Mark Humphrey - AP
Carl Nicks is one of the most coveted free agents for Cowboys fans. He would certainly be a major acquisition - but is that the direction for the team to go?
Dallas Cowboys owner/GM Jerry Jones is glad to have some money to spend in free agency - and he plans to spend all of it, based on what he has been saying in Mobile, Alabama during Senior Bowl week. Since I have already put forth my own idea of what the draft priorities for the Cowboys should be, I thought I might take a run at setting some similar criteria for Jerry to go out and spend that cap money. I may have occasional trouble having enough money at the end of the month, but figuring out how to spend the $20 million Dallas is believed to have for a free agent budget should be a piece of cake, right?
I'm not looking here to figure out how much the team is likely to spend for a given free agent. I am going to try to figure out what positions the team should be going after, and a few different strategies to get them. And I am going to throw out some names that I think the team might want to go for in a sort of mock free agency signing. It's going to be a bit fast and loose because of the unknowns of what any given player might cost, but hey, it isn't my money.
I'm going to use WalterFootball's list of available free agents for relative value of the players. I am not saying that they are right in the way they rank them, but just using this as a reference point the way OCC used CBSSports' draft rankings in his Mock Draft Challenge.
My ideas after the jump.
One big difference in free agency versus the draft is that the number of free agents the team signs is totally flexible. The team can go for a couple of major names (it could even spend it all on one player), or it can go for quantity. Part of the decision making is going to be what the team wants to fix with free agency.
This is where needs and availability are going to have to be balanced. One of the big names being talked about is Carl Nicks. He is generally regarded as the top free agent guard available, and the interior of the offensive line is one of the glaring needs for the Cowboys. But he is going to come with a big price tag, and will almost certainly cost as much as two or three other free agents might. Does having one huge stud of a player help the team more than two or three decent upgrades?
To try and get a handle on that, I think you first have to rank the needs of the team. Here, I can use a slightly updated and modified version of the priority list from my look a the draft. This puts the needs in order of need, as I see it.
1. CB, pass rusher, G/C
2. Backup QB, S, ILB, 2nd CB, 2nd G/C
3. Backup OT, other D line
4. Backup TE, KR/WR
5. Backup RB, P, PK
I specifically designated some positions as backup, since that is the expected role that they would play given what we know about the Cowboys roster at this point. I think the team should definitely look to sign players for each of the three listed positions first, then move down the list. However, this is not a hard and fast priority. I talked about Nicks and what a value he would be to the team, but the team may be better served by looking more at signing the second tier of needs, and going into the draft to get the first tier. Given my list, that means that they might not sign a pass rusher at all, putting that on the draft to solve. Also, although they might sign a G/C or CB, this may be meant as a second tier need, with the draft expected to fill the first tier.
And here is where the cost factor comes in. If the team sinks a lot of money into a player like Nicks, or decides to go for the gusto and try to sign a Mario Williams to bolster the pass rush, it may use up so much of the available cap space that it can only go with much less capable players along with that big signing, and only one or two at that. This also means that once a need on the first tier is addressed, the team may have to drop down a level to get some utility out of the money it spends.
Does that make any sense? I know what I mean, and I hope you are following my logic here.
I'll state right now that I do not see Williams as a viable option for the Cowboys. He would eat up too much of the cap space, and I think there are too many holes to fill to do that.
But Nicks is not out of the question. He may cost the team one hire, but the argument can certainly be made that he would be worth it. Hiring him away from the Saints would fill a guard position.
To go with him, the team could look at a cornerback in the five to ten spot in the rankings, someone like a Richard Marshall from the Cardinals, who also filled in at safety, or Tracy Porter, also from the Saints.
If you get those slots filled, you now start running into the limitations of the free agency market. Outside of the top few positions, which are now likely priced out of the Cowboys' range, there aren't a lot of good options for pass rushers.
But looking at the second tier of needs, there is some value to be had. One name I saw was safety Mike Adams of the Browns. He has experience with Rob Ryan, he is considered one of the better choices in a weak group, and because he is 31, he would likely be available for a one or two year contract at a very reasonable price.
If you still have some money left, you could go for an aging but still skilled center, strictly on a one year contract. Matt Birk of the Ravens, Jeff Saturday of the Colts, and Todd McClure of the Falcons all fit that description. They have a high risk because all could essentially lose their skills to age or injury at almost any time, but they are all the kind of player who could help bridge one more year. However, this may not be a direction that Bill Callahan would opt to go. If not, maybe the team could afford a younger option at about the same level of production from last year.
That would fill G, CB, S and maybe C. I am just making a guess here on how far the money could be stretched, but that seems like a doable thing with the $20 million (at least the first three).
I did not address Laurent Robinson here. I don't know if he will take up part of the expected $20 million or not, since the team also stands to get rid of some other players, but that remains to be seen. This is more of a mental exercise.
Now suppose you didn't go with Nicks, and stuck with a lower dollar approach. Here, you might be able to get C Samson Satele from the Raiders, QB Kyle Orton from the Chiefs (assuming he will take backup money), Marshall or Porter at cornerback, and Adams at safety, or maybe a younger option there. Again, this is just guessing at what they will command, but it would address four needs with some upgrades, and let the team factor that in during the draft.
It is all just a bit of a guess. With the Cowboys having been so limited in free agency last year, there is not a lot to base things on, and I do think this will be a different approach from years pass. As I have said, I expect three or maybe four signings, again assuming that Laurent doesn't eat up too much space. Any differing opinions are just as likely to be valid as my own.
0 recs | 324 comments
I'd rather our biggest needs addressed in the draft
There’s something about fortifying the line with Tyron and a friend for years to come that’s very appealing. But I don’t think that’s the only way to do it. I agree wholeheartedly with your draft priorities, particularly the top three. I think the Cowboys ought to find one of those three in FA and draft the other two.
More and more I’m leaning toward signing Nicks, drafting a pass rusher at the top, and taking a CB in the second, but I’d be fine with rearranging that. It’d be nice to find some stopgap help at safety in FA since it’s a thin draft at that position, but there’s definitely room to find some other good roleplayers on D.
CowboyinExile - January 26, 2012
+1
I agree, just because glaring holes need to be sealed up for a good amount of time, not a temporary fix.
ProBowlFactory - January 27, 2012
Grubbs vs. Nicks
What’s the consensus on talent level between the two? Is it a huge drop off going from Nicks to Grubbs? Is it closer? Just curious because I’ve never seen any comparisons on the two OGs.
TexasGarcia37 - January 26, 2012
Nicks is by far and away the best guard in football
Jhari Evans, the Saints other guard is really good as well…I’d say they have the two best guards in the league.
Terry - January 26, 2012
So if Nicks is a 10
What is Grubbs?
TexasGarcia37 - January 26, 2012
7 or 8
Terry - January 26, 2012
nicks is far away
ratware - January 26, 2012
Just another data point
I heard J.J. Watt interviewed on Mike & Mike He said the best guy he faced all season was Nicks, who gave him problems.
Jim Vance - January 26, 2012
If McGee can't be #2 he needs to go.
Bringing a vet QB is money that could be spent somewhere else.
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
one thing I don't understand
read somewhere that it’s not big deal for Dallas to use $1-2 million on veteran backup QB. what? that seems like such a waste of resources. kinda like having two kickers.
TexasGarcia37 - January 26, 2012
Like Tyrone says below, the team needs three QBs.
The decision is do you bring in a vet and roll with McGee as the 3rd in hopes he develops, or do you bring in a rookie QB to try to make him the future QB and go with McGee as your #2. I would not be surprised to see the team try both, and then let McGee and the rookie fight it out to see who is best, with the vet your insurance for the season. It sounds like a lot of money – but QB ain’t cheap.
Tom Ryle - January 26, 2012
so why do the Patriots and Packers do the exact opposite?
seem they are much more successful with their QB plans of draft and develop. If the QB doesn’t develop, cut him and draft again. Matt Flynn is a great example now. I would disagree that a team needs 3 QBs. With our questionable offensive line and Romo’s age, it’s makes sense to be cautious. But once we have the offensive line fortified to a respectable level, that third QB will be a waste of a roster spot.
TexasGarcia37 - January 26, 2012
Except for Romo, Dallas hasn't been good at developing young QBs.
If Quincy hadn’t got run off, Romo might not be in Dallas.
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
so we don't do it because we can't?
not good because you could be proactive with that position instead of complacent. Look at Green Bay in the ’90s or Niners in the ’80s. They got high picks for backup QBs. A team with the resources that the Cowboys have should be doing the same thing.
TexasGarcia37 - January 26, 2012
It's the way it's been with Jerry.
There’s the starting QB, an aging vet and a body.
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
Incredible Waste with Garrett being an NFL QB
You would think he would know what to look for in a prospect. You would also think he would a good developer of QBs as well. Imagine an extra third or second or God forbid first round pick every 4 or 5 years.
TexasGarcia37 - January 26, 2012
Agree....
When Romo is done I expect we’ll be in the same shape we were in when Troy retired. I totally blame it on Jerry not seeing past the end of his nose when it comes to QBs.
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
But
The Patriots have 3 QB on their roster. And they are both good.
I think if McGee isnt ready, get him out of here. He had enough time. But we need a vet and a rookie.
Oakster41 - January 26, 2012
Green Bay has 3 also
Oakster41 - January 26, 2012
Right
how do you develop for the future with only two on the roster? Not really possible.
dunkman - January 26, 2012
true
didn’t notice that. i guess 3 is the way to go if you are developing QBs. is that what Dallas is doing though?
TexasGarcia37 - January 26, 2012
Ha ha
good point. I think they WANT to do that (hence McGee) but they’ve never actually done very well at that, so who knows?
dunkman - January 26, 2012
Practice Squad?
