Pet peeve time. I hate it when people perform what I will call, in deference to BTB decorum, anal extractions. You know, when they throw things out there with no regard for facts and reality. I love a good argument if people do a little research and base their opinions on something solid, but I can't stand things that just get thrown out there without at least some consideration of the reality of the situation.
In the discussions of what the Dallas Cowboys can do in free agency to try and solve some of the problems the team faces before the draft comes rolling around, there are a lot of proposals that some people seem to love, but when you start looking at things, they don't hold much water. One example is the eagerness by some to go after Mario Williams to shore up the pass rush. Now, while he would certainly be a great acquisition, I have to wonder just how much of a pay cut he would take to come play for Dallas. He made $13.8 million last year, with a cap hit over $15 million. You cannot decide how to spend your cap budget without having some idea of how much the players are likely to cost, and decisions have to be made about whether to sink a lot into one or two stars, or to get more players that are likely upgrades but more affordable, thereby improving more areas of the team.
Part of the problem is that it is hard to get a handle on all the different factors in free agency. So I set out to look at what the top free agents out there might cost, by researching how much they made last year. I think it is logical to think that they will be trying to get a good paycheck if they seek a new team, and looking at what they made last year might help sort that out.
What I managed to gather after the jump.
I tried to narrow my focus to those positions that seem most likely for the Cowboys to go after in free agency. I looked at guards and centers on offense, and tackles/nose tackles, defensive ends, outside linebackers, and safeties on defense.
To keep from having an overwhelming amount of data to deal with, I arbitrarily decided to limit my look to the top eight players at each position. I've used the Walter Football Free Agent Rankings to pick the top eight. This is not meant to endorse their rankings, just to get a point of reference. I figure that this would be accurate enough to give a feel for what the likely cost of some players would be.
The data does have a few confusing things. The DE/OLB designation was a little hard to figure, with some players in the DE list being DE/OLB, while others with that designation showed up on the OLB list. Also, there are a few of the free agents that I could not find any payroll data for, and I am not sure just what that means. But the following are the lists I came up with. I have also included ages, because some of the older players might be a bit cheaper to get on a one or two year deal for short term fixes while the team develops younger talent, or in those areas that the team will have to address next time around.
Here is what I came up with. The highlight colors are some players and things I want to discuss a little.
Guards
| Name | Team | Age | 2011 Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carl Nicks | NO | 27 | $2,610,000 |
| Ben Grubbs | BAL | 28 | $2,995,000 |
| Evan Mathis | PHI | 30 | $685,000 |
| Mike Brisiel | HOU | 29 | No data |
| Kraig Urbik (RFA) (G/C) | BUF | 26 | $480,000 |
| Jake Scott | TEN | 31 | $4,700,000 |
| Vernon Carey | MIA | 31 | $2,500,000 |
| Chad Rinehart (RFA) | BUF | 27 | $555,000 |
Centers
| Name | Team | Age | 2011 Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scott Wells | GB | 31 | $2,750,000 |
| Nick Hardwick | SD | 30 | $3,675,000 |
| Chris Myers | HOU | 30 | $2,750,000 |
| Dan Koppen | NE | 32 | $2,900,000 |
| Samson Satele | OAK | 27 | No data |
| Matt Birk | BAL | 36 | $3,000,000 |
| Jeff Saturday | IND | 37 | $2,400,000 |
| Todd McClure | ATL | 35 | $1,700,000 |
Defensive Tackles/Nose Tackles
| Name | Team | Age | 2011 Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calais Campbell (DE/DT) | ARI | 26 | $555,000 |
| Paul Soliai (NT) | MIA | 28 | $12,381,000 |
| Red Bryant (DE/DT) | SEA | 28 | $555,000 |
| Kendall Langford (DE/DT) | MIA | 26 | $1,400,000 |
| Cory Redding (DE/DT) | BAL | 31 | $2,500,000 |
| Sione Pouha (NT) | NYJ | 33 | $1,280,000 |
| Jason Jones (DT) | TEN | 26 | $555,000 |
| Sammie Hill (RFA) (NT) | DET | 25 | $2,273,225 |
Defensive Ends
| Name | Team | Age | 2011 Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mario Williams | HOU | 27 | $13,800,000 |
| Cliff Avril | DET | 26 | $2,610,000 |
| Jeremy Mincey | JAC | 28 | No data |
| Andre Carter | NE | 33 | $1,750,000 |
| Michael Bennett (RFA) | TB | 26 | $480,000 |
| Anthony Spencer (DE/OLB) | DAL | 28 | $1,001,000 |
| John Abraham | ATL | 34 | $8,000,000 |
| Robert Mathis (DE/OLB) | IND | 31 | $2,410,000 |
Outside Linebackers
| Name | Team | Age | 2011 Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jarrett Johnson (DE/OLB) | BAL | 31 | $3,500,000 |
| Ahmad Brooks (DE/OLB) | SF | 28 | $1,200,000 |
| Erin Henderson | MIN | 26 | $1,200,000 |
| Leroy Hill | SEA | 29 | $685,000 |
| Manny Lawson | CIN | 28 | $3,000,000 |
| Rocky McIntosh | WAS | 29 | $685,000 |
| Phillip Wheeler | IND | 27 | $555,000 |
| Wesley Woodyard | DEN | 26 | No data |
Safeties
| Name | Team | Age | 2011 Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tyvon Branch (SS) | OAK | 25 | $555,000 |
| Michael Griffin (S) | TEN | 27 | $3,310,000 |
| LaRon Landry (SS) | WAS | 27 | $4,500,000 |
| Dashon Goldson (FS) | SF | 27 | $1,200,000 |
| Dwight Lowery (FS) | JAC | 26 | $555,000 |
| Mike Adams (FS) | CLE | 31 | $1,100,000 |
| Jim Leonhard (SS) | NYJ | 29 | $2,075,000 |
| Reggie Nelson (FS) | CIN | 28 | $957,500 |
A few things I think can be concluded. Some of the top ranked free agents are likely to see big pay raises, such as Carl Nicks, another favorite target around here, and Calais Campbell and Tyvon Branch, who are finishing up initial contracts.
But you look at the lists, and there are some pretty good players who might not be nearly that costly. Under the guards, I noticed that Buffalo has two highly regarded young guys, both Restricted Free Agents, and both that are coming off of pretty low paying contracts. This is a possible target, trying to peel one of them off. Buffalo has its own budget to deal with, and they may not be able to retain both of those players even if they want to.
Under centers, I noticed that all but one of the top ranked free agents is going to be over 30 next season. Some of them waaaay over. If the Cowboys want to go after a center, they would pretty much have to be willing to go with a short term, fairly high risk older player. But it might be a decent gamble, giving them one graybeard to provide some seasoning for an otherwise young line (assuming that the current older guards on the Dallas roster are not retained). And this bunch is one group where you might not have to talk much pay raise due to that age factor.
On the defensive line, Miami has a similar problem as Buffalo's, with two very good young players they need, but that may stretch their budget uncomfortably even if they are not totally out of line on price.
Our own Anthony Spencer shows up on the DE list, which is a bit of a puzzle as far as why he is there and not with the OLBs, but the main thing is that he is one of the top prospects according to someone looking at this from a little distance. And he is also cheap at his current price. If his salary is not bid up, he may be a better option to keep than some want to admit here (although I have seen several start to reconsider that lately).
