BLIP ON THE RADAR: The least sexy article you’ll read today; but one worth remembering
Ronald Leary – He threw a couple of guys around this past weekend as if they were Pop Warners.
He looks strong as bull.
Built like one of those top-loading deep freezers.
He’s quiet, but seems quite serious about this game of football.
And to most out there, he’s a forgotten man, and understandably.
But around here, when so many want to throw jab after jab at the Cowboys for failing to do enough this offseason to improve their offensive line, they must snicker quietly to themselves. They know better. They know they’ve got a real shot at multiple upgrades to the interior of this offensive line.
Sure, the Cowboys went out of their way to select an offensive lineman in the first round, center/guard Travis Frederick, the real irony of this draft since one and all wanted the Cowboys to concentrate on offensive linemen, some suggesting to do so with the first three picks. And then when they made doubly sure to draft at least one high-quality offensive lineman, they were chastised for trading down to do so.
Can’t win sometimes.
Ronald Leary.
Yep, him again. He’s still here, hasn’t gone anywhere.
You remember him, right? The rookie free-agent offensive lineman the Cowboys signed last year out of Memphis that owner Jerry Jones just couldn’t wait to tell everyone how excited he was over the acquisition. And I know what you are thinking, and probably were thinking: Why so excited about some rookie free agent? Why, the guy didn’t even get drafted.
Well, I’m sure back in the day there were similar reactions to the rather innocuous rookie free-agent signings of Tony Romo and Miles Austin. Sometimes these guys entering the league as rookie free agents do make it. Some big. (Also see Bill Bates, Mark Tuinei, Nate Newton, Everson Walls, to name a few, and those guys were passed over when the NFL Draft was 12 rounds.) Granted, the odds are long, understood.
COWBOY FLASHBACK: Dallas cornerback Brandon Carr almost quit football after first high school workout
FLINT, MI – Dallas Cowboys cornerback Brandon Carr was recently open to discussing how his inspiration stemmed from a little-known trainer in his hometown of Flint.
During an exclusive sit-down interview at the Michael Johnson Performance Athletic Training Center in Texas, Carr shared tales about how he began to take his workouts more seriously as a tenth grader at Carman-Ainsworth High School after tough sessions with a local trainer he never names.
He called the first day a “culture shock.” He even thought about giving up after experiencing nightmares from the intense exercises but his friends wouldn’t allow him to.
“They showed up to my house and called me out,” Carr said in the interview. “I went and ever since that second day of going back my whole attitude and everything changed. I was a small guy but this guy had me thinking I could make it to the next level and go to college and to the NFL. He put that dog in me.”
And that swag ever since the 10th and 11th grade catapulted him to become a shut-down cornerback in the NFL today. In his first season as a Dallas Cowboy, Carr racked up 53 tackles, three interceptions and a touchdown. Competition has always been his driving force.
“When I grew up I was the smallest kid with goggles, and I wore glasses but I liked competition,” Carr said. “I’d get after it. Basketball was my sport but my brother influenced me because he was the star quarterback running the option and I wanted to be like my older brother so football came into play.”
TWO PLUS YOU: If the Dallas Cowboys 2013-2014 season started today … who would be on YOUR roster?
The draft is done. Free agency is dragging to the finish line. That means it’s about time for the first ridiculously premature 53-man roster projection of the year, an exercise we’ll repeat on a regular basis once training camp begins.
We’ve included TWO opinions from the staff at ESPN – Dallas. You can take their word as the gospel, or come up with YOUR opinions. There are always surprise roster cuts and additions. Maybe you’ll be the one that predicts them!
To assist with your final decision, your column has ALL position players currently on the roster. Of course this will change, but the fun of this is deciding what you’d do NOW. Just print this out, cross off the players that you think will be cut, or circle the ones that you think will make the final 53.
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Who do YOU keep? |
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QUARTERBACK |
Tony Romo At some point, the Cowboys need to invest a draft pick in a developmental quarterback again. Maybe next year. For now, carrying only two QBs saves a roster spot for somewhere else. |
Tony Romo Kyle Orton On the bubble: The Cowboys are going with just two quarterbacks here. If the team had drafted one, it would make sense to have three on the 53-man roster. They will keep two quarterbacks on the 80-man roster until its time to make cuts in August. |
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RUNNING BACK |
DeMarco Murray Tanner needs to impress new special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia in the preseason. He also needs to beat out undrafted free agent Kendial Lawrence, a Rockwall product via Missouri. No fullback? Lawrence Vickers was a disappointment last season and is coming off of back surgery, and the Cowboys can phase out that position with their renewed emphasis on multiple-tight end sets. |
DeMarco Murray Joseph Randle Lance Dunbar On the bubble: I believe Lawrence Vickers makes the roster and the team doesn’t seem to like Phillip Tanner, who needed to perform better when given the chance to become the lead running back when Murray suffered an injury last season. The Cowboys didn’t address the running game from a blocking standpoint, which this is why I think Vickers stays around. |
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WIDE RECEIVER |
Dez Bryant Cole Beasley There’s a lot of young talent here along with Austin, who might not be worth his $54 million deal but is at least a very good No. 2 receiver if he can stay healthy. Harris and Beasley are good enough in the slot to give Austin occasional breaks. The issue with Beasley: How can he help you on special teams with Harris handling punt returns? |
Dez Bryant Miles Austin Terrance Williams Dwayne Harris On the bubble: This is a deep unit with plenty of speed and playmakers. Don’t be surprised if Carlton Mitchell makes the roster, and there’s no guarantee Williams is the No. 3 man on the depth chart. Harris showed the Cowboys some talent toward the end of last year and, next to Bryant, is the best returner on the team. Cole Beasley can make play if given the chance, but he’s got competition from Mitchell, Jared Green, Tim Benford and Anthony Armstrong. |
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TIGHT END |
Jason Witten This could be one of the best pass-catching tight end corps in the league. The problem: Both of Witten’s backups are adequate at best as blockers. Keeping (or acquiring) a rugged fourth tight end is a distinct possibility. |
Jason Witten Gavin Escobar James Hanna On the bubble: This unit remains at three unless Vickers gets cut and then I can’t see the team signing a blocking tight end. |
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OFFENSIVE LINE |
Tyron Smith Jermey Parnell You don’t want to see Free on here, right? Well, that decision is apparently up to him. The Cowboys have presented him the option of taking a pay cut. They hope he accepts it. If he doesn’t, they’ll make him a post-June 1 cut and sign a right tackle in free agency. The top two candidates are Tyson Clabo and Eric Winston, but the Miami Dolphins are likely to sign one of them soon. And Clabo could be out of the Cowboys’ price range. On another note, can Costa be the short-yardage fullback? |
