Pick Your Starters — Defense
Posted: April 28, 2005 @ 6:03 pm
It’s time to take stock of the impressive turnover the Cowboys have undergone this offseason. By adding eight rookies to the four free agents signed in March, Dallas could see its starting 22 turnover by as much as 33% this year.
Clarence Hill of the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram offered his projections for the starting 22 today. I’d like to focus on the defense, where the most change will occur.
Last year, the Cowboys ended the season with this lineup:
Hill assumes the Cowboys will play a base 3-4 and will have at least five new starters, with Jason Ferguson replacing Carson at nose tackle, Demarcus Ware taking Marcellus Wiley’s place and standing up as an OLB, Marcus Spears replacing Glover as a DE, Bradie James taking the departed Dexter Coakley’s place and Anthony Henry starting at right corner.
I disagree with the basic premise of this foundation. The Cowboys may shift between 3-4 and 4-3 fronts, but given the experience levels of their personnel, I think they will move as slowly as possible, meaning they start the season in the same base 4-3 we’re used to.
That does not mean, however, that the changes will not be extreme. Barring any major injuries, here’s the lineup I see on opening day in San Diego, with new starters in bold:
The experiement Mike Zimmer aborted last summer is tried again, with Ellis finally getting his shot at right end. Spears stays at left end, where he played in college, thus shortening his learning curve.
Bradie James will get the first shot on the weak side, but he’s been very slow to pick up the pro game. Burnett was more productive as a collegian than James, and if he’s got more saavy, he’ll get the job.
Scott is playing on borrowed time here, but I’m not ready to pencil in Justin Beriault sight unseen. Don’t rule out a veteran pickup just before the season if the kids both stumble. Remember, the ‘92 Cowboys gave Ray Horton almost half a season before they threw in the towel and traded for Thomas Everett.
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Are you saying when we run a 4-3 that Ware isn’t going to start at OLB (weakside probablly) ??????
3-4 Only ???
Singleton has experience, but this was our #1 pick- #11 over all
i agree w/ chadd i mean ware has more explosiveness than singleton
In the 4-3 I see
LE - Marcus Spears, DT - LaRoi Glover, NT - Jason Ferguson, RE - Greg Ellis
SOLB - Demarcus Ware, MLB - Dat Nguyen, WOLB - Kevin Burnett, I cant see singelton starting over Ware. Common Ware is much faster, and stronger.
LCB - Terrence Newman, FS - Pete Hunter, SS - Roy Williams, RCB - Anthony Henry.
Why wouldn’t Hunter want to play safety? I say when training camp starts he takes the position.
do not be surprised to see many fronts…….you might even see Ellis rotate in as an OLB in a 3-4 front…….it could get very interesting……
Zimmer has not had this kind of talent ever. He did pretty good with what he had, and we were experimenting with the 3-4 last year. I think you will see a lot of different fronts…….the nice thing is we got players in the draft and FA that are going to contribute right away……..
if we are in the 4-3 i say ware will be replacing spears maybe on passing downs. or maybe ferguson coming out and spears moving over and ware taking an end spot. whoever starts doesnt mean ware or whoever wont be getting ALOT of playing time, it just means they wont have there name on the starting front 7..
Hey guys here are some statistics. I’ve been doing some research on FS and SS around the league according to the team rosters and depth charts. Here is what I have gathered. Of all the players on NFL rosters to include this years draftees, only 3 FS/SS are shorter than 5′10″ their heights are 5′9″ from Baltimore, 5′9″ from Detroit, 5′8″ from Pittsburgh, and 5′8″ from Indianapolis. And of those only Bob Sanders from Indianapolis is a starter but he does weigh 206 lbs. I also noticed that most starting FS/SS are 6′0″ to 6′3″ tall. There could be a reason why Glenn might not fit into being a FS for us but I wouldn’t complain if he is since we need the best playmakers out on the field and I would say that Glenn will be a playmaker for this team. I would hope that Glenn plays in the nickel but using him to cover one of the wideouts and move either Henry or Newman to cover the slot. I would really like to see BP play the rookie Berriault at FS. Many people had him projected as a 2nd or 3rd rounder in this draft so just because he happened to fall into our laps with a 6rd pick doesn’t mean that he can’t produce as a 2nd or 3rd rounder. Maybe he is this years Parcells hidden gem that he usually gets with a 6th round pick. Tell me what ya’ll think.
3/4: LE-SPEARS NT-FERGUSON RE-ELLIS
LOLB-bURNETT ILB DAT IB JAMES ROLB WARE
4/3 LE SPEARS/ELLIS 3T GLOBVER NT FERGUSON RE-ELLIS/WARE
SAM-BURNETT MLB DAT WLB JAMES/WARE
SECONDARY STAYS SAME- LC-NEWMAN RC HENERY FS ? SS ROY WILLIAM
ROY MAY SLIDE DOWN AND PLAY A LINEBACKER DURING PASSING DOWNS. THIS WILL STILL GIVE US A BASE LOOK BUT PERSONNEL OF NICKLE.
