About ten days ago, I penned a quick synopsis outlining what NFL scouting departments do each offseason to winnow the massive amount of draftable players down to a workable number. Looking at Dallas' 2011 haul, I surmised that a lot of guys on their "short list" (check out the above link to see a 2011 "little board") had in fact become Cowboys and had acquitted themselves well. Because they had found good players across available rounds (everything from top-ten picks to UDFAs), I concluded that the Cowboys' personnel department had done a good job of evaluating talent and, more importantly, in their "Dallas Day" invitees, had focused on guys, across rounds, that looked to be legit NFL players.
Further, I speculated that this applied not only to the players Dallas actually selected but to all the dudes on their short list--in other words, beyond the guys the Cowboys actually drafted. A look at Dallas' "little board" offered some confirmation that a high percentage of the Cowboys' targets in fact sparkled during their rookie years. In particular, I was impressed by how many mid- and late-rounders, guys like Cecil Shorts and Da'Norris Searcy, got a lot of snaps and made plays in 2011. Again, I noted that this speaks well about the job Tom Ciskowski and his scouts do to identify talent across the board, at least in terms of the ol' eye test.
Given the unreliability of the eye test, however, I wanted to compile some firmer evidence, considering, among other things, PFF grades, position on depth charts, games played, and total snaps. Did these numbers confirm or overrule my gut reaction? In this post, I'll take a look at the offensive studs on Dallas' 2011 short list; later, we'll look at the defensive guys. Then, to cap off the series, I'll look at the infamous "leaked" 2010 draft board, focusing on players drafted more than 40 picks above or below where Dallas slotted them.
Charts and observations after the jump...
Okay, on to the offensive short list. Let's begin by looking at a handy-dandy chart:
| Team and Round (pick #) | Games Played/ Starts | Position on Depth Chart | PFF Grades | Total Snaps | Rookie Year AV | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Running Back | ||||||
| Bilal Powell | NYJ 4 (126) | 2/0 | 4 | -2.8 | 27 | 0 |
| DeMarco Murray | DAL 3 (71) | 13/ 7 | 1 | 9.4 | 390 | 7 |
| Phillip Tanner | DAL UDFA | 10/0 | 3 | 0.6 | 50 | 1 |
| Stevan Ridley | NE 3 (73) | 15/ 2 | 2 | 1.4 | 192 | 4 |
| Wide Receiver | ||||||
| Andre Holmes | DAL UDFA Practice squad | 4 (FL) | 0 | |||
| Cecil Shorts | JAX 4 (114) | 10/1 | 3 (FL) | -4.9 | 179 | 0 |
| Edmund (Clyde) Gates | MIA 4 (111) | 15/ 0 | 2 (FL) | -2.7 | 156 | 0 |
| Jon Baldwin | KC 1 (26) | 11/3 | 2 (SE) | -6.6 | 404 | 2 |
| Jimmy Young | CHI UDFA, cut, PIT optioned for 2012 | 4 (SE) | ||||
| Offensive Line | ||||||
| Anthony Castonzo | IND 1 (22) | 12/12 | 1 (LT) | -7 | 713 | 4 |
| Danny Watkins | PHI 1 (23) | 14/ 12 | 1 (RG) | -8.4 | 807 | 5 |
| DeMarcus Love | MIN 6 (168) | 0/ 0 (inactive for all 16) | 2 (LT) | NP | NP | 0 |
| Derek Sherrod | GB 1 (32) | 5/0 | 2 (RT) | -5.1 | 115 | 0 |
| Gabe Carimi | CHI 1 (29) | 2/2 | 1 (RT) | -0.3 | 100 | 1 |
| Jake Kirkpatrick | IND UDFA | ?? | ||||
| Mike Pouncey | MIA 1 (15) | 16/ 16 | 1 (OC) | -1.7 | 1025 | 6 |
| Nate Solder | NE 1 (17) | 16/ 13 | 1 (RT) | -2.5 | 880 | 8 |
| Tyron Smith | DAL 1 (9) | 16/ 16 | 1 (RT) | 13.7 | 1074 (missed 8 all season) | 9 |
| Will Rackley | JAX 3 (76) | 14/ 13 | 2 (LG) | -35.7 | 955 | 0?? |
Some context:
And a few takeaways from this list:
And that's the chief dilemma when looking at this data: these are rookie years. Certainly, the majority of the players Dallas targeted--even late round types, were picked up by NFL teams, and at about the round one might expect. Where their careers go from here, however, is anybody's guess, as is the burning question: where did Dallas slot these guys, exactly?--which is one of he reasons why monitoring the progress of the leaked 2010 draft board will be so instructive: we can see exactly where the Cowboys had them slotted, and more accurately measure projection vs. production.