Outside linebackers and safety both have one thing in common: These guys for the most part are low priced now, and might be available for very reasonable contracts. The safety group in particular is not very deep, but there is a chance that the team could get an upgrade or two without having to use up a great deal of cap space. I am watching Browns safety Mike Adams closely. Although he is old, he was considered to have had a good year in 2011 - and he has that tie to Rob Ryan. I would not be surprised to see him get some consideration, maybe to replace Abram Elam, ironically.
I hope this gives you a quick way to make your thoughts about the free agency situation more informed. If you like a player who is a little deeper, it still can give you an idea of the relative worth, and therefore the possible cost, of those men. If you refer to this even once in figuring out how you want the team to approach FA, then I've done my job.
And if nothing else, I have mastered highlighting my tables. OCC will be so proud.
5 recs | 191 comments
How do I know it is going to be a long off-season?
I am up at 3 am reading free agent blog posts. Of course though this will be much better than the suckitude of last season’s lockout. At least we’ll have mini camps and training and stuff to listen to as well.
ProBowlFactory - February 2, 2012
Glad to give you some fodder to pass the wakeful hours.
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
Based on the projected $20 mil the Cowboys have to spend...I think this provides some clear cut limits to what can be done in FA.
I’d be very surprised to see the Cowboys go after a big ticket FA like Carl Nicks. The cost and risk of paying $10+mil/yr, not to mention substantial guaranteed money, is counter to the current Cowboy braintrust. I think they continue to look for short term stop gaps in FA, and continue drafting to improve.
CaliFanInTx - February 2, 2012
The short term stop gap motion is seconded
In what my mind was a clearly over achieving team in the first stages of rebuilding, I don’t see the need for a huge contract guy like a Nicks or a M. Williams. I’m more interested in a Mike Adams or Gholston if he’s not lookin for huge payday, talk about a beast.
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via mobile
Gholston is horrible in coverage. They have to hide him in that defense.
Not what we need.
just4fun - February 2, 2012
No argument on that but Alan Ball isn’t what we need either he’s what we had and between him and Elam they did pretty good job for the rest of the leagues passing numbers so I’m open to other suggestions.
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via mobile
Vernon Gholston is horrible in everything
somebodyquiet - February 2, 2012
im pretty sure their talking about dashon goldson...
demarcus94 - February 2, 2012
Yeah, should have been Goldson
just4fun - February 2, 2012
10mil a year
I doubt he Nicks is going to be that much… even the contract we gave to Lenord Davis wasn’t ten a year… I think in the 6mil a year for a pro bowl Guard would be well worth it to our line…
krummdiddy - February 4, 2012
I do like the buffalo option, but we have to see what the draft pick cost will be
They are restricted so, it will at least cost a 3rd rounder to get one of them if not more (both were 3rd round picks which would be the lowest tender offer compensation). If they tender them more, it won’t be cost effective value wise.
just4fun - February 2, 2012
As far as Nicks/Grubbs goes
Due to the age of the free agents available, it’s either one of them, Satele from Oakland or the draft.
just4fun - February 2, 2012
Great investment for key position
Kosta ain’t gonna cut it. Kontz will be gone by the time we get to the second round. So I love the idea of Satele he’s about the only one one on that line that’s not getting flagged twice per drive
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via mobile
Kraig Urbik rated pretty well this past year
and he’d be a dirt cheap upgrade to either guard, which would help us address other areas as well.
NerdVernacular - February 2, 2012
we can't go wrong with signing o line
It’s not like it’ll be tough to upgrade with the game of musical chairs we had goin on last year. Finding a tackle to move Free to guard is an option I’m not sold on him at LT he gets burned a lot Smith should be moved over there this year.
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
I'm hopeful Free can handle RT this year
..but either way, I hope our entire interior O-Line looks much different. And Romo needs to carry a taser in practice for those times his center snaps the ball when he’s calling an audible.
NerdVernacular - February 2, 2012
should be able to find a C in the mid rounds
There will be players at that position available Kontz out of WU is considered the best C in the draft he could be there in the second round another is Brewster out of Ohio st both instant improvements as rookies over What Kosta brings to the table
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
Welcome to the blog.
Couple of points.
The musical chairs we had last year at LG was due to injuries. Nagy went on IR after breaking his ankle, Dockery injured his knee and broke his leg, etc. Yes that may happen again, but injuries happen.
And his name is Costa, not Kosta.
Also keep in mind that a rookie OL almost always is bad his first 2 years and shows great improvement the 3rd year. There is no guarantee that any rookie C will be better than Costa was the last 1/2 of the season when he was actually a hair above average.
Rena - February 2, 2012
shhh..people don't want to hear that Costa actually got better as the season went on....
tho I do think the Kowalski actually did a better job at center IMO…..just want a fair and open competition between whomever and let the best player win…I’ll support whomever as long as there are no politics such as draft position or salary involved….
TruBluToTheCore - February 2, 2012
I would be thrilled to see a competition at C, and even for a vet C to be brought in.
Rena - February 2, 2012
I know the Cowboys interviewed Ben Jones at the senior bowl....
he’s the second rated C in the draft and If he fell to us in the second if they were unsure of the talent on hand he wouldn’t be a bad pickup….
TruBluToTheCore - February 2, 2012
Free at Guard
I’m not sold on him as a guard either… I doubt he has the run blocking power to play on the inside… Play him at RT and let the future of our Line get used to being the LT
krummdiddy - February 4, 2012
That's the plan, isn't it?
Swap the tackles? Sheesh, I hope so. Free was such a letdown this year, and it’s pretty obvious at this point that Smith is becoming one of those very rare tackles. Trying to keep the hype to reasonable levels, but man.. he’s gonna be special.
spm01 - February 4, 2012
He probably won't be cheap as Buffalo has the right to match
just4fun - February 2, 2012
A couple players that should be added:
Frostee Rucker – DE – 28 – 6’3" 285 lbs
Jonathan Fanene – DE – 30 – 6’4" 292 lbs
Both are Bengals and have been productive. Could be 3-4 ends & rush from inside in Nickel.
Joe Goodberry - February 2, 2012 via Android app
What about Antwan Odom
What is his contract status? I thought he was supposed to be a free agent this year or next or something. I remember he was leading the league in sacks like halfway through the season 2 years ago I think. He is a 290 DE and could be beneficial from the Bengals.
ProBowlFactory - February 2, 2012
This is not a full list of FA's available. Only the top 8 at each position per the Walter Football rankings.
Rena - February 2, 2012
I love people who actually read.
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
/bow
Rena - February 2, 2012
I really like Frostee.
Have since he was in college. He’s not a beast, but he’s a solid player.
spm01 - February 4, 2012
I wouldn't assume the players will sign for the salarys they made this year.
Many of these players signed deals 3-5 years ago. I wouldn’t count on getting them that cheap
just4fun - February 2, 2012
The last year salaries were partly to provide an idea of where the FAs stand.
And the lower down the list, the less they might cost, it would logically be concluded. That is not hard and fast, because there might be some difference in how the interested teams might rank the players, but it does give some rough idea of how things might fall.
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
Why were CBs left off. Lots of them available.
just4fun - February 2, 2012
was wondering the same thing
especially as that is arguably our biggest need
ScottB1985 - February 2, 2012
What amazed me
is that the article listed our needs on D as every position except CB! Not being critical of the article, but what a statement about our D.
Silverblue - February 2, 2012
I am assuming CB is going to be mostly addressed in the draft.
Just made a guess on that, but perhaps I was wrong.