A late rounder who develops there but can be called up in emergency situation if Romo goes down/McGee is elevated.
Boys should be fringe playoff team in 2012 so I still think experienced back up may be the way they go. Selfishly I would like to use draft picks this year for other needs with an eye towards an eventual Romo replacement in the 2013 draft but with McGee up after 2012, maybe Weeden in the 5th??
He could push McGee while he’s here and take over as the back up if we choose not to resign McGee and then still allow you to draft a Romo replacement in 2013. He also would come much cheaper than any experienced back up and keep precious $$ for FA signings.
It’s a roll of the dice on needing a vet back up for the year in case of long term Romo injury; taking your pick of whoever is out there at that time but then no time in system.
nikeorlipstick - January 26, 2012
History has proven many times,
you need a good backup QB
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
if you have championship expectations….
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
Actually, that's what I'd like the team to do.
Have a reliable backup (it could be a vet or McGee, if he’s ready) and a QB to develop. If he isn’t looking good in a year or two, go back to the well. I just think you have to have one person ready to step in if Romo is out.
Tom Ryle - January 26, 2012
I wouldn't Tell Garrett that a 3rd string QB is pointless.
The year he won the Thanksgiving Day game, he was our 3rd string. I went Aikman, Rodney Pete, Jason Garrett. Also, back in 2010, after Kitna got hurt, I’m glad we had a third string.
Grimlock83 - January 26, 2012
McGee is the #2 finally... and he has 2012 to prove it
If Romo goes down, which he will they will go after a veteran to back up McGee, but even with them going after Kyle Orton, there was no guarantee he would be better than McGee. Orton is a very average QB and guys like that don’t show up in the superbowl, Manning-Brady are there for a reason.
I see them drafting a McGee-like QB in the mid-to-late rounds if there’s a good one but… there will be some decent QB’s through UDFA or UFA.
Remember he was the #12 ranked QB out of high school and #6 out of college. He could only run a 4.85 40 in HS because he didn’t play in an option offense, threw 34 TDs and 5 INTs as a Jr and 47-3 as a Senior. He goes to Texas A&M and all of a sudden he can run 4.61, his sophmore year is legendary for INT%.
If you’re looking for a guy who can turn the ball over on your side of the 50, you’ve got the wrong guy. If you’re looking for a guy who can lead a team, protect the ball and run a high-scoring offense he’s your guy.
110-the # of TD’s scored by the combination of McGee-Demarco-Felix in their HS senior years. If they play together in the near future, I’d be good with 50% of that #.
scraig - January 26, 2012
McGee has shown absolutely nothing, nothing. He can't move the ball.
He way to scared to make a mistake. He has had ample time to develop ad just hasn’t . Time to cut McGee, sign a veteran back up and draft a new #3 to develop.
What has McGee done to make you think he can be the back up?
Orton is better than McGee. He has more experience as a starter, has actually moved the ball in an actual nfl offense, and throws touchdown passes. McGee has none of those qualities. Since, Orton has started way more NFL games, it actually does guarantee he would be better than McGee.
just4fun - January 26, 2012
What year did you graduate from texas A&M?
Seanrude - January 27, 2012
2009 I believe.
At least, he was drafted in the 2009 draft.
Grimlock83 - January 27, 2012
No, I was asking what year Scraig graduated from A&M
Seanrude - January 27, 2012
Until Romo gets hurt and then you're stuck with Stephen McGee.
It’s an important position.
TXHC - January 27, 2012
Disagree
Every team needs at least 3 QBs and w/ Romo probably being able to start for the next 3-5 years (if the O line comes together), then all the team really needs are suitable backups. It doesn’t make sense to try and draft Romo’s replacement right now when he might not play for 4 years. For one, it’ll eat up a high draft pick that could be used on a greater need. Secondly, high draft pick ambitious QBs want to play and depending on his maturity level, may be somewhat of a headache in the locker room (remember Trevor Hambrick and his stating Emmit Smith was old and needed to go and he was the future . . . locker room headache and after his advice was followed, he didn’t deliver).
By suitable, I mean non-expensive but capable guys who know the playbook, know the scheme and can step in and play a game or two here or there. If the backup has to start and play more than 5 games, the perhaps Romo’s durability can then be questioned – but as for now, I’d say he’s the man.
And, there’s nothing wrong w/ being a career backup. Jason Garrett was. Guys know when they’ve reached their ceiling and their upside just isn’t high enough…
Tyrone Jenkins - January 26, 2012
3QBs is a waste.
Plenty of teams run with 2 and we should do the same.
Roll with McGee he can handle it. He has performed rather well given the circumstances.
thebigham - January 26, 2012
If we have to play mcgee beyond mop up duty next yr, best get ready for Matt Barkley
The season will go down the crapper wih footsteps and his checkdown passes.
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Jerry is afraid to invest a high pick and a lot of money
into a qb and I don’t blame considering how there is such a big bust rate for first rd qbs.
Terry - January 26, 2012
The last time he invested a high pick into a QB he got Aikman
if he hadn’t made the trade for galloway, belive me Drew Brees is QB of the Cowboys.
Parcells is notorious for being averse to taking aQB hih in the draft.
I still maintain, if a team does its due dilligemce, it won’t get burnt by drafting a bust like a JaMarcus Russell or Ryan Leaf.
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
High*
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Quincy
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
Talking about first rd.
Had Jerry not blown his wad on galloway, we’d have taken brees. It was a reach to draft quincy carter who had potential bust written all ober him.
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Over*
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Wonder if the Quincy drafting has had an effect on JJ and his not drafting a QB very high since.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
There hasn't veen a need to do so because they hit gold with Romo
The last elitet QB they avoided was Rodgers because Drew Bledsoe was already on board, and Romo was developing still.
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Still makes me mad every time I think about Jerry drafting Quincy.
And if that wasn’t bad enough Jerry decided he should be the starter day one. As a GM Jerry is a certified idiot.
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
The 3rd QB
can be stashed on the PS.
Tyrone Jenkins - January 26, 2012
Sometimes.
They can also get poached by another team.
Tom Ryle - January 26, 2012
Moore often than not?
Sorry, tanstaafl is on vacation so I’m filling in….
dunkman - January 26, 2012
Thanks.
I went blank on his name, or would have mentioned Matt.
Tom Ryle - January 26, 2012
Doesn't have to be a 1st rounder.
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
I'd take cousins and groom him
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
I really like Cousins too.
He’ll probably be there in the 3-4 round too.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
I think Cousins and Foles will be late firsts early to mid second rd picks
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
That is the case with ANY backup QB we could have.
Romo is this offense.
thebigham - January 26, 2012
If you have an adequate backup, we can score points w/o the other team playing prevent in the 4th
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Do whatever, I still say roll with only 2QBs is needed.
So ditch McGee and grab someone else.
thebigham - January 26, 2012
better than Romo taking safeties in the endzone in a game we lost by 3
5-0 before we even got started… and we got the ball 1st.
scraig - January 26, 2012
i'll say take of OL and bet Romo will be ok
if he has a serius injury chances are the season is gone no matter who is there, so better insert mcgee and see what he has with a low cost instead of paying a passenger to go 8-8 again
ratware - January 26, 2012
take care of OL...
ratware - January 26, 2012
It's a mute point, McGee is the #2, the only question is... is he Haney or Yates
if you think he’s Yates, then don’t sign a veteran, but if you think he’s Haney then you should. Everyone can have their opinion, and he certainly hasn’t been in a game that matters yet, but he hasn’t fumbled in the endzone yet, so I’m good. Obviously Romo couldn’t do anything on the Philly defense, he threw 1 pick, McGee didn’t, but if you look at both games neither of them gave Philly the ball on past center. Those games were on the defense and the offense just couldn’t figure out how to move the ball, McGee was in the redzone 2x, Romo only once.
If you ask me he looks like Yates more than Haney and honestly I don’t see a big difference between McGee and Romo, if anything with McGee in there I don’t feel like they are going to blow it in the 4th. McGee reminds me of Tebow, they can lead with the game on the line, when’s the last time you saw McGee not score in the last 2 minutes of the 4th quarter?
scraig - January 26, 2012
McGee will not be#2
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
the question is not if McGee will be the #2 the question is will he be here at all
just4fun - January 26, 2012
How cap room does NO have?
After Brees, Nicks should be their next priority.
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
Colston is also a FA, they can't pay everyone
Terry - January 26, 2012
Easier to find a WR than a good OG, IMO.
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
especially since Nicks is the best guard in football and Colston is above average
Terry - January 26, 2012
Exactly right
that’s why I say address OG w/ the draft. Take a shot. Maybe DeCastro. Maybe Cordy Glenn or Osemele. Two things are certain – both would probably end up being better than Arkin or Nagy and both would be exponentially cheaper than Nicks.
And, it’s not like Jerry has the best track record when it comes to veteran contract negotiation (Free overpaid, Leonard Davis overpaid, MBIII overpaid, etc).
Tyrone Jenkins - January 26, 2012
Nicks won't get overpaid, he's the best guard in the league
Terry - January 26, 2012
The problem the Saints may have re-signing Nicks is
not only do they still have to find a way to pay/replace Brees, Colston and Meachem, but they just made their other OG, Jahri Evans, the highest paid G in the NFL in free agency last year.
dacolan - January 26, 2012
Dallas aint drafting another OLineman in the 1st. JMHO
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
+1 on WR
Get the Guard find another WR
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
and meachem
ratware - January 26, 2012
They have $106 million committed to the cap next year.
And they still have to sign Brees.
