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Draft season has reached a point where mock drafts are beginning to become highly repetitive because of a lack of new data. For the most part, this week's mock drafts haven't factored in the impressions from the Senior Bowl practices. That will probably happen next week.
The next signifricant data input will come from the Combine and Free Agency, but both are still a long way away. As such, the draftniks are beginning to cycle through the usual suspects for the Cowboys, and this week is not much different
At this point, I'm waiting for some prospects to 'pull a J.J. Watt' and begin their late but steady climb up the boards to make these mock drafts a litte more interesting. Who could those candidates be this year?
Michael Brockers is making a push despite not having much production in college. Both Melvin Ingram and Courtney Upshaw impressed at Senior week, as did Janoris Jenkins. Could their stock rise further with solid showings at the combine?
For now, it's too early to tell with any degree of certainty who may be a late riser. After the break, we look at who some recent mocks like for the Cowboys this week and you can weigh in on who you think could be a late riser this year.
Don Banks, SI.com, 1/27/2012: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama
The Cowboys' secondary was the reason the Giants won the NFC East rather than Dallas. Jenkins, the ex-Gators cornerback, has some maturity issues that will scare some teams away, but the Cowboys usually aren't too skittish about such things. Alabama safety Mark Barron is another solid option, but he doesn't have Jenkins' elite cover skills.
Bucky Brooks, NFL.com, 1/27/2012: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama
After watching the Cowboys' secondary give up big play after big play, Jerry Jones will look to the draft to find a quality corner. Kirkpatrick possesses the size, length and range to contend with the explosive receivers that rule the NFC East.
Drafttek.com, 1/26/2012: Michael Brockers, DE, LSU
After drafting the "People's Choice" OG David DeCastro last week, this CMD operates under the assumption that Cuzzin Jerruh opens his pocketbook and signs UFA Carl Nicks from the Saints to play OG. Any defensive backfield operates better when the opposing QB is pressured by the front seven; therefore, Dallas selects LSU Super Soph Michael Brockers (54 tackles, 10 TFL, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 1 int) to play DE on the opposite side of DeMarcus Ware (in front of OLB "Almost" Anthony Spencer).
Many Cowboy fans would like "Almost" replaced, but a comparative analysis of the top 12 strong side OLB34's in the league shows Spencer to rank 1st in total tackles, tied for 5th in sacks, tied for 1st in fumbles forced, tied for 2nd in QB hits and tied for 1st in tackles for loss. The Giants have demonstrated in their playoff run that down linemen can generate pressure - if Brent and Lissemore prove they can handle the nose, Ratliff and Brockers would form an excellent set of bookends.
Walter Football, 1/25/2012: David DeCastro, G, Stanford
The Cowboys have major issues on the interior of their offensive line. Left guard Derrick Dockery is a free agent after missing most of 2011 with a knee injury. Center Phil Costa sucks. Right guard Montrae Holland, meanwhile, can't really be relied upon.
David DeCastro is one of the top interior linemen prospects to come along in years, and he's the highest-ranked prospect on the board. This is a perfect match.
Draftace.com, 1/25/2012: Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College
The Cowboys and Eagles picking back-to-back creates an interesting dynamic, as both could be interested in some of the same players, including Kuechly. Bradie James (31) and Keith Brooking (36) are both free agents and clearly aren’t part of the Cowboys long-term plans. The addition of Kuechly would give Dallas two of the best young interior linebackers in the game (along with Sean Lee).
Draftking.com, 1/23/2012: Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina
I'm not necessarily as high on Coples as some other prognosticators out there are, but there is no doubting his size and that he'd be an ideal fit as a 3-4 DE.
Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft overview (min. two rounds deep)
| Site | Date | 1st Round | 2nd Round | 3rd Round | 4th Round | 5th Round | 6th Round |
| Draft Tek | 1/26 | Michael Brockers, DE, LSU | Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina | Emmanuel Acho, ILB, Texas | B.J. Coleman, QB, Chattanooga | Nicolas Jean-Baptiste, DT, Baylor | Jaymes Brooks, OG, Virginia Tech |
| Draft Site | 1/26 | Alfonzo Dennard, CB Nebraska | Brandon Washington, OG, Miami | Brandon Lindsey, DE, Pittsburgh | Dearron Thomas, QB, Oregon | Duke Ihenacho, S, San Jose State | Joe Adams, WR, Arkansas |
| Walter Football | 1/25 | David DeCastro, OG, Stanford | Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama | Tank Carder, ILB, TCU | Kheeston, Randall, DE, Texas | - - | - - |
| Mocking The Draft | 1/23 | David DeCastro, OG, Stanford | Markelle Martin, S, Oklahoma State | Philip Blake, OC, Baylor | Jared Crick, DE, Nebraska | - - | - - |
0 recs | 189 comments
I would go with Drafttek
only if the OL needs were addressed through FA, ie Carl Nicks or Ben Grubbs etc.
nycowboysfan - January 28, 2012
waterfootball has best mock...but Markelle Martin
I really like free safety Matin from OSU, I want Dallas to draft him….
orli - January 28, 2012
I believe in BPA this year,
If DeCastro is there at #14, he will clearly be BPA, so we must take him. I like both Walter and mocking the draft. I love Jenkins at # 2 and Crick at # 4.
U
pfloyd1 - January 28, 2012
If Carl Nicks isnt signed its clear cut
Decastro is the guy. If Nicks is signed Ingram has to be there will be road graders in the 3rd and 4th rounds.
Pass rush, secondary, DL come first if Nicks is signed
CowboyWay - January 28, 2012 via mobile
This.
I kind of want Mario Williams and draft DeCastro.
DCyanks21 - January 28, 2012
Sounds good to me, but I'd prefer Campbell if the Cards don't sign or franchise him.
pfloyd1 - January 28, 2012
That seems likely so that's why I didn't bother mentioning it.