In the meantime, we'll extend the above exercise to the defensive side of the ball to revisit the other half of the Cowboys 2011 short list. I'll have that up later in the week.
Thoughts? Observations? How do you you interpret the data? Share your analytical acumen n the comments section below.
0 recs | 187 comments
Frist
Oh dang.
GunsUp - January 24, 2012
PFF is not a perfect system
But dang, maybe the mob of people crying when we passed on Will Rackley can own up to the fact that he was awful. Even if PFF is off by a substantial amount on Rackley’s grade, he still sucked.
Key19 - January 24, 2012
lol
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Well I'll own up to this.
I wanted a heavier investment in the Oline, having taken OT Tyron early, I also wanted to add a quality interior Olineman. Rackley seemed to be well rated by all the draft guru’s so I was hoping they’d take him when we got on the clock in the third.
When they took Murray instead I admit I was a little disappointed. I wanted investment in the Lines not more skill position players. I don’t think I was wrong to think that way in general but certainly Murray has been great and Rackley, it appears, has been very bad so far.
Like last year though, I still live in hope that the Lines (both O & D) become the priority in FA and the Draft.
Luke. - January 25, 2012
Sorry that’s meant to be a reply to Key19.
Luke. - January 25, 2012
The first person to figure out how to hit on every draft pick,
will retire as the richest man in the world. Until then, you do the best you can with the knowledge you have, and hope for the best. Like the song says “Two outta three ain’t bad”.
GunsUp - January 24, 2012
that has to be the first Meat Loaf reference of all time on BTB.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 24, 2012
Yes but whenever someone mentions Lumpy
Meatloaf and other edibles are implied…
dunkman - January 24, 2012
mmmm... edibles :)
DalaiLuke - January 24, 2012
Do Sloppy Joe's count?
I mean, he’s not on the board, but maybe he’ll be a UDFA.
White Wolf - January 25, 2012
You took the words right out of my mouth
Luke. - January 25, 2012
If Carter and Arkin both become 'hits' then this was a very successful draft
The ‘Boys need the next two to be just as successful so we can get back in this thing. I’m feeling optimistic.
Specific - January 24, 2012
If
The 2011 Draft would be an A+…
Starters yr 2:
Carter – ILB
Arkin – Guard (LorR)
Tron – LT
Murray – RB1
Nagy – C/G or back-up
Maybe u even get something out of Dwayne Harris this year??? May have been one of our All-Time best drafts…only time will tell.
StarloverinWNC - January 24, 2012
When I look at Tyron and DeMarco
I can’t help but get excited to see Carter hit the field.
White Wolf - January 25, 2012
Successful draft
If the cowboys and jerruh can string a couple drafts like this together, we will be talking about our next game being the super bowl very soon
SoCal Cowboys - January 24, 2012 via mobile
How much can be said about the draft.
The seasons not over and I’m already tired of the retread discussion.
DIRE WOLF - January 24, 2012
Tons more!
ary201 - January 24, 2012
This team does a good job evaluating talent
Remember, how ppl were shocked that Anthony Davis received a 3rd Rd grade compared to Navarro Bowman getting a 1st Rd grade on the Cowboys board?
I believe the Cowboys got it right, and the 49ers got lucky that they ended up with both players.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Those are the kinds of drafts you need to become dominant. The Niners benefitted from great draft positions over the last decade, but they used the picks wisely for the most part.