Mikellie - January 26, 2012
I think DE is one of our biggest needs
just as much as CB, OLB and C/G because if look at all the really good 3-4 defenses, they all have a stud DE that can cause havoc in both stopping the run and pressuring the qb. We could have had that guy last draft in JJ Watts, but obviously Garrett felt getting a bookend tackle was more important and it was obviously a big need.
Instead of drafting a DE, I think we can get a real stud in Campbell from Arizona who looks to me like a proto-typical 3-4 DE who can stop the run and help our OLBs pressuring the qb.
Also, getting a stud interior linemen is a necessity in FA to go along with another draft pick. I personally would rather get a center in FA who is experienced and can be the qb of the OL for future years to come. If DeCastro then slides to us at 14, we snatch him up and our OL goes from bad to good pretty quick.
Terry - January 26, 2012
wow Terry are you actually saying defense is a need..lol
I thought it was OL or broke with you….
And I get crushed out for suggesting Ratliff needs to goto DE for over a year and now it appears it will happen..amazing..
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
I've been saying defense is a need for many years
you obviously don’t comprehend what you read very well.
Terry - January 26, 2012
ok sure Terry...lol
Just like Jerry is definatly drafting Decastro at #14 like you know what he is thinking.
You actually are on the right track for once. Defense is and should be top priority. DE and OLB should be at the top of the list follwed by CB and NT.
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
I also never said we were definitely drafting DeCastro either
I said it was a definite possibility, just like them taking a tackle was last year which you said would never happen.
OL and defense are both top priorities equally, one isn’t more of a priority than the other.
Terry - January 26, 2012
Where did you read Rat to DE?
Tyrone Jenkins - January 26, 2012
He didn't, it's mere speculation that in all likelihood won't happen
Terry - January 26, 2012
I think they would like to move him out, but it'll be hard to replace his production at NT.
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
No it won't. Brett will do an amazing job.
Mikellie - January 26, 2012
Brent
Mikellie - January 26, 2012
Its happeneing
They already hinted after the season they were thinking of it..There is articles on DC.com about it and one right now about the defense. Terry just wont acknowledge that I called this awhile back.
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
pure speculation, nothing more
Terry - January 26, 2012
Well Boyzfan
Not to bust your bubble but a LOT of people have been saying this needs to happen – dating back to about 2 or 3 years ago.
Tyrone Jenkins - January 26, 2012
Yep, I got crucified for suggesting moving an All Pro To DE and getting a real NT.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
I wanted to trade him
Like him a lot but he’s playing out of position and I just don’t feel he’s as much a cornerstone as many. I wondered if we could have gotten a 3rd for him going into the 2011 draft. Coming off a less than stellar 2010 with the elbow thing that might have been a real stretch and probably wouldn’t want to trade for less but instead we have a long term contract. I hope that was the right move and he has another six years here as a high level DE.
nikeorlipstick - January 26, 2012
Really....
Ive been a part of this blog for 4 years and Ive been saying this close to 2 years and got laughed at for suggesting our Pro Bowl NT be moved to DE. If there were other’s it was very few. ok, so there are others..
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
He could start working on Joe Klecko's record
of being the only All-Pro at 3 different positions. Maybe in a couple years he could play fullback.
Mikellie - January 26, 2012
I've been touting it as well
on this and other sites. We’ll see what happens…
Tyrone Jenkins - January 26, 2012
+1
I’ve been saying move him and everyone we’ve had at NT since the start of the 3-4. We haven’t had anyone over 310 lbs play NT since the start and that didn’t sit well with me since the beginning.
CodeNamedG - January 26, 2012
Yeah, linemen are just too big to play zero @ 295.
Love Rat, but…
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
Thought he was 287?
It was Woicik who wanted him thinner, though, to slow his waring down. It’s all semantics, anyway, since Rob will put him anywhere that suits the situation. Changing a T to an E on the depth chart shouldn’t be getting people excited. Worry about what he does in the game, not what he’s called.
CotySaxman - January 26, 2012 via mobile
Well, sure,
except he does play a lot of 0 tech…
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
actually Ratliff mostly plays
the “1” tech? it is the gap in between the Tackle and Guard.
which is one reason why Ratliff seems to get Blocked easier.
he is basically “guessing” which Gap to shoot, and if he guesses Right then he shoots it and caused Havoc..
guess wrong, and he ends up washed out of the play….and the QB can simply step up to avoid the rush…
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
I thought the 0 was over center.
I mostly see him in 0 or 1, which I thought was between center and guard.
If I’m wrong, will someone please fill me in?
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
And...
It seems to be getting closer to the people making the decisions than it ever has. <—-click here… It’s about time
CodeNamedG - January 26, 2012
We have one now, his name is Josh Brent and he weighs 320.
Rena - January 26, 2012
It's not going to happen.
TXHC - January 27, 2012
he's saying defense is a need right after Dallas signs a center in FA & drafts Castro with the 14th pick.
with all those moves it doesnt leave anything else except defense lol
DCNation73 - January 26, 2012
I would say NT is the biggest need on the D-line,
Get a real 3-4 NT and move Ratliff to DE, Brent was encouraging just not sure if he’s the answer there. I’ve stated in another thread about how Wilfork was just consistently pushing the pocket on Flacco, and that would make it very hard for any QB to step up get an extra 1/2 sec and throw, hell maybe that 1/2 sec is what “Almost Anthony” needs. I know there are not many Wilfork’s out there which is why I would like to see Poe (if he’s the RKG).
DCB* - January 26, 2012
If Ratliff was better at 3-4 DE, don't you think the Cowboys would have moved him already?
The Cowboys have had years to look at Ratliff at DE, and they never liked what they saw. Whether it is his size, short arms, or whatever, I don’t know, but I trust the opinions of Parcells, Phillips, Pasqualoni, and Ryan who all felt he was best suited to the role he has now- inside on the 3-4 and as a DT on a 4 man line in the nickel (which we play over half of the time).
We need another good D-lineman, but he doesn’t need to be a NT. I would much rather have a guy like Devon Still from PSU to play alongside Ratliff as a 3-4 DE who is both quick and strong with a high motor. Those guys are very difficult to find in free agency (Justin Smith being a notable exception) so if there is a guy available in the first two rounds of the draft, we need to get him.
Yoko Romo - January 27, 2012
Do you think lack of someone else who can actually play the position had any part in that.
After Jason Ferguson, of what we had on the roster he was the best option, that does not mean that they didn’t feel he could play DE. We had a need at NT and he’s a player that can play it as well. IMO i think a prototypical 3-4 NT along with moving Ratliff to DE would be a great improvement and am by no means saying it’s the only way to go about improving the line, but as long as they do improve the line I will be happy. I think Garrett sees the importance of above average line play stemming from his experience from being on our SB teams and expect him to make some moves on both sides of the los. Whether the improvement is at DE or NT, I would prefer NT, but i wouldn’t be upset if they went DE.
DCB* - January 28, 2012
experienced center in FA
a stop gap gives us time to work with Nagy and/or Kowalski and if they aren’t the answer long term they may still work as guard or back up and we go fishing in 2013 or 2014 for center.
I would love to see C, 2nd tier CB, S, depth ILB in FA and hope the first rounds of draft fell
1. pass rush DE (if Spencer retained)
2. CB-starter material. I don’t see Scandrick as starter CB but like him in the slot (if he would just find the ball more BEFORE the receiver catches which is why I don’t see how he elevates to starter). plus we have Jenkins up in 2012
3. G
I initially wanted Finnegan in FA and still do but with the $ given to Scandrick it seems like they may be thinking a rung lower in talent.
nikeorlipstick - January 26, 2012
Jason Jones is not the best F/A defensive end but I think he is the best the Cowboys will be able to get.
Jonathan Stern - January 27, 2012
Nicks or Robinson it may come down to
Not sure they can afford both. Me, believe it or not I’m signing Nicks. I like Robinson, but paying a #3 WR #2 WR money may not make financial sense given that we need so much. We can go out in FA and sign a #3 WR if need be. Getting a young veteran like Nicks would help the OL alot.
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
They can definitely afford both
Nobody is going to offer Robinson a huge contract when there will be other WRs on the market who are more proven.
And in reality Robinson isn’t really a #3 receiver in our system, Romo goes to him as much as anyone.
Terry - January 26, 2012
i hope we can afford both, but ...
I would think Nicks would have to be the priority. We need to solidify the lines (o & d).
eightball - January 26, 2012
Robinson will get paid by us or some other team
and it will be #2 WR money dont kid yourself. Just saying to sign both knowing they need a backup QB, safety and so many other things they may not be able to do it. Im signing a top guard over a #3 WR all day….
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
Robinson is very important to the offense, he will be a priority as well
Don’t kid yourself about that fact. Garrett knows that he can’t count on Miles and Dez staying healthy all year.
Terry - January 26, 2012
Not saying he isnt important..
but like old Bill used to say you cant have a steak at every position and we have 2 already. Have to spend the money in other ares of needs. Tough decision, but it may come down to that
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
LR is BA, but not a prototypical third WR.
Spend money in other places, or on a true, nasty-quick slot WR.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
define "nasty quick"
Robinson posted the following at the Combine:
Height: 6020
Weight: 199
40 Yrd Dash: 4.38
20 Yrd Dash: 2.50
10 Yrd Dash: 1.46
225 Lb. Bench Reps: 19
Vertical Jump: 39
Broad Jump: 10’07"
20 Yrd Shuttle: 4.28
3-Cone Drill: 6.83
other than his SStime(which still isn’t Horrible LR had a great workout….6-2 with a 39" vert? and ran a sub 4.4? that is “nasty quick” in my book
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
I want cuts.
He can be as fast as he wants.