DCyanks21 - January 28, 2012
Rumor is Mario doesn't like the 3-4, plus I doubt Houston let's him get away.
I really doubt Jerry drafts another O-lineman in the 1st.
DIRE WOLF - January 28, 2012
Rumor is Houston doesn't want to pay him the $ of the tag.
Watt, Reed, Barwin, and Cushing… they don’t need more rush.
DCyanks21 - January 28, 2012
Yeah I heard it's $22m for 1 year, but he still doesn't like the 3-4.
If Jerry signed him we’d be about done in FA. Not going to happen.
DIRE WOLF - January 28, 2012
Yea that's fine.
We need an impact player. Stop signing players on our squad to deals they don’t deserve. (Cough Scandrick and Sensabaugh) And averages Joes like Elam.
DCyanks21 - January 28, 2012
actually it is 16 milion
not that it makes a difference
I am Ironman!!! - January 28, 2012
Every where I read is it whatever number is great and since his salary was 18 mil last year itll be 120% of that
Which is higher than the league avg top 5
thebigham - January 28, 2012
Me too, I keep reading it is in the 21/yr area.
That doesn’t mean that another team will have to pay 21 million, its what Houston would be on the hook for.
Nickthegrip - January 28, 2012
Well I just finished working on the house next door to Mario.
I will stop in and ask him how he feels about playing for 10 mil in Dallas.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
yeah thats what the tag will be
doesnt mean houston or anyone else can’t sign him for less though.
thebigham - January 28, 2012
well here is where I got the number
And to clarify the guys over at BRB are just as good as our guys here…
http://www.battleredblog.com/2012/1/27/2725802/2dh-the-justice-system-works-swiftly-in-the-future-now-that-theyve
I am Ironman!!! - January 29, 2012
and yet not lnk or explanation to back it up.
Everywhere ive read its 22mil.
thebigham - January 29, 2012
It’s 22 million.
One.Cool.Customer - January 29, 2012
In my opinion
We HAVE to sign an interior OL through FA. And I’d like to see a veteran CB added as well. Assuming that happens:
1. Melvin Ingram
2. Markelle Martin
3. Dwight Bentley
4. NT/DE/ILB
5. Same as 4
6. TE/QB
7. Same as 6
I don’t see J. Jenkins being available in the 2nd round. I’ve mentioned Bentley here a couple of times, and he just keeps killing it at the Senior Bowl practices. Hopefully, he validates the week with a good performance in the game. I’ve watched him play for the last 4 years, and he is definitely an NFL quality CB. For comparison’s sake, think Lardarius Webb. Bentley is only 176 lbs, but he’s 5’11 and will probably end up near 190.
sportsfanatic21 - January 28, 2012
No way Jenkins ends up in the second round. At some point talent trumps
smoking weed. As Jerry said about Dez. The baggage he carried was mitigated by where we picked him. (paraphrasing) I do think we could trade down and get him though.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
It's not the weed that's worries me.
It’s he was dumb enough to get arrested 2 times in 3 months for it.
DIRE WOLF - January 28, 2012
Anyone that reminds me of "Pac-Man" Jones is not worth looking at
The era of the full of himself look at me guy should be O-V-E-R in Dallas…and if I can never post a 100 yard game Bryant doesn’t change his tune…he should be flushed away too.
Rome One - January 28, 2012
Terminology -
Memo to Mr. Bryant…
I used the word “flushed” for a reason….
Rome One - January 28, 2012
I've been calling him Pacman II for awhile now.
DIRE WOLF - January 28, 2012
Dez hasn't been arrested...
BrickTop - January 28, 2012 via mobile
I'm not talking about Dez.
Dez is an angle compared to Pacman.
DIRE WOLF - January 28, 2012
*angel
DIRE WOLF - January 28, 2012
What does Dez do actually?
BrickTop - January 28, 2012 via mobile
Since I don't think jenkins will be there in the 2nd
I voted Drafttek. I believe we will go after Nicks or Grubbs in FA to address the O-line. If Dre K fell to us at 14 I’d be all for it and knowing Rob Ryan’s wish for CB that can takle I bet he’d make a push for him. Brokers at 14 is a distinct possibility because I expect he will turn a few heads at the combine.
Bermystar - January 28, 2012
I am not a fan of making a player change positions......
however of the highest rated cb’s I think Dre would make the best fs in this draft. Hypothetical here, what if we sign Thomas at cb and move Dre to fs. Imo the secondary would be considerably improved.
That said we still need a disruptive player in the front 7.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Fully agree Mensa
I don’t like changing a player’s position either, especially when drafting so high, but Dre really seems like he’d make a good FS.
Bermystar - January 28, 2012
i agree football mensa
But will top you one…
I think we need TWO impact front seven guys this year…now, Bruce carter has a shot to be one of the two…but I would look for two in the first three rounds and hope two of the three (picks and Carter) contribute mightily to aiding Lee, Ware, Ratliff, a healthy brent, Lissy and company…(No not you Spencer!) for some good defensive football next season.
Yeah!
Rome One - January 28, 2012
Plus one on B. Carter
We essentially have a 1t round pick in him, hope he pans out.
Bermystar - January 28, 2012
Rome I would love to see a huge nt in Dallas if we remain in a 3-4.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Top-15 draft picks should not change positions
I’m not ever spending a top-15 pick on an Isaiah Stanback, Jason Williams, Anthony Spencer project.
Blue Eyed Devil - January 28, 2012
Alan Ball
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Even if it's like DE to OLB or vice versa?
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
I keep it simple - this is how I rate a draft pick....
This is when a photographer says “Now say cheese!”
This is David DeCastro smiling!
I don’t need combines, game film, scouting reports, insider Mel Kyper nonsense…
This photo is all I need to make my pick.
Rome One - January 28, 2012
What do expect from Andrew Luck's bodyguard
Birddog26 - January 28, 2012
A rare breed
DeCastro is what I refer to as a “Killer Guard”
Like the Killer Whale in the ocean…they will pound the big Sharks to defend their pods….