Tyron Smith Travis Frederick Nate Livings Mackenzy Bernadeau Doug Free Jermey Parnell Phil Costa Kevin Kowalski Ronald Leary On the bubble: David Arkin is the dark horse candidate to make it at guard, and if Free isn’t around, then Eric Winston, if he’s still available, is the starting right tackle. Ryan Cook‘s efforts in training camp could determine his status, especially if Costa gets hurt again or struggles. Darrion Weems is someone to look at too, but I think the Cowboys keep 10 linemen. |
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DEFENSIVE LINE |
DeMarcus Ware Jerry Jones declared the defensive line to be a position of strength while ignoring it on draft weekend. That’s a curious decision, considering the age of the starters and the lack of proven depth. The Cowboys need 2012 third-round pick Crawford to prove this season that he’s a starting-caliber player, whether it’s at defensive tackle or the strongside end. |
DeMarcus Ware Anthony Spencer Jay Ratliff Jason Hatcher Sean Lissemore Tyrone Crawford Kyle Wilber Rob Callaway On the bubble: Ben Bass did a nice job in training camp last season and will be given a chance to earn some checks come September. Brian Price is a player who could make one of the final roster spots because he has some upside. |
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LINEBACKERS |
Sean Lee Lee and Carter are studs if they can stay healthy, but that’s a big if given their injury histories. The Cowboys gave Magee, an undrafted free agent out of Arizona State, more guaranteed money ($70,000) than any seventh-round pick got last year. |
Sean Lee Bruce Carter Justin Durant Alex Albright Brandon Magee On the bubble: Let’s hold off on the Ernie Sims return. He was serviceable last season, but Caleb McSurdy could emerge as someone you rely on, especially on special teams. DeVonte Holloman can make this team on special teams; if not, I see him on the practice squad. Magee can play both strong and weakside linebacker. |
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CORNERBACKS |
Brandon Carr
Scandrick probably needs to have a good season to prevent the Cowboys from making a cap casualty next year. If they’re right on fourth-rounder Webb, he can play the slot for about a tenth of Scandrick’s salary. The Cowboys need Claiborne to live up to his billing after a so-so rookie season that fell well short of the sky-high, Jerry-aided hype. |
Brandon Carr Morris Claiborne Orlando Scandrick B.W. Webb. On the bubble: Sterling Moore and Brandon Underwood could make the roster. The Cowboys endured health problems at this position last season with Claiborne and Scandrick and they could keep five or six corners. |
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SAFETIES |
Barry Church Allen and McCray might be the best special teams players on the roster, but their roster spots are far from guaranteed, especially if the young safeties perform well in training camp and the preseason. Allen got a smaller signing bonus than camp cut Brodney Pool did last year, and McCray returned on a one-year deal as a restricted free agent. |
Barry Church Matt Johnson J.J. Wilcox On the bubble: The Cowboys could go low at this spot, given Carr’s ability to play safety in a pinch and the possibility one or two linebackers make the team because of their special teams ability, which knocks Danny McCray off the roster. I’d like to see if veteran Will Allen could add to the position. |
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SPECIALISTS |
Dan Bailey No reason to make any changes here, as long as Jones is fully healthy coming off of a season-ending knee injury. |
Dan Bailey Chris Jones L.P. Ladouceur On the bubble: Nobody really. Ladouceur just signed a new deal and Jones should be ready to go for the veteran minicamps after having knee surgery late last season. |
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Remaining Unrestricted Free Agents
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POS. |
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CB |
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G |
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S |
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RB |
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LB |
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P |
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LB |
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DT |
EDITORS NOTE: To keep up with the always current Dallas Cowboys roster on The Boys Are Back blog … click on the page below:
2013 ROOKIE’S TO WATCH: Dallas Cowboys new draft picks RB Joseph Randle and WR Terrance Williams college highlights
Sure, reading and hearing about your newly drafted players is interesting. But, nothing beats seeing! Watch these young studs in action in the short videos below.
Joseph Randle Highlights
The Dallas Cowboys desperately needed some depth at running back with Felix Jones heading for free agency, so they picked up Oklahoma State RB Joseph Randle in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. But anybody that watched Randle in college might’ve been shocked that he lasted as long as he did. The former OSU Cowboy racked up more than 2,600 yards and 38 touchdowns during his last two seasons in Stillwater, making him one of the most prolific backs in college football since 2011. Check out some impressive highlights of Randle at work below:
Terrance Williams Highlights
The Dallas Cowboys drafted prolific Baylor wide receiver Terrance Williams in the third round of last week’s NFL Draft. While Big 12 fans are plenty familiar with Williams’, those of you who don’t follow college football probably haven’t seen much of him in action. Here’s a video that shows off some of Williams’ more impressive displays of athleticism during his time at Baylor.
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FLASHBACK 2010 NFL DRAFT: Take a look at a REAL Dallas Cowboys draft board
Shortly after the 2010 NFL Draft, a couple photos of the Dallas Cowboys’ big board were published (by Jonathan Bales) . The photos have been leaked for quite some time now, but I thought it would be cool to take a look back at the board to judge the Cowboys’ accuracy.
Here are the images (click on images for a larger view):
Since Jerry Jones’ arm is blocking out some of the board, we can’t get a completely comprehensive list of the Cowboys’ 2010 rankings.
For the most part, though, it looked as though the Cowboys’ board was as follows:
- FIRST ROUND
1. Sam Bradford
2. Gerald McCoy
3. Ndamukong Suh
4. Russell Okung
5. Trent Williams
6. Eric Berry
7. Rolando McClain
8. Joe Haden
9. CJ Spiller
10. Mike Iupati
11. Blocked by Jerry’s arm, but likely Earl Thomas or Dez Bryant
12. Blocked by Jerry’s arm, but likely Earl Thomas or Dez Bryant
13. Bryan Bulaga
14. Sean Lee
15. Jared Odrick
16. Jason Pierre-Paul
17. Derrick Morgan
18. Kyle Wilson
19. Maurkice Pouncey
20. Navarro Bowman
21. Jahvid Best
22. Tyson Alualu
23. Jermaine Gresham
Continued …
YOUTH MOVEMENT: Forty-seven players to watch on the Dallas Cowboys roster
Forty-seven players on the current Dallas Cowboys roster have 3 years or less playing time. The vast majority of them are 25 years old, or younger. If curiosity is getting the best of you, twenty-eight players are entering their 4th year, or greater. Dallas’ unrestricted free-agents are not included in these numbers. Most of them are not expected to return to the Cowboys for the 2013-2014 season.