We need a slot receiver who is exceptionally quick out of his cuts. You did not post that he is 6’2", 195. That is me when I am in the gym regularly and I can tell you, as low as I get my center of gravity in Judo and massage, I will get my knees broken by WRs that are 5’9" – 5’10".
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
umm
I admit that the height is confusing, but it was there
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
Dude
that’s HUGE. 6020 is like bigger than Yao and Shaq together. Kind of thin for that height tho…
dunkman - January 26, 2012
actually
it reads 6-2….the middle “0” is simply the hyphen
like I said I should have edited that to make it less confusing
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
Oh
I was kind of hoping for a taller guy
dunkman - January 26, 2012
6'2 is a good size
that’s how tall Dez is
somebodyquiet - January 26, 2012
It's fine, but 6020 is even taller
unless it’s metric, then all bets are off….
dunkman - January 26, 2012
and to your point though
I think that Dallas doesn’t want a “Wes Welker” type….as they would prefer that the 3rd WR also be able to move to the outside…..wher he would need that height and Weight…..
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
I have thought about that too,
given that we have great passing TE/FB/RB game. Also, as Mikellie points out just below, Robinson is probably staying.
Just my wants as a fan, a Wes Welker to properly compliment our other skill position players talents, and therefore, complete our scheme.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
I think
they expect Murray/Felix to fill some of that role as well.
TheCowboyWay - January 26, 2012
Especially Murray,
that young man’s talent in passing game needs to be tapped.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
that what I thought would happen
when he was drafted…
both him and Felix are excellent recievers….would love to go 2RB 3WR set with Murray, Felix, Dez, Austin and Robinson…that is some serious speed there…
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
Yeah, elite O-line so can sit TEs would be nice.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
Also, we do have Dwayne Harris, future slot-talent extraordinaire :)
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
umm...Wes Welker maybe???
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
He'll re-sign with the Pats, he'd be a fool not to
Terry - January 26, 2012
Not really austin lines up in the slot alot because he is comfortable there
He has good cut speed and has obviously done very very well out of the slot. Garrett’s offense doesn’t design #1 to a certain spot and so on it puts the best talent at the best spot for him. We have all seen how success full Austin has been in the slot why change that.
Sado44 - January 26, 2012 via mobile
I would agree that Austin is a threat out of the slot, he plays low very well, but has been doing it less with the rash of lower body injuries.
I want a Darren Sproles of the slot world. I want a tiny, crazy quick receiver who can run a square. I know that is not really possible, but I think you know what I mean. Eight and in, then go. Deceptively quick receivers are what causes breakdowns in defenses. Think DJax, Cruz…
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
Actually, he might be closer to our #2 then you realize.
Mikellie - January 26, 2012
very true as Dez is on thin ice at Valley Ranch for sure
Terry - January 26, 2012
Sad about Dez. I really question his maturity, his grasp of the play book, route running, etc.
Why does he disappear in games? I think he relies too much on his physical gifts and is simply not a student of the game.Tony just doesn’t trust him, ergo he doesn’t look for him as much as we might think.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
Both Miles and Dez have a lot of potential
However, IMO neither have moved into a true #1 role. Either through injury, drops or poor route running neither have become a receiver that other teams truly fear. Both have good games but they are not consistently great.
eightball - January 26, 2012
CB
Agree on the idea of signing a decent CB like Porter or T.Thomas plus drafting one on the first day.
I’d love to see Nicks at G, then let Kosier/Nagy/Arkin/Costa/Kowalski battle for the other two interior spots.
DB23 - January 26, 2012
I think OG/C is our FA plan
After Jerry’s comments on the youth of our o-line (don’t have exact quote but it was at the senior bowl). I think he’d rather plug a vet in there, if it’s Nicks I’m all in, if it’s Grubbs it’s a substantial upgrade still, can’t go wrong.
Bermystar - January 26, 2012
agreed
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
yep, Jerry will sign at least one veteran FA interior lineman
Terry - January 26, 2012
I like Nicks
don’t get me wrong…
What scares me is Jerry’s “propensity” to overpay FAs. Leonard Davis received a 7 yr contract at age 31. I know Nicks is younger but if JJ comes out w/ a 7 yr $70 mil contract, the team will be in the same boat it is now 4-5 years from now when Nicks’ production no longer warrants $10 mil a year.
Tyrone Jenkins - January 26, 2012
Yes but by that time only the prorated bonus will apply to the cap. The actual salary won't be guaranteed.
So, it really depends on the signing bonus.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
Nick's would be great, he's 26/27 yrs. old I say a 5 yr 30-35mil
I’d be happy with that, we have him locked up until 31-32 yrs old. I think he would be a great pick up
DCB* - January 26, 2012
Brees may sign a friendly contract with NO in order to keep Nicks and Colston
He’ll get his money guaranteed in a big signing bonus, but the contract can be spread out so the hit will come over a number of years.
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
5 yr 35 mill for Nicks is not happening
he’s probably more likely to get double that amount
mikekim21 - January 26, 2012
He is going to get big miney
Probably going to be the highest paid Guard ever
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
is that like large Lulu?
DIRE WOLF - January 26, 2012
new word I guess...
Need spell check on here…lol
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
Yeah, don't know where I got that figure, but even 7 yrs for 60-70mil would IMO still be worth it
DCB* - January 26, 2012
but you gotta look at the "life" of the contract and how it is structured
maybe we’ll make it in such a way that he’ll never see the end of his contract and will be cut before then
somebodyquiet - January 26, 2012
Hope not
because I think CB and O-line are the two areas I really see this draft being able to feed, two areas where the talent’s declaring and where we want to get younger.
On the contrary, our pass rush needs a plug-and-play FA, not more JAGs. I’d blow a whole wad of money on the pass rush, draft for CB and O-line, and try to fill our other needs super-cheap along the way.
boyman - January 26, 2012
yeah definitely. Throw some good money at Avril(DET) or Brooks(SF) if they don’t take it or want too much just resign Spencer. I still think we should PAY for a good CB, but also draft one in the 1st 3 rounds. You really need to have 3 or better yet 4 good corners these days.
StarloverinWNC - January 26, 2012
Not sure why people think olb should be above de or nt
Its our 3 down linementhey don’t work hatcher it learning Coleman is a backup rat is out of position. Sign a good strong de move rat draft a nt and sign Spencer. You don’t loom to upgrade a guy who ranks 5th in the league in TFL since 2000 -2011 ( stats taken for those years ) its not about two pass rushing olb its about pressure with 4 guys. If your 3 don’t eat up the blocks and still get push your 4th can’t get home. Ware is our monster pass rusher. He does his job so well Spencer isn’t asked to near as much as say Houston askes there strong side backers. This site is seriously getting old and boring with the same talk and no one listening or actually thinking things out. You build your defense off your talent ware and rat is how this pass rush was built off of. Rat is out of positions now but ware is just as dominate as he has ever been. Bookend him with a strong run stopper and good things will come if our line does there job.
Sado44 - January 26, 2012 via mobile
This is the correct answer.
And because of that, I fully expect Jerry to do the opposite.
TXHC - January 27, 2012
The 20 million dollar figure is a nice starting point, but what we really need to know
is the amount JJ and SJ have to work with for FA signings. We must know how much of the salary cap will go to the future draftees and how much can be spent on FAs. For simplicity sake assume that it’s roiughly 50-50 between the 2. Now I know that the 20 mil is the current figure and with roster cuts, this may change, but the key is how much can we afford to spend once FA starts on the available FAs, 10 mil or more. Once we know that, then JJ and SJ can try to work some magic with contracts.
I’d like to sign at least a G/C and a CB/ S in FA. That’s at least 2 starters. If we can afford Nicks/Grubbs or say Finnegan/ Griffin and the coaches want them, then get them.
Remember there are many BTBers who complain about JAGS, so I’d like to pick up some people who will fill hole and starts.
The draft can then be BPA and we still will fill positrions of need.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
edit ..... fill holes and start
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
I would approach it in a different way.
First, I do not see C and OG as equal. We need a young, high-level C. Forget the bridging with aging vets. We have OG depth as far as prospects, and if we REALLY want an OG, DeCastro is our draft marriage. Spend the Nicks money elsewhere.
I would prefer to not pick up our CB who will replace TNew and play heavily in the draft. Experience and proven durability would be worth paying for, IMO.
I would like a quality backup QB, not a rookie, and I would say that our DE/OLB could be picked up in the draft. Much easier to plug ’n play.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
I'd like both. Get Nicks and draft DeCastro if he's there at #14.
If DeCastro isn’t there then we at least have Nicks and maybe we can get the next best G option in round 2 or 3. We must protect our best asset, Romo.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
That is a lot of assets directed at OG.
And in my opinion, C is more important. FA C and CB are our highest priority. Draft OLB/DE with first choice, OT in second, CB in third.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
I'm just tired of seeing Romo run for his life. If we can't get DeCastro, the Konz or Jones
at C, that is if Konz checks out medically.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
yeah well
supposedly the Giants have this good OL, but Eli got lumped up all game and had 5 sacks. Doesn’t matter how good your OL is having a good pass rushers trumps it.
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
Tony doesn't need 5 seconds to find someone. He can be as productive as
Brady, Brees, Rodgers, Stafford. Plus, we have, what I believe, is an elite running back in Murray to help in play action.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
yeah, Romo doesn't need as much time as Eli
He has the magic in the pocket Eli doesn’t have. We just need an OL that won’t allow a jailbreak every other play as is the case now.
Terry - January 26, 2012
Yup
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
WHAT?!?
Eli’s pocket magic kicked our @$$#$ this year!!!
How many times were our D-linemen and OLBs an inch from a sack?