A killer guard swimming alongside our young killer tackle will certainly damage any predators that try to bust up the backfield….
And I’ll say it now…loud and clear…anyone named Alfonso Dennard will be a mediocre to bust player in the NFL…the name just doesn’t make it…It’s not an NFL great type of name…“Alfonso”…It’s a Happy Days clustermoosh…
Dre Kirpatrick – Yes
Courtney Upshaw – yes
Trent richardson – yes
Alfonso? – no!!!!!
Rome One - January 28, 2012
Like I.M. Hipp
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Mercilus
A pass rusher named mercyless…..enough said
Hotrod - January 28, 2012
But his first name is Whitney
soonercowboy14 - January 29, 2012
Bleacher Report...
There are two different Cowboy mocks on Bleacher Report by two separate authors – here is the one I prefer:
1. Alfonso Dennard CB Nebraska
2. Vinny Curry DE Marshall
3. Brandon Mosely OT Auburn
4. Ladarius Green TE Louisiana Lafayette
5. LaMichael James RB Oregon
6. Case Keenum.QB Houston
7. Mike Daniels DT Iowa
Here is the link to this draft
http://m.bleacherreport.com/articles/1041244-dallas-cowboys-mock-draft-7-round-predictions
jtgreet02 - January 28, 2012 via mobile
Bleacher Report is a joke
I would believe nothing they report.
bevomav - January 28, 2012
Why?
I have found them reliable on some fronts.
jtgreet02 - January 28, 2012 via mobile
Nothing wrong with bleacher report
One thing i notice though…I can almost tell what team every author of every mock draft is because they all have a tendency to let talent slip just a little too far to their squad’s pick in every round.
It’s laughable….
Rome One - January 28, 2012
Rome that's not much different than mocking the draft.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Haha
Bleacher Report is a joke. It’s trolls who get a chance to write about sports.
BrickTop - January 28, 2012 via mobile
no seriously BR called out BtB members.
The ban is on BR from anyone from BtB. They are low down dirty scum between your toes people.
thebigham - January 28, 2012
Bleacher Report is awful
Some of the worse journalism, hell its not even that it’s just a joke how can anyone take anything serious from them smh
CowboyWay - January 28, 2012 via mobile
For those of you who don't remember
This is the BR , BtB incident. Though the article was modified due to the massive backlash the content can still be found in the comments section. Don’t do them a favor and click the link to goto the article though.
Here.
thebigham - January 28, 2012
I actually
hadn’t read the article before, but just did. The part that interests me is towards the bottom he mentions that you should be a fan of the team that is in your city. What about people like me who don’t have a professional team that’s really all that close. I’m from Nebraska and have been a Cowboys fan for as long as I can remember.
jack dein - January 28, 2012
Here's what I do.
Who cares, you trying to justify why you like a certain team, is them winning.
thebigham - January 28, 2012
Wow. I read the first sentence then got pissed off and closed it.
Grimlock83 - January 28, 2012
If the Cowboys had a play making DE they could cover up Spencer.
But I like going BPA
Jonathan Stern - January 28, 2012
The Cowboy need to be able to stop the pass , They need a cover WR and they need pass rush.
Jonathan Stern - January 28, 2012
Like Denver
Any team that can run the ball at will can protect their defense…
Why was Denver in so many low scoring games??? Everyone credited their defense…heck no…the run game kept the defense off the field and well rested.
DeCastro, Free, Smith…Fiametta…Demarco Murray…..now we’re talking!!!!
Rome One - January 28, 2012
The Broncos have Von Miller otherwise they would be a 5- 11 team.
I would just go BPA.
The biggest needs the Cowboys have are DE and CB.
While I think we can get by with the OL we have if someone says we ought to take DeCastro because not only is he likely to be terrific but also that he is low risk I am okay with that.
I do think that if we draft DeCastro number one that we ought to go out and sign Jason Jones or better cause the defensive linemen in this draft after round one either don’t pass rush well or just aren’t very good.
Jonathan Stern - January 28, 2012
What about vinny curry in the 2nd? I've been hearing his name more as the days gone by
DarkKnight88 - January 28, 2012
I’d take Curry in a heartbeat if he’s still there for our 45th pick.
One.Cool.Customer - January 29, 2012
yea i heard he could start to rise up the boards as the combine gets closer
DarkKnight88 - January 29, 2012
Not voting for anyone until Chia is an option.
I was interested in what Drafttek said about Spencer. Put an end that can get some more consistent push in front of him, and I think he, and the entire defense for that matter, will look a lot better. I just wonder how much he is valued by the team, because that should determine if he stays or goes in free agency.
Tom Ryle - January 28, 2012
I can see that
If he’s playing the strong side then its gonna be harder on him to play the run, cover, or anything else they ask him to do. He did call himself out earlier this year but we’ll see if he can get motivated to play by RR if he can get a strong push beside him.
Final Frame - January 28, 2012
Gonna give another try
14. Melvin Ingram, OLB, S. Carolina
45. Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
82. Josh Norman, CB, Coastal Carolina
113. Brandon Brooks, OG, Miami(OH)
144. Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt
175. Akiem Hicks, DT, Regina
213. Sean Cattouse, SS, California
background for picks: according to Raf’s interview with Wes Bunting and Raf’s own info, the Cowboys are going to be looking for DBs in the draft. So I went DB heavy.
TexasGarcia37 - January 28, 2012
Texas I would be fired up with that draft.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
thank you
TexasGarcia37 - January 28, 2012
That would be a good haul
One.Cool.Customer - January 28, 2012
Be a pretty nice face lift to the secondary
Even if only a few of them made it.
Final Frame - January 28, 2012
Walker, Ball, and Newman are gone
So I feel pretty good that all three would have a good shot at making team.
TexasGarcia37 - January 28, 2012
I'd like to see what Mario Butler has learned being on the PS.