They are a great QB away from rivaling the Montana years, not withstanding the fact that they don’t have Jerry Rice, but Vernon Davis is pretty aewsome.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
they really need a big infusion of talent on the offense.
Other than Davis, and he is what 28 already? Gore is already slowing down and getting banged up more and more. And they don’t have any WRs.
thebigham - January 24, 2012
I really think they have some decent receivers, Crabtree, etc., I believe it's more Smith's just being a serviceable QB that's holdig the WRs back to a degree.
Vernon will be 28, but look at Witten and Davis is a much better athlete. Gore is excellent, but RB is probably the easiest position the replace since the league has shifted to passing for the most part.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
Look at the Ravens, Boldin, Evans and Torrey Smith. Flacco holds them back.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
Put Tony on the Niners and they win the SB.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
I just don't see it.
thebigham - January 24, 2012
Witten is 29
he was VERY young as a rookie.
Davis and Witten are both at their peak and decline will set in withing the next 3-4 years.
TK19 - January 24, 2012
You know Tony Gonzales is still productive,
I’m just not writing these guys off just yet.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
productive yes
but he has declined.
I think Witten has 3 more years at his current level. Then he will decline, but still be good.
JWitt seems like a guy who could still be productive at 35 or 36.
TK19 - January 24, 2012
I agree, my whole point with all of this is that the Niners are a pretty good team and with a better QB, like Tony, they'd be in a position to win SBs.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
they aren't that far away
that is for sure
TK19 - January 24, 2012
They're going to take a step back
Even if they get a better QB, they’ll take a step back next year. I’d bet on it. They have some units locked up and really strong, like the front-seven, but how much of their offense depends on Vernon Davis and Frank Gore? As soon as one of them has an injury or slows down, they’re screwed. Also, I think their secondary overachieved this year.
ary201 - January 24, 2012
The 'Niners 2010 draft will be a major facet of Part IV of the series
rabblerousr - January 24, 2012
Thanks for putting this together...
As much flack as the Cowboys scouting staff has gotten through the years, it’s encouraging to see that they seem to have gotten their stuff together.
Let’s not forget they had Navarro Bowman ranked very high as well when he came out.
Phillyboijr - January 24, 2012
said the same thing immediately above
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Didn't see it..
Good stuff.
Phillyboijr - January 24, 2012
Hey rabble could you find out Wisniewski's PFF grade?
I wanted him bad last year for our 2nd round pick.
CaliCowboysFan92 - January 24, 2012
they gave him a -9.6
coming in as the 53rd ranked guard. This is not uncommon; most rookie grades are “negative”; this shows how excellent Murray and T. Smith were for Dallas this season.
The curious thing is that Wiz did rather well overall, except in game 1 (@ Den) in which he received a -4.6 and game 17 (SD) where he scored a terrible -7.1. The middle of his season, he was “in the green” every game save one.
rabblerousr - January 24, 2012
Thanks for that info.
I wondered how he did, I was also a big fan of drafting him. Oakland was very happy with his performance. Seems he had 2 rookie shockers and was solid the rest of the year. Looks like he’ll improve into one the leagues better interior Olineman in the next year or so. I wonder if we’ll end up regretting passing on him (I regretted passing on him the moment it happened!).
Luke. - January 25, 2012
I wanted Wis badly also. Kinda still wish we had gotten him.
Rena - January 25, 2012
Ciskowski assembles great draft boards every year
and Garrett will continue following it like he did in 2011.
Terry - January 24, 2012
i agree with this
I also think Garrett does have an eye for talent, and evaluating players.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Yes.
Garrett = Hope.
Luke. - January 25, 2012
He probably does but
I also think he’s more scout-friendly. That is, it appears that he listens to the input better than Wade did.
dunkman - January 25, 2012
So who screwed up the 2009 draft??
Antonio S - January 24, 2012
the draft was screwed because Jerry traded away picks for Roy
and Wade wanted Jason Williams
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
yeah but they still blew that entire draft
Archie Barberio - January 24, 2012
i never said otherwise
i stated how it got to being a blown draft
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I still think it was the Wade Phillips influence. I do not think, as a head coach, that he is a good evaluator of talent.
jazzbo251 - January 24, 2012
Well
as a DC he got some talent in the draft and FA last year for the Texans
BigBad Joe - January 24, 2012
don't kid yourself besides maybe a couple of players
wade had no say on that draft, that was all jerry
ratware - January 24, 2012
Of the first 5 picks...