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# |
NAME |
POS. |
HT. |
WT. |
AGE |
EXP. |
COLLEGE |
|
89 |
Escobar, Gavin |
TE |
6-6 |
255 |
22 |
R |
San Diego State |
|
70 |
Frederick, Travis |
C |
6-4 |
312 |
22 |
R |
Wisconsin |
|
57 |
Holloman, DeVonte |
LB |
6-1 |
246 |
22 |
R |
South Carolina |
|
35 |
Randle, Joseph |
RB |
6-0 |
202 |
21 |
R |
Oklahoma State |
|
20 |
Webb, B.W. |
CB |
5-10 |
183 |
23 |
R |
William & Mary |
|
27 |
Wilcox, J.J. |
S |
5-11 |
214 |
22 |
R |
Georgia Southern |
|
83 |
Williams, Terrance |
WR |
6-2 |
205 |
23 |
R |
Baylor |
|
16 |
Benford, Tim |
WR |
5-11 |
200 |
23 |
1 |
Tennessee Tech |
|
81 |
Coale, Danny |
WR |
6-0 |
190 |
24 |
1 |
Virginia Tech |
|
66 |
Dominguez, Ray |
G |
6-4 |
329 |
24 |
1 |
Arkansas |
|
85 |
Green, Jared |
WR |
6-1 |
185 |
24 |
1 |
Southern University |
|
44 |
Hughlett, Charley |
LS |
6-4 |
251 |
22 |
1 |
Central Florida |
|
64 |
Igbinosun, Ikponmwosa |
DT |
6-4 |
288 |
22 |
1 |
Southern Connecticut State |
|
65 |
Leary, Ronald |
G |
6-3 |
318 |
24 |
1 |
Memphis |
|
56 |
McSurdy, Caleb |
LB |
6-1 |
248 |
23 |
1 |
Montana |
|
31 |
Pellerin, Micah |
S |
6-0 |
195 |
24 |
1 |
Hampton |
|
76 |
Simmons, Aderious |
T |
6-7 |
310 |
25 |
1 |
Arizona State |
|
87 |
Smith, Andre |
TE |
6-5 |
267 |
24 |
1 |
Virginia Tech |
|
3 |
Stephens, Nick |
QB |
6-3 |
230 |
25 |
1 |
Tarleton State |
|
61 |
Taylor, Monte |
DT |
6-5 |
266 |
24 |
1 |
Cincinnati |
|
75 |
Weems, Darrion |
T |
6-5 |
320 |
24 |
1 |
Oregon |
|
62 |
Arkin, David |
G |
6-5 |
306 |
25 |
2 |
Missouri State |
|
79 |
Bass, Ben |
DT |
6-5 |
283 |
23 |
2 |
Texas A&M |
|
11 |
Beasley, Cole |
WR |
5-8 |
177 |
24 |
2 |
Southern Methodist |
|
72 |
Callaway, Rob |
DT |
6-5 |
324 |
25 |
2 |
Saginaw Valley State |
|
24 |
Claiborne, Morris |
CB |
5-11 |
185 |
23 |
2 |
LSU |
|
98 |
Crawford, Tyrone |
DT |
6-4 |
285 |
23 |
2 |
Boise State |
|
25 |
Dunbar, Lance |
RB |
5-8 |
191 |
23 |
2 |
North Texas |
|
84 |
Hanna, James |
TE |
6-4 |
249 |
23 |
2 |
Oklahoma |
|
37 |
Johnson, Matt |
S |
6-1 |
215 |
23 |
2 |
Eastern Washington |
|
6 |
Jones, Chris |
P |
6-0 |
208 |
23 |
2 |
Carson-Newman |
|
51 |
Wilber, Kyle |
LB |
6-4 |
246 |
24 |
2 |
Wake Forest |
|
55 |
Albright, Alex |
LB |
6-5 |
260 |
25 |
3 |
Boston College |
|
5 |
Bailey, Dan |
K |
6-0 |
189 |
25 |
3 |
Oklahoma State |
|
54 |
Carter, Bruce |
LB |
6-2 |
240 |
25 |
3 |
North Carolina |
|
86 |
Cochart, Colin |
TE |
6-4 |
258 |
25 |
3 |
South Dakota State |
|
17 |
Harris, Dwayne |
WR |
5-10 |
200 |
25 |
3 |
East Carolina |
|
96 |
Hayden, Nick |
DT |
6-4 |
300 |
27 |
3 |
Wisconsin |
|
60 |
Kowalski, Kevin |
C/G |
6-3 |
304 |
24 |
3 |
Toledo |
|
15 |
Mitchell, Carlton |
WR |
6-3 |
215 |
25 |
3 |
South Florida |
|
21 |
Moore, Sterling |
CB |
5-10 |
200 |
23 |
3 |
Southern Methodist |
|
29 |
Murray, DeMarco |
RB |
6-0 |
215 |
25 |
3 |
Oklahoma |
|
99 |
Price, Brian |
DT |
6-1 |
303 |
24 |
3 |
UCLA |
|
53 |
Sheffield, Cameron |
LB |
6-2 |
257 |
25 |
3 |
Troy |
|
77 |
Smith, Tyron |
T |
6-5 |
308 |
22 |
3 |
USC |
|
34 |
Tanner, Phillip |
RB |
5-10 |
217 |
24 |
3 |
Middle Tennessee State |
|
23 |
Underwood, Brandon |
CB |
6-1 |
197 |
26 |
3 |
Cincinnati |
To see the entire updated 2013-2014 Dallas Cowboys roster, click HERE or on the button below:
MEET THE STUDS: Dallas Cowboys’ top three 2013 Draft picks arrive at Valley Ranch for a tour and press conference (Special Feature)
Dallas Cowboys’ top three 2013 Draft picks arrive at Valley Ranch for a tour and press conference
Dallas Cowboys’ top three 2013 Draft picks inside Valley Ranch for a tour and press conference
Dallas Cowboys’ 2013 Draft pick WR Terrance Williams is greeted by Jerry Jones at the Dallas Cowboys Valley Ranch NFL Draft war room
MANY more photographs below …
2013 NFL DRAFT: Meet your new Dallas Cowboys 2013 NFL Draft picks
Well, it’s over. The weeks and months of anticipation have come to a close. Meet the newest additions to your 2013-2014 Dallas Cowboys roster.
![clip_image001[4]](http://theboysareback.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/clip_image0014.jpg?w=65&h=90 "clip_image001[4]")
#70 C Travis Frederick, Wisconsin
1st Round, 31st Pick (31st Overall)
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· Bio
· Story
![clip_image002[4]](http://theboysareback.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/clip_image0024.jpg "clip_image002[4]")
#89 TE Gavin Escobar, San Diego State
2nd Round, 15th Pick (47th Overall)
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· Bio
· Story
![clip_image003[4]](http://theboysareback.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/clip_image0034.jpg "clip_image003[4]")
#83 WR Terrance Williams, Baylor
3rd Round, 12th Pick (74th Overall)
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· Bio
· Story
#27 S J.J. Wilcox, Georgia Southern
3rd Round, 18th Pick (80th Overall)
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· Bio
· Story
CB B.W. Webb, William & Mary
4th Round, 17th Pick (114th Overall)
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· Bio
· Story
![clip_image006[4]](http://theboysareback.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/clip_image0064.jpg "clip_image006[4]")
RB Joseph Randle, Oklahoma State
5th Round, 18th Pick (151st Overall)
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· Bio
· Story
![clip_image007[4]](http://theboysareback.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/clip_image0074.jpg "clip_image007[4]")
LB DeVonte Holloman, South Carolina
6th Round, 17th Pick (185th Overall)
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· Story
PRINT AND PREDICT: How many wins do YOU think the 2013-2014 Dallas Cowboys will have?
The 2013-2014 NFL Schedule was released on Thursday. Naturally, we can’t resist the urge to run down the list and predict the seasons wins and losses. Below are two examples of Dallas Cowboy writers predictions to get you started. You’ll also see the predictions of The Boys Are Back (nearly famous) guru, The GREAT Robbini. Just for kicks, print this out, write down your predictions and put it away for safe keeping. Let’s meet back here on December 30th and grade ourselves.