During training camp and the pre-season (and possibly even into the regular season), the ‘Boys D is goin to see MANY different looks. The possibilities are almost endless:
In the 4-3 (majority of plays early in the season will go 4-3, but that may reverse itself as the season goes on):
RDE: Spears (since he will outweigh Ellis by over 20 lbs, even at 295)
NT: Fergusen
DT: Glover
LDE: Ellis
SLB: Singleton
MLB: Ware (jest kidding, itll be Dat)
WLB: Burnett (he’ll win job in camp)
This is the basic, completely uncreative base D –but of course, we have some sweet options now depth-wise, so i’ll be adding some more possible one’s in a bit, but i have to eat first
I think the base defense will be the 4-3, Ellis moves to Leftside this year
LDE NT DT RDE
Ellis Ferguson Glover Spears
WSLB MLB SSLB
Singleton Nguyen Burnnett
LC FS SS RC
Newman Hunter Williams Henry
In the 3-4 Base
LE NT RE
Ellis Ferguson Spears
WOLB MLB MLB SOLB
Ware Nguyen Burnett Singleton
LCB FS SS RCB
Newman Hunter Williams Henry
Passing 3rd downs in the 4-3
LDE DT DT RDE
Ellis Ferguson Glover Ware
WLB MLB SLB
Singleton Nugyen Burnett
LC FS SS RC
Newman Hunter Williams Henry
Pass rushing 4-3 (all about the speed)
DE: Ellis (don’t know whether BP will want him on R or L side in this scheme)
NT: Spears
DT: Glover
DE: Ware
SLB: Singleton (though one of our faster LBs like Thornton might be here too)
MLB: Dat
WLB: Burnett (remember he’s one of the fastest LBs in the draft)
–and of course Roy-Will is goin to be chasin down the QB as well
hey guys,
I think they will run a 4-3 and thier front seven will be:
LE-GREG ELLIS NT-FERGUSON DT-GLOVER RE-SPEAR
WLB-WARE MLB NUGYEN SLB-BURNETT
THEY THEY WILL SHIFT TO A 3-4 IN DIFFERENT SITUATIONS
STARTING LINE UP WOULD BE:
LE-GREG ELLIS NT-FERGUSON DT-GLOVER RE-SPEAR
LOLB-WARE MLB-NUGYEN MLB-JAMES ROLB-BURNETT
I THINK THEY MIGHT TRY AND TRADE SINGLETON FOR DRAFT PICKS OR DEPT AT OTHER POSITIONS IE. WR, FS/SS, DL.
I THINK WE SHOULD PLAY OUR YOUTH BECAUSE OUR DEFENSE PLAYED PRETTY GOOD THE LAST FEW GAMES LAST YEAR AND SINGLETON DIDN’T PLAY. WHAT DO YOU ALL THINK? IT COULD ALSO FREE UP CAP SPACE FOR NEXT YEAR.
i think if anmyone is planning on glenn playing fs there are nuts (no offense) prolly not gonna happen, i think hunter, beriault, scott, or davis is gonna have that spot. glenn is a corner they are saying hes gonna move outside on 3 receiver sets and move newman to the slot, either way our secondary is immensely better
as of now anything can happen with the starting def. but all i kno is for the first time in a while we got a lot of depth on D in big D
Could any of you imagined the mess we would have been in last year if Newman had gotten hurt and went on IR?It would have been ugly to say the least!Now let’s shore up our OT situation and start kicking some ass!~~~~GO COWBOYS!!!!~~~~~~
While it’s not very helpful–I think any idea put in this thread is a possiblity (well…you know what I mean). With so much size and speed (especially at LB–Ware and Burnett add a lot there) in the front seven–the mouths of BP and Zimmer must be watering at all of the looks they can throw at unsuspecting offenses. In the secondary, youth is our best asset. Roy-Will, Newman, Henry, whoever starts at FS, and the slew of young DBs we have, not to mention A-Glenn helping to provide depth, we should be better than last year. All our FS needs to do is keep play in front of him. INTs will come with pressure on QB forcing mistakes and hurried, bad throws (last years’ problem).
if the draftees are what we are hoping for then hell yah we will have some mistakes by qb’s. we are putting alot of pressure on the new guys though. what are the odds of them all becoming studs (we hope) but honestly who has a real chance of getting cut in you guys eyes? anyone, none all?? what i think youll have 1-2 that are bust but who?
Singleton is an important guy to this team. I’m not necessarily talking about the number of tackles he makes either (though he has made a few). If Singleton is gone, only Dat and A-Glenn (not starter) remain as veterans behind the DLine. That leaves a lot of guys with three years of experience or less to be out there (Roy-Will, Newman and Henry should be fine–but they are still young). Even if Singleton doesn’t start, he is still a significant part of what BP is trying to accomplish.
You are absolutely correct mike–we are speculating here that all of our draft picks will come in and start and make a difference. I know you’re just playing devil’s advocate and you, like the rest of us, want all these guys to become “studs”. But the fact is that not everyone can play up to their pre-draft “potential”. I think BP is high on developing young players–so I don’t think any of them will be cut (unless they are grossly underperforming) this season. I’ve said it before, BP can coach average players to be very good. Who knows, some of these young guys might not even see the field this season–One thing that he has always believed in, is that putting players on the field before they’ve developed solid technique and style, will lead to them developing bad habits, being “inconsistent”, and making silly mistakes. He’s doing that with Henson, probably with some of his recent picks, and might do it with some of this years picks as well. But then again–who knows??
I’m inclined to agree with using a 4-3 base. I agree with you for the most part, but am hoping James can challenge Singleton for the one OLB spot. It will probably end up being Al though. I thought about Ware in the base D, but I don’t know about having 2 of 3 of our starting LBs being rookies. We’re looking at 5 new starters on D to begin with. I doubt they throw a 6th round rookie out at FS to start, but depending on how he transitions he may be in there before the year’s out.
I agree with Hill’s picks on offense, but Polite may challenge Barnes at FB. I wasn’t impressed with DB last year, and if Polite is more comfortable with the speed of the game it could be close. Another minor question mark would be RT. Tucker wasn’t great, but he was making a transition to tackle after 4 years at guard in college. If he shows decent progress in camp, he’ll probably earn the job by default.