3 were LB’s. I think Philips definitely had some say.
Luke. - January 25, 2012
And the word out of the DC camp
was that Phillips had insisted on several of those players, essentially drowning out the scouting department.
dunkman - January 25, 2012
out of 12
ratware - January 25, 2012
Jerry and Wade
Bad bad bad decisions.
Trading down? Robert Brewster? Jason Williams and Brandon Williams?
Bad bad bad
Blue Eyed Devil - January 24, 2012 via mobile
After Parcells and prior to Garrett becoming HC
Jerry welded more power in the war room than he should have had. With a football guy in place in Garrett calling the shots, we won’t have to worry about that anymore
Terry - January 24, 2012
I don't think I would put it exactly that way
I think Jerry wants and accepts input from others. That’s not to say he doesn’t get crazy ideas. It’s just that Wade would rather agree with Jerry then give his real opinions on some of these players. Jerry interpreted Wade’s agreement as support for his decision. Jerry has to have a strong willed communicator as his head coach to keep him on the right path.
staubachfan - January 24, 2012
Jerry has conceded personnel decisions to Garrett for the most part
If Garrett wants a guy, Jerry will say ok unless it’s not cap feasible.
Terry - January 24, 2012
He did the same with Tuna, how long did that last?
Make no mistake, Jerry will have the final say.
DIRE WOLF - January 24, 2012
It will last as long as Garrett is HC
There will never be a player on the roster that Garrett doesn’t want, don’t kid yourself.
Terry - January 25, 2012
"Jerry wants and accepts input from others"
This is the problem—he’s the great salesman who can be sold. He listened too much to Wade instead of the scouts. The fact that Garrett comes from a scouting family suggests that he’ll rely on Ciskowski and Co. to a greater extent.
And I think that’ll be good news. The problem has never been the way they compile info, but what they do with it (and, in the worst cases, ignore it)…
rabblerousr - January 24, 2012
Well said
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Yes exactly.
My response was to Terry’s comment “Jerry welded more power…” After Parcells and before Garrett. I just didn’t really see it as more or less power. It has more to do with the strength of those he’s talking to. Garrett’s input is much more inline with the scouting departments views and grades. And yes this is a good thing.
staubachfan - January 24, 2012
That's what I had read somewhere
that Wade actually insisted on a lot of guys the scouts didn’t support. That sort goes along with the mantra of “trust our board”…. Trust your scouting.
dunkman - January 24, 2012
And the nice thing about Garrett
is that he listens to the scouts. Wade tended to want players that he fell in love with, and didn’t listen as much to the scouts.
BWareofDWare - January 24, 2012
Do you think this is really what was happening?
Maybe Wade was not only easy on the guys, “Camp Cupcake” but he was a pushover with JJ too.. I really hope we can attribute this success to Garrett and his backbone. Hopefully this will continue into the future. Plus it has to make the scouts and personnel guys happy that they are actually being listened to now..
AmericasTeamm - January 24, 2012
yes, Wade basically was a yes man to Jerry...Garrett is quite the opposite, much like Parcells
Terry - January 24, 2012
how do you know this?
McLovin9 - January 24, 2012
If you actually pay attention instead of spending all your time hating
it’s pretty easy to ascertain
Terry - January 24, 2012
you know the nature of the interaction between Jerry and JG on drafting?
McLovin9 - January 24, 2012
It's been covered here
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Don't bother Rohpuri
Terry & McLovin have a special relationship. Its just there way of flirting with each other. LOL
TARHEEL PAUL - January 24, 2012
HAHAHA..
I just started laughing out loud in my office..People already think Im crazy, thanks for supplying more ammo to support that theory TP!!
AmericasTeamm - January 24, 2012
loi loil loil
IRONRAVEN - January 24, 2012
LOL!