Final Frame - January 28, 2012
I would jizz in my pants if that was our draft
somebodyquiet - January 28, 2012
Sean Catthouse is an interesting prospect TG37
ur the 1st person i’ve seen mention his name.. I still remember the game where luck scrambled on a play then put his shoulder down & just sort of nudged sean outta the way lol.
DarkKnight88 - January 28, 2012
Draft Query -
If Trent Richardson fell to 14….
Is that unpassable?
Richardson / Murray???
Rome One - January 28, 2012
It might be.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
How does Mark Ingram compare to Richardson?
Maybe that can shine some light, because everyone passed on him.
thebigham - January 28, 2012
Richardson > Ingram.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
Trent Richardson is a beast
All around more explosive than Ingram…Ingram is very good but doesn’t have the “blast” fuel….Richardson has everything Ingram has with a full rocket of blast fuel…I think will be better than Murray…which could be frightening…
Rome One - January 28, 2012
He's Ingram with speed...
I think he can be an AP type back.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
Richardson is a similar type of RB to Tiki and LT
those are the RBs who he reminds me of when I watch him run.
He’s definitely a better player than Ingram, as he’s got power + speed, elusiveness, and can catch the ball.
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012 via mobile
well lets hope somebody jumps us to take him in the draft.
cause we don’t need bother rb.
StarloverinWNC - January 28, 2012
Might bring more teams to trade
Down if you choose as well
peachygbc_1 - January 28, 2012
you can find quality RB talent lower in the draft
we gotta shore up other areas
somebodyquiet - January 28, 2012
what the cowboys do in free agency will cause most mocks to change drastically
my first pick in FA pool is C. Cambell….he’s the Charles Hailey of the past here in the present…the cowboys have to seriously consider him at DE being a real game changer…the dude is 6’-8" tall …bats down the football like he’s playing volleyball and can be a special teams demon on kicks and punts..then in the draft first pick CB…after combine workouts which narrows down possibilities..if i had my druthers ….a CB that faced the spread most of the time in college ..since the giants and eagles run alot of spread on offense against the cowboys to make sure Allan Ball is on the field for an easy completion
0k - January 28, 2012
Coples
I have seen him anywhere from #5 to #15. Perhaps we should be asking who the late faller is going to be, instead of the late riser. With his size, could he fit in the 3-4, and if so, how does he compare to Brockers(who seems like the new “it” guy, after DeCastro)?
I really like Drafttek’s stance, if not necessarily the player they use for it. If Coples falls, maybe he could be the bookend to a repositioned Ratliff. Suddenly, if you have Ware, Ratliff and Coples rushing the passer, maybe pundits will focus on the things Spencer does do well, instead of his perceived shortcomings.
I personally think secondary is a bigger need than either line, but this is where resolve in the BPA philosophy becomes important; with the depth at corner, you can probably land somebody good with a 2nd pick.
Alan Smithee - January 28, 2012
Coples scares me
I think he’s a guy who will just be “very good” in the NFL.
We need someone beyond “very good” at 14.
We need All-Pro.
Rome One - January 28, 2012
I think Coples has as much upside as any player in this draft.
And the Cowboys really need a DE. If they had one they could cover up Spencer.
A real DE would help the Cowboys more than just about anything else.
But as I said Coples could be risky. He could really really help the Cowboys but you could also get the Vernon Ggholston nightmare with him.
Jonathan Stern - January 28, 2012
work ethic seems like the issue
I don’t know how serious the concerns are or should be. It probably won’t matter, anyway, as someone will likely take a shot on him before Dallas picks.
If he does fall, though, and you have a chance to get a top 6 or 7 talent who fills a need and fits your system, in the middle of the first round, you have a pull the trigger, yes?
Alan Smithee - January 28, 2012
I don’ t think it is worth ethic as so much as him not going all out (maybe to avoid getting hurt ) last season.
I think he is a big time rare talent.
Jonathan Stern - January 28, 2012
he has blue chip talent
that can’t be said for many in this draft. I think he can be an all pro, he’s so talented
somebodyquiet - January 28, 2012
I agree with what you said.
Within 36 months a lot of people on this site are not going to be reminded of what they said.
Jonathan Stern - January 28, 2012
not going to want to be reminded of what they said.
Jonathan Stern - January 28, 2012
If they pick Coples, and he turns into a good player,
Then you will be this year’s Chia/Tyron Smith. You’ve been pushing Coples since day one.
Nickthegrip - January 28, 2012
You'll be surprised
how many people will suffer from selective amnesia once the draft is done.
One.Cool.Customer - January 28, 2012
I'm not a draft guru, I don't really start caring until the cards get turned in.
I do expect people to conveniently have memory lapses just like last year :)
Nickthegrip - January 28, 2012
Yeah, I try to stay reserved once the picks come in
They know way more about this stuff than I do, they also have more information than any of the draft gurus. When they picked Sean Lee in the 2nd round in 2010 or Bruce Carter over Ben Ijalana in 2011 I’m sure they had their reasons.
Omar Little - January 29, 2012
I'm sure you will love to point it out to us.
And this is coming from someone who really really likes Coples as a pick right now (not enough to trade my draft for him though).
Creasy729 - January 29, 2012
Assuming Decastro goes first I would go with all defense from 2-6 with a TE in the 7th… Sleeper pick for me is Derek Wolfe from Cincinnati if we can snatch him in the fourth I expect a relentless powerful d-lineman!! He’s 6-5 300 just what we need to replace Kenyon Coleman and Marcus Spears
BL0217 - January 28, 2012 via mobile
I don’t think the DE in this draft after round three are going to be serious pass rushers.
It would be easy to upgrade Kenyon Coleman and Marcus Spears cause neither of those guys can pass rush .
Jonathan Stern - January 28, 2012
I expect Alfonzo Dennard's draft stock to plummet in the coming weeks.