I think that on that Sunday in SD when our D first take the field it will be in a 4-3, with ELLIS, FERGENSON, GLOVER, SPEARS and at LB: WARE, DAT, JAMES, and in the 2ndary: NEWMAN, WILLIAMS, HUNTER?, HENRY….i think they blitz 1st play with Ware just for the fans…then the probably switch it up…you know we all want to see Ware rushing the QB 1st play of the 2005 season
The only sure thing in the defensive backfield is Roy at SS.
lilbeast: The main thing I disagree with you on is Beriault starting at FS. First, I hope you’re right because he seems to be the only true FS prototype on the roster who hasn’t had his chance and failed, but I don’t expect him to see in more than spot duty and special teams - which is typical of a late round, first year player unless they come in and show something that no other scout in the league noticed. Possible, but I doubt it.
Rafael: I say Lynn Scott has had his chances and still has shown little and he’s going into his 5th year. It’s time for him to put up or shut up. Maybe with more talent around him and good pressure up front, something good happens. If he were really good, then he should have risen to the occasion by now like Roy did.
Mike: why do you think Glenn won’t play FS? I’ve seen people strongly believe he won’t but haven’t seen any good argument to support that belief. I disagree and have given why I think that and I’m sure everyone is tired of hearing it so I won’t go into that again. See the previous thread if you want more info on that.
I still see Hunter being traded before training camp unless he has a heart-to-heart with Bill and stops trying to dictate his role. How can those disagree with one CB (Glenn) moving to FS, but think another (Hunter) can make the move? Stop talking about the size argument and give me a football argument. I have already addressed the size rebuttal. In other words, size wasn’t an issue when he was in man coverage against bigger recievers. He plays much bigger. It’s less of an issue at FS.
Mike (again): part of who I think won’t make the cut has to do with how many DBs Bill plans to keep. I think a number of those that tried and showed nothing last year, could be gone especially if they’ve had 2-3 years to prove they got game. Those guys are out of excuses.
Other than that, I won’t predict the other positions because I believe there will be so much rotation in the front 7 that it’s more important who will be finishing the game.
Something said more than once by people in the Cowboys organization, is that Ware was chosen over Merriman, for what he will be 3 years from now, not so much what he is now. I’m sure we will see plenty of him, and I hope he’ll have the same roll as LT did with Parcells, which is to rip the QB’s head off “LIKE A BUNCH OF CRAZED DOGS!!!”
I’m thinkin the same thing about Polite on Offense as David-IN. I remember him getting a little playing time in one of the final games, and I remember thinkin he didn’t look as shabby as I thought he would be. He looked quicker than Barnes did as well, but I can’t really remember.
And I think we’re goin to play enough 3-4 (plus some of my “rush 4-3″) that Ware will get a bunch of snaps, while not starting at OLB. Remember, he still has to make the transition to LB–though I’m sure he’ll eventually start there no matter what scheme we are in (most likely not this season–but he seems to be intelligent enough to pick it up quickly). At FS, I really don’t know. Dantzler hasn’t been all that impressive at S out in Europe (though I haven’t heard much). I think Keith Davis would be a candidate at SS if we didn’t have Roy–though he might be able to become a FS (Davis could–Roy tried and…well, he’s a SS for life). I also think Bruce Thornton will be given a good look at CB this year–because he was a 5th rounder if i’m not mistaken, and they seemed to like him before the injury–so we will see.
Barnes is the prototypical blocking FB and think that he will start to help with the RT situation. Also with Dan Campell back and more ephasis on the running game I think that Barnes will more in there alot along with a 2 TE Set. Watch out for Keith Davis. He played FS in Europe and was one of the best D players in the league. He had 5 int i believe. He deserves to lose the job anyway. I think the front 4 are set tho as long as we run the 4-3 first.
Alright– Here’s why Glenn won’t be moved to FS (though Hunter won’t either). Saying he’s too small is simplifying this issue way too much–It’s not all about numbers. The reason for his inability to play FS, is that he isn’t a good enough tackler–partly because he is small. He just isn’t a very strong-bodied guy (all relative of course–but in terms of NFL players). He isn’t a sure tackler–which have been the knocks on him his entire career. At CB you don’t have to be an excellent tackler to be able to keep the ball from getting into the endzone–agility, vertical jump/timing, and speed can make up for lack of tackling ability. But as a safety–especially the FS– the last line of defense, a guy who has to be able to take down RBs streaking towards the endzone, a guy who has to be able to knock the ball out of the hands of a TE, you really need a guy that can tackle.
I think Thorton was a 4th rounder
And mickey spagnola said he thinks AGlenn is smaller than he is listed. said “he is no taller than 5-8″.
I believe Bill and Zimmer are going to try to rotate packages of defensive linemen. If these new draftees can play, it is likely there will be a complete package for third downs and passing situations (say the 3-4) and an entirely different package for other downs. If they can pull that off, the other team’s O-line will be worn out by the 4th quarter. In the golden years, the Boys won many games using that principle. The LB’s would rotate also as talent availablity permits. Those are my 2 cents. What do you think?
Rafael,
I know it sounds like I am kissing your butt, but I see the same exact line up, except Lyn Scot at FS. I think Beriault has a good shot at winning the starting spot. This front 7 suits 1st down best, as it is suited to stop the opponents running game. Some teams though will see a different front 7. Atlanta would definately see the 3-4 a heck of a lot with Ware at OLB, containing Vick’s ability to get to the outside. Teams that start 3 wide with a TE and a single back backfield, like Indy, will probably see 6 DBs with Dat at MLB, and a smaller faster D-line (Ware, Spears at DT, Glover, and Ellis would be my guess).
All I can say Tony, is that you are correct. Depth and Versatility are the strengths of our Linemen on Defense now–and hopefully our LBs will be the same way. That will make us exponentially better on defense than we were last year.