Fernie67 - January 25, 2012
I'll just come out and say it
that would be one ugly, confused baby…
dunkman - January 25, 2012
Terrifying thought. But you know, it's a thin line
between love and hate. :)
Fernie67 - January 25, 2012
my concern is this...
as a young coach in JGs position – if Jerry comes to you and says ‘we like this guy’….how inclined are you to make a stand if you disagree?? if you really make a stink, he’s not drafted and turns into a great player – you look like a fool. If he’s drafted and he busts – well you just went along with it so no big deal – you didn’t stick your neck out.
first – i’m not convinced that JG has a large amount of influence on drafting – and secondly, i seriously doubt he’d be inclined to exercise what influence he has…
i mean seriously – how much influence did Parcells really have??
McLovin9 - January 24, 2012
We're just going with what JJ said, that no one will be on this team either as a player or coach that JG does
not want. You may be right that JG might shy away from controversy if JJ really wants someone, but we all want to believe that JJ has had a basic change in philosophy and has recognized that his previous approach has failed the Cowboys miserably in terms of playoff wins over the past 16 years.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
bottom line - i really don't think that much has changed...
and if it has – i dont think we would know it….
its somewhat of a black box
McLovin9 - January 24, 2012
It'll never change with Jerry....
He thinks he a football man like Tuna and Jimmy, that’s the reason both of them didn’t stay long. He would’ve named himself HC years ago, but he knew the press and fans would’ve nailed him to the cross.
DIRE WOLF - January 24, 2012
"a football man like Tuna"
A genius who understand that Spears > Ware, and Bobby Carpenter is worth a first round pick. We need a great mind like that, because Dez Bryant and Tyron Smith have failed miserably. Bring back the great Tuna, he’ll save us all!
CotySaxman - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I agree that the Parcell's time here was far from perfect...
but he’s a proven football coach and will go into the Hall Of Fame. Jimmy made some bad decisions and picks too.
Luke. - January 25, 2012
If you don't think Tuna is a football man, then you don't know dick about football.
DIRE WOLF - January 25, 2012
Dez, the WR that averages 58 yards a game?
You need a better example to prove a point, plus I guess you liked the 2009 draft and the Rw trade.
DIRE WOLF - January 25, 2012
A person like JJ respects people who stick their neck out more than a yes man
Wade has a yes man’s personality. Jerry is a lot of things, but I don’t believe he hired Wade because he was a yes man, he hired Wade because he wanted to keep the 3-4 defense, something Norv wasn’t a lock to keep, and Jerry believed he needed a defensive minded hc since tje offense was in good hands. Never did Jerry expect that Wade would turn out the wayhe did. Jerry made the incorrect assumption that Wade’s problem in prior hc gigs was a lack of talent on the roster.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
But he didnn't get along near as well with Jimmy and Tuna.
He seemes to loved Wade, Berry and Campo, Chan who knows?
DIRE WOLF - January 24, 2012
Not manybppl get along with Parcells, but Jerry wanted him to continue
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Jerry and Jimmy were former college fb teammates
Barry Switzer coached them at Arkansas
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
I know the story
DIRE WOLF - January 24, 2012
I don;t think the central idea behing the 2009 disaster was a bad one
The Cowboys were too top heavy and needed to shore up depth in the worst way.
They just drafted bad players, in no small part by failing to listen to their scouts. From what I hear, Jason Williams was a Wade pick and Robert Brewster was a Houck pick…
rabblerousr - January 24, 2012
That's what I said at the time, however
the strategy led them to look at role players, rather than players, and I think they got what they deserved. Stephen Jones talking about getting BPA sounded a little like “We learned our lesson about trying to target too selectively. We’ll let the draft come to us”.
dunkman - January 24, 2012
The 2009 draft had to be a total team effort.
Not even Jerry or Wade could mess things up that bad all by themself.
Tom Ryle - January 24, 2012
True
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
THIS
This is what gives me cause for concern.
ary201 - January 24, 2012
Just heard something very interesting
Jerry spent much of the morning talking with Butch Davis in private at the senior bowl. Maybe just picking his brain on some prospects, maybe talking to him about being on the staff,………….hhhhmmmmmmm interesting.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 24, 2012
Could be a front office position in player development and scouting
Birddog26 - January 24, 2012
how likely is it that they talked about that?