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Tom Orsborn |
Jon Machota |
Great Robbini |
YOU |
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Sept. 8 vs. NYG |
Loss. The Giants are 4-0 at Cowboys Stadium. Eli Manning and Co. continues their dominance in Arlington. |
Win. The Cowboys are 2-6 in their last eight against the Giants, but like last year, Dallas opens the season with a victory over New York. Tony Romo proves for at least one week that he’s worth his new deal, tossing a pair of touchdowns to Dez Bryant and a third to James Hanna. |
Win. Jason Garrett’s game planning wins again. |
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Sept.15 @ KC |
Win. Andy Reid will make the Chiefs better, but the Cowboys have too much offensive firepower for a team that finished 20th in defense last season. |
Win. Andy Reid is familiar with the Cowboys from his many years leading the Eagles, but Jason Garrett’s club has more talent and they win a nail-bitter. The victory allows Garrett to improve to 4-3 against Reid as a head coach. |
Win. I have a definitive win @ KC. Boys get the jump on an uncertain Chiefs team |
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Sept. 22 vs. STL |
Win. DeMarco Murray won’t run wild against Rams like he did as a rookie, but Cowboys will win this one going away. |
Win. DeMarco Murray should be pumped for this one. Last time the Cowboys faced the Rams, Murray ran for 253 yards, setting a single-game franchise rushing record and leading Dallas to a 34-7 victory. This one’s closer and Murray doesn’t finish with half as many yards as the previous meeting. |
Win. First interesting matchup. Fisher strong defense versus an offense typically slow to start. DAL new defense against hot/cold Bradford led team. Close game. STL and CHI are the two barometer teams this season. STL for the first half, CHI for the second. |
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Sept. 29 @ SD |
Win. The pressure will mount on Philip Rivers after DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer take turns sacking him. |
Loss. The three-game win streak is ended. This one comes down to which quarterback makes less mistakes. Philip Rivers wins out as Romo tosses a pair of costly interceptions while the Cowboys are attempting to rally. |
Win. A solid win against SD. Boys roll over the Turnerless Chargers. Come off looking crisp against a team with too many holes to fill with one draft. |
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Oct. 6 vs. DEN |
Loss. Peyton Manning will take advantage of the Cowboys’ inexperience playing Monte Kiffin’s Tampa 2 scheme and Von Miller will get at least three sacks of Tony Romo. |
Loss. Peyton Manning is firing on all cylinders and not even abnormally loud Cowboys Stadium can mess with the chemistry between him and Wes Welker on this day. |
Loss. Not so much Manning but the DEN D holds up against Cowboys. Leave Romo on the run. |
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Oct. 13 vs. WAS |
Win. Cowboys finally beat RGIII. |
Win. Robert Griffin III isn’t close to being 100 percent and Kirk Cousins gets the start. Without the dynamic RG3 working his magic, the Cowboys’ defense keys on Alfred Morris and prevents him from going off like he did in the 2012 regular season finale. |
Win. I think Dez is gonna blow WAS up. Bryant eats up WAS secondary. DAL uses quick strike offense to exact revenge over the skins. |
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Oct. 20 @ PHI |
Loss. Chip Kelly knows how to beat Monte Kiffin. |
Loss. Monte Kiffin takes the blame for this one. The 73-year-old’s defense looks overwhelmed against Michael Vick, LeSean McCoy, DeSean Jackson and Chip Kelly’s high-powered offense. |
Win. I don’t have PHI gelling as a team until mid season, or later. I think PHI D will be solid. DAL wins on offensive turnovers. Cowboys head away with a division win. |
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Oct. 27 @ DET |
Loss. Calvin Johnson catches at least three TDs against Cowboys’ young safeties. |
Loss. This is different than the Oct. 2011 game when Dallas built a 27-3 lead early in the second half before Detroit rallied for the victory. This time, Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley set the tone, embarrassing the Cowboys’ porous offensive line by sacking Romo six times. |
Win. Cowboys’ defense starts to take hold. Shuts Johnson and company down. Win by 7 against a one note offense. |
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Nov. 3 vs. MIN |
Win. Adrian Peterson will make up for the poor game he had against Cowboys in rookie season of 2007, but Christian Ponder makes too many mistakes. |
Win. Christian Ponder is picked three times, once each by Brandon Carr, Morris Claiborne and Barry Church. DeMarcus Ware, Anthony Spencer and the guys up front don’t shut down Adrian Peterson but they also don’t let him single-handedly get the victory. |
Win. I’ve got Ponder in the dirt. Cowboys will neutralize the run game of the Vikings. With a heavy effective emphasis on run stop and Ponder playing horizontally, Cowboys extend their winning record |
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Nov. 10 @ NO |
Loss. Rob Ryan talks a good game and then backs it up with plenty of help from Drew Brees. |
Loss. Sunday night football in the Superdome is not where any opponent wants to be in 2013. Sean Payton has the Saints’ offense firing on all cylinders and it’s too much for the Cowboys. It’s not a blowout, though. Romo does a good job of battling but the game unfolds similar to the 2012 loss in Atlanta. |
Loss. Team beginning to feel beat up. Season taking a toll. DAL team winded and hungry for a break can’t bring it on against the surgical attack of the Saints. |
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WEEK 11 |
BYE WEEK |
BYE WEEK |
BYE WEEK |
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Nov. 24 @ NYG |
Win. Jason Garrett is 2-1 at MetLife Stadium. Make it 3-1. |
Loss. Coming off the bye week the Cowboys know they need a win to pull even with the Giants for the division lead. But they fail to get the job done. Jason Pierre-Paul and Co. wreck havoc like it’s 2011 all over again, sacking Romo six times. |
Win. Rested Cowboys pull one over in New Jersey. Take another division win in a close game. |
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Nov. 28 vs. OAK |
Win. Tony Romo recovers his Thanksgiving Day mojo against hapless Raiders. |
Win. Just to toy with the emotions of their fans, the Cowboys win, pulling them back to .500 and keeping the door open for a possible Wild Card playoff berth. |
Win. With only 4 days preparation, it’s a Turkey Day win for the Boys. Raiders don’t have the talent to take advantage of hazy Cowboys. Dallas lucks out on this one, and finds enough home field excitement to win it. |
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BREAK |
10 DAY BREAK |
10 DAY BREAK |
10 DAY BREAK |
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Dec. 9 @ CHI |
Loss. Jay Cutler carves up Cowboys in the cold. |
Loss. Romo doesn’t throw the five interceptions he did last season against the Bears on Monday night but Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall get the best of Dallas, again. |
Loss. Even with 10 days rest, CHI seals the deal on defense. Even with the new coaching staff, Bears prove to be a team the Boys struggle against as of late. CHI is one of two barometer teams this season. STL for the first half. |
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Dec. 15 vs. GB |
Loss. Aaron Rodgers carves up the Cowboys indoors. |
Loss. These two teams have something in common: Both were hit hard by the injury bug in 2012. Both bounce back but Aaron Rodgers is the difference as he eventually wins MVP for the second time in three seasons. |
Win. A probable loss on all prediction sheets. The Boys run stop wins another game. The Packers are in DAL that’s also key. GB once again bruised up at the end of the season. They’ll modify their game plan but fail against Garrett’s. |
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Dec. 22 @ WAS |
Loss. In a game with playoff implications, the Cowboys come up short again at FedEx. |
Loss. Griffin has been back for three games and appears to be recapturing his 2012 form. It becomes evident that the Cowboys will finish under .500 and miss the postseason for the fifth time in the last six seasons. |
Win. With RG3 either out altogether or badly bruised, I see the Cowboys putting away another NFC East rival. Look for Shanahan to reveal a new shade of red on his face. Close, by a field goal. |
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Dec. 29 vs. PHI |
Win. Cowboys win, but it’s too little too late. |
Win. The Kiffin defense has adjusted and it helps that Vick has lost the starting quarterback job to Nick Foles. Kelly’s offense isn’t the same without a mobile quarterback. |
Loss. PHI is playing as a unit by midseason and DAL is gearing up for the playoffs. Cowboys rest and take the loss |
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Prediction |
8-8 |
7-9 |
12-4 |
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Courtesy: Tom Orsborn | San Antonio Express News and Jon Machota | Dallas Morning News
Courtesy: The GREAT Robbini | The Boys Are Back blog’s (almost famous) prediction guru.
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BROADCAST LEGEND REMEMBERED: Pat Summerall’s funeral will take place on Saturday; open to the public
We have some news on Pat Summerall’s funeral to pass along. Summerall died Tuesday at the age of 82.
The funeral will take place Saturday morning at 11:00 a.m. at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas (a Dallas suburb). It will be open to the public.
We’ll pass along more information as it becomes available.
RELATED: Jerry Jones statement on Pat Summerall
Here is the statement from Jerry Jones issued Tuesday on the death of Pat Summerall:
“Pat was the NFL’s narrator for generations, with a voice that was powerful, eloquent and distinctive.