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
Eli is
much improved in the pocket. He either movers or throws it away, and for whatever reason, never gets called for obvious intentional grounding…
dunkman - January 26, 2012
*moves*
dunkman - January 26, 2012
agreed.....
like when he was about to get sacked last week against the Niners and pitched the ball to Bradshaw. He does have some Houdini in him. I find it amazing that some can’t give the guy his dues. Just because you admit that Eli is really good, doesn’t mean that you are being dis-loyal to Romo. I just don’t get it.
texstar - January 26, 2012
Good point with the lack of IG calls.
The Cowboys’ opponents are still getting away with murder. Refs were less prone to call infractions on us than in previous years, I thought. That was pleasant.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
Thats not eli that was a ball aired out to a point and our corners not making a play.
Sado44 - January 26, 2012 via mobile
Hence Blings' note on our secondary's inability to track a ball in the air.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
without special teams gaffes, the niners would've won and the narrative would've
been Eli’s oline collapsed on him. His line has been stellar in his other games
somebodyquiet - January 26, 2012
In full agreement on Nicks.
Too many other places a good G can come from. Spend the money somewhere else.
TXHC - January 27, 2012
normally I love your posts Tom
but this one got me riled up..
Jahri Evans got a 7 year 56.7 million dollar Deal(8.1 million avg), and Everyone says that Nicks is Better, so more than likely Nicks is going to get ~9 million per year (avg)
Now lets say Mario get a Deal Similar to Ware(which I doubt he does) but still
Ware got a 7 year 79 million dollar deal- or ~10million per year avg.
Which one would in the overall scheme gives you “Bang for the buck”? a 9 million dollar Guard on a 7th ranked passing Offense,
or a 10 million dollar DE on a 29th ranked passing Defense?
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
I would be happy with either
since we haven’t signed a big free agent since……………………….yeah I just want us to sign someone for the love of god, I am tired of not adding talent in free agency
Archie Barberio - January 26, 2012
Mark my words
Williams is NOT an OLB. If he plays there, he’ll be good because he’s just that good of an athlete but he’s out of position. He is a 4-3 DE. He needs to play from a 3 pt stance and doesn’t need to be dropping back in to the flats on coverage or chasing RBs out of the backfield .
Tyrone Jenkins - January 26, 2012
+1
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
ummm
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
Ironman, 4-3 DE is not the same as 3-4 DE
Mario is a pass rusher, in the 3-4 he’ll have to play OLB. Mario isn’t Justin Smith, who is a 3-4 DE
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
say What?
Mario Williams: 6-6 283
Justin Smith: 6-4 285
Jay Ratliff: 6-4 287
you were saying?
Williams is a DE in a DT’s body Roh….and is comparable to Ratliff in Measurables…
so if Williams is a 3-4 OLB then so is Ratliff….
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
Yes I know how much they weigh
But you’re asking Mario to chnage the way he plays just to fit in the 3-4. He was drafted number 1 overall by Houston to be their version of DeMarcus Ware.
3-4 DEs don’t get taken that high, as they don’t generate sacks like a 3-4 OLB, because that’s not their primary responsibility.
Mario Williams plays the same position as Justin Tuck, Osi Umenoriya, Julius Peppers, Dwight Freeney (he’s a bit undesozed for 4-3 end), Jason Pierre Paul, and Jason Babin. In a 3-4 defense, these guys would have to play OLB and stand up. Williams didn’t like the fact Wade changed the defense in Houston, he is going to wamt to sign with a 4-3 defense.
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
every one is saying
that Mario doesn’t like the 3-4.
Where is this coming from? Iam over at the texans blog alot, and have never seen anything remotely similar to this.
Other than Mario stating that moving to OLB made it difficult to see the Snap compared to him being a 4-3 DE, He loved the switch…
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
Same reason that Greg Ellis signed with a 4-3 team after leaving Dallas
4-3 Ends prefer to play in the 3pt stance as opposed to standing up.
Mario said the right things because he saw the defense was playing better. However, don’t assume that because he was a willing soldier to go along with the scheme change for his drafting team, that it means he’ll leave in free agency to play 3-4 OLB when he feels more comfortable playing the 4-3 DE oosition.
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Position*
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
well like I have said
if the money is Equal, then He will go to a 4-3 team….
Honestly I think he will ultimately resign with Houston though….that is just my gut feeling…
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
It's a moot point because he will not be a Cowboy
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
probably
though I wouldn’t mind that lineup…
Ware, Williams, Brent, Ratliff, Eisenman
Seriously you could me at the SOLB spot and it wouldn’t matter…..
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
Lol
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Eisenman?
dunkman - January 26, 2012
who? I justec noticed hst name too
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Well "Eisenman"
is German for “Ironman”, so I thought maybe he was penciling himself into the line-up….
dunkman - January 26, 2012
Lol, I figured
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Have you, Chia or Birddog scouted Ironman??
dunkman - January 26, 2012
No, but I did.
I saw him in the club in Vegas. Good hips, casual demeanor but very confident. He’s a solid contributor, good family man, and even gave up the title of world’s most enthusiastic Cowboys’ fan.
Definitely someone you could work with ;)
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
A pro's pro
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Well, that whole Vegas thing
it’s like Cabo. Is Ironman really focused or is he too busy partying???
dunkman - January 26, 2012
Dude is a seriously a machine.
After the standard 10 hours of debauchery, he carried his entire entourage out of the club. I don’t think it matters what he is up too. Ironman is focused.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
haha
I wish….
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
I'm visualizing him now as
Vince in Entourage….
dunkman - January 26, 2012
Or maybe Drama...
dunkman - January 26, 2012
NNNNNOOOOOOOOO!
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
I scouted him in Vagas
I had never seen any play with so much heart as he did. He took on 3 cocktail waitreses and 2 dancers with no problem. He even had 1 score, but I don’t think it counts as a TD.
Birddog26 - January 27, 2012
LOL
Rena - January 28, 2012
Who’s “eveyone”? It isn’t true.
FreedomRide - January 26, 2012
3-4 DEs DO get drafted high though
Justin Smith 4th overall
Haloti Ngata 12th overall
JJ Watt 11th overall
Tyson Jackson 3rd overall
somebodyquiet - January 26, 2012
Ngata is a 3-4 DT
Tyson jackson has been a bust
Smith and Watt are rare exceptions
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
He's been moved to LE
The same position Williams should play if we sign him. Draft an OLB in the first. And another rotational NT, our front seven just become DISGUSTING.
Hypothetical:
Ware OLB
Ratliff RE
Bruce Carter ILB
-Spelled by serviceable veteran ILB
Ta’Amu NT (second round draftee)
-spelled by josh Brent
Sean Lee ILB
-same as carter
Super Mario LE
-spelled by hatcher occasionally
Melvin Ingram OLB (1st round draftee)
-backed up by Chandler Jones (3rd round)
-& of course butler
matt575 - January 27, 2012 via mobile
add in Jamell Fleming
at the top of round 4 with a trade up
Jonathan Stern - January 27, 2012
3-4 DE and 3-4 DT are not the sack generating postions that 4-3 DE and 4-3 DT tend to be
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
I disagree
given good enough Talent a 3-4 DE can be a “sack generating position”
the issue is that finding those 280+lb DE/DT’s that are good PassRushers..
Which Mario Williams is…..
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
But he's not a 3-4 DE. He's a 3-4 OLB.
Everyone said moving him to 3-4 OLB was crazy. All he did was get 5 sacks in 4+ games before he was injured.
He likes the new position and wants to come back, but it’s questionable if the Texans can afford him.
FreedomRide - January 26, 2012
He would be easy is scheme in.
If worse comes to this
Go to a 5-2 – 4 Ware and Williams always rush.
Jonathan Stern - January 27, 2012
they won't get you 10+ sacks
but if they can get you 4+ sacks it’ll help your defense out tremendously
somebodyquiet - January 26, 2012
You're not paying Mario Williams to be a 3-4 DE to get 4+ sacks
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
no I am paying him to be Justin Smith
or better….I am paying him to be Bruce Smith…..
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
glad you brought Bruce up
Seems like everyone’s forgotten about Bruce doing his damage as a 3-4 DE…Mario would make Spencer seem better….
jerryw - January 26, 2012
If we were to sign Mario, do you think they'd switch to a 4-3 D.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
as a base Defense? No
would we play more 4-3 formations? probably
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
Just wondering. I don't believe they will either, but if they sign him and draft Kuechly,
well I might be more inclined to think that way. All speculation though.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
Dude get out of my Head
that would nearly be my dream draft right there….
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
We should know soon Iron Man!!!
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
we use a 4 man line for our nickel anyways
somebodyquiet - January 26, 2012
No need. He was a monster ar 3-4 OLB for Wade.
FreedomRide - January 26, 2012
I would agree that OG is less bang than OLB/DE
Please no big money on an OG. S, CB, DE/OLB, even backup QB; but not OG
And MW will prob be had for a little less than $10 a season. The NFL is going to be changing over next few years unless they unveil some huge new streams of revenue.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
Guys I was listening to the HERD on the way to work this AM. The major networks FOX, CBS, NBC, ESPN
have NFL contracts, which will pay the league over 20 BILLION DOLLARS the next 2 years. In years 3-4 that figure will close to double to 39-40 BILLION DOLLARS.
Where do you project future salary caps to go with those numbers? And Cowherd said that they are negotiating a fifth contract with another network. Didn’t name the oter one though.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
you know what that is?
Cha-Ching
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
THIS!
We are not fixing the pass rush from this draft class. Pay the money where it counts; we’ve already got plenty of JAGs, and can draft for CB/ O-line.
boyman - January 26, 2012
I honestly feel like williams wilould be terrible signing for us.