I think it would be strong possibility.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
The Senior Bowl is also widely known as a job fair for coaches and other NFL jobs.
Rena - January 24, 2012
Seems like he could really help in the scouting department.
The guy found some gems at UNC.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 24, 2012
Jerry and Butch are close
Jerry and many in the orginzation trust Butch’s advice. I am not sure if Butch wants the grind of coaching anymore. I think Butch is 60 now so may be looking to settle into a front office position. I think he would be a great addition to the scouting department or in the Player Development department mentoring players on the Cowboys.
Birddog26 - January 24, 2012
Butch's addition would be great
he’s coached and scouted in college and would have a lot of inside info on these prospects.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
When he was let go here at UNC
I got the impression that he might be done. Then he released this really weird youtube video that looked like he was campaigning for another chance somewhere.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhUQMZo5h-I
Maybe just trying to clear his name but I’ve never seen anything like it. Either way, I loved Butch at UNC and I would LOVE for him to be back with the Cowboys in any way shape or form.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 24, 2012
Paul
Thanks for posting this link to Butch Davis. I’d never seen it before. I agree it was bizarre. Hard to say what it means in terms of future coaching campaigning or trying to clear his name, but it is odd to do it in a Youtube forum instead of an interview with a respected journalist. I’ve always felt like Davis reached his “peak” in Dallas (along with Mike Zimmer) and it’s been downhill ever since. I don’t know if that’s an accurate assesment, but it’s always been my feeling.
Tennessee_Jed - January 25, 2012
Quinton Coples might have been topic of discussion as well.
But I think Birddog is right
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I'd think the Coples as well as some other UNC players came up in their conversation.
Always look for an edge.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
If Dallas would just follow their board and see what falls close to them or right to them
we would have drafts like 2011 more times than not
Trueblue122 - January 24, 2012
No question the draft board appears to be compiled excellently by Ciskowski, etal.
As long as JJ rubber stamps the picks we should continue to see progress in revamping the roster.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
I wonder if Barry Switzer had any impact on RB's selected?
The book on Switzer is that his great strength as far as scouting is finding RB’s. He and JJ are still pretty close. I wonder if he contributed anything?
jrogersdal - January 24, 2012
Don't tell me Switzer was behind Sherman Williams?
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I think he recommended Murray to JJ.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
wouldn't be surprised
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
He actually did.
Apparently they had Switzer on the phone in the war room talking about him.
TARHEEL PAUL - January 24, 2012
Switzer was actually a better coach than most give him credit for
he just wasn’t a good fit for the NFL, especially the team he inherited.
dunkman - January 24, 2012
He was a good college recruiter
which is basically the same as being a good college HC. Thats about the extent of his talents however.
Terry - January 24, 2012
Yep, always felt he cost us the SB in '94 .We should have won 4 in a row.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
+4
Have always felt the same
BigBad Joe - January 24, 2012
actually Jerry cost us
not getting along with Jimmy and Jerry wanting credit, the only credit Jerry should get was to hire Jimmy…it`s been all downhill since. Thanks Jerry.
ziggy19 - January 24, 2012
not true
jimmy was leaving regardless.
thebigham - January 24, 2012
you can blame Eric Williams and stupid driving for not winning for in a row.
Eric Williams was a pro bowl player after his injury.
Also remember Eric Williams was only half the player that he was before his injury.
Jonathan Stern - January 24, 2012
Actually, listening to former players
he was a very good Xs and Os guy too. Much more so than Jimmy.
dunkman - January 24, 2012
They won their 3rd SB inspite of Berry, not because of him.
His claim to fame in college was recruiting, not coaching.
DIRE WOLF - January 24, 2012
Switzer was a consummate head coach
He rarely took credit for success, deferring to players and his assistants and assuming the blame when things didn’t work ( I remember two costly fourth and one failures in 94) that people never let him forget). But above all Switzer knew talent (he was ready to change his offense for Troy Aikman before Aikman broke his ankle against Miami). Switzer knew the rumors about Murray’s injuries were bogus.