And Eric–In your “Atlanta 3-4″–Burnett might be moved to OLB for his speed, and they could bring in guys like Singleton, James, and whoever else to clog up the middle to stop him from just waiting for a hole to open up in the pocket so he can just take off. And at Indy– I would again keep Burnett out there. He came into college as a safety, and has a good combination of speed and size. Probably with Dat out there along with 5 DBs, or maybe even by himself with the 6 DBs (he’d really have to be good though for this to happen–BP doesn’t trust young guys right off the bat–and that would be a big responsibilty)
We are going to be one of those teams that rotate so much the starting line up won’t really matter. Anyone have the list of starters on offense? Is Tucker listed at the RT?
Dave,
I like Burnett inside in the 3-4. James and Ware would be nice on the outside, but James has to start stepping it up, or someone else might jump ahead of him. This 4 LB set would really give Dallas the ability to attack from anywhere.
And our LB core is very young so that is a great thing
in all honesty i dont think they brought in glenn to even think about playing fs. he was brought in for depth and for tutiledge. hes here making the league min. for veterans, second hes short which isnt the biggest reason, they have to, have to develope sme younger guys. bp told beriault when he clled him to tell him they are drafting him that the position is his to lose pretty much, thidly i think glenn doesnt have to play fs for us to succed. i think in 3wr sets him on the outside with henry and newman in the slot roy at ss, we could put one of the younger guys in and we will be fine. the reason we were burnt so much isnt cause roy cant cover good, its no pressure on the qb thats the whole reason, well prolly 3/4 of it. glenn is here for 2 reasons only depth, and leadership…..
In a 4-3 you are going to see Ware as a Pass Rushing DE…….a LOT probably more than at LB in a 4-3. You will also see Spears, Ellis, Glover, Ferguson probably start as the DLine but a lot more rotation……..you might even see Spears rotate in as a DT on a passing down…….along with the other D Lineman…….think of it actual possiblities………ah…..what a difference a draft makes
Bill has enough linebackers………that if Bradie James does not step up he can ride the bench. I thought James played ok, but he seemed out of position some. That is something that can be corrected. I still have hopes of him emerging, but I think Burnett is definitely a starter at LB. Also you got a guy like Singleton that gives you more flexibility and a veteran presence. Dat Nguyen is going to love playing with guys like Ware and Burnett next to him and behind the likes of Spears and Ferguson and Glover. Just wait…….he is going to be a Monster next year with all that help. But if any of the LBs needed motivation the likes of Ware and Burnett sure ought to help!!!
This talk about us not planning for the future and wanting to win today. We have potentially 4 starting rookies……..Ware, Spears, Burnett and Bierault………who knows if Ratliffe also gets in the mix and then a healthy Canty……….that sounds like a lot of youth to me………and a good mix with the young secondary adding AG in there. Henry, Newman, Williams, Glen at Nickel………BestPlayerAvailable at FS……..Ellis and Glover still got some miles on them……..This looks like a team that could be in the playoffs for a number of years to come.
Who knows who Bill will find in his Rookie Free Agents………but all you whiners about kickers can take note that he brought in a ROOKIE K and and a Punter as well. Free Agents Not Draft PICKS!!!!
yeah i would really like to see some K come in and put some pressure on Cundiff. He missed alot of FGs last season and couldnt kick the ball off. If we aren’t facing the Giants I think Cundiff may go lol.
Jon,
He brought in a rookie F.A. QB too!! I guess Bledsoe is in trouble?
Some kickers are worth a damn, like Landeta was to the Giants in the 80’s. Just ask the Bills how much a PK is worth? The Patriots just franchised Viniatari. Once they are established in the NFL as reliable P/K they are worth a draft pick. Drafting one, well he has to play for a major program and show he can kick under pressure. Like it or not, they are a part of the game, and decide their fair share.
dave,
Here is a football reason A Glenn won’t start at FS. With the explosion of the three and four wide reciever sets the role of the slot and nickel positions have came to be as needed as the FS position. Darren Woodson was the heart of this team for many years and he controlled the defense on the field but he could have done this from other spots as well. I also agree with Davis-ct in that the FS is the last line of defense againts RB and remember he only weighs 185 pounds. But my main point is slot and nickel has grown to be as needed as FS.
On Burnett or Singleton over Ware at 4-3 OLB.
I could see Ware on the weakside, but from I’ve read of his college play, he didn’t have a lot of coverage responsibility. In the 4-3, unless you’re in a very strong blitz package, most of your pass responsibilites involve dropping back. I think Ware was picked to go forward, as a rush end in a 3-4 or as a situational rusher in a 4-3. That’s where I see him getting most of his time as a rookie. Not jamming and covering tight ends. Not as a pursuit guy on running plays, but as a rusher.
Jon
They probably sign the K & P for the rookie mincamp this weekend to provide special teams stuff. Cundiff & McBriar can’t participate, only first-year vets can attend (P Clinton Greathouse). I’m sure they were signed for competition in training camp too, as we know BP tries to discourage anyone from growing complacent at any position. But I’m pretty sure I read that BP is OK with Billy & Mat.
This is highly speculative, but it would be interesting if Vanderjagt is cut as a cap casualty, which was speculated in the media some time ago (and the Colts did draft a K). I wonder if BP/JJ would consider a new kicker then? Probably too pricey.
StarStruck,
If Vanderjagt is cut, I think Dallas interest would depend on the price. Dallas has made do with low cost guys, but they were VERY interested in Morten Andersen when he was released by the Saints in the early ’90s. They were outbid for him.