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
Well, if you consider that the FA at CB are younger and cheaper than at other
need areas, such as Interior OL and OLB or Guard looks to be more likely a pick in the first round as any CB likely to fall to us would be a reach, and if you take a Guard you still need a pass rusher early, and if you take a pass rusher in the first you need to take a G/C early. It would make filling out needs easier if we signed a couple of cheap upgrades at corner and addressed OLB and G/C in the draft
just4fun - February 2, 2012
I`ll say
Cornerback Brent Grimes ufa Atlanta
Cornerback Cortland Finnegan ufa Tennessee
Cornerback Carlos Rogers ufa San Francisco
Cornerback Brandon Carr ufa Kansas City
Cornerback Lardarius Webb rfa Baltimore
Cornerback Tracy Porter ufa New Orleans
Cornerback Rashean Mathis ufa Jacksonville
Cornerback Terrell Thomas ufa New York Giants
Cornerback Ronde Barber ufa Tampa Bay
Cornerback Eric Wright ufa Detroit
Cornerback Aaron Ross ufa New York Giants
Cornerback Richard Marshall ufa Arizona
Cornerback Jason Allen ufa Houston
Cornerback Dwight Lowery ufa Jacksonville
Cornerback Will Allen ufa Miami
Cornerback Adam Jones ufa Cincinnati
Cornerback William Gay ufa Pittsburgh
Cornerback Kelly Jennings ufa Cincinnati
Cornerback Greg Toler rfa Arizona
Cornerback Cary Williams rfa Baltimore
Cornerback Lito Sheppard ufa Oakland
Cornerback Corey Graham ufa Cincinnati
Cornerback Tim Jennings ufa Cincinnati
Cornerback Zack Bowman ufa Chicago
Cornerback Kelvin Hayden ufa Atlanta
Cornerback Elbert Mack ufa Tampa Bay
Cornerback Byron Westbrook rfa Washington
Cornerback Nathan Jones ufa New England
Cornerback Benny Sapp ufa Minnesota
Cornerback Phillip Buchanon ufa Washington
Cornerback Donald Strickland ufa New York Jets
Cornerback Justin Tryon ufa New York Giants
Cornerback Justin King ufa St. Louis
Cornerback Jarrett Bush ufa Green Bay
Cornerback Dimitri Patterson ufa Cleveland
Cornerback Keenan Lewis rfa Pittsburgh
Cornerback Alan Ball ufa Dallas
Cornerback Travis Daniels ufa Kansas City
Cornerback David Jones ufa Jacksonville
Cornerback Reggie Corner ufa Buffalo
Cornerback Patrick Lee ufa Green Bay
Cornerback Rod Hood ufa St. Louis
Cornerback Frank Walker ufa Dallas
Cornerback Leigh Torrence ufa New Orleans
Cornerback Brandon McDonald ufa Detroit
Cornerback William Middleton rfa Jacksonville
Cornerback Marquice Cole rfa Jacksonville
Cornerback Jonathan Wilhite ufa Denver
Cornerback Antwaun Molden ufa New England
Cornerback Kennard Cox rfa Seattle
Cornerback Roy Lewis rfa Seattle
Cornerback Michael Coe ufa New York Giants
Cornerback Bruce Johnson rfa New York Giants
Cornerback Will Blackmon ufa New York Giants
Cornerback Cletis Gordon ufa Carolina
ziggy19 - February 2, 2012
it’d be nice to weaken the Giants by raiding their secondary and get Ross & Thomas.
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
Any free agent CB's? Maybe?
During every game I watched in 2011 of my beloved Cowboys I witnessed an offense that ran efficiently when our offensive line was not being blown off the ball. Putting enough points on the board to win even with a below average O’line was something we did. Only to be forced to watch in agony a secondary that couldnt cover anybody sometimes didn’t look like they wanted to. So if we do spend big money lets see who’s there
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via mobile
This should give you a idea of some good stop gaps...
http://www.cowboysnation.com/2012/01/best-buy-corners-kc-joyner-scans-free.html
CaliFanInTx - February 2, 2012
There's free agent value at CB?
If Finnigan is gonna fetch 8-9m then i say take a serious look at a Brandon Carr, Mathis in Jacksonville both are instant upgrades and may have a mid range asking price.
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via mobile
There's value with every position...just have to be able to find the value...
CaliFanInTx - February 2, 2012
No way do I want Finnegan
That guy is a thug. Defenently not a RKG. Let’s go for Grimes, Carr, or Webb and draft Minnifield.
soonercowboy14 - February 4, 2012
thug?
I’m not sure that is the term I’d use for Finnegan… He is just an A-hole… Pac Man was a Thug…
krummdiddy - February 4, 2012
I'd vote for Langford (DE), and Marshall & thomas (CBs) in free agency
Langford may be looking to move on from Miami due to the coaching change, and thomas is coming off an injury and thus may come cheap. Marshall started due to injury and supposedly did pretty good as a free safety.
just4fun - February 2, 2012
Miami supposedly moving to a 4-3 which will leave some of their players out in the cold....
with Sparano going to the Jets watch them scoop up a lot of the castoffs and get first dibs on signings due to player loyalty/familiarity……I myself like Langford and seeing that Miami franchised Soliai last year makes it hard to think he will be able to be snagged for a decent contract this year….If anything Langford would be an upgrade over Geathers and Coleman in the rotation and might not be too expensive….
TruBluToTheCore - February 2, 2012
Langford had 12 starts and Zero sacks last year.
We’ve already got Langford, he’s called Kenyon Coleman here.
Luke. - February 2, 2012
except that Langford is only 26, and has more potential to grow than Coleman....
still think its an upgrade…..
TruBluToTheCore - February 2, 2012
It's going to take a combination of several things.
Signing about 4 FA’s.
Drafting another 3 starters
Getting another 3 starters from last year’s backups.
The only argument I’ve heard for signing big contract FA’s that makes sense is backloading them to a time when the salary cap increases. Of course, the player probably wants to make his money now, so it only makes sense if you think the player wants to contribute to the Cowboy’s success, and not his own.
The number of hits this team has had paying big money for FA’s is fairly limited. TO performed on the field, but he was more of a headache than he was worth. I don’t see them signing any player for more than 5 million per. Even then, their recent pattern suggests they probably won’t do that. They might sign one guy at that level, but they do have some players coming up next year that they probably want to resign.
It’ll be interesting to watch, but I wouldn’t get my hopes up for any top end FA’s. Top cornerbacks and pass rushers just cost too much on the open market. You have to draft those. They’ll sign 3 or 4 midling players to do the grunt work, and hope they get their star performances from the draft. JMO.
White Wolf - February 2, 2012
No more young bad character players please?
I know how bad we could use a young corner I really do. But when Goodell gets up there and says " with the 14th pick in the 2012 NFL draft, the Dallas Cowboys select…………….. I don’t want to hear Janoris Jenkins or Fitzpatrick no matter what the talent no more head cases. If Jerry wants another headcase there’s one comin out of Arizona St that’ll end up being the steal of the draft named Burfict if he can conform
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via mobile
yea!!
we should pick choir boys so we can keep on being garbage!!!
krummdiddy - February 4, 2012
Eee. En. Oh. You. Gee. Aitch.
The day the
musicCowboys died, September 9, 1995Frikkin’ FA fairy. Fairies even.
tanstaafl - February 2, 2012
Everytime I see Deion the fiary
I want to throw something at the tv.