“His presence at an NFL game elevated that event to a higher level. He was royalty in the broadcast booth. He was respected and admired by players, coaches, commissioners and Presidents of our country—and always a gentleman—someone who had time for the fans in the parking lot after the game.
“Humility and kindness were his closest companions. He was a trusted friend and confidant, and for all of his immense talents as a professional, he was an even better person.
“For a man who could dramatically capture a moment with very few words, there simply aren’t enough words to adequately describe what he meant to sports and broadcasting in this country.
“There is no question that Pat broadcast more Dallas games on CBS and FOX than any other man, and this is a great loss for thousands of Cowboys fans who spent their Sunday afternoons in the living room with Pat.
“Our hearts go out to Cheri and his family. Pat was an icon and an American original.”
RELATED: Brad Sham remembers Pat Summerall
IRVING, Texas – The way Brad Sham sees it, Pat Summerall has few peers when it comes to the history of sports broadcasting.
“He’s at the top,” said Sham, the longtime voice of the Dallas Cowboys and one of Summerall’s friends. “Vince Scully is there. Red Barber. Some of this is now chocolate and vanilla, but whatever short list there is, he’s on it and he’s out front.”
Through the years Sham became friends with Summerall and was part of an old-timers media group that would meet for lunch every so often. Sham would have Summerall re-tell stories he had heard dozens of times, just to hear them again. The last time the group met came March 5.
“You have to separate it personally and professionally,” Sham said. “Professionally, he should have been the model for every television play-by-play person. He was living proof that less could be more. He knew exactly how to make the event the star of the show and still partly because of the voice God gave him but partly because he knew what to do with it, everybody knew it was a Summerall event and that made it a big deal. As the head coach of the Cowboys might say, that was his genius. He knew how to make the event the star of the show.
“Personally, he was such a nice man. He was so gentle … He could talk about what things were like when he played. He could talk about what things were like in television as he worked and saw things unfold. And he could talk about the arts, about pop culture. The fact that his Christian faith was so important to him in the last decade of his life, it kept him grounded and delighted.”
Summerall’s presence could be felt whenever he walked into a press box, according to Sham, not because of domineering personality, but because of the reverence people had for him.
“The era we live in is not an era of eloquent gentility,” Sham said. “The era we live in is an era of look-at-me noise. Media helps shape that and also reflects it so that fact that people don’t (emulate Summerall) and do what he did or try to doesn’t surprise me, but it’s a damn shame.
“We say a lot that someone was one of a kind. He was. And they stopped making them a long time ago.”
RELATED: Much more reaction to Pat Summerall’s death from athletes, analysts, writers, others
CBS Sports broadcaster Verne Lundquist: “Pat was a friend of nearly 40 years. He was a master of restraint in his commentary, an example for all of us. He was also one of the great storytellers who ever spoke into a microphone.”
NFL LOST LEGEND: Sportscaster Pat Summerall (1930-2013)
Pat Summerall died Tuesday. He was 82.
That’s how Summerall, almost a decade ago, said he would craft the first sentences of his obituary — short and to the point.
The legendary sports broadcaster died in his hospital room at Zale Lipshy University Hospital, where he was recovering from surgery for a broken hip, a family friend said.
Summerall’s comment about his obituary was made at his Southlake home after a 2004 liver transplant that saved his life. He was serious.
Typical … succinct … vintage Summerall.
His minimalist staccato style coupled with a deep, authoritative voice was his trademark as the pre-eminent NFL voice for a generation of television viewers.
Summerall worked 16 Super Bowls in a network career that began at CBS in 1962 and ended at Fox in 2002.
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FLASHBACK–COWBOYS VS. PACKERS: Brett Favre dreamed of playing for the Dallas Cowboys
Before capping the 1996 season by leading the Green Bay Packers to a Super Bowl victory, Brett Favre was 4-3 in playoff games. Not bad for a 26-year-old who at the time probably didn’t know he’d play another 15 NFL seasons.
The four wins came against the Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers and twice against the division rival Detroit Lions. The losses? Well, they all came at the hands of the Dallas Cowboys. And all were played at Texas Stadium.
The Cowboys, who were favored by at least nine in each of those games, according to Pro-Football-Reference.com, won 27-17 in 1994, 35-9 in 1995 and 38-27 in 1996.
“I remember what the biggest issue was, we couldn’t get past Dallas,” Favre said Friday before a SMU Athletic Forum luncheon at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas. “Now, they were good. They were good. Each year we felt like we were gaining. But I always felt like, if we don’t get them at our place, we’re always going to be second fiddle.”
Favre completed 56 percent of his passes in those games, averaging 283 passing yards per contest and totaling five touchdowns and five interceptions.
The following season when Favre and the Packers went on to defeat the New England Patriots, 35-21, in Super Bowl XXXI, the Cowboys lost to the Carolina Panthers, 26-17, in the divisional round of the playoffs.
Although some of his teammates wanted their Super Bowl run to go through Dallas, Favre admitted that he was rooting for the Panthers to knock off the defending Super Bowl champs.
“I was thinking, ‘Please, please, beat them.’ I just had enough,” Favre said. “Other guys were saying, ‘I want them again.’ I’d had them enough. That was the biggest issue, we just couldn’t get past Dallas.
“It’s just hard to stay on top. It’s hard to get to the top. What they did was really amazing.”
Following his 10 minutes with the media and some time to eat lunch, Favre sat down with the voice of the Cowboys, Brad Sham, to entertain the guests with stories of his career. While sitting center stage, Favre said although growing up in Kiln, Mississippi made him want to see the New Orleans Saints do well, their lack of success turned him into a Cowboys supporter.
“I grew up a Dallas Cowboys fan. I loved Roger Staubach,” he said. “That was back when teams kept the same players on the roster for a long time. Drew Pearson, Randy White, Charlie Waters, Danny White, Robert Newhouse, Tony Dorsett, Billy Joe DuPree, I could go just on and on. I always dreamed of playing for the Cowboys, playing in the Super Bowl.”
Favre is one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, no doubt about it. But it’s unlikely that the Cowboys would’ve had more success in the 1990s with Favre than they did with Troy Aikman.
Now, how Favre could’ve helped the Cowboys from 2001 and beyond is a different story.
DALLAS DAY WORKOUTS: Top 30 local prospects spending the day at Valley Ranch (Special Feature)
IRVING, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys’ scouts will take a break from putting their draft board together today (Wednesday) to take part in the annual scouting combine known as Dallas Day.
The scouts and coaches will put local college players through a Combine style workout at Cowboys Stadium. The workout will allow Jerry and Stephen Jones and Jason Garrett to interact with those college players that might not have received an opportunity to play in an All Star game or attend the Combine.
College Scouting Coordinator Chris Hall historically has done an outstanding job of putting together a group of players that have Dallas as their hometown, along with players from SMU and TCU who are close to the complex at Valley Ranch, and this year is no different.
Each year, Dallas Day has produced better talent because of the job that programs like SMU and TCU have done with their overall program, and also because of the types of kids that are leaving the area and attending schools across the country.
From the Pro Days I was able to attend at SMU and TCU, players like
- defensive end Margus Hunt,
- running back Zach Line,
- receiver Josh Boyce and
- running back Matthew Tucker
will get their opportunity to visit with the club. Players with hometown ties to Dallas include
- quarterback Kyle Padron from Eastern Washington,
- Baylor wide receivers Lanear Sampson and
- Terrance Williams and
- Texas A&M receiver Uzoma Nwachukwu.