Everything I’ve heard out of the Senior Bowl suggests he looks pretty bad. Stiff hips, weak in press coverage, slow to make reads on the ball, poor closing speed. The most discouraging note was from a report retweeted by Adam Caplan that said “Dennard was burned multiple times by receivers with third day potential at best.”
Unless he’s an incredible late round value, there’s just no way I want the Cowboys spending a premium pick on this guy. I’m a bigger proponent of taking a DE/OLB first, but I’d rather take an OG like DeCastro and let somebody else reach for Dennard while we snag Minnifield/Jenkins/etc. in the second.
The last I saw of Dennard, Alshon Jeffrey was owning him. No thanks.
KeyOfZ - January 28, 2012 via mobile
I think Dennard won't be alone. Don't be surprised to see Dre Kirkpatrick slowly fall throughout the draft process.
Creasy729 - January 28, 2012
Jeffrey had 4 catches for 148 yards and 1 TD. When you consider that he had one 78 yard catch it’s really not that bad of a day against one of the better CFB WR’s.
Being from Nebraska I watched every Nebraska game this year and last he consistently took on the other team’s number 1 WR and did a very good job. I thought it in 2010 and 2011 that Dennard is a better CB than Amukamara was. In 2010 they matched Amukamara up with Blackmon from OSU. Blackmon had a great first but the second half they moved Dennard over and he did a very good job on him.
His physical abilities will limit him some but I still think he’s the 4th best CB in this draft. Will probably slip to the end of the 1st round but will be a solid value.
jack dein - January 28, 2012
Denard is good when he jams a receiver, but if the receiver gets a step, Denard can't close.
That’s why Jeffrey burned him until they got into a fight and both were canned..
He’ll be a better safety than CB in the pros.
pfloyd1 - January 28, 2012
Walter Football must be Cowboys fans
DeCastro AND Jenkins?!??!?!? Wow, I’d make Mensa bow at Jerry’s feet. The later two picks are kinda “meh,” however reading the mock I’d probably say that their 3rd and 4th round picks would be Brewster/Jones and Jamell Fleming respectively.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
He's an Eagles fan.
Hope that doesn’t burst your bubble. But I do like his picks as well.
KeyOfZ - January 28, 2012 via mobile
an Eagles fan who has mellowed over the years
he used to seem to go out of his way to show his anti-Dallas bias. Much improved over last two seasons, IMHO
KD Drummond - January 28, 2012
LMAOOOOO
I’d make Mensa bow at Jerry’s feet.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Actual Question:
Who are you high on for the 14th pick: DeCastro? Ingram? Upshaw? Perry? Dre? Bockers? Still?
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
DeCastro would be the safest pick.
Then Brockers,
Dre
Still
Ingram/Perry
Upshaw
football mensa - January 28, 2012
I'd put Ingram second but yeah that's pretty close to my board too
Definitely have DeCastro number 1.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
U draft DeCastro pair him with Tyron u don't look back for 10 years.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Oh yeah
Walter Jones/Steve Hutchinson…no more getting stuffed at the line for this team!
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
Yup. 4th n one wouldn't be a problem any more.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Neither would be blowing late leads
The running game was downright terrible last year, it’s a pass first league BUT, the running game is important:
1.) Killing the clock late in games.
2.) In the redzone when secondaries tighten up against the endzone.
3.) Keeping a defense honest so they don’t drop everyone deep.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
Quit bashing your team !
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Well there were obviously problems and there's obviously areas where the team needs to improve
I don’t think I ever suggested otherwise, the level of improvement needed was always my biggest point. Newman couldn’t cover a baby with a blanket after Thanksgiving and the interior OL was pretty weak aside from Lumpy. I think Smith/Free will be fine at LT/RT given Free’s previous numbers, age, and pedigree…but the interior of the line needs work.
I think for the reasons I mentioned, that the interior OL was the second worst unit on the team (first being special teams) so I’d like to address that first and foremost. The team has talent, lets not act like they’re miles away. 8-8 means two wins away from being a serious playoff contender…right? I think a productive interior OL will help the team protect leads against teams like the Pats, Giants, and Jets late in games, protect Romo so he can find his talented receivers, and not put all the pressure on the defense do hold a ten point lead in an NFL where people throw for 4K yards on a regular basis. I also think the redzone efficiency will go up if the team can do something on the ground when secondaries tighten up. Or at the very least it will force teams to keep at least seven in the box opening up holes for Romo on the outside. A lot of people say that the defense (or Romo) blew the late Jets, Pats, Lions, or first Giants game. My question is, how many points did the offense score in that half? Look the Pats, Lions, and Giants have pretty good offenses, holding them below 21-28 points a game is unrealistic . They’re going to score. The offense needs to do their part too. I think part of the issue is the lack of a running game that can do what this team needs the running game to do.
As to the defense? Yeah the pass rush needs to improve, but Newman was the worst player in that unit aside from maybe Brooking or Bradie. Improving him opens up the door for the biggest jump in improvements. However, I feel that while the defense isn’t elite, I think it’s good enough. Or maybe, more to the point, can be good enough with a player or two. Add an impact corner and if Carter has a Lee type jump in talent we’ll see that defense be more than adequate. Of course were replacing the two worst starters on that unit with people that can actually play their position, that’s a huge improvement.
The DL needs to improve, but I’m absolutely stumped as to how to do it. Lissemore shows some promise, Hatcher seems like he can be a competent player, Rat had an underrated season at DT, yeah we’d all like a big NT but if any of you guys see Haloti Ngata available for the taking let me, and more importantly the folks at Valley Ranch know, players like that are rare though. Ideally you’d acquire a giant anchor NT and let Rat play a DE opposite Ware and Lissy and Hatcher fight it out for the other side and wish Spears the best. But, the Cowboys don’t live in an ideal world.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
I think Mensa was being sarcastic
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012
I'm pretty positive about this team and the current direction
We frequently get in big ugly spats, despite being closer on most things than we realize.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
Everyone's passionate about the Boys
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012
LOL
football mensa - January 28, 2012
We have 4-3 personnel on the d line.....