White Wolf - February 2, 2012
I agree with your logic, but can't make the numbers fit.
10 new starters? I count one safety, one corner, one inside linebacker, one outside linebacker, one defensive lineman, and three offensive linemen at most.
Is Murray included because he wasn’t the starter week 1? And is second TE or third receiver included? They aren’t really starters, in my opinion.
CotySaxman - February 2, 2012 via mobile
He didn't say 10 starters...
I think he’s about right though. If you looked at it like this.
4 Free Agents –
WR3 – Robinson
LG – Grubbs/Nicks
DE – Avril/Jones
CB – Grimes/Carr/Porter/Thomas
Last years Back-ups now starters – possibly:
SOLB – Butler
ILB – Carter
G/C – Nagy/Arkin/Kowalski
Draft Starters –
Front 7
G/C
CB
We’d still be woefully unproven/untested at SOLB, ILB, & Center.
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
I forgot the FS.
We could use one of those in a BIG way also.
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
Forget Grubbs
He graded out about as well as Holland last year. He was high on my list to target in FA too until he got abused repeatedly in the AFC Championship game.
dacolan - February 2, 2012
grubbs
he is about as good as holland when holland is healthy… but how often is that?? and how many people have been abused by vince wilfork??
krummdiddy - February 4, 2012
That FA list is not possible.
That would cost a fortune.
Luke. - February 2, 2012
You guys are missing the point.
Plug in any names u want for FA acquisitions. But we need like 10 guys: 4FA, 3 drafts, and 3 already on the squad.
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
How would Butler start
if the Boys pick up Cliff Avril. At 6’3", 260, Avril would play opposite Ware at SOLB (Butler would still be the backup).
Also, I it’s difficult to consider the 3rd CB a starter when you’ve got 2 OLBs starting, 2 ILBs starting, 3 DL starting and 2 safeties (that’s 12 people). The addition of Grimes/Carr/Porter/Thomas means that either one of the LB isn’t playing or that Scandrick isn’t playing (and would therefore be a backup or slot CB).
I like Avril and Thomas for FA acquisition – maybe Grubbs but that’s it. Dallas really needs to rely on guys they draft (or have drafted) to produce.
Tyrone Jenkins - February 3, 2012
essentially your 3rd CB and 3rd WR are now starters in the NFL. These two positions need to be starting caliber/above average players.
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
Starlover is right, I didn't actually say 10 starters.
But I agree with your new starter distribution.
Add Punter
Dime Corner (Considering Scandrick as the nickel)
Not sure we’ll need a splash at TE to replace Bennett, as I see Fiametta’s role increasing.
Although these are not technically starters, they are starters when those packages are in.
Also of course, one FA is a backup QB.
White Wolf - February 2, 2012
Thanks for clearing it up.
As I said, I don’t disagree with the logic. The wording “another 3 starters” led me to believe the 4 FA were starters as well.
If you were to instead argue “waaah! We’ll never be good! We need like eleventy new starters on both sides of the ball! Oh and we have a fat defensive coach! And jerry isn’t dead! And the Eagles will win the Superbowl!” Well, then I wouldn’t agree so much. I’m on high alert for masochistic fans.
CotySaxman - February 3, 2012 via mobile
LOL.
Thanks. Always love a good laugh in the morning. Now, when I look at our DC I DO see a fat guy. But instead of wanting to put him on a diet, I want to plug him into the middle of that defensive line to make some stops. Where’s the equipment manager? Get Lebowski a helmet.
White Wolf - February 3, 2012
First off can we get rid of the guy in the ski mask and underwear promo ?
Tired of seeing that every time I come to this site.
No to Salete. He is a mediocre center.. The other centers are too old. I don’t want any 30 year old free agents.
Nicks would give us a 5 year mauler at guard. This would allow for a total defensive draft. He is the pile driver the o line is missing in the middle.
I would then go Terrell Thomas. Cb from the Gmen or Dwight Lowry. He gives us a ture interchangeable player in the secondary. The kind if player that helps you win.
Sammie Hill , Soliai, and Bryant are the top 3 nt/dt types that would fit in Dallas.
Griffin is interesting. Only problem is he is an orangeblood and those don’t seem to work out so well in Dallas. Thank you Roy Williams.
Nicks is the only guy I would bust the bank on. We don’t need to use up all the salary cap this year. leave some room. See what happens in 2012 and maybe Dallas is only a couple of players away if we have a home run draft. Then you augment this positions next off season.
Ok that’s my obligatory positive post for the off season.
football mensa - February 2, 2012
(edit) those positions not this positions
football mensa - February 2, 2012
All would help considering
I live in the Pacific Northwest and am most of the time forced to watch alot of Seagull football on Sundays so I know how effective Bryant would be he’s got a big motor. Nicks would be the one to spend the big money on of that’s what we choose to do. But I also watched a lot of Stanford football and hardly noticed Luck. I was too busy watching this bully at guard named DeCastro pushing everybody around if Nicks isn’t our target this kid should be
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via mobile
Agree DeCastro is a straight up stud.
I think we will know how the draft is gonna go by how many db’s we sign in free agency.
football mensa - February 2, 2012
good point
I just dont trust the character of either of the top two cornerback prospects that we’ve been rumored to be looking at. It’s not about ability with either of these guys they can both ball. It’s all the other baggage. We don’t need young cocky playmakers as much as we need franchise players that wanna be great with high character. Case in point- D.Ware, S.Lee and J.Witten these type guys
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
make a play on the ball!!
I just want a corner that will play the ball in the air and not be to scared that they will get beat all the time… I would take kirkpatric, I have only heard one thing about him in his career… once is a mistake not a character issue…
krummdiddy - February 4, 2012
I think decastro is gonna have a good career
But he is far from being an instant pro bowler. He gets beaten on speed rushers quite often from what I’ve seen. He has good foot work athletic enough to be a very good pulling guard but I don’t think he has the the initial first step to handle the speed rush. It would be an improvement on our line but I don’t think people should blow there wad first year. We need a center before guard nothing in fa impresses me not saying I would enjoy the pick just saying what I see.
Sado44 - February 2, 2012 via mobile
Jerry Bad. Ruins Cowboys.
Need the name be said?
Ok that’s my obligatory
positivemensa-balancing post for the off season.Hoooooooooommmmmmm…
tanstaafl - February 2, 2012
I think I like this.
Hard to say though. You’re tricky.
BigDumbFace - February 2, 2012
He did have 1 good point. The guy with the ski mask and undies needs to go.
Rena - February 2, 2012
+Hannibal Lector a million times.....
he’s scaring me……
TruBluToTheCore - February 2, 2012
+1
Nicks could solidify the G position for the next 5+ yrs, good service and would probably have trade value towards the end of his contract with us.
Terrell Thomas (assuming he’s given a clean bill of health) should be relatively cheap and could compete and provide depth, cause unless they draft 2 db with the first 2 picks I do not think they will get 2 starter ready cb in the draft.
I just don’t want and I do not think that Dallas will be looking at FA to to try and build a fantasy team, so I think they will be wise with their money. And I do believe they have some confidence in their front 7, so I definitely do not see them getting Mario (which I do not think would be wise) or Campbell or anyone else on the line. If they sign anyone else other than Nicks and Thomas, I believe they would just be stop gap low cost solutions.
These moves will give us some flexibility in the draft as well and keep us from reaching.