50yrcowboy - January 24, 2012
Inspiration...
I always find Jason Garrett’s interviews inspiring, I don’t know what it is, Jimmy Johnson had the same sort of thing, but he just inspires you. It’s difficult to find something he isn’t an expert on considering his level of execution as a player, coach and scouting/recruitment background.
scraig - January 24, 2012
Inspiring or very PC and non-descript?
I like JG, dont get me wrong, but sometimes I feel like I’m listening to a politician. This can be very infuriating at times because I want a better explanation or more insight directly from the HC of my beloved team. Ultimately though, I take a step back and tell myself it doesnt matter.. Really when it boils down to it, he can say whateve he wants to the media. They will run with it, make headlines or whatever, 50 of us can listen to it and walk away with 50 different mesages. It doesnt matter.. All I care about is that the team listens and gets inspired.
AmericasTeamm - January 24, 2012
He's deliberately nondescript with the press most times.
But reports from all over other NFL front offices and our own locker room is that the guy has no trouble whatsoever holding the attention of a room.
Luke. - January 25, 2012
Melvin Ingram on t.v.
Quintin Coples looks like a manbeast.
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
A different angle on Running Backs: Instead of saying the Cowboys are good at finding them, how about "Running Backs are just plain easy to find in the middle rounds..."
That’s why you don’t spend much drafting them. Anyone can find a decent RB that can play a few years.
Barber and Choice were 4th round picks and good enough for a couple of years.
Realist Larry - January 24, 2012
Julius Jones rather than Stephen Jackson?
50yrcowboy - January 24, 2012
Parcells is on record saying
If you draft RB in first rd it has to be a guy like Steven Jackson, how ironic is that!!!
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Got to admit, this is really, really cool. I wish I knew my team's draft board :(
Though, I’m not sure if that’s a good thing. It might handicap the Cowboys in terms of smokescreens and what not.
BigBlueIntervention - January 24, 2012
Jerry Jones
Is going to join mayock and the crew on set if anyone wants to watch…
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
A fool in a fool’s paradise.
DIRE WOLF - January 24, 2012
Hmm...
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
what did he say?
somebodyquiet - January 24, 2012
I'm assuming he will be on the wrap-up show tonight.
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
In abot 10 minutes
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Really?
The wrap-up show doesn’t come on til 7:30 west coast time.
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
They will show the full inteview at 730pm PT, I saw a snippit of it right now
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Youre right. He's on now
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Janoris Jenkins looks very competitve
Doestn’t get down on himself
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Bently, DB from ULL looks really good
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Markelle Martin just denied LaDarius Green a pass
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Under cut the route
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Melvin Ingram
2 snaps. 2 sacks
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Looks good
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
beast
somebodyquiet - January 24, 2012
Cordy Glenn looks like he could play either guard or tackle
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
I think the Eagles are going to get Coples. They might trade up
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
I think they'll grab Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College
They need a lot of run stopping help. I will hate it if they get him too, he’s good.
Dynamicduo - January 24, 2012 via mobile
The Eagles MO
is to take OL and DL in the first rd. Under coach fat a$$ they haven’t gone safety or Lb in the first rd.
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Damn Upsjaw I might be wrong about you
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Yeah
He looks good too. That DT from ATM looks pretty powerful. I cant see his name.
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Upshaw and Ingram. Wow
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Glad you're now willing to look closer at him. I'm still not sold at #14 but wouldn't scream bloody murder if he's the pick.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
I'd be ecstatic with Ingram if DeCastro were gone.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
DeCastro is still my first pick
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
I'm with you completely on DeCastro.
pfloyd1 - January 24, 2012
I love NFL N's coverage. They're showing Oline vs Pass rush drills
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
North Carolina DE Quinton Coples has been the most dominant defender on either roster,
Jonathan Stern - January 24, 2012
North Carolina DE Quinton Coples has been the most dominant defender on either roster,
Jonathan Stern - January 24, 2012
Ingram, Upshaw, and Coples Re the top 3 pass rushers
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Upshaw with a sack
Damn, he looks real nice right now.