- Defensive ends RJ Washington of Oklahoma and
- DeMontre Moore of Texas A&M will be in as well.
When I worked in the scouting department here, Dallas Day was one of my favorite events because it gave you an opportunity not only to meet some of the top players in the area, but to see some players that might be sixth or seventh round considerations on the board. They could also be players that could become desired priority free agents after the draft. With the success that this team has had with those types of players after the draft, this day has always held great importance.
Courtesy: Bryan Broaddus | Football Analyst/Scout
RELATED: Dallas Cowboys work out local players at annual Dallas Day event
The Dallas Cowboys will host players with local ties today (Wednesday) at their annual Dallas Day at Cowboys Stadium for workouts and meetings.
Here’s a list of some players scheduled to attend the event:
FLASHBACK- 2012 NFL DRAFT: Defensive End Tyrone Crawford expected to be even better in the new 4-3 scheme
OVERVIEW
Crawford ended up at Boise State by way of junior college, proving himself an intriguing prospect after only one year starting at defensive end. He is originally from Canada, where he played for a year after high school and prior to attending Bakersfield College. He has a ton of upside considering his history, and possesses prototypical NFL athletic ability and speed on a perfect frame. He can play in various spots across a defensive line and could be plugged into a number of schemes. He is a bit of a late riser and has second- or third-round value as a developmental prospect with starting traits.
STRENGTHS
Crawford is quick to get out of his stance off the snap and has the instincts to slant and hit a gap without being touched. He is consistently disrupting plays in the backfield and is a solid tackler. He is a strong player who shows an explosive arm jolt when keeping blockers at bay. Crawford shows good change of direction when stopping to pursue plays laterally. As a rusher, his motor is the key to his success. He never gives up on a play and can use a strong burst to get to the quarterback. He has a ton of upside, which undoubtedly increases his value to teams that are set at the position and willing to work with him. Despite his size, he could play special teams early on in his career because he has such a nasty demeanor.
WEAKNESSES
Crawford is a raw prospect with limited experience. He will be a project early on for the team that selects him, and he could have a tough time adapting right away. He has had trouble getting off double-teams, which is likely a technique issue. Crawford will need extra coaching and attention to adjust to the NFL.
Third round: DE Tyrone Crawford from Boise State
How he fared: Crawford contributed his rookie season and showed flashes that he will be even better in the Cowboys’ new 4-3 scheme in 2013. Crawford finished his rookie season with 33 tackles and five quarterback pressures.
How he rates: He still has more to give and should contribute more in his sophomore campaign.
College: With their second selection of the 2012 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys addressed the defensive line with a raw and gifted athlete in Tyrone Crawford in the third round (81st overall). While with the Cowboys, the team will look to use his talent and size to the advantage of the defensive line rotation as he adapts to the pro game. During his final two collegiate seasons at Boise State, Crawford collected 76 tackles, 13.5 sacks, 27.5 tackles for loss, two quarterback pressures, four forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries – including one for a 32-yard touchdown – and blocked two kicks while starting 11-of-25 contests. Crawford began his collegiate career at Bakersfield, Calif., Junior College where he totaled 80 tackles, 14.0 sacks, 27 tackles for loss, six quarterback pressures, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery in two seasons.
FLASHBACK- 2012 NFL DRAFT: Cowboys believe Matt Johnson has the potential to start at safety
2012 NFL Draft Prospect Scouting Report:
Matt Johnson
Eastern Washington safety Matt Johnson was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys with the No. 135 overall pick in the fourth round. His senior season ended abruptly after sustaining a biceps injury. Johnson isn’t likely to start in his rookie season but he will compete for a role on the team. The Cowboys had their eye on Mark Barron and athletically, Johnson is comparable on paper.
Johnson ran a 4.54 40 yard dash and bench pressed 225 pounds 18 times at his pro day. That is quite a performance for a defensive back. Johnson is quick to diagnose plays and reacts well instinctively. He plays physical to the whistle and wraps up cleanly. He’s at his best playing downhill which likely limits him to the strong safety position.
When in man to man coverage, he lacks the footwork to keep up with precise route runners. His feet will get tangled and he’ll fall back on his speed to make up for it.
Fourth round: S Matt Johnson from Eastern Washington
How he fared: Johnson missed the entire season and didn’t even practices much because of injuries to both hamstrings.
How he rates: He hasn’t played in a game yet, but the Cowboys believe he has the potential to start at safety for them in 2013.
College: The Dallas Cowboys aimed at bolstering their defense through the 2012 NFL Draft and hope they landed another defensive back to accomplish the task when they selected Matt Johnson with their second fourth round pick (135th overall). Johnson started every game he played (45) while at Eastern Washington, having his senior season cut short after seven games with shoulder surgery. During his time at EWU, Johnson amassed 341 tackles – fifth all-time in school history – 22 tackles for losses, 30 pass breakups and 17 interceptions – one shy of the school record – while exiting as the university’s all-time leader with six forced fumbles. As he makes the jump to the pro level, Johnson looks to pick up where he left off before the injury as he posted back-to-back 100-tackle seasons as a sophomore and junior.
TRENCHED IN HISTORY: Dallas Cowboys Offensive linemen
BEST
Rayfield Wright, Fort Valley State
1967, seventh round (No. 182 overall)
Wright’s career as an offensive lineman landed him in the Hall of Fame. It’s an honor that would have been impossible to predict from his start.
The Cowboys bounced Wright between tight end, tackle and defensive end during his first three years in the league before establishing him at right tackle. Once there he became a fixture with six consecutive Pro Bowl selections. Wright was named All-Pro four times and earned a spot on the NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1970s.
Larry Allen, Sonoma State
1994, second round (No. 46 overall)
He is the second Cowboys offensive lineman to earn a bust in Canton and will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame later this year.
Allen is arguably the most dominant lineman of his era. His 10 Pro Bowl appearances with the Cowboys is the most of any offensive player in club history. Allen was named to the Pro Bowl as a right guard, a left tackle and a left guard, something no one else has done.
Honorable mention: Herb Scott (13th round, 1975), Mark Stepnoski (third round, 1989), Erick Williams (third round, 1991), Flozell Adams (second round, 1998).
WORST
Howard Richards, Missouri
1981, first round (No. 26 overall)
Until Tyron Smith with the ninth overall pick was selected in 2011, this was the last time the Cowboys have used a first-round pick on an offensive lineman. Richards was primarily a backup for five of his six seasons with the Cowboys. He started 16 games during a disappointing, injury-prone career.
Robert Shaw, Tennessee
1979, first round (No. 27 overall)
This is the first time the Cowboys used a first round pick on an offensive lineman. Shaw began his career backing up John Fitzgerald at center and showed promise. But two months deep into his third season, a season that saw the only three starts of his career, Shaw blew out his right knee in a loss to San Francisco. He tried to come back for 20 months but was never able to pass his physical and retired.
TODAY IN COWBOYS HISTORY: 1980 – Roger Staubach announces retirement
Roger Staubach, with his wife Marianne at his side, takes to the microphones at Texas Stadium Monday, March 31, to announce his retirement as quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys. DMN file photo
ROGER HANGS ‘EM UP – March 31, 1980
Roger Staubach, the man who became the yardstick to measure the success of the Dallas Cowboys during the ’70s, announced his retirement from football Monday at one of the largest news conferences ever held in Dallas.
Roger and Marianne Staubach (backs to camera) are shown at Texas Stadium as he announces his retirement from football. DMN staff photo by John F. Rhodes
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12 Roger Staubach
Quarterback
1969-1979
Good things come to those who wait, and certainly the Dallas Cowboys’ patience in the mid-60′s was supremely rewarded, landing one of the best players in franchise history because they were willing to wait for Roger Staubach to fulfill his military commitment.