+1000
DCB* - February 2, 2012
I dont know
I bet we could get calias Campbell he would be worth the money as for nicks I don’t know if they spend that much on the o line I think they like what they have just know it was to soon to start some of them. As for Campbell bet he can be had for an easy 5m a year I know Arizona will make offers but teams like that don’t keep top teir players like him without paying boat loads for.
Sado44 - February 2, 2012 via mobile
IDK about 5 mil,
and with talks of Arizona putting the franchise tag on him if they can’t come to a deal. FYI franchise tag would give him roughly 12+/- million. I’d love to have him here though.
DCB* - February 2, 2012
+1
Please remove the underwear promo.
CowboysFanForLife - February 2, 2012
hahahaha
Archie Barberio - February 2, 2012
It's pretty disturbing
dunkman - February 2, 2012
Believe me, I wish I could edit the ads.
But they pay the freight to keep BTB up and running, so . . .
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
Bahahahaha
I was actually thinking the same thing, especially being so early in the morning, disturbing…
ProBowlFactory - February 2, 2012
Try being a woman and seeing that...../makes sure her gun is loaded and handy.
Rena - February 2, 2012
Yeah, it freaks me out each time I load the page
Nardfather - February 2, 2012
Giving you an "AMEN!" on the ski mask and underwear promo!!!!!!!!!!!
That’s got to go.
Your bribing this
Elkmgr - February 2, 2012
I think we should sign a Veteran C
That way we can tutor Kowalski, Costa and Nagy along to be ready in 2-3 yrs.
ziggy19 - February 2, 2012
good article.....
It feels like you are the oppo of rafael at cowboysnation. Even your mario williams argument doesn’t seem to be well thought out. You should take a look at how the ratings, and probabilities of free agents are looking like over there.
1. I doubt mario is going to get the same contract probably more of 9-12 mil.
2. Chris myers is 30 but centers are the one position other than qb that tend to play deep into their 30s.
Otherwise good write up.
TONYINCC - February 2, 2012 via mobile
raf isn't the end all and be all of cowboy knowledge...
he’s good but I happen to agree with this assessment that Mario and Nicks are just going to cost too much money….this team is more than 1-2 players away from being competitive consistently…signing Mario Williams would be akin to getting Charles Haley…he was the missing piece….Mario would help but he’s not the answer to all our ills….
TruBluToTheCore - February 2, 2012
Rophuri we know that's you in the underwear and ski mask.
football mensa - February 2, 2012
In all seriousness
can we get rid off that that freaky Delocated promo?
Antonio S - February 2, 2012
You remembered the name, Antonio
that’s a good sign for advertiser and abad sign for those of us who don’t enjoy the guy in tighty-whiteys…
dunkman - February 2, 2012
I think we should keep Spencer and spend our money in other areas.
Spence really didn’t play that bad. He was 4th on the team in tackles, 2nd in tackles for loss, had 6 sacks and led the team in forced fumbles. Plus he came at a pretty good price. That really doesn’t sound to bad to me. If we replaced him and his replacement had those numbers, most people would think that they had a pretty good season. At the end of the 2010 season, he played really well and we were all excited to see the carryover this season. The expectations were pretty high and maybe they were set to high. I still think he is a very good football player that may just need a better tackle next to him and a little better coaching. Let’s spend our money behind him.
Mikellie - February 2, 2012
spencer may be worth keeping
If he doesn’t demand to much I agree to bring him back he’s above average as run defender but with all the double and sometimes triple teams D.Ware and Ratliff face he has to do more. Resign him and draft a future upgrade at that position it can be improved.
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
If he can be resigned reasonably I would rather keep him and use that 1st rounder on Decastro, etc.
They IMO would be a much bigger upgrade.
Rena - February 2, 2012
Wonder how these FA
rank in the PFF rankings. Some of them I have seen play and others are ones I have not.
Time to go do some checking.
oldboysfan - February 2, 2012
Nice coloring Tom lol
oldboysfan - February 2, 2012
I am soo proud of him!
One.Cool.Customer - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
Couldn't have done it without you.
Anyone who wants to know how to do this stuff should check out OCC’s superb BTB 101 post. He walks you through how to make your fanspost look like you are a genius. (Well, appearance wise, anyway.)
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
Mario Williams will not make 13 mill or better next season
He was playing under thst rookie contract.. which pays out big regardless if talent bur more of selection..
I think what will happen to him is the same thing that happen to Namadu. He was hype up for a huge record setting pay day but recieve a something of a the norm for a starter..
Now way he makes 13 mill.. more like 6-8 mill .. that is what his production screams out to me.. Still though you have crazy GMs out there too
lostar2009 - February 2, 2012 via mobile
I've never understood the Mario Williams love here
maybe if we didn’t have a cap, I’d be fine with him, but no matter what, he’s gonna eat a big chunk of our cap, and there are, of course, questions about him playing in the 3-4 and if he’ll do that again. Seems to make more sense to shore up the G, CB, and S spots.
ScottB1985 - February 2, 2012
he can get you 6-10 sacks a year..
But hes no jpp or deware..
I would give him 6 mill though.. but he did flash as a 3-4 olb.. but it was a small sample amount. I really cant recall the quality of his opponents eithet
lostar2009 - February 2, 2012 via mobile
Tap 'em.
I’m not saying he’s bad, but let’s keep JPP and Ware out of the same sentence. He’s had one good year.
BigDumbFace - February 2, 2012
Super Mario avg'd 11 sacks a year in the four years prior to 2011
He had 5 through 4 1/2 games before his injury last season.
dacolan - February 2, 2012
What if the Gmen cut Canty and signed Mario ?
Yikes !
football mensa - February 2, 2012
He answered the question how he fits in the 3-4
when he led the AFC with 5 sacks through 4 1/2 games prior to his injury in his first year as a 3-4 OLB.
dacolan - February 2, 2012
He will make at least that and it has nothing to do w/ his rookie contract
Julius Peppers had similar accolades and production when he became a free agent, and he signed a six-year contract worth $91.5 million, with $42 million guaranteed in the first three years. That was the market price two years ago for a 30-year-old elite pass rusher. You can bet that will be the starting point of negotiations for this 27-year-old stud pass rusher in his prime.
dacolan - February 2, 2012
Good options
Jerry hasn’t made a big splash in FA in years … but …
Signing a hold-the-fort C is not a bad idea, someone to help the young Gs and pick up the stunts that Costa never seemed to see.
All the Miami sites say Soliai is outta there—I’d like him at NT and Ratliff at end along with Hatcher for a big upgrade at DL. He was tagged last year—not sure what the going rate is?
I’m one of those people who is coming around to keeping Spencer, at least for a year with a tag, he is solid and it’s one less hole to fill immediately.
Draft 3 CBs to fill the Newman/Ball/Walker spots. Either Adams or Elam at FS as they know the D, but draft a true FS too (Iloke?).
DB23 - February 2, 2012
If we can sign Nicks and draft DeCastro, I'll probably need to change my underwear.
Talk about instant upgrades…WOW! Do it Jerry, Do it.
Mikellie - February 2, 2012
our line would be set for 10 years probably lol
Tron at LT, DeCastro and Nicks at guard, a healthy Free at RT, and surely one of our many picks last year (Arkin, Kowalski, Nagy) could fill in the center spot.
ScottB1985 - February 2, 2012
personally
I would rather Sign Cortland and Draft Kirkpatrick(for a move to Safety)….that is two spots in the weakest unit instantly fixed…..
but that is just MHO….