Mike (and others who responded), I have always said AG is not the ideal person to play FS. What I have said and have a hard time reconciling in my mind is that I still say I think he’s one of the 4 best DBs on the team and that he will be in more than the nickel or waiting for someone to get hurt as other have suggested his role being. He’s still too good in coverage to have him on the sideline while putting a lesser player on the field. If we’re in a 4 man backfield, I see him somewhere in there even if it means one of the other guys are at FS. My main argument, for what it’s worth, is that he could have been in the role many are suggesting, in Houston. A lot of people don’t realize that the guy grew up in Houston, has family and friends here, and didn’t want to leave. He left because he didn’t want to be a nickel back and I’m sure he and Bill had this talk first. Whatever Bill said his role would be, I don’t think he was told it’s as a backup. If he’s on the field on most plays whether it’s FS, nickel, slot, whatever, I can buy what you’re saying. But like I said, I don’t believe for a second that he came here to just come in on 3rd down passing situations. I believe he will be on the field in well over half the plays. Plus, I give him more credit for playing FS than the other guys on the roster who’ve tried and failed. The only other legitimate names I’ve heard at FS are Hunter and Beriault. I still think Hunter gets dealt unless he comes to his senses like Allen did last year. Beriault - sorry he has a lot to prove. Not saying it won’t happen, but coming in as a 6th rounder, he has too much to learn as most rookies do before I think he’s ready.
Yes, FS is the last line of defense, but he is also the guy who will have to be back there helping either Newmann or Henry in order to double-up on TO and the other guys who can’t be left to man coverage.
If the FS has to make a play as the last line of defense, then we obviously had a major missed assignment or bad execution further up the field. And anyone who thinks AG can’t run down a player and tackle, they haven’t seen him play. I have seen him play live several times in the last two years so I don’t have any doubt he could be a serviceable option at FS if not ideal.
Do I think he’s the ideal option? No. But I just don’t see anyone else on the roster who has a head and shoulders advantage. As mentioned earlier, the popular choices here seem to be (in order from what little all of us know) Hunter, Beriault, and Scott. 1) I still think Hunter is dealt unless he comes to his senses; 2) Beriault has a lot to learn and a lot to prove first. I think he’s at least a year away barring a very quick learning curve; 3) Scott is going into his 5th year and still hasn’t separated himself from the others or proven he is anything other than a backup.
So, I understand your argument, but I don’t think the idea can be dismissed based off of the competition at the position. The only way I see AG as a backup is if he knew it coming in and he’s here because he just wants to play for Bill and thinks this is his best bet to get a ring in the next couple of years without moving too far from home. Regardless of the position, I think he’s in at least half of the defensive plays. But don’t discount the idea until someone else steps up.
By the way, I do want to point out that I do have some background having been a DB in HS. I know you can’t compare HS to the NFL but most people will tell you the concepts are the same from HS to college to the NFL with the only differences being the talent level and the speed at which everything is played. I don’t point this out to sound holier-than-thou, but just to point out that we put our best 4 DBs on the field even though our
FS was the slowest and smallest of every other option. I actually beat him in a foot race once while I was running backwards. Yeah, we had faster guys on the bench. We had guys who could hit harder. But, this guy just had a knack for the position. Because of this, maybe my opinion has been biased, but I don’t think you can say it’s a definite non-possibility.
Okay, discuss amongst yourselves. I’m going to bed.
Rafael,
Of course he couldn’t be a cap buster, but I wonder how much the money issue outweighs BP having a guy who “is money”? Like Forrest Gump said, having it “is one less thing to worry about” (or something thereabouts).
dave,
I think AG certainly becomes part of the arsenal and only time and training camp will tell which bullet he is in the chamber. I get that you’re enamored with the guy and I’m glad to read it because I have little tangible knowledge about his recent play and having someone rally in his defense is encouraging.
I’ll add a thought about one of your comments:
“Whatever Bill said his role would be…I don’t believe for a second that he came here to just come in on 3rd down passing situations.”
What if Bill convinced him there would many of those situations, constituting a lot of playing time? Seems to me one goal of the revamped front seven is to create more plays for losses, thus more third and longs.
Only change I would make with the initial post of players would be at FS. I think in the end Hunter figures out that’s how he gets on the field.
Other debate that seems to be going on is at LB where some are saying Ware over Singleton. The first game of the season I think it’s Singleton. Reading the article from Spags the other day when other rookies started, it just takes time.
The best about all of this… there’s enough depth at most positions that this discussion can actually take place
Long live Bill
Eric,
The only reason the FA QB was brought in is because none of the QBs on staff are allowed to participate in rookie mini camps. They had to bring somebody in. I would be really surprised to see an undrafted rookie FA make this team, unless Romo decides he doesn’t want to be here.
I should have read your post more carefully. Now I see what you were saying.
dave,
I see your point in having the best db’s on the field is most important. What I’m saying is slot and nickel is being used more and more and I can’t see where A-Glenn would be any less usefull in that situation. But I guess we will see.
Dave,
Since you never responded to me on a previous thread, I’ll repost:
Glenn is smallish, if you ask me, but true his expierence is useful on the field. Even so, he is more expierenced down in the 5-10 yard range, not playing center field.
My point is our safeties should make plays predicated on the fact that they know their assignments and keep the offense in front of them. They aren’t going to be in one on one coverage with WRs a whole lot. So “coverage†skills should be tuned up enough to cover a TE or RB. Nor should they be hawking for INTs. Let the front 7 put pressure on the QB, and take advantage of errant throws … that’s were our safeties’ INTs should come from. My point about Tampa was Jackson and Lynch played deep zone and didn’t let up big plays, but did an excellent job of tackling receivers before they can rack up RAC yards. Jackson’s and Lynch’s success came from playing proper angles and knowing their assignments. Neither of them were “coverage†guys, but both were good tacklers.