For that five years of patience, the Cowboys landed the guy who became better know as “Roger The Dodger” over the next 11 years when he was selected to six Pro Bowls – including five consecutively – and was named the NFL Players Association Most Valuable Player in 1971. Staubach led the NFL in passing four times and was selected to the All-NFC team four times.
“He is one of the finest to ever play the game,” Green Bay Packers Quarterback Bart Starr once said of Staubach. “I think if I had some of that Staubach competitiveness, I’d have been much better.”
Staubach was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1964 from the Naval Academy, but did not join the team until 1969 due to his Navy commitment. Former president and general manager Tex Schramm signed Staubach to a futures contract in a hotel room in 1964, actually scribbling out the details on a legal-sized tablet that would have Staubach paid annually to participate in training camp practices when he had enough leave built up.
The 1963 Heisman Trophy winner showed up in Dallas as a 27-year-old rookie, but in those 11 seasons still managed carve out the franchise’s all-time leading quarterback rating of 83.42 and became a five-time NFL passing champion. But Staubach almost became better known for his scrambling ability, and to this day ranks eighth on the Cowboys’ all-time rushing list with 2,264 yards.
EYE CANDY: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders prepare for 2014 calendar shoot
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Whitney Isleib (Click HERE to watch video)
As the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders prepare to head out on the 2014 calendar shoot, we recap some of the best looks from their 2013 calendar shoot in Mexico.
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Emma Mary (Click HERE to watch video)
DIAMOND DEZ: Jerry Jones, Jason Garrett see Bryant’s maturation translate to results
Turning A Leaf – Head coach Jason Garrett and owner/general manager Jerry Jones think Dez Bryant’s just tapping into his potential. His rise to prominence on the field can be attributed to his development off it, according to Garrett.
IRVING, Texas – The Dez Bryant that head coach Jason Garrett sees now is much more jubilant and upbeat than the one who darted into his office after the Bengals game in December.
Bryant’s transformation on and off the field began before that game, but his increased maturity level, grit and determination were all evident after the thriving star snagged a late touchdown grab in Cincinnati, only to find out after the game he broke his finger and could need season-ending surgery.
“He was very emotional after he hurt his finger up there in Cincinnati,” Garrett said. “He hurts his finger, then catches what amounted to be the game-winning touchdown pass with a broken finger, and he came in the next day and our doctors saw him and they said, ‘Hey, you broke this thing, we might have to do surgery, you might have to go on IR.’
Bryant was stunned. Garrett said it took the receiver just two minutes to run into Garrett’s office and plead to finish the season and play through the injury.
“It just speaks to his passion, his maturity as a player,” Garrett said. “He’s always been very physically tough, and we saw that right from the start. He demonstrates that he’s mentally tough, too, and I think he handled it well during the season, and I think he’s handled it well since then.”
RISING STAR IN DALLAS: A dream come true for tight end James Hanna (Special Feature)
After starting high school as a wide receiver playing six-man football, James Hanna has since faced a steady diet of adjusting and learning.
A Cowboys fan growing up in the Dallas suburbs, Hanna transferred from Coram Deo Academy to Flower Mound for his last two years of high school and thrived in the more intricate 11-man game. Despite outstanding success at the position, though, his large body seemed to make him a better fit at tight end, a position he converted to as a college freshman at Oklahoma.
Hanna gradually made the transition, and after a big senior year with the Sooners that saw him accumulate 27 receptions for 381 yards and two touchdowns, the Cowboys made him their sixth-round draft choice (186th overall) back in April.
Now the highly athletic 6-4, 249-pound Hanna wrapped up perhaps his most challenging task, adapting to the more complex duties required of an NFL tight end.
“I think I have a lot to learn. I think I haven’t reached my potential or even close to it,” says Hanna, who wowed scouts with his blazing speed at the 2012 Scouting Combine, topping all tight ends in five different categories. “The coaches told me it’s on me to develop as much as I can to be the best I can be, and I feel like, with hard enough work, I can be a contributor here.”
SPAGNOLA COMMENTARY: Dallas Cowboys just may get the last laugh in free-agency 2013 (Special Feature)
IRVING, Texas – Broke out chuckling several times this week, in private mostly, so time to out myself.
First over the NFL’s new rule prohibiting ball carriers outside the box from lowering their heads to create forcible contact with the crown of the helmet, and vice versa for defenders trying to make a tackle.
Makes sense to me if the NFL is going to continue its vigilance to prevent head injuries in the game, but evidently not much sense to former running backs like Emmitt Smith, Tony Dorsett and Marshall Faulk, who have been crying out against this now 15-yard penalty from the highest mountain someone will transport them to.
Funny thing is, not sure any of those three ever ran over a defender outside the box using their suddenly-turning knuckleheads, but the guy who made a living running over guys – mashing many to the ground in violent fashion – Jim Brown, says this is a good rule, that he never believed sticking his head where it didn’t belong was ever a good idea.
Maybe the NFL should call this the Earl Campbell rule. That is, if anyone has seen the Tyler Rose’s physical condition anytime lately.
Then, not quite two full weeks into free agency, reading different website’s free agency Winners and Losers lists have been very amusing. Here is one that had me mumbling “Are you kidding me?”and since I was by myself, I’m guessing no one else heard. Now you will.
“ARE YOU KIDDING ME?” because as would be predicted, the Dallas Cowboys were consistently in the “big losers” category of free agency. Guess few have been moved by the re-signings of Phil Costa and Ernie Sims, and as Jerry Jones is wont to say, I’m smiling when I say that.
But here is what got me: The New York Giants were listed as winners. Winners, I’m telling you, for re-signing linebacker Keith Rivers and offensive tackle Will Beatty, free-agent tight end Brandon Myers to replace Martellus Bennett and linebacker Dan Connor, cut by the Cowboys, and for good financial and performance reasons.
Come on, seriously? Winners for that?
Sorry, and I probably do this every year, but allow me to climb on my soapbox to scream about how overrated free agency really is, that in most cases you overpay on the open market for whatever you purchase. Because – get ready – if these free agents are so good, why are they available?
Teams, usually no matter their cap problems, figure out how to keep guys worthy of big contracts. Building a team through free agency, meaning bringing in a bunch of mercenaries who have no sweat equity in the program, to me is asking for trouble. How fortunate the Cowboys didn’t fork over the other $10 million for some guy named Nnamdi that summer of 2011. Two years later the Eagles have divested their $60 million investment in him
OK, there, that’s off my chest.
TOP 10 FRANCHISE HISTORY: Ranking the best Dallas Cowboys Safeties
IRVING, Texas – Rarely do the Dallas Cowboys enter a draft with a glaring need at any one position. And by the time it rolls around this late-April, who knows how badly the Cowboys will need a safety.
But as it stands currently, the team looks rather thin at the position, where they are counting on two players who were injured most of last year.
In fact, the Cowboys have entered several drafts in recent history with a need at safety.
So it begs the question: Just who are the best safeties in Cowboys history. It’s a rather top-heavy list, but the staff of DallasCowboys.com came up with the Top 10 with a couple of honorable mentions.
Honorable Mention: The two that just missed the list had tons of potential. One developed into a better safety after he left and the other had injuries that plagued his career. Randy Hughes was supposed to be the next Cliff Harris and was on his way. He was a fearless hitter with range. But constant shoulder injuries cut Hughes’ career short, as he played just six years with the Cowboys (1975-80). As for Brock Marion, a seventh-round pick who started alongside Darren Woodson, he went to the Dolphins and became a Pro Bowler.