I am Ironman!!! - February 2, 2012
That takes care of one problem
But it doesn’t take care of the other one. Finnegin and Fitzpatrick in the secondary would be big. But when Romo’s on his back or running for his lift and throwing up picks cause we didn’t give the line he needs, you might be singin a different tune.
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via mobile
if the D plays better
we don`t need to abandon the run and nothing cools off the pass rush as an effective run game.
ziggy19 - February 2, 2012
Addressing the weakness of the interior OL doesn't just protect your franchise QB
It enables the team to convert 3rd/4th and short and on the goal line, and it allows you to run effectively in the red zone and milk the clock in the 4th quarter when you have a late lead.
dacolan - February 2, 2012
A couple of points to consider.
Rafael Vela does a nice job mentioning how Campbell and others may not be available on the open market (http://www.cowboysnation.com/2012/02/curb-your-enthusiam-cowboys-free-agent.html). He does, however, think that Mario Williams will hit free agency. I tend to agree.
Wade will remain in Houston, decreasing Mario’s relative value to the team, as without him, the Texans were still one of the top rated defenses. That does not mean that Mario Williams will come cheap, though, and in the comments section of the article, Bluefin does a great job of breaking down an estimated salary:
“Julius Peppers signed a 6 year, $84 million dollar contract with $42 million guaranteed in 2010.
That’s the bar.
Mario Williams and his agent will likely be looking for 6 years, $100 million and $50 million guaranteed ($21 million signing bonus and guaranteed base salaries the first three seasons).
2012: $8M base salary (cap #: $11.5M)
2013: $9M base salary (cap #: $12.5M)
2014: $12M base salary (cap #: $15.5M)
2015: $14M base salary (cap#: $17.5M)
2016: $16M base salary (cap#: $19.5M)
2017: $20M base salary (cap#: $23.5M)
This is just a basic idea of what the deal would look like."
So Mario’s inital cap number will probably be between $11 and $12 million. While I srongly discourage acquiring high-priced free agents (more on that in a later post probably), Mario Williams is an exception.
First, what he is not:
He is not a locker room cancer
He is not a thug from any reports
He is not a head case (although that did nwork for Charles Haley…remember that name, I will bring it up again).
What he is, is a young player (26 years old I believe) capable of playing 3-4 DE, 4-3 DE, and 3-4 OLB. That is the kind of versatility that Rob Ryan has been coveting at every stop he has made as a defensive coordinator. “Multiplicity” was the word Dallas defenders bandied about last offseason. Williams fits that decription perfectly.
Williams also plays the most valuable position on defense: the playmaking defensive lineman. This is not like overspending to get a cornerback or safety, which play off of the line of scrimmage. Mario Williams is a proven beast that will be at the point of attack on nearly every play.
Mario will likely go to the highest bidder, since this will be his big contract. If there are several teams that are competitive, the team that is closest to being a contender will probably have an advantage. The fact that despite 16 years of futility, the Cowboys are still a national draw will not hurt Dallas in luring him in.
In addition, remember that Jerry said they were going to spend their available cap money this off season. Dallas has approximately $20 million under the cap to resign Laurent Robinson (probably no more than a $5 million cap hit for him), and get a serviceable veteran cornerback to upgrade the secondary (another $3 million).
That leaves $12 million for a big free agent splash. Now why Jerry will do it.
Jerry needs to generate excitement for the Cowboys after missing the playoffs two straight seasons. Cowboys stadium had the lowest attendance figures in 2011 of its short history. That downward trend in attendance needs to be reversed.
Remember what Jerry said about Charles Haley’s induction into the Ring of Honor, “We couldn’t spell Super Bowl until we got Haley.” Also recall that Jerry has made several comments indicating that he does not see that Cowboys as that far from being the Giants. Also think back to the frantic 2011 offseason, when ol’ trader Jerry almost mis-spent his money to acquire the shiny, old toy Nnamdi.
There has been some talk of the 4-3 alignment in the past month. I would not be surprised to see Dallas make a strong move to acquire Mario and play a hybrid 3-4/4-3 in 2012.
ScarletO - February 2, 2012
I agree with most of what you said Scarlet
except for Mario’s Contract….
I think he will get something between Ratliff’s 7 year 48 million deal and Ware’s 7 year 79 million dollar deal…
so something like this:
7 year 70 million with 30 million Guaranteed(20 million signing bonus plus 10 million in “roster bonuses”
2012: $5M base salary (cap #: $8M)
2013: $7M base salary (cap #: $10M)
2014: $10M base salary (cap #: $13M)
2015: $12M base salary (cap#: $15M)
2016: $14M base salary (cap#: $17M)
2017: $12M base salary (cap#: $15M)
2018: $10M base salary (cap#: 13M)
the Cap numbers are approximate(based on 20Mover 7 years,or 2.85M per year)
I just don’t see a team Giving Mario a bunch of Guaranteed Money due to his injury history unless it is tied to playing time…..
honestly 7/70 would be the highest I would go for him….I bet he gets less than that(probably in the 50-60 million range)
I am Ironman!!! - February 2, 2012
He's a good solid player but don't see him getting $100 mil
I love seeing the post with a dissection of what a contract would look like and why so thanks to Ironman and Scarlet for that. I was thinking that he would demand somewhere between $70-$80 mil with $20 mil guaranteed. But thats just my feeling on the subject.
Final Frame - February 2, 2012
Can someone please clarify for me how many years a signing bonus be spread over? I thought they put a max of 5 years in the new CBA or is it spread over the life of the contract(no matter how many years)?
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
His "injury history" is non-existent.
Other than the torn pectoral muscle he suffered last season (which is nothing like a knee or achilles injury, and essentially has a 100% recovery rate), he’d missed a total of five games over the previous 5 years. He has been quite durable.
dacolan - February 2, 2012
actually
he played with a sports hernia in 2010(went on IR after 13 games for it)
and as I understand it Mario played with an arm injury in 2009
so yes he does have a history of injuries….while he has played through them(RKG? check) he does have a history, and you could say is the reason for his declining production
I am Ironman!!! - February 4, 2012
I agree.
Though, I think Mario’s injury history will really hurt him this FA period. I mean, 100 mil for a guy that has been hurt more than he’s healthy? That’s a franchise killer. Jerry won’t take that risk.
Also, there is no chance that we pay LR 5 mil. He looked good last year only because of a comfort level he had with Romo (probably stemming from a combination of bad protection coupled with 2nd and 3rd tier coverage). Think Pat Crayton/Kevin Ogletree. Jerry doesn’t like to pay his 3rd receiver. I’m guessing he gets an offer for no more than 3 mil.
OL
Sign Nicks/Grubbs
Draft DeCastro(1st), Konz(2nd), or Brewster(3rd)
Let Arkin/Kosier/Nagy battle it out for LG(C if we get DeCastro)
DL
Campell!!! If he’s not franchised
Draft a world eater @ NT (Ta’amu?)
DB
Sign Brandon Carr
Draft Kirkpatrick(1), Gilmore/Jenkins(2)
mfoster - February 2, 2012
put down the pipe man!
Nicks/Grubs – 8mil/yr
Campbell – 10mil/yr
Carr – 8mil/yr
That’s 26mil for 3 guys – we don’t have the room under the cap for that.
And then how are you signing Kirkpatrick/Jenkins and Decastro/Konz – all likely 1st rounders. Gilmore, Ta’amu, & Brewster are all 2nd or at least 3rd rounders.
I think we’ll all be a little less heartbroken if we start harboring more reasonable expectations.
