have a completely new team coaching the DBs.
It might be a rough job, since it looks like there aren’t any really great solutions to safety out there. I am thinking Elam might get another one year deal, unless one of the better FAs comes cheap. The team may have to ride this issue out.
Tom Ryle - January 11, 2012
A bit Off Topic, but I still have not heard a sensible response as to why
Carter got such limited playing time- read “Almost none”- this year. I mean I did see the guy block a kick, and saw nothing that he did very badly.. IDK, maybe I am just a dunce, but I just don’t believe that he was that ‘Green’.
Tarheel, Chia, Bigham, or anybody for that matter can someone enlighten me?
Willy H - January 11, 2012
Some speculation was he still wasn't 100%
Though that block kick was a true highlight, something ill never forget.
thebigham - January 11, 2012
He was on PUP.
That means he wasn’t allowed to attend team practices till after the midpoint of the season. He could attend film sessions and meetings. So when they could finally activate him off of PUP the season was past week 8 and he had to hurry and try to play catch up. Most likely he still wasn’t 100%. as he tore it about Thanksgiving a year ago.
Rena - January 11, 2012
Again, Thanks Rena,
I must have missed that info, although I try to keep up with what is going on, this makes things more clear about carter. From the little I saw of him and how paul spoke of his abilities, I believe he is going to be a beast for us next year. I guess I am just frustrated about how little great play I saw from the team as a whole this year.
I do believe that if we spend our draft picks properly, and with the very positive coaching changes we have seen so far, this team should have a very different personality next year.
Let’s hope
Willy H - January 11, 2012
idk but Carter has a great skill set and we will finally get to see if he was worth the wait next year
I am moving on from this year and 2010
I have high hopes for Carter next year
I am done talking about Newman
I am done talking about Spencer
I am done talking about Sensabaugh
I am done talking about Costa
I have wasted soooo much time talking about scrubs, I am moving on
I just want to talk about good players, adding good young players, adding good coaches
I am so over talking about mediocrity
Archie Barberio - January 11, 2012
I could not agree more Chia.
Pulleeezze, let us turn our eyes to the players that will make an impact on our team next year!!!! I do think Carter will be one of them. Let the conversation be about Lee, hopefully Carter, who my gut says will have a big impact, Demarco Murray, and DeCastro, or whomever we use #14 on, and how well our team is going to play with the Younguns on the O-Line. I think with Woicheck turning Nagy, Arkin and the rest of them into beasts, and a healthy recieving core and a solid stable of RB’s, there may be reason for some optimsm next year. And yes, I am getting pretty sick and tired of having to use the phrase “Next Year” season after season after season. I want to be able to use terms like “Wow, what a great playoff win that was”!!! And, Boy I am glad we drafted that guy!!
Willy H - January 11, 2012
Thanks Ham, that would make sense, I just did not hear much talk about the
injury, but a lot about his lack of experience.
Willy H - January 11, 2012
Based on the data, I'd say Griffin or Steltz
Both are 27 or younger, both play for teams that don’t like to pay for talent at all. Both are decent in pass coverage which would be an upgrade. I’d be for signing one of those guys and drafting a guy also. Plus there are several people that think Barry Church could start. But even if he could, I’m for sigining and drafting a guy.
just4fun - January 11, 2012
Nothing but a big bag of meh there.
Jim Leonhard and LaRon Landry are the only names that even pique my interest, and both are coming off of major injuries. A healthy Landry at SS and Sensi at FS or a healthy Leonhard at FS next to Sensi at SS would be better than what’s back there now. If either could be had for cheap I’d consider it, but other than that it’s time to hit on some DBs in the draft.
TXHC - January 11, 2012
I want no part of that midget Jim Leonard
He can’t cover anyone, he’s not that fast, HE’S FREAKING SHORT, and the only reason to have him on the field is to play near the line of scrimmage and occassionally blitz.
Rohpuri - January 12, 2012 via mobile
Maybe MIke Adams?
Get us somebody who can cover, lol.
Cowboys Dominance - January 13, 2012
Manning and Rolle
Were at the TOP of MY wishlist LAST year. NOW, I’d be happy with Landry and a good DEFENSE focused draft!
Howleyesque - January 16, 2012
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