10. Bill Bates – It’s hard to leave off Bates on any list, particularly one featuring top safeties. That was Bates’ position his entire career although he thrived more as a special teams player. Still, Bates started 47 games, mostly from 1986-88. He did have a game-clinching interception in the 1991 playoffs to give Jimmy Johnson his first postseason win.
9. Mike Gaechter – A seven-year starter for the Cowboys in the 1960s, Gaechter had 21 career interceptions, good for 13th in club history. His 100-yard interception return for a touchdown was the longest in franchise history for nearly 40 years before Bryan McCann (101 yards) topped that in 2010.
8. James Washington – If you can make the list for basically one game, Washington has done that. Sure he was a starter on Super Bowl teams, but not all of them. He was a role player at times, but his performance in Super Bowl XXVIII was one of the best in franchise history. He was involved in three turnovers, including a game-tying fumble return to open the second half. He also had an interception and forced a fumble in the Cowboys’ 30-13 win over the Bills.
7. Michael Downs– He was the other rookie free agent who started for the Cowboys in 1981. Everson Walls got the attention with his 11 interceptions as a rookie, but Downs also made his mark early on. He started for about eight seasons on some bad teams, but still led the team in picks three times and is tied for fifth in franchise history with 34 interceptions.
6. Roy Williams –When the Cowboys drafted him eighth overall in 2002, they anticipated having the best safety in franchise history when it was all said and done. As it turned out, Williams did make five Pro Bowls and had quite a start to his career. But it turned sour toward the end as he struggled in coverage and seemingly lost his confidence. Still, early on, Williams was a catalytic player who had a presence in the secondary. Continue reading →
2013 NFL FREE AGENTS: Dallas Cowboys Restricted and Unrestricted Free Agents 2013
Here is a list of the Dallas Cowboys 2013 Restricted Free Agents and Unrestricted Free Agents:
| Player | Position | FA Type | Status |
| Victor Butler | DE | Restricted | New Orleans Saints |
| Michael Coe | CB | Restricted | Not expected back |
| Kenyon Coleman | DE | Restricted | New Orleans Saints |
| Derrick Dockery | OL | Restricted | Not expected back |
| Eric Frampton | S | Restricted | May re-sign |
| Mike Jenkins | CB | Restricted | Oakland Raiders |
| Felix Jones | RB | Restricted | Philadelphia Eagles |
| L.P. LaDouceur | LS | Restricted | Extended thru 2017 |
| Brian Moorman | P | Restricted | Not expected back |
| Kevin Ogletree | WR | Restricted | Tampa Bay |
| Charlie Peprah | S | Restricted | Not expected back |
| John Phillips | TE | Restricted | San Diego |
| Brady Poppinga | LB | Restricted | Not expected back |
| Ernie Sims | LB | Restricted | Extended thru 2013 |
| Anthony Spencer | LB | Restricted | Franchise Tag |
| Phil Costa | OL-C | Unrestricted | Extended thru 2014 |
| Danny McCray | S | Unrestricted | Extended thru 2013 |
ABOUT FREE AGENCY
- Exclusive Rights Free Agents: Under uncapped rules, players with three or less years with accrued NFL experience; they have no negotiating rights and can only sign the offered tender with their current team
- Unrestricted Free Agents: Players free to negotiate and sign with any team
- Restricted Free Agents: Under uncapped rules, players with four and five years of accrued NFL experience whose teams still have right of first refusal, meaning they can match any offer sheet or receive draft pick compensation based on the players’ tender levels
TOP 100 PROSPECTS: Dallas Cowboys 2013 NFL Draft ranking worksheets
The 2013 NFL draft is 40 days away. In anticipation, here is part of a five-part series to keep you abreast of the top NFL draft prospects and help you evaluate how the Dallas Cowboys did. As of this date, Dallas will pick at #18, 47, 80, 111, 144 and 175.
These ranking worksheets should come in handy as we anticipate (and critique) each pick during the April 25, 26, and 27th extravaganza. Going into the Dallas Cowboys 2013-2014 season, look for the team to address priority needs on the offensive line, defensive line, and safety positions. Looking further, consider picks at tight end (due to Phillips departure), backup running back depth, and other roster role players. Finally, never discount the possibility of a top ranked player falling into the Cowboys lap at a position they (or we) haven’t targeted as a ‘need’.
Refer back to this page, and five-part series, when the draft begins. Helpful links are below. They should open in new tabs. Enjoy!
- TOP 100 NFL DRAFT PROSPECTS
- TOP RANKED OFFENSIVE LINE PROSPECTS
- TOP RANKED DEFENSIVE LINE PROSPECTS
- TOP RANKED SAFETY PROSPECTS
- TOP RANDOM DRAFT PROSPECTS
TOP 25 OVERALL
|
|
PLAYER |
POS |
HT |
WT |
COLLEGE |
GRADE |
|
|
Warmack, Chance |
OG |
6’2″ |
317 |
Alabama |
95.9 |
|
|
Joeckel, Luke |
OT |
6’6″ |
306 |
Texas A&M |
94.3 |
|
|
Jordan, Dion |
DE |
6’6″ |
248 |
Oregon |
93.5 |
|
|
Floyd, Sharrif |
DT |
6’3″ |
297 |
Florida |
93.5 |
|
|
Fisher, Eric |
OT |
6’7″ |
306 |
Central Michigan |
93.3 |
|
|
Milliner, Dee |
CB |
6’0″ |
201 |
Alabama |
93.2 |
|
|
Johnson, Lane |
OT |
6’6″ |
303 |
Oklahoma |
92.9 |
|
|
Mingo, Barkevious |
DE |
6’4″ |
241 |
LSU |
92.8 |
|
|
Lotulelei, Star |
DT |
6’2″ |
311 |
Utah |
92.0 |
|
|
Austin, Tavon |
WR |
5’8″ |
174 |
West Virginia |
91.4 |
|
|
Ansah, Ziggy |
DE |
6’5″ |
271 |
BYU |
91.3 |
|
|
Richardson, Sheldon |
DT |
6’2″ |
294 |
Missouri |
90.7 |
|
|
Cyprien, John |
FS |
6’0″ |
217 |
Florida International |
90.6 |
|
|
Patterson, Cordarrelle |
WR |
6’2″ |
216 |
Tennessee |
90.6 |
|
|
Brown, Arthur |
ILB |
6’0″ |
241 |
Kansas St. |
90.3 |
|
|
Jones, Jarvis |
OLB |
6’2″ |
245 |
Georgia |
88.8 |
|
|
Warford, Larry |
OG |
6’3″ |
332 |
Kentucky |
88.3 |
|
|
Werner, Bjoern |
DE |
6’3″ |
266 |
Florida St. |
88.2 |
|
|
Smith, Geno |
QB |
6’2″ |
218 |
West Virginia |
88.0 |
|
|
Moore, Damontre |
DE |
6’4″ |
250 |
Texas A&M |
87.9 |
|
|
Hopkins, DeAndre |
WR |
6’1″ |
214 |
Clemson |
87.8 |
|
|
Vaccaro, Kenny |
SS |
6’0″ |
214 |
Texas |
87.7 |
|
|
Te’o, Manti |
ILB |
6’1″ |
241 |
Notre Dame |
87.5 |
|
|
Cooper, Jonathan |
OG |
6’2″ |
311 |
North Carolina |
86.9 |
|
|
Allen, Keenan |
WR |
6’2″ |
206 |
California |
86.3 |
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