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
Everything I read is that they will actually be able to get to 30 million under the cap,
but after they sign rookies and such, they will have 20 million in the FA. So, yes, 26 million is still too much, but only by 6 million.
Grimlock83 - February 2, 2012
and how are you going to pay our new:
SOLB
WR3
TE2
QB2
FS
Monopoly money?
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
I never it was reasonable
Simply meant that with the 20 million figure, the draft has already been accounted for. From your previous comment, I seemed like you were figuring the draftees when accounting the $20mil.
Grimlock83 - February 2, 2012
I can see where u got that, but I was expressing the unrealistic expectation that you could draft a combination of what mfoster had as draft picks. Not their cap hit. No way we could get the combo of players he hypothesized in the draft.
We could still probably squeeze the 3 FA’s in with some interesting accounting, but we need more pieces than that.
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
Two things...
1. Anything not Family guy or American dad on Adult swim sucks and my eyes can’t take anymore of this background
2. Mario Williams all day
thablackwizard - February 2, 2012
yea whats up with that?
I guess everyone has a price but c`mon man.
ziggy19 - February 2, 2012
Meanwhile Kitna is retired
we might need a free agent QB to come. Donovan McNabb has recently said that he feels he can come in next yr and help 3 teams and I agree 100%
If he signs with Buffalo…
he helps 3 teams!
New England, Miami and the Jets.
if he signs with the Browns…
he helps 3 teams!
The Steelers, Bengals the Ravens.
if he signs with…
ziggy19 - February 2, 2012
anybody but Mcnabb c'mon?
I can’t and I won’t imagine McNabb in the the white and blue sacred star no way! No how! Even if nike’s gonna come I and change all of our historical jerseys up
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
I think everybody stopped reading once Imentioned McNabb
and missed my attempt of humor.
ziggy19 - February 2, 2012
Actually I was laughing once I read it. Rec
Rena - February 2, 2012
Good idea.
Rec from me.
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
Earth to BTB
we must sign L. Robinson before we go on the free agent scavenger hunt.
TCB Orange Dino - February 2, 2012
that's gotta be a givin doesn't it?
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
I don't think it's a given.
I’d love for the Boys to keep Robinson, but if it comes down to
Laurent vs Mario
Laurent vs Finnegan
Laurent vs Avril
Laurent vs Nicks
Sorry, Mr. Robinson…
Johnny Cage - February 2, 2012
Depending on the $$$, of course.
Johnny Cage - February 2, 2012
ya I'll pack his bags for him
I agree he’s no more valuable than any of those names to me. Those are more important needs as far as positions and I don’t see him fetching the same price as those guys just on what he did this year or what #9 did for him whichever way you wanna look at it
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
I believe our biggest moves will have to be resigning Anthony Spencer and signing Carl Nicks. Although the expectations of Spencer have never been met he still is one of the best run defending and pass coverage outside linebackers in the game, yes I would like to see him get the qb more but he does not get near the amount of opportunities Ware gets to rush the qb. For those of you who do not like Dallas to retain him I would like to know who we replace him with? My alternative is to sign Jarrett Johnson an extremely underrated player himself alternate him and the Butler or draft a guy in Courtney Upshaw (won’t make it to #14) Vinny Curry (pry won’t make it to #45) who can come in and start right away. So I believe bringing back Spencer is the best option for Dallas. With Carl Nicks he is still young and one of the best guards in the league he would also help the transition of Tyron Smith to left tackle which is a very important move unless you would like to see Free getting beat some more. Moving Free to right tackle is a more natural position for him and we should see him be more consistent. If we make these two moves it makes it easier on draft day. We could take Decastro (rated one of the best guards in over ten years), Cordy Glenn (love the versatility to play inside or right tackle), or Peter Konz (pry the only center in the draft who can come in and start right away) to shore up the oline for years and years to come, or we can start addressing our other big need the secondary and I think Jenkins is that guy at #14.
gator28 - February 2, 2012
I tend to agree with the need to sign either Nicks or Grubbs. Our biggest problem with the O line is the G-C-G and I don’t think you can fix that entirely from the draft or with the people we have on the roster. We have to get one experienced guard from FA to help stop the pressure up the middle. I’d love Nicks, but he may be too expensive. I don’t think there is a center in FA that is better than what we have now. I’m thinking Nagy may be the answer at Center. I don’t think Costa is that guy.
As far as switching Free and Smith, it has to be done this off-season. Free is an average LT, he would be a potentially great RT. Smith has all the tools to be a great LT. It isn’t that difficult to make the switch with a full off season. If we can get a great LG to stand beside him Dallas would have the makings of a killer run game because most teams defenses expect runs from the right side and Dallas would be able to run left.
Bill in DC - February 2, 2012
Thats nice to shore up the left side
But Philly will still kill Romo on the right without a center who can hold his ground. Cause with nicks its one o line if we get upgrades but not the best out there then we can get more of an even line to help mitigate.
Sado44 - February 2, 2012 via mobile
well put
That’s all great logic I would love to have it play out similar. For me tho… If DeCastro is there at #14 passing up on him for Jenkins will be the worst mistake we could possibly make this is a guard comin out of college that’ll push pro D lineman around from day one
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
Dallas needs to continue to follow the Best Player Available in the draft. We can’t afford to go back to the ‘reach for position need’ that brought Barbie Carpenter and others. If DeCastro is there and he’s the best player, take him and be glad, even if we’ve signed Nicks. If you want Jenkins trade down if you can.
Bill in DC - February 2, 2012
Decastro should be the target
If he’s not there at #14 only then go Jenkins they are as completely different in character as the positions they play on the field
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
Tap the breaks a bit there. DeCastro is the top rated G in the last 2 years to come out, not over 10.
Kontz isn’t the only C coming out that is able to start right away. Just the best one.
And I really don’t see us signing Nicks, way to much $ when we can pick up a FA C cheaper. And C is a bigger need.
Rena - February 2, 2012
yeah
the dude with the skimask riding a bear has to go
baaaaaaa hahahahahaha his eyes are looking into my soul
look at him
hahahaha
please get rid of this, I find it offensive!
Archie Barberio - February 2, 2012
Archie Barberio - February 2, 2012
thats just creepy
TARHEEL PAUL - February 2, 2012
I'll be glad when that effing ad is done.
DIRE WOLF - February 2, 2012
I think this is the first time I've actually complaied openly about an ad
and the first time I’ve seen actual complaints about an ad.
Antonio S - February 2, 2012
99% men that love football on SBN and they run an half naked man ad.
C’mon, show us some T&A.
DIRE WOLF - February 2, 2012
SBN has to make be making a crapload to run this ad
Antonio S - February 2, 2012
Here you go Dire...
Mikellie - February 2, 2012
much appreciated
Terry - February 2, 2012
Who is that?
(drool runs down chin)
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
my next ex wife
DIRE WOLF - February 2, 2012
Yeah, right.
I don’t think you would survive long enough.
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
Wat you talkin bout Willis?
DIRE WOLF - February 2, 2012
I can see the police report now.
“Deceased victim apparently suffered from exhaustion and intense, uncontrolled physical reaction. Face was frozen in ear to ear grin.”
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
sounds like what happens when that girl from the Syfy series Lost Girl gets ahold of you....
TruBluToTheCore - February 2, 2012
who cares about names......she can call herself sandwich and i'd begin the eating......