He is a pass rusher that’s it. That would leave ware in coverage and platying the run first more than his bookend. Why on good green earth would you not want ware rushing. You can’t ask a guy like Williams to cover. All he is is a pass rusher. You take to much of wares talent and throw it away by signing Williams.
Sado44 - January 26, 2012 via mobile
I stand
Strong on this and I will more than happily eat crow if we sign him and it works out.
Sado44 - January 26, 2012 via mobile
I don't really like the idea either,
but for argument’s sake will say this… OCs can help eliminate Ware by flaring their tailback out to flat on his side… What if MW was there to still supply a great pass rush from other side?
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
In that situation would be nice
But why not flare out to Williams side and let you halfback burn him down the sideline until your secondary can make a play that’s an easy 10-25 yard dump off. I don’t see it ever working.
Sado44 - January 26, 2012 via mobile
Thats why spencers tfl is so high
They most oc leave the dump off for on the opposite side of ware for Saftey sake. And Spencer is 90% of the time there to stop it. Williams wouldn’t be he just wants to rush.
Sado44 - January 26, 2012 via mobile
again the whole issue is mitigated by having him as the DE
you go with this line up:
Ware, Williams, Brent, Ratliff, Butler
here is what will happen
Two TE’s alot with possibly two RBs
so if they go that(balanced, TE’s at either end)
Ware-LT&TE
Williams-LG
BRent-C&RG
Ratliff-RT&TE
that means Williams is one on one with a LG, and possibly a FB…
think about that….only a 2TE 2RB set gets enough Blockers two Doubleteam everyone….and that doesn’t factor in Butler coming in from the Right side….
and then Ware move over to the Right side and puts his hand on the ground….
Now you are in a 4-3 look without subbing a single person and still have two Double Digit Passrushers at the ends….
then you could slide Williams into the LOLB spot to recreate the appearance of a 3-4….again without subbing anyone….
I am Ironman!!! - January 26, 2012
Ware 6'4" 260 lbs , Williams 6'6" 280.
could be a DE with effective pass rushers around him. However, Super Mario has only achieved double-digit sacks twice.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
So your putting williams as a dt now
I tell you what I sure hope that our coaches don’t see all this they will cream there pants to think they can get a guy who will play dt de and olb hell put him as a guard see what he can do. My point was Williams wants to rush. And has streghth but not speed. So all he can do is what we have ware doing. I mean why not trade him for ware and a like there 2012 draft also. Cause your thinking without thinking. Coaches build a scheme with there known talent and I don’t see anyone e building off Williams when you have ware on the team. Wishful thinking guys he isn’t the right fit for us ATM maybe in a few years when we need wares replacement but the difference he would be to old also.
Sado44 - January 26, 2012 via mobile
Ware reallu needs to last another 4 years
Till Robert nkemdiche is in the draft then break the bank on him.
Sado44 - January 26, 2012 via mobile
you know
the safety that really is intriguing to me now is Branch from the Raiders
he went to UConn, a school close to me that I follow on the regular and I always like his game
he is a FA now and KC Joyner mentioned he is a solid safety
I would love to sign him, but he is a SS
the best FS on the market nobody is talking about is Tanard Jackson from Syracuse, another school that I follow closely
he has some off the field issues, but he is a playmaking ballhawk
Archie Barberio - January 26, 2012
Landry
is available. Injury prone but worth the risk at this point i think
Tyrone Jenkins - January 26, 2012
I'll take both of the Redskins' safeties...
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
I doubt the Raiders let him go.
BrickTop - January 26, 2012 via mobile
I think Elam may get resigned to another one year deal
now that his former DB coach Henderson from Cleveland was hired
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
Our safety play has been so putrid for so many years it's truly amazing
With that signing, it will continue to be so
Terry - January 26, 2012
Look who the teacher was.
Mikellie - January 26, 2012
cant disagree
but its looking that way. If Henderson wasnt here I would say there was zero chance he would be back, not so sure now.
Boyzfan94 - January 26, 2012
Sign Nicks for sure
Then you draft Ingram in the first, a corner in the second, and a DT in the third.
Nardfather - January 26, 2012
What about the other G and the C problem we have?
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
somewhere they have to coach up guys like Arkin , Nagy, Killer K, Costa
Nicks is great but i think Center is a bigger need then Guard. surely between Kosier, Nagy, Arkin, Holland, Killer K they can find a couple Guards.
or if they sign Nicks then Costa, Killer K or a draft pick will need to step up at center.
DCNation73 - January 26, 2012
I like the Nicks/DeCastro/ Killer K trifecta.
Happy Birthday, Tony, you’ll live to be 100.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
Right
this is one of our knowledge gaps…. one or more of these guys they probably think is a future starter. If they think they can compwete next year, they bring in a serviceable but not stellar vet (Dockery type). If they think the guy(s) will take longer to mature, they bring in an older, but quality vet (Saturday type). If they thing they have it, they move on the other positions. It’s just an area we don’t have full information on.
dunkman - January 26, 2012
I really think that we can upgrade this D to a level that will enable us to be competetive in the playoffs.
We need FA secondary help. We need to draft an OLB, DT, and CBs/S.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
Except for an O-lineman and backup QB (If we can't find a decent backup in FA,)
I think this should be a defensive draft. You know it won’t happen, though. And that’s not a bad thing. I was kind of pissed about drafting a RB and WR last year… For about two minutes. Then I was really proud of our talent scouts.
They will probably go BPA and will fill needs that only they really know are coming.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
I agree completely. I want the OL fixed for Tony's sake and because we can become an elite O if he has protection.
We can’t go wrong going BPA. That approach will automatically fill our needs. This draft must be heavily weighted towards the D.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
The Cap
Not sure if someone has mentioned in this or another post, but contracts can be set-up to increase cap numbers into the later years of a contract. I.E if we sign Nicks to a 6 yr/ 60m with 35m bonus you could work it so that his base salary was the NFL min for this year and 2012 cap hit would only be about 6m (just the bonus money divided by years). I may not have have all the numbers right in the right ballpark, but the general idea is that you can’t just say “well he’s making 10m a year so that takes half our FA budget away”. Doesn’t work that way. That’s why Jerry and Stephen have said they can do what they want in FA. Stephen is very good a manipulating the cap.
PacmanJones - January 26, 2012
Excellent point
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
except that we end up with terrible contracts on aging veterans.
Which I guess does not matter because we extend our own aging vets to five year contracts, so why not bring in some FA talent and relieve the burden on the rest of the NFL?
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
JJ and SJ must be cautious when signing new contracts with aging veterans over 30.
That’s where we get into trouble, ie, the new deal with Rat may become an issue down the road.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
Right
Nicks is young enough, and given the playing ages of lineman, that would be a good strrategy for him, but less so for say a RB.
dunkman - January 26, 2012
Yup,
As far as Rat’s contract is concerned, if he is not willing to slide to DE, or we start a 4-3 where he can play the 1 gap, it is already an issue, Pink. I saw the season, and Rat simply should not be playing 0 gap anymore.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
He'll be done in a year or two if he keeps getting pounded on at NT.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
I do scratch my head when I look at our contracts over the last year...
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
Exactly, the contarct depends on the signing bonus and the guarantee. The unguaranteed portion
is never a problem in the later years, just the prorated signing bonus. Usually the guaranteed portion of the contract is included in the first 3-4 years..
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
Yup.
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
This is what will happen
FA C and use the extra money they saved from signing Nicks and put it towards the best D player CB/rusher
Draft DeCastro and take the best D player with their next
Boom Superbowl.
thebigham - January 26, 2012
+1
torchindefenses - January 26, 2012 via mobile
Nicks would be my choice
I hope he does not go “Marco Rivera” on us though. I thought Rivera was going to solve a lot of our o-line problems and he actually ended up causing more.
eightball - January 26, 2012
+1
torchindefenses - January 26, 2012 via mobile
I say get a solid Center FIRST
It was and still is plainly obvious that Dallas’ biggest needs on the OL is Center. Take Nick Hardwick from San Diego. He still has 3-4 years left in his tan and with the possibility of Kosier not coming back there needs to be a veteran the line that can call out protections. Another option is Scott Wells from Green Bay. Either of them wouldn’t cost a mint and are both ProBowl caliber players.
torchindefenses - January 26, 2012 via mobile
Funny bigham took the words right out of my mouth as I was typing
torchindefenses - January 26, 2012 via mobile
FA Signing
Cap space/money not the issue. Dallas is no longer a marquee team in the NFL. That’ s the reason we haven’t been signing quality FA in the past few years.
Players want to play for contenders and until Management/Coaching Staff get the culture back to it’s winning ways, there aren’t going to be a lot of guys hungry to come play in Big D.
Sad, but true…
Just look at the non-signing of Nnamdi last year. We had all the ingredients (i.e. money, former coach that made him a star, etc.) but he ended up signing with Philly because he thought he would be more capable of winning a Championship there than in Dallas.
D Rock 76 - January 26, 2012
You may be right, but I'm glad we passed on Nnamdi. Wish we had signed Joseph though.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
Nnamdi would have signed here...
but that would have been counterproductive for his agent, who also has Terrance Newman as his client. If Nnamdi comes to Dallas, Newman is possibly out of a job and wouldn’t be getting the same money he would have if he was with Dallas. Therefore, the agent loses. So, by having Nnamdi sign with the Eagles at the last second, it’s a win win for the agent.
TheCowboyFan - January 26, 2012
Good Insight...
Hadn’t heard that before…Agents/Lawyers are ruining the WORLD!!!!!!