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Yes he does
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Mayock
was hyping him up saying he will be a very good OLB. Maybe he’s ours at 14?
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Can we get both Ingram and Upshaw please
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Cards or Bills might grab him
they both want pass rushers too
somebodyquiet - January 24, 2012
Ingram is schooling cays
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Too bad Brockers is a soph, would've lovec to get a look at him like I just got from Upshaw
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Chris Rainey
Looks like a Sproles clone
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
Cowboys to meet with Janoris Jenkins
BrickTop - January 24, 2012 via mobile
RT @BryanBroaddus: RT @calvinwatkins: Cowboys to visit with Janoris Jenkins: MOBILE, Ala. -- The Cowboys have a scheduled meeting with troubled yet talented
Cowboys are going to interview janoris Jenkins I like where this may be going!!!
Dynamicduo - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Remember I said a week ago if we take a CB at 14th he is the best one that may be available.
Better than Kirkpatrick IMO
Dynamicduo - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Dont' be surprised
if Kirkpatrick ends up being a FS. Not saying it will happen, just don’t be surprised if it does.
BWareofDWare - January 24, 2012
Kirkpatrick reminds me of Malcolm Jenkins from the Saints
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Mayock amd Davis like him alot
Rohpuri - January 24, 2012
you have to do your due diligence and prepare for anything.
Visiting with him doesn’t mean he’ll get drafted. But you should meet with all top prospects to know what your dealing with.
thebigham - January 24, 2012
I agree, and with his past concerns you have to take a close look at him, but a lot of guys said no way we even consider him. This says different
Dynamicduo - January 24, 2012 via mobile
No it doesn't.
We visited Newton last year.
thebigham - January 24, 2012
Well I disagree I think we are in the market for him and u don't think if newton fell to us we would have taken him?
Dumb a$$. U have to be one of the biggest morons I’ve ever seen on this site. Do you ever say anything even half way intelligent?
Dynamicduo - January 24, 2012 via mobile
^Irony.
thebigham - January 24, 2012
Ok moron
He was the 1st pick if he fell to 9 think of what we could trade for him. I wouldn’t want him on our team but he would get a lot as a trade.
Dynamicduo - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I'm done arguing with you. Every time someone says something you argue just to argue
I bet your wife makes you her B doesn’t she?
Dynamicduo - January 24, 2012 via mobile
If cam was the BPA at 9 we would have grabbed him or at least seriously considered it.
I’m sure we are at least considering Jenkins. We may not take him but we are considering him. Your ignorant if you think otherwise
Dynamicduo - January 24, 2012 via mobile
In case anyone missed Jerry's interview on NFL Network
Here’s a link to my fanpost which discusses what was said
http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2012/1/25/2731928/analyzing-jerry-jones-interview-on-nfl-network
Rohpuri - January 25, 2012
If you trade down from 14 and then trade back up into the first
you might be able to get could get BOTH Kirkpatrick and Jenkins in the 20’s
Jonathan Stern - January 25, 2012
calais campbell
We need to grab campbell from the cardinals. He’s a beast at the 5 tech where we have JAGs and upgrade the pass rush. No ones talking about him he had 8 sacks this year. He also got like a grade of over 20 from PFF. Then we can grab a cornerback like Jenkins
fearthestar94 - January 25, 2012
Boy, DaMarco and Tyron really jump off that list.
White Wolf - January 25, 2012
Kiper did a 2006 redraft
12 29 60 20 1 108 11 6 52 4 119 2 57 126 252 33 55 24 27 23 19 43 13 66 28 98 207 50 58 42 215
in the redraft the number 12 pick went 1rst etc. just goes to show what a crap shoot the draft is. lot of misses for example the number 3 pick not worth a top 32 pick. Shocking no Cowboys made the top 32 though 2006 was the yr we acquired Miles Austin as undrafted free agent.
ziggy19 - January 26, 2012
You must Login with your SB Nation account and be a member of Blogging The Boys to post a comment.