TruBluToTheCore - February 2, 2012
I told her not to do that ad
My ex wife doesn’t listen to anything I say that’s why she is my ex wife though. To be honest she looked alot better on her back. But then again you can’t really see the flat spot on the top of her head from that picture but believe me its there and perfect for setting a beer bottle.
Sado44 - February 2, 2012 via mobile
whatever happened to the IceTea ad?
now if it was a topless girl on a bear rug…even wearing a ski mask….
ziggy19 - February 2, 2012
lol i know
Archie Barberio - February 2, 2012
c'mon man?
That’s a plush bear rug.
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
I've discovered that by
minimizing the window, the screen automatically resizes to fit the thread & leaves out the ad. Nice, too, since I read the articles at work.
Johnny Cage - February 2, 2012
Could that be Jerry in the mask ?
football mensa - February 2, 2012
nice work there, where are you finding the player salary info for your article? I also wonder what CB’s are possibly going to cost in FA.
Rec!
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
Got the salaries off of Spotrac.com.
Only site I’ve found so far (except for other sites using it as a source).
Tom Ryle - February 2, 2012
Thanks. I hate to re-tread past mistakes but it just pisses me off so much knowing that Ftard Jerry could’ve landed Jenkins or Babin last year for 5mil/yr. We wouldn’t even be talking about needing a DE this year. We could just grab a big NT in the draft or FA and our D-line would be great.
Now we have to scramble and reach. grrrr!
StarloverinWNC - February 2, 2012
Babin wouldn't have worked for us....he's built for the wide 9......his best years have come in that defense...
as a straight DE he sucked and as a OLB he was even worse…..
TruBluToTheCore - February 2, 2012
Rotoworld usually has salary #'s.
Rena - February 2, 2012
what is this ski mask guy you talk of? i just see black screen on the sides of my window
starbury_to_s-jaxci2000 - February 2, 2012
D.Ware doing an interview
I know they don’t grow on tree’s but if we could find a few players with half of this future hall of famer’s character and want to we’ll have something to contend with. Just paranoid were gonna take one of these corners with that first pick
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
That’s probably because you’re using an adblocker like Adblockplus for Firefox
One.Cool.Customer - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
Lucky you!!!
LiveNDieBlue - February 2, 2012
Mario Williams should only be signed if we were a player or two away
which we clearly are not so therefore attempting to sign him shouldn’t a an option. Go after a quality center and re-sign Robinson and a DB.
Get your guard and other defensive players in the draft.
Terry - February 2, 2012
Nicks and Decastro
with a vet CB in FA would take care of the immediate problems.
Now as regards Spencer (by far the most over rated player people are wanting to resign)
I frankly could care less how good he is SUPPOSEDLY against the run (having watched him lose containment multiple times) since this is CLEARLY a PASSING LEAGUE now.
Nuts if we could get a guy that could give us Ellis type numbers it would be a significant upgrade.
However Campbell will be resigned by Zona and Mario will cost serious money.
At the same time there frankly does not look like a serious upgrade to Spencer is available in this draft.
burmafrd1944 - February 2, 2012
no instant upgrade for spencer
Take DeCastro first pick, sign M.Williams or the best free agent CB available. With plenty left over
P.N.Westernboysfan - February 2, 2012 via iPhone app
Oh yea lets get some greg ellis numbers going
So who picks up the other 50+ tackles mister Ellis numbers don’t have what about the 7-10 extra tackle for losses or forced fumbles he hardly got. Thank god you people don’t run this defense or we would be watching running backs with 12+ yards a carry. And god knows what happens when the 3-4 can’t stop the run its just plain game over. Can’t stop run in 3-4 means no control of game and that means we loss before end of first quarter.
Sado44 - February 2, 2012 via mobile
Giving you a big "AMEN!" on the ski mask and underwear comment
You’re right, this has got to go.
That is the funniest comment I’ve seen on this blog in a long time. I’m still laughing over it.
Elkmgr - February 2, 2012
I thought this was a family friendly site?
Must have been somewhere else.
GunsUp - February 2, 2012
Is the ski mask guy the new pass rush guy we're looking for?
If so sign him. Finnegan, Meyers, Robinson, Avril Fa. DeCastro, Cousins, Burfict draft = my dream offseason
letsgtld - February 2, 2012 via mobile
As There Is No Data
On Mincey we have no way of knowing for sure about him; BUT… Hardiwick, Avril and Landry all appear to be affordable with what the Cowboys have to spend Then, they could go after CB’s in the first two rounds of the draft and look for “depth” for both lines and ILB from there on..
Howleyesque - February 2, 2012
thats assuming Landy is healthy and Avril can make the switch to OLB in our scheme....
lots of ifs to be spending FA money on….
TruBluToTheCore - February 3, 2012
Go for an anchor at OL in FA...
And draft a stud in the first round, then hope you hit on the other rounds. Two young blue chippers. I mean, look, it’s getting close to go time with this Dallas team. Stop playing around and make a few sound decisions even if does cost some bucks. I think as fan, what I’d love to see is the Cowboys just step up to the plate and put a team on the field that can just plain out shut down the Giants, Eagles, etc and let Romo finally just do his thing without bullets constantly flying by his head.
I figure an offensive lineman and a blue chip corner in the draft – fill the other holes with free agents, let Stephen Jones do some cap magic that will last a few years and friggin’ go for it.
Who cares if we are tighter under the cap for 4 years if we have a youngish team that can win Championships. Yes, I said it Championships – as in plural. We have the core of players that could actually put some distance once more between the SB teams.
I mean the Giants with 4 Superbowls??? It’s been way too long since we’ve put another trophy on the mantle. It’s go time…. in my opinion.
manhattan - February 2, 2012
A lot of day dreams on here its kind of funny
Our 2 biggest needs CB and OG
If we could get an upgrade on those 2 positions before the draft we’re in good shape.
And let’s not get caught up with the flashy FAs we need upgrades thats not going to kill our cap. Think about building a team that will be able to compete for years, not just for next year.
djthumpl - February 2, 2012
Although a nice article, it really doesn’t give any indication of what Dallas will do. The Mario Williams analogy is frightfully wrong. Sure he made some $13.5 million last year with a cap number of $15 million but anyone with any knowledge knows that he will be getting a new contract in the 7 yrs $84 million range. Is it a lot? It is. But just because it averages $12 million a year isn’t the true numbers. What would be important is the bonus money and the actual cap numbers over the first 4 years of the contract.
Anybody want to guess how many players actually finish out a 7 yr contract, betting you find it very low and those last three years are when the big salary dollars are.
Second, does everyone realize what the cap is likely to be in 2013 and 2014. If not, look it up because we are looking at a 20 percent increase in the cap those years.
Lastly, it is true and doubtful that Dallas signs more than one expensive free agent. But getting a Branch a SS who is 25 will not be that expensive. But why pay for a RFA guard that couldn’t protect their own QB, we already have that person or two. Would you rather have Spencer or Williams at OLB pressuring the passer. Sure Spencer might be cheaper and the defense gets no better. Langford at DE might have some upside but a better option would be Hill at NT moving Ratliff to DE. Would Nicks be a luxury, no, and the reason should be plain to anyone. Check how often Romo was hit, either sacked, hurried, forced out of the pocket, etc and how many of those came through the interior line. Then check Brees at New Orleans and tell me which interior line you want. Personally, I want to get to the playoffs each year not settle for 8-8 every year.
sandyf - February 3, 2012
BOW !
football mensa - February 3, 2012
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