Again, Seatle’s starting secondary led the league in INTs last year, with two big hitters playing safety. Dallas had great success against the pass two years ago, with Roy and Darren …. could you imagine how well these Boys would have played if they had a good front 7?
And Dave,
…… Glenn is smaller than your average FS, not only that, but he is lanky, with long arms.
Some teams play agressively with their safeties, but I don’t think Parcells will. It seems to me that he will make an offense drive the length of the field, and not give up big plays. Don’t be suprised if he goes with the sure tackling rookie to create a strong physical presence with Roy.
AG will play CB. In nickle packages more than likely Henry will slide inside and cover the slot reciever while Glenn stay out on the corner. That’s the most recent stuff I read, with a prefrence for the bigger CB to cover the slot.
Rotation! Rotation! Rotation! Just like Glover and Ellis would get worn out playing DE in the 3-4, you wouldn’t want Ware tiring out playing OLB in the 4-3. Let the kid do what he does best, and limit the other stuff. Let him pressure the QB off the edge!
beriault is a big hitter like roy, would you like to be the wr’s going out looking one way for roy and BAM beriault hits from the other side, or vice versa. hard hittting safeties are more then just hard hitters. seen pinkston ploay from philly lately? the wr’s get a lil nervous when thye think they are gonna get popped. i like the idea of 2 hard hitters back there..
mike,
I like it! Play physical!
My momma always told me, “Keep it simple stupid! … that’s the meaning of love (a K.I.S.S.).” …. Well, deny big plays, and limit runs after the catch (RAC) … sounds pretty simple to me.
Hey Beirault could be an FS……..Hunter could be an FS…….Scott was our FS……….Davis will be thrown in there……….the secondary which was so awful last year might just be the most radically improved with Henry and Glenn and a healthy combination of the Rookie Committee from last year and if Hunter will quit listening to his agent and realize that he is four years out of college making $656,000 dollars………come on Pete…….shut up and play.
we got another Corner that can actually cover AG………love that FA pick up!!! What we are paying him compared to what the Redskins will be paying Carlos Rodgers……..we got Henry who was vicious as a nickel back but will probably start at Corner……….Newman is going to step up this year. He is a player. He will be very much improved!!!!
Now the big help comes in two other ways…………Rivera and the O LIne will be improved which will help Julius Jones have a 1600 yard rushing year and another 400 recieving. Yep……in the two tight end set…..and with our WRs…….JJ is going to be a likely target and running some screen passes……..do not be surprised if Rogers or Petittie step up at Tackle……….and our O line is also improved.
Finally our Front Seven. Ware and Spears are immediate help at getting to the Passer. Canty when healthy will be also. Burnett will help also, but from what I have seen this guy should help out or run support too. Mix in Jason Ferguson and whoever makes the team out the rest of our DE, DT, and LB corp……..and we are going to have for the first time in my memory some playmakers. Watch Nguyen this year………he is going to have one of those years!!!! Ellis will probably join Glover at the probowl next year cuz…….he will have a bunch of sacks.
While I am extremely optimistic, I know we will have our share of rookie struggles. But…….we are also going to be dramatically improved on the Defensive side of the ball. Julius Jones and the combination of Barber, Lee and Bickerstaff………possibly kincade……giving us a clock eating rushing attack to add to what was a pretty potent passing attack last year……..these boys are going to be tough to beat. Witten, Jones, Glenn, Johnson, Barber……..Drew Bledsoe is going to like this offense. Any Veteran QB loves a good tailback and a TE……..we are going to be a time consuming long drive offense. That is how you beat teams like the Eagles, Giants and Redskins. Keep their defense on the field and beat em up with Smash mouth football. By the Fourth Quarter Julius will be running wild…………and I see in him some really big play potential…….this guy can get up and GO……..optismism is back in Dallas as is Defense……..and who knows maybe a league leading Rusher.
I like it, I like it a LOT!!!!!
if ware isn’t starting on 3-4 or 4-3 then we picked the wrong guy at #11. He has no choice but to make himself ready to play and to impress the coaches. If he’s only in during passing downs, then he’s failed. Actually, the cowboy’s scouting department failed. And if Merriman proves to be a good/great rusher and is able to play 3 downs… again, the cowboys failed.
BP, Zimmer, LB coach, Dl coach… get your act together and get Ware (and Spears) ready to play. No excuses. No blaming yourself for not taking enough control. Do it right or tell us that you can’t do it and move over.
we are going to rotate all those guys anyway……….
Did you like Charles Haley? He did not play every down, but led our team in sacks a few times.
Just to clarify since I was pretty tired last night: I’m not saying I advocate AG specifically playing FS. I’m just saying that because he’s one of our 4 best DBs, he should be somewhere on the field on a regular, if not starting, role other than the nickel. Also, I’m not pushing for the move nor am I president of his fan club, but after Newman, Glenn, Henry, and Roy, the talent level drops way off. Most of the time, we will be doing exactly what Bill prepared for in the draft - pressuring with 7 guys up front and setting up the downfield coverage to make a play in passing situations. Hopefully, your front 7 takes care of the run and things around the line of scrimmage. This kind of pressure takes the heat off of your DBs at least a little IF you’re actually getting to the QB. The key to running the 3-4 is that 4. They are the playmakers. Most plays, you’re not going to be pulling one of your LBs to put in another DB. That only leaves 4 spots in the backfield. In order to get these four guys on the field, by saying Glenn will be playing the slot/nickel/etc and then say Scott/Hunter or someone else will being playing FS, we’re saying that a lot of the defensive packages will be dropping at least 5 guys back. I don’t see that unless we have to adjust when teams use 4 WR sets. I know there will be obvious situations where it happens, but I don’t think it will be enough to where Glenn would make a lateral move from the Texans where they play the exact same defense. As I said last night, the only other wild card is if he knows he’ll only be playing in those situations and made the trade off just to play for Bill.