The team needs lot’s of positions to be filled. Agree with you on just about everything in that post.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Perhaps on the 43 personel
I still think Ratliff is good enough to play on any DL 34 or 43, and Lissemore is more suited to a 34 end than a 43 tackle, were just not so sure if he’s suited for the NFL yet. As to the positions of need we also have to keep in mind that it’s the NFL no team is perfect, you can have a weak secondary, or a weak pass rush, or a weak LB corps and still do pretty well. Some units and positions are more important than others, the most important is obviously a QB and I would say the second most important is the OL. For that reason I am throughly for DeCastro.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
So my ideal draft would be:
David DeCastro
Janoris Jenkins
Ben Jones
Jonathan Massaquoi (comp pick)
Jamell Fleming
DeMario Davis
Ryan Broyles
Akeem Hicks
Two corners, two interior OLmen, and not a whole lot on the DL…but that’d give the secondary a (needed) kick in the ass. Another pass rusher and a few good prospects in the later rounds.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
Omar if that draft came to fruition the next question would be
how & when could we get u to become part of the dallas front office?
DarkKnight88 - January 28, 2012
At this point they'd have to be willing to deal with my obnoxiousness and the deal'd be done.
Obviously I love this stuff and pay isn’t that big of a deal to me at this point. Being a law student I realize that money’s not everything. Anywhere were I could actually have a reason to get up in the morning other than a paycheck.
Omar Little - January 29, 2012
Walter Football is really tempting (albeit unrealistic)
but I’ll have to go with Mocking the Draft. Crick in the fourth round is too big of a bargain to pass up.
DerUbermensch - January 28, 2012
To answer OCC's fast riser...
Maybe the Aldon Smith or JJ Watt of this draft will be one of the tackles. Bulaga played at an extremely high level, maybe that will catapult Reiff up draft boards. Maybe it’s Jonathan Martin…I’d say that’s the most likely riser category. All the teams in the top 10 need better pass protection, so they might be rising.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
I think Brockers will go to the Panthers.
If not it will be Dre. That is their 2 weak areas.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
Bockers might be the big riser...
There’s quite a few teams that need a 34 end or at the very least a 43 tackle.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
Agree.
football mensa - January 28, 2012
The Brockers and Kuechly mocks are tossed out
Dallas won’t take either player.
Also, the Eagles have never taken a LB or Safety in the 1st Rd, so Kuechly to the Eagles makes no sense. The Eagles are more likely to go OL, DL, or WR in the 1st rd. Aside from McNabb in 1999, that’s where Eagles 1st Rd picks are allocated.
A team who I’ve got pegged on Luke Kuechly, The SD Chargers. They need an ILB to pair with Butler as Spikes was a bust, since he’s only usefull on running downs, they need their version of Sean Lee.
Dallas will not take Keuchly because Jerry already said, the Boys have Bruce Carter as their guy that they plan to start opposite Lee.
The Boys won’t take an unproven player like Brockers, maybe if this was 1996-2002, they might. But under this regime, they’re more likely to take Coples than go with Brockers.
Brockers, if he’s drafted in the first round will be a gamble pick by Buffalo or Carolina.
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012 via mobile
Coples won't be good either I hear.
DCyanks21 - January 28, 2012
I tossed out the ones with Brockers and Dennard personally. lol
I just don’t think either is worth a 1st round pick. So that left me with the 2 with DeCastro, I picked Walter as I like a CB in round 2. When there is a deep draft at a position you need to take advantage of it, especially if it is a huge hole and you need 3 of them on your team now.
Rena - January 28, 2012
spikes was a bust?
He’s been in the league for 13 years
matt575 - January 30, 2012 via mobile
Fiammetta
Anyone see his block on Ryan Kerrigan in week 2? Add that to the way we ran the ball vs Detroit and NE and that block where he took out to Redskins and you have a lot of reasons to be excited about the Cowboys running game. It could be real dominant next year… no wonder the guy was ranked #2 in his draft year.
scraig - January 28, 2012
He needs to stay healthy
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012
I like Draft Tek's.
DCyanks21 - January 28, 2012
I would too if it didn't include the first rd bust
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012
I'm not a fan of Denard and Walter football seems unrealistic.
DCyanks21 - January 28, 2012
I don't wamt Dennard or Brockers
Ii voted for Mocking the Drsft
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012
Dre talk went away?
DCyanks21 - January 28, 2012
The only CB worth taking from a talent standpoint at #14 is Jenkins. Claiborne will be gone.
I’m totally down on Denard, he’d make a better safety than corner at the next level. Dre is the dumbest guy in the world and his skill set is not as good as Jenkins.
I’m concerned with drafting a CB at # 14.
As Ron White says, “you can’t fix stupid”.
pfloyd1 - January 28, 2012
gotta vote for Walter Football getting Jenkins in the 2nd round, but realistically that ain’t gonna happen.
would love a DeCastro pick, but I like Drafttek’s take this time that we get Nicks in FA and then go for pass rusher or CB in the first round.
scottmaui - January 28, 2012
and "Center Phil Costa sucks"
way to put it diplomatically lol
scottmaui - January 28, 2012
btw where's the Senior Bowl open thread???!!!
scottmaui - January 28, 2012
im starting a open thread for the senior bowl in fanpost if anyone wants to join
TARHEEL PAUL - January 28, 2012
There already is one
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012
Look in fanshot sectiom
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012
yeah I was just thinking there should be a front page one
scottmaui - January 28, 2012
Senior bowl thread
http://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2012/1/28/2754950/senior-bowl-open-thread
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012
Draft Talent Please
Would luv to get Upshaw and Jenkins in ghe first and second or trade back into the first for Jenkins weed smoking or not guy is a Stud i say take a chance sign Nicks of Grubbs and a saftey like Micheal Griffin
slickman26 - January 28, 2012 via mobile
5th in sacks?