D Rock 76 - January 26, 2012
Williams, Landry or Nicks
(In that order of preference) THEN, after signing ONE of them, IF there is cap room TRY for a second (doubtful that they can land two of them) Draft accordingly, if you FILL one need move on to the NEXT PRIORITY in the draft. This year, save “drafting for depth” until the 4th round! The first three should be used on NEEDS!
Howleyesque - January 26, 2012
Interesting comments about Callahan's role and o-line
interesting points.
1 – not overpaying for interior lineman
2 – turnover on o-line is good
3 – Arkin not playing last year was unacceptable
http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/dallas-cowboys/headlines/20120123-moore-how-bill-callahan-could-help-ease-the-cowboys-salary-cap-woes.ece
eightball - January 26, 2012
Very interesting take
I wonder if this will be reflected in their draft and FA picks or it’s just Moore and Goose’s philosophies…
dunkman - January 26, 2012
Turning the OL over every 2-3 years seems extreme.
Can’t believe that will happen at the pro level.
pfloyd1 - January 26, 2012
when Dungy ran the Colts, he treated his CBs this way
AustonianAggie - January 26, 2012
Especially at C
That seems like the wrong position to turnover. I wonder how many teams actually do that…
dunkman - January 26, 2012
sounds like a league philosophy to me
I like the comment about not getting married to interior lineman. Develop young talent and let the experienced players walk. However, you need to have players that can step in and play. This method will not work if you are expecting guys like Corey Proctor to become your next starter.
eightball - January 26, 2012
I for one am glad Nnamdi wasn't aquired
Too much money for an older guy at a age affected position. (see T Newman)
torchindefenses - January 26, 2012 via mobile
Really????
I don’t know if you were at the Giants game in Dallas or watched the one in NY but with Nnamdi in the lineup vs. Newman, the 2011 Dallas Cowboys are a playoff team and the Giants are sitting on their couches instead of heading to Indy for the SB.
Rarely would I think one player makes that much of a difference, but in this case I have to think it did.
D Rock 76 - January 26, 2012
Nnamdi had a bad year too.
I was saying how old he is and how he was way overpriced!
torchindefenses - January 26, 2012 via mobile
I agreed with not overpaying for interior OL
Scott Wells would be a great pickup and wouldn’t cost near what Nicks would!
torchindefenses - January 26, 2012 via mobile
With all the Carl Nicks and Mario Williams talk, i didn't even know Tracy Porter was a FA
Didn’t the ‘Boys like him coming out of college? He’d sure be an upgrade over Newman. If we can’t sign Finnegan or Grimes, i wouldn’t have much problem signing this guy. One way or the other, we need to get Jerome Henderson some new toys to play with. I like what he did with Joe Haden, so I wouldn’t be opposed to also drafting a talented CB like Jenkins or Norman.
LilZtretch - January 26, 2012
They did. He would.
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
would love to get porter on this team
somebodyquiet - January 26, 2012
Haden was a slam dunk coming out of college.
TXHC - January 27, 2012
in FA
I’m looking at players rather around 4th to 5th at their spot for most FA signings. I’m not in to the big splash players but want to shore up weaknesses — rather than create strengths.
Kraig Urbik (RFA), G/C, Bills. Age: 26. Played Center well this year when forced due to injury, as well as being a guard. Has had a season where he allowed zero sacks.
Jeremy Zuttah, G/C, Buccaneers. Age: 26 Played multiple positions, a league average kind of guy. This, plus Holland and Kosier, fixes the oline
Richard Marshall, CB, Cardinals. Age: 27 Played well at CB and Safety
Terrell Thomas, CB, Giants. Age: 27 – lets poach our closest rivals
Solid 3 CBs, with a good 4th who can flex to safety, plus 2 new linemen, one of whom can play center. I can only guess at prices for these players, but these are kind of people I want, solid, and many of them.
AustonianAggie - January 26, 2012
Personally, I'm starting to think we pass on Nicks for a FA C.
And put the money towards a pass rusher. Super Mario would be nice, but I’m thinking Calais Campbell may be a better target. Sign LaRon Landry to replace Elam and a 2nd-tier CB.
That leaves us in good shape for the draft. Right now I’d be thinking OLB in the 1st round, CB in the 2nd, OG in the 3rd (e.g. Ingram or Perry, J Jenkins with luck, Zeitler). If there’s a really badass NT in the 1st that fits our draft position (none right now, but Dontari Poe could rise) that’s be great too. Resigning Spencer to stuff the run would be just fine with me if we’re sending Ware, Campbell, Poe, and Ratliff after the QB.
TheBlueBaron - January 26, 2012
I agree, but I would think about a first tier CB depending on how C and DE/OLB falls together.
We need a talent infusion in our secondary.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
we need a floor before we need a ceiling
right now, having TNew as the 3rd CB is like missing a foundation for a building
AustonianAggie - January 26, 2012
The thing is, this draft
is heavy on CBs, and (if Scandrick and Newman work—which we’ve committed to), we can address this need in the draft.
boyman - January 26, 2012
Yeah,
We can definitely pick up OL and DL/OLB in 1st/2nd and still get a decent secondary prospect in draft. FA CB pickup should be a proven, talented commodity, IMO.
BlueNSilverBlood - January 26, 2012
Assuming you mean Jenkins, not Newman?
Because the latter is gone this season, no matter what.
TheBlueBaron - January 26, 2012
Lol yes
I’m not sold on Scandrick/ Jenkins, mind you—but we’re committed to them.
boyman - January 26, 2012
That'd work as well.
Really, as long as we get some hi-lo combination of pass rusher and CB in FA, plus a C, I’d be happy. Gives us flexibility in the draft.
TheBlueBaron - January 26, 2012
According to PFF, Carl Nicks really isn't even the best UFA G
It’s Eagles G Evan Mathis. 30 years old, but not bad for a short-term answer if Nicks proves to be too expensive
LilZtretch - January 26, 2012
the more I read about PFF
the less credence I give it
burmafrd1944 - January 26, 2012
This.
It’s a joke that they want you to pay for their (obviously wrong) information.
TXHC - January 27, 2012
I'm looking at this a little differently
Ranking the area of Needs I would say that our Defense needs the most help.
As per the youth movement and who might develop I would say again Defense is the oldest with less possibilities for youth to step up (as per who is on our roster and their ages).
So along the lines of age I would speculate that, since we have a number of young guys and we don’t know their potential especially since weight coach Joe has not worked them up yet, I would say that we have 2 for sure starters and 2, maybe 3 potentials.
That is pretty good for the Oline with the most glaring spot being Center. Thus I would look at a couple of the Centers in FA… like Scott Wells of GB, or Houston’s Chris Myers (Houston has a lot of big dollar FAs so someone wont be able to be re-signed).
Draft a Guard…. where/what round is determined by his BPA status when its our turn.
D- we are paying 2 corners (with anticipation of Newman’s release) but we need another starter and backup. Youth-wise we play them all and not sure what the coaches feel about future potential. Do we look at FA
Courtlan Finnegin? And draft a starter or backup?got to have One. I see bodies in there. I know this was the first year in a complex defense so there is room for improvement…but I just don’t know.Safeties
D-line- We just were not getting to the Qb or affecting his throws, so I see this as a Must. I know in the 3-4 we call the Rush Ends Outside Linebackers and not Dline but really that is a matter of semantics because they hardly ever do anything other than rush. Thus I am adding them to the mix when I talk about the line. So a DE or OLB (Upshaw, please) I wanted Cullen Jenkins last year, so someone in his stature/ability.
WR- we need to develop the ones on the practice squad and bring in another body or 2… maybe a Returner who is also be a Wideout.
Developmental Qb, a Thumper Running back, backup TE …and a partridge in a pear tree.
So differing from Tom I would go with a Center in FA, focus on Corner or DE with our first pick. Figure out if our Guards are going to work up to the lineup. FA-find a DE or Corner and if we find both then I would look for a true NT.
LiveNDieBlue - January 26, 2012
We don't need a thumper RB.
Murray and Tanner run with some power, and if all else fails Fiammetta can fill that job in a pinch.
WR/KR/PR and backup TE I agree with, though. I like the idea of drafting Ryan Broyles in the 4th and the H-back kid from Temple in the 5th. That’s 4 WRs, between Miles/Dez/L-Ron/Broyles, and Holley, Radway, Holmes, and Harris can fight over the last one or two spots.
TheBlueBaron - January 26, 2012
It's won and lost in the trenches! The Plan:
Even in this pass happy league, the games are still won and lost by the guys up front.
It doesn’t even matter which combination of who we go after in FA (or which defensive philosophy we deploy 3-4 or 4-3), we have to get better on both fronts!!!!! The 2 remaining teams both can protect their own and harass the opposing teams QB. That’s the recipe for success at any level of football. Always has been.
On Offense: Shoring up the middle of our o-line (which was by far the weak link of the unit in 2011) gives better running lanes for Felix and DeMarco and allows Romo to pick apart defenses. Simple. The interior o-line was a sieve this year and it hurt the team nearly every drive in some way, shape or form.
On Defense: Bringing the beef to the D-Line frees up the LB’s to make plays, but we also need that interior push from the DL. Imagine how many sacks D-Ware would collect if the QB couldn’t just step up in the pocket underneath his rush every snap! He would be lethal!!! We need a DL that can bring that interior pressure and have guys there with the intelligence that even if they don’t get there put their hands up to block the passing lanes! That in turn helps the secondary not have to cover as long and allows them to take chances jumping routes to try to create turnovers! I think that’s the philosophy of Ryan’s defense anyway. I’ve seen teams with less talent on the back end than the Cowboys have success doing that.