What it boils down to for me is that Bill has something in his head that he certainly hasn’t shared with us, but the numbers and the facts don’t add up if you make certain assumptions like I said earlier. If AG hadn’t told the Texans he didn’t want to just be the ‘extra’ CB, I could easily accept the fact that he will be that guy here. But if AG is strictly a CB, then either he or one of the others is going to be the odd man out in the normal 4 DB backfield and we’re back to one of your 4 best DBs not being played. I think Newmann is a lock, but to be honest, how often did anyone really get a chance to see Henry play? He hasn’t exactly been on national TV so I really have no idea how good he is, but he was paid too much jack to be the 3rd CB. If one of them doesn’t play good, I don’t think Bill hesitates to pull the trigger, but I think they start the season as the two starters.
I think both sides of the argument have their merits. No, I don’t think AG is your ideal FS, but I can’t see leaving one of your best guys on the sideline in the normal 3-4/4-3 formations. And I don’t see him replacing the two young bucks at the corner. I think that the idea of him playing the position gets some thought and maybe some playing time in camp just to make sure the best possible lineup is on the field come game one. He may not be the best tackler of all the other possibilities - which is what most think is biggest rap is against him playing it - but the question to me is whether his game in the air and his quickness is enough to overcome whatever strengths the others have. Right now, it’s a position of weakness for the team which is the only reason we’re having this discussion because there is no clear cut winner and any one of 3 or 4 guys could be the starter. By the way, I do understand that CB and FS aren’t 100% interchangeable, but it does happen fairly often with an older CB which is why I won’t rule out the possibility.
And Mike, there’s nothing wrong with Beriault being a big hitter, but he’ll have to be more than that to start at FS. Roy already has the job of hitman on the team. It’s fine to have a big hit as one of your tools, but the position also requires the ability to move quickly (I have no idea about his quickness) and get in position to help out the CB in double-coverage. He also has to be able to have decent man coverage when the CB releases the receiver to him based on the read. To be honest, I know nothing about the guy so I can’t say if he has the other tools or not.
FS is the biggest unknown which is probably why this topic interests me so much.
And by the way, no one is a big hitter like Roy. Everyone is scared of him.
I’m all for finding another topic to debate though.
Follow BP’s credo: The best players will be playing. Then, Mickey Spag’s credo: Follow the money. The money trail will reveal the starters, who are presumably the best players.
Dave,
As far as AG goes……..Bill probably did not have to say too much to the guy. He lives in Texas, Played For Parcells……..and knows what he is getting.
Canty described Parcells………through a Groh comment as a Disciplinarian but a Players Coach. Man no kidding. He is not everybody’s buddy. He is part Priest, Part Salesman, Part Psychologist, Part Teacher, Part Motivator, and one heck of a football Coach……not too mention a great scout of talent.
Brian Cox said on the radio yesterday that Bill Parcells taught him to love and trust. And that a lot of his issues on the field(he never really had any off the field issues) problems came from not trusting himself or others around him. He made statements like only a guy that played for him would. Amazing………..that is why AG is a Cowboy. He knows if he is the best CB he is going to play. He also knows that a nickel back is on the field an awful lot these days in the NFL…….so he is going to play a lot of snaps anyway.
Hey, at least the person on our team that is unhappy with his situation down here in Big D is a man that is unproven, & injury prone. Unlike down in Philly & Washington where there best players wine about their contracts. Pistol Pete is lucky if he goes to any team & is a 3rd DB. I don’t know what him & his agent smoke, but they sure are HIGH.
Jon - Haley was great. But Haley was not the #11 pick of the draft. In fact, I recall we got him on the cheap. For something like a 4th or 5th round pick. 49ers just basically gave up on him because he was thought to be a cancer in the locker room. Their loss; our gain; our 3 rings.
But that was then, this is now. #11 should be an immediate impact player in today’s league. Its tought to be impactful if you’re not on the field or if your skills limits you to only 15% of snaps per game. Sure, I’m in favor of rotation and sure, Ware doesn’t REALLY have to start but he had better be in there 50% or more of the defensive snaps as the #11 pick.
I forgot to mention last night in my point about FS, is that we just brought in a guy (Beriault) that will have a very small learning curve at FS. This guy is one of the few college players EVER to have over 100 tackles in four straight seasons. Someone was showing me clips from his games, and he is very polished, and really knows how to play. People are saying he won’t play because he didn’t make enough INTs in college–but with a front 7 like ours, and Roy-Will putting that much pressure on the QB, he’ll grab his share of passes. Don’t count out a rotation in the secondary either, with Newman, Hunter, Glenn, and whoever else comes to play (this is answer for the “4 best DBs” theory). In the same way rotating Linemen will keep them fresh and dominant, our secondary can ware down WRs, all while staying fresh at the end of games and at the end of the season. When guys are able to rest, their bodies will be healthier down the stretch, and we may be able to keep some good depth goin into the playoffs (assuming we make the playoffs). And remember, AGlenn said he’d play Center for BP if he asked him to, so I have a feeling he’ll be OK with playing wherever coach wants him to play
Good point, Jon. Like I said, playing for Bill is the only reason I can see Glenn leaving ‘home’ and making what appears to be a lateral move. If he had not played for him, the move doesn’t add up from AG’s vantage.
Ware will get his time, but he is in no way ready to play LB in a 4-3 scheme (this year). He barely played rush LB in the 3-4 scheme in college, which is pretty different than constantly having to fall into coverage and help against the run. The coaches will have him on the field though, don’t worry about that, even if he doesn’t play LB in 4-3. Remember, BP wants to use less of Glover and Ellis, and the unfortunate fact is that injuries to occur sometimes. These factors, plus the rotation and the fact that we will be giving teams so many different looks scheme-wise, mean Ware will his fair share of snaps
lets put it this way……..