What do y’all think of this?
AustonianAggie - January 28, 2012
I for one, never let facts get in the way of a good narrative.
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
I was just going to block quote this as well
I’m not sure about these numbers, but it does give me pause and wonder if the real problem lies along the D-line rather than the other OLB….
And: would bringing in an Ingram or Upshaw give us any more than Spencer?
rabblerousr - January 28, 2012
your second question is the one I'm struggling with
I’m not sure what system Ingram fits in, and I’m not sure Upshaw isn’t basically a copy of Spencer.
I’m not in the “Spencer sucks” camp, and even if I was I think this team is already looking at having to find new starters at too many positions to throw Spencer’s spot into that mix, as well.
If the Spencer replacement isn’t already on the team, then that’s one more hole to fill through the draft or free agency, and if the team is going after a big name FA I’d prefer it be Carl Nicks.
Alan Smithee - January 28, 2012
Most importantly
We have to realize that Upshaw isn’t exactly Brian Orapko or Cay Matthews. So even though, Spencer isn’t an elite pass rusher, I’m unsure Upshaw can be a tangible upgrade over Spencer with the current defensive line that the team has. I think Ingram has the potential to actually be something special, so he’s a guy I’d consider…Upshaw? Ehh, not so much.
Omar Little - January 29, 2012
I think it means the Cowboys will be paying quite a bit of money to retain Spencer's services.
he’s a good OLB, people need to stop with the Ware comparisons.
Nickthegrip - January 28, 2012
+1
jevans1729 - January 28, 2012
I think it's more important to see what the Cowboys think of it.
Regardless, I think the case against Spencer stands pretty strong:
A) Spencer had 4 pass-rushing sacks. 2 were him tackling scrambling QBs.
B) Even spotting him those two sacks, Spencer was equalled in sacks by three rookie SOLBs (well two, but one had 5.5 sacks)
C) SOLBs I would rather have than Spencer: Ahmad Brooks, Ryan Kerrigan, Justin Houston, Clay Matthews, Lamar Woodley, Shaun Phillips, Brooks Reed
D) That pegs him in the lower half of SOLBs for 3-4 teams. At best you could say he is average.
E) If the Cowboys do improve next season, we will not have an opportunity to add a top pass rushing talent for a while. If Quinton Coples is off the board, upgrading the SOLB spot is the next best way to improve the pass rush.
Creasy729 - January 29, 2012
F) Also, people always marvel at the Giants' pass rush, but they do what is necessary and spend first round picks on pass rushers.
Meanwhile Dallas fans want to draft guards at #14 and expect Rob Ryan to generate a pass rush out of nothing.
Creasy729 - January 29, 2012
Well there's a lot wrong here...
The Giants do have a great pass rush, but I think it’s getting a bit overrated. They’re in the Super Bowl, so everyone thinks everything they do is great. It’s the NFL, every team has glaring weaknesses and every team is very beatable. Hell the Giants were beatable seven times this year, twice by the Redskins.
However:
A.) The Cowboys DL isn’t very good at all. That effects Spencer’s numbers in sack totals.
B.) Most importantly, there’s more than just sacks that count. It’s like judging a ball player that only hits 20 HRs and saying he doesn’t have power and ignoring his great defense and base running, oh and the fact he hit 50 doubles. Anthony Spencer is the best 34 OLB in covering the run, better than Ware or anyone else you can name. He also excels in coverage.
C.) The OLBs you name is sort of a misleading list. Ahmad Brooks plays behind the best 34 DL in football. Clay Matthews’ role on the defense isn’t really similar to Spencer’s at all, it’s more similar to Ware’s, so the correct comp is Erik Walden and Anthony Spencer takes dumps that are better football players than Erik Walden. Justin Houston, Brooks Reed, and Ryan Kerrigan are rookies. While I’ll give you Ryan Kerrigan, I’d still caution against overrating rookies. After 2010 you’d be insane to take Justin Upton over Jason Heyward in a keeper’s fantasy draft, one year later Heyward struggled while Upton became of the best players in the game. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Reed and Phillips struggle next year, oh yeah and they didn’t have as good of seasons as Spencer’s 2011 anyways. There’s plenty of players whose rookie season happens to be their best year. So the guys I’d say are better than Spencer as the “other” 34 OLB? I’d say it’s Kerrigan, Woodley, and maybe Phillips. Also consider that Spencer went full retard that last game against the Giants. That was probably the worst game of his career and that unfairly effected several of his advanced grades. I think Spencer’s a lot better than you’re giving him credit for. Is he like Ware or Romo and you have to pay him what he wants to keep him? Of course not, but if he accepts a fair deal for his services I’d love to have him back.
D.) I don’t believe in “the next best way,” I believe you always take the best way to upgrade your team. The goal of the game is to outscore your opponents. You can do that in a variety of ways, which is why I am for taking a Guard. The interior OL is still the biggest problem on the team and if you have an elite other worldly talent available there I say take him. If they take DeCastro I think fans will be plenty happy and not even worry about the Giants pass rush because they’ll be too busy laughing at Tron and DeCastro making the Giants DL their bitch.
Omar Little - January 29, 2012
I would luv to see this in the future, preferably asap.
DarkKnight88 - January 29, 2012
At least there are a few impressive DL men. That's encouraging!
pfloyd1 - January 28, 2012
Any one think Foles is a first roud pick?
pfloyd1 - January 28, 2012
Well I didn't think Ponder and Locker were first rounders so...
Omar Little - January 28, 2012
Yeah, I'll take that flyer. We'll see what his Combine says but I think Foles has
always been one of those guys that has everything going for him physically. He’s got CAN’T FAIL stamped across him like Locker did. Someone will snag him in the bottom fo the first, top of the second at the latest I think.
pjohn56 - January 28, 2012
btw, I am not endorsing Foles. I'm saying he's a workout warior with a little bit of production.