Skip the marquee name and concentrate on landing one or two of the top 2-5 or 6 rated FA OG/C and DL/NT each. That would make every outside player on the Offense and Defense a little bit better and honestly, were we that far off this season.
So I’m all for going heavy on OL/DL in FA and the use pick 14 on the line at whichever side of the ball we came up a little short on in FA. Use the 2nd round pick on a DB and beyond that BPA.
This plan would get us back to the playoffs, but I’m not sure that we could make it work financially and still bring back the likes of Spencer/Robinson/Fiammetta like we would probably need to in order to make it work personnel wise.
D Rock 76 - January 26, 2012
Top flight safeties.
Anyone notice that NE defense started playing great when Patrick Chung came back.
Safeties fix secondaries. Pass rush helps. But if you look at the history of the NFL every Super Bowl team going back to the 90’s had a top flight safety. The only team to win a Super Bowl with out one is the NY Giants. Twice. That’s it. Go look at the teams that even went to the Championship game. Most of those have top safeties.
Unfortunately we will have the safeties we have for at least the next two years.
Fix the oline. Fix the pass rush. It still won’t matter till we have a safety back there that makes a difference. By the time that comes Romo and Wtitten are in their last years. if your expecting a 34-35 year old Romo to lead us to a Super bowl your insane.
Only three QB’s have won a Superbowl older than 34 since the 90’s. It doesn’t happen.
Elway and Brad Johnson.
We’ve already blew our chance with this team. The 2008 draft when JJ was left to his own devices and got one starter out of 3 picks in the first two rounds. Which led directly to the Roy Williams deal that wrecked the 2009 draft. Secondly. Signing these average safeties.
Sharksbreath - January 26, 2012
One of the things about free agency is that there are so many ways to go.
And they could all be valid. I do like the idea of targeting the areas that are not as deep in the draft, which would say that CB for instance is not the way to go in FA, but rather the team should address the other areas where the draft may be less well stocked.
The fun thing is that is is all moving parts – slide one player in as a FA, and the entire draft strategy can change.
Tom Ryle - January 26, 2012
it is*
Tom Ryle - January 26, 2012
But there is a sick group of CB's on the FA market this year.
Looks like it has the deepest talent of any position. We need a GOOD CB. A prospect would also be nice but we must infuse a proven commodity on that back end.
StarloverinWNC - January 26, 2012
add young to Good, we don't need to sign anymore 30+ year olds for 1-2 years of production
just4fun - January 26, 2012
All of these guys are on the right side of 30...
Brandon Carr, CB, Chiefs. Age: 26.
Cortland Finnegan, CB, Titans. Age: 28.
Brent Grimes, CB, Falcons. Age: 29.
Richard Marshall, CB, Cardinals. Age: 27.
Tracy Porter, CB, Saints. Age: 26.
Terrell Thomas, CB, Giants. Age: 27.
We should be able to sign one of them no?
StarloverinWNC - January 26, 2012
I like Carr, Thomas and Finnegan the best
KC wants to re-sign Carr badly, but it would be nice as he is a young and good corner.
Thomas is coming of an injury so maybe would could get some value there.
The Titans are cheap and do not like to pay there players so finnegan and Griffin are there for the taking, but St. Louis is likely to want them too.
Marshall is interesting because he shouldn’t cost a fortune and can play safety.
Porter sucks, he’s hurt all the time and not the best corner in the New Orleans secondary (their secondary sucks as bad as ours). So, the second best corner in New Orleans isn’t attractive to me.
Grimes is most likely staying in ATL and wouldn’t be worth the contract it would take to move him from there.
just4fun - January 26, 2012
My guess is they will go after young less expensive free agents and see where they
can get more bang for their buck. Robinson has basically stated he’d give the cowboys a discount. So, as far as the defense/offensive line goes. They need to see who can be signed for less money, while still getting quality. Meaning, does the starting quality guard/cb/fs or DE/OLB come cheaper? Then take the BPA that fits in the teams needs. Regardless we should be drafting corners, interior line and pass rushers.
just4fun - January 26, 2012
Out in Front...
One thing I do hope for this FA period is to see Dallas out in front, setting the market for players rather than reacting to the market. I’d rather get the guys we want at a little bit of a premium than be held hostage by the market and overpaying for guys we “settled” for.
D Rock 76 - January 26, 2012
Would it be possible to sign Nicks and Brandon Carr/Lardarius Webb?
Nets2410 - January 26, 2012
I believe Webb is restricted, I'd guess i'd take a 1st rounder to sign him, and Ravens have right of first refusal
just4fun - January 26, 2012
O line
fix that in FA since you do not know what will be available in the Draft.
And trying to fix it in the draft could mean grabbing a guy that is not going to get it done.
Nicks or Grubbs are proven. Romo needs some bodyguards or he is in the morgue
I think Killer is an option at center. So get a top Guard in FA and then wait for the draft and maybe get one in the third. or hope that Arkin can get strong enough to be a good starter this year; and we still have Holland or Dockery for another year.
one other reason to fix the O line; finally get a short yardage run game.
Then go BPA the first three rounds at position of need.
burmafrd1944 - January 26, 2012
Then Defense in FA and most of the draft
Would like a vet CB, and somehow somewhere in FA or the draft find another pass rusher
burmafrd1944 - January 26, 2012
Another perspective
I agree with your list of priorities. I don’t seem to be in line with the rest of the Cowboy Kingdom in that I don’t agree with drafting a Guard in the first round. If it’s an Athletic Guard that can play Tackle and go on to a Hall of Fame career, sure. Otherwise, starting Guards come from all over the draft. I think we need to look at Free – Agency for at least 1 Guard and our Center.
Our Corners need to come as a mix of free agents and draft picks. While I agree with everyone that Terence Newman is fading fast, I don’t know if the salary cap hit is worth not squeezing every moment we can out of him. He is a good locker room influence and that has a place. While he was bad last year, Alan Ball was terrible and Orlando Scandrick was shakey So we need to come away with 2 Good corners from the draft and possibly 1 free agent. Scandrick should play scared and we need someone to push them all.
Pass Rusher is going to be tricky. There are several ways to address this. We can get a Nose Tackle (Draft or Free Agent) to move Jay Ratlif from Nose to End. This would help him not breakdown towards the end of the season. We could get a top tier 3-4 Def End that can rush the passer But how many of those are their. We have Ratlif and we have Hatcher who was never a great run stopper but was good at getting penetration. If we get an effective nose Tackle, we make Ratlif more effective. An outside rusher would still be appealing. while we look at Anthony Spencer as a disappointment, I think he can fill another need.
Hear me out….. Anthony Spencer is solid to very good against the run, good in coverage and can have effective moments rushing the passer. Why not play him inside and outside? IT has been done before. Belichick has done it several times with Vrabel and Adalius Thomas. I think it gives us size inside to hold up against the run and a better coverage guy than Brady James playing inside LB and a solid if not stellar pass rusher on the field. Now that is based on getting another solid Pass rusher. (I’ve got my eye on Vinny curry out of Marshall in the Senior Bowl)
So with a few moves in Free agency and some solid drafting, we should be able to get at least 1 corner, 1 pass rusher and 1 Guard in the Draft and 1 additional corner, a center and possibly a safety in Free Agency. I believe at least 1 of the guards on the Roster maybe 2 are going to stick so 1 starter may come from in house.
Finding an ILB that can cover and defend the run is difficult. Before we discard Anthony Spencer, he should at least be considered. We also don’t know what we have in Bruce Carter.
This is my ranking of what the Priorities for next season should be
1. Protect our QB – It falls apart without Romo
2. Maximize our Talent – find ways to ease the load on Ratlif, Ware, Lee, Romo, Murray
a. Get a Nose Tackle
b.Get a Pass Rusher
c.Use the Full Back more
d. improve the O-Line
e. Bring in competition
We have too much complacency. Miles Austin was nice, but he cant stay Healthy. I believe that Robinson’s presence was a nice incentive for Dez and Miles. If Alshon Jeffrey or Marvin Jones is there when they draft in the first or second, get another playmaker. Take the best available player on the board. Make them all nervous that they are the next guy out behind Roy Williams and MBIII. An aggressive draft and free agency strategy will let them gather some depth and push the guys ahead to be better.
Son of Chaos - January 26, 2012
You say your #1 priority is to protect Romo...and I'd agree with you.
Yet your O-line priority is a d??? If you aren’t drafting an OG or C early in the draft what you’re really saying is that you are OK with Arkin/Nagy/Costa/Kowalski/3rd rd prospect & a low-end FA Center for the other 3 STARTING spots on your o-line.
Didn’t work out so well for us last year, but maybe try the same thing again and we’ll see a different result???
StarloverinWNC - January 26, 2012
Geez
Spencer is not worth the contract and he’s a lazy quitter. Come on man, Newman is way past done and will save 6mil when he is cut.
So, your plan is basically to magically protect Romo with the same players, sign a nose tackle and ignore the glaring hole at cb/safety, because Newman is so freaking awesome. Wow.
just4fun - January 26, 2012
Cowbys secondary is terrible
Jonathan Stern - January 26, 2012
Well, yes.
Tom Ryle - January 26, 2012
Captain Obvious award, jk,
Rohpuri - January 26, 2012
Hard hitting analysis there.
TXHC - January 27, 2012
What I would do...
Is sign Mario Williams and Tyvon Branch. Figure out a way to draft David DeCastro and Janoris Jenkins. Find a serviceable backup QB that can be had for cheap. With whatever is left acquire acceptable depth along the O-line, in the secondary, and amongst the LBs. Sounds simple enough.
TXHC - January 27, 2012
Oh yeah, and switch to a 4-3 with more of a zone coverage look.
TXHC - January 27, 2012
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