He set up a screen pass with his eyes pretty nicely in the Senior Bowl but, then again, Arizona was Arizona before he got there and, well, it still is.
pjohn56 - January 28, 2012
And with the 14th in the 2012 Nfl Draft The Dallas Cowboys Select...
Courney Upshaw LB Alabama
cjs.93 - January 28, 2012 via mobile
What if Martin or Reiff fall to #14?
Do you draft a tackle and swith Free to guard?
pfloyd1 - January 28, 2012
I'd seriously consider it.
One of those guys over DeCastro? Yeah I’d think about it.
Omar Little - January 29, 2012
Coples is playing for a top 10 pick...
pfloyd1 - January 28, 2012
Vinny Curry in the second round. Watch him shoot up the combine
Rohpuri - January 28, 2012
I agree.
He could easily get to the front of the second round.
jevans1729 - January 28, 2012
I have a question guys
Every time we discuss the Cowboys and free agents everyone keeps comming up with we need to resign Robinson and Fiammetta….but when i look at his contract (Fiammetta) he has 1 yr remaining and he doesn’t show on any 2012 free agents list….is this something someone came up with and it has just been run with ..or do we have info that is credible on this??
BigDBoys - January 28, 2012
Fiammetta is a restricted free agent
Restricted Free Agents are NFL players with expiring contracts, but three years or less of NFL experience. A RFA can negotiate with other teams, but his original team has the right to match any offer and retain the player. If his original team does not match the offer, it is awarded a draft pick from the acquiring team.
One.Cool.Customer - January 28, 2012
Coolest part about that is
we picked him up on the wire and he worked out for us whenever he played.
Final Frame - January 29, 2012
I Am Up To The Eyebrows
With this BPA garbage! This team has NEEDS; failure to address those NEEDS last year lead DIRECTLY to it’s losses and the Giants going to the Super Bowl! So, UNLESS the BPA FITS YOUR NEEDS; you’d BETTER take the BPA who DOES or you’ll be looking at this same situation again NEXT YEAR! UNLESS, they bring in Mincey from the Jags (Williams from the Texans is NOT likely to happen) and/or Landry from the ’Skins; they NEED to deal with the needs of the DEFENSE that ALLOWED double digits leads to get away! This draft is supposed to be DEEP in Oline, a good CENTER (the position of ACTUAL need) should be found in the third or even fourth round!
Howleyesque - January 28, 2012
For anyone interested
very good review of DeCastro in the link below (500 snaps of his play analysed).
http://dallascowboystimes.com/2012/01/dallas-cowboys-potential-2012-draft-pick-david-decastro-g-stanford/
Tyrone Jenkins - January 28, 2012
David DeCastro, Janoris Jenkins, Tank Carder
was all I needed to see to cast my vote.
I’m not stuck on DeCastro but if we got a cumulative talent haul with our first three picks like the one, I’d be very excited for training camp.
pjohn56 - January 28, 2012
tank carder is not a 3rd rounder, more like 5th or later
matt575 - January 30, 2012 via mobile
no off season
do any of you think that our rookies hit the wall towards the end of the season? i know they should’ve tried to stay in shape on their own but i wonder if not having off season strength and conditioning affected their play down the stretch. i’m curious if it affected the veterans also.
maxdout - January 29, 2012
kirkpatrick
i’m very curious to see how kirkpatrick does in his agility drills. i’m not sold on a cb that is 6’3. just seems he wouldn’t be quick enough. i guess we will see.
maxdout - January 29, 2012
Is the belief that if the Cowboys want Nicks, there is no chance he would sign elsewhere?
It’s odd how everyone just assumes that whatever free agent we want, we will just have.
I have no clue who they’ll draft in the first round, but I’m guessing that if there’s someone out there that’s injured, that will be our second round pick.
Baked Potato Soup - January 29, 2012
Nicks is this years Mankins to fans.
Rena - January 29, 2012
I just don't see us taking a guard at pick #14
Most opinions I have read here don’t consider trading down.There will be some surprises before we pick that might drop players that fill other teams need.
This draft seems to be loaded with talent in the later rounds that aren’t as risky as what is available at our pick.
TCB Orange Dino - January 29, 2012
I think it's less unlikely with the new CBA and rookie salary cap.
Previously, teams were less likely to take a guard that early, as the contract owed to a lower pick was considered too high for a guard. However, with the new rookie cap, that is no longer an issue. Additionally, top level guards are now being paid considerably more than they were just a few years ago.
It’s also why I think it doesn’t make much sense to trade back. With the new rookie salary cap, the value slotting for certain positions is significantly less of a factor. It made sense to trade back 10 spots a couple of years ago if the guy that you wanted wasn’t worth what you would have to pay him at that slot, even if it meant potentially missing out on him. Now, with the rookie cap, it makes more sense to take the guy you are targeting, even if it is a few spots early.
I think a lot of people are still caught up on the old values and things like Jimmy Johnson’s trade chart. With the new rookie cap, it’s a different world. Just as an example: In 2010, Sam Bradford got a 6 year, $78M contract, with $50M guaranteed; in 2011, Cam Newton got a 4 year, $22M contract, with the team having an option on a 5th year at $14M. That’s way less of an investment, and therefore far less of a risk, and far less repercussions for a bad pick or picking someone early.
Baked Potato Soup - January 29, 2012
I like Walter Football
but I like this more:
1.David DeCastro OG
2. Chase Minnifield CB/Jayron Hosley (I’m indifferent on them)
3. Kirk Cousins QB
4. Frank Alexander DE
Comp- Jamell Fleming CB
5. Jeff Fuller WR
6. Tramain Thomas S
7. Cordarro Law DE/OLB
soonercowboy14 - January 29, 2012
I'm already sipping on the George Iloka kool aid
Trade up to late 2nd and snatch him up!
SportsDrunk - January 29, 2012 via iPhone app
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