If Ware gets 10+ sacks last year…….regardless of how often he is on the field………he is a good pick……….
He is a rookie……..most likely an OLB in the 3-4 an a Pass Rusher in the 4-3……..he is strong enough and big enough to play every down. But wouldn’t you rather have a run stuffer out there on first down and let the speedy guy come in on a passing down?
There was a guy in the league named Lawrence Taylor………and he got an occassional breather too.
When was the last time the ‘Boys had this many options to play with?! This has gotta be one of the most exciting offseasons in a looong time!
I agree BeWare will be used situationally to start the season on obvious passing downs, eventually moving into the starting lineup. He would be most effective if he were rotated in at RDE in the 4-3 on 2nd/3rd-n-long and used sparingly as a rush-backer in the 3-4 packages, IMHO. It will take him time to adjust to playing in space, especially in coverage, in the NFL after starting every game at LDE at Troy.
In the 4-3 - DL: Spears, Glover, Fergie, Ellis; LBs: James/Singleton, Dat, Burnett; DBs: Newman, Henry, Beriault/Davis, Roy
(or how ’bout a DL made up of Ellis/Glover/Spears/Ware in obvious passing situations, or Spears/Carson/Fergie/Canty (when healthy) in obvious run or goalline situations?! So many possible/potential combinations!)
In the 3-4 - DL: Spears, Fergie, Glover; LB: Ware/Singleton, James, Dat, Burnett; DBs: Newman, Henry, Beriault/Davis, Roy (with guys like Ellis, Canty (when healthy), Ware/Singleton (depending on who starts), Glenn, etc. rotating in off the bench - talk about depth AND options!)
I realize it’s only just begun, but this is officially THE longest offseason in history. Cuz I can’t wait!!!
David-CT, I had almost made a comment about the rotation theory, but left it out. Honestly, I don’t know, but I don’t expect to see the CBs rotating a lot. I would think that would take them out of their rhythm too much. Maybe a couple of series per half, but that’s just my gut feeling. CBs don’t take the wear-and-tear that a lineman takes. If they were going to do that, I would rather it happen in such a way that the starters are playing most of the fourth quarter. That way, they are able to be in their rhythm down the stretch when it’s important.
I see Keith Davis starting at FS. Spagnola keeps saying to watch out for Davis. He deserves a chance to start because of his stellar play on Specail Teams. Like everyone says, we dont need a great FS back there because of our good corners and now great pass rush. And he can be that type of player that can run someone down that gets passed him bc hes used to it. Anyone agree?
Dave,
Look no further than Denver last year. They did great against the pass, except when they needed 3 or more CBs to cover 3 or more WRs. Denver’s safeties were Kinnoy Kennedy and John Lynch!! Their problem was their lack of depth at CB, which led to an inability to cover 3+ wide sets. Their lack of a pass rush made it extremely difficult for Denver’s entire secondary, yet they ended up one of the best defenses in the league last year. Why?
Aaron Glenn fits much better into this defense as a CB. His size dictates that, and Dallas’ need to cover multiple WR sets dictates it as well.
Get lost with this “we have a big hitter in the secondary” stuff. A safety’s main priority is to take away the big play! How can anyone interpret how well a safety tackles as a flaw in his game?? Like I stated before 120+ tackles tells me that he takes good angles to the ball, and reads plays well, and when he gets there he finishes. If Berriault can keep the offense in front of him, his ability to get to the ball should reap mighty rewards for the Cowboys.
dave,
your right on roy being the big hitter but remember darren could lay some wood as well as roy
carioca,
if ware doesnt start no big deal, doesnt mean we drafted the wrong guy. ware could contribute this year. if he doesnt start but has 5-7 sacks is that good enough? he might do that without even starting, starting is nothing in football its not like baseball where the starters stay in for the majority of the game, football is like a relay race long and has more then 1 person, because 11 guys start on defense doesnt mean that the subs wont see as much if not more time then the starters. look in our glory days of the early nineties we had 4 subs that couldve started in most other teams defense, they contributed ALOT.
carioca,
another thing we might not need him for every down anyways if someone else is better then ware at the time against the run then he comes out and the other guy goes in, haley was excellent pass rusher but in rushing downs was he in there as much as passing downs?? i dont think he was, you bring in the big guys up front and the linabackers watch the outside, doesnt mean hes a bad pick its just means we have versatility. merriman could be a better player in the end overall, but what we needed more then anything else was a pass rusher, and thats what ware is even more so then merriman…
Eric, you had my attention until the end. I haven’t called anyone out in this group and told them to get lost - even when I wanted to. We all have our opinions here and none are more valid than anyone else’s.
The truth is that Roy is the SS and his position is the one that plays closer to the line to be ready for the pass or the run unless it’s an obvious passing down and even then he’ll blitz more than most. Of the two safety positions, his is the one where he is more often paid to hit people. That doesn’t mean the FS is there to play the Deion Sanders ole’ style of tackling.
If you read what I said, it was that being a big hitter is just A tool but not the ONLY tool Beriault or any FS needs. My exact quote was “there’s nothing wrong with Beriault being a big hitter, but he’ll have to be more than that to start at FS”. He must also have decent man coverage when the CB releases the receiver to him. He must have decent speed and quickness to get to where the play is coming. I responded to Mike’s comment that Beriault would be good as a FS. I didn’t say he wouldn’t be a good FS. I expanded on what else Beriault would have to do to win the job. 120+ tackles at Ball State doesn’t say one thing about whether or not he can play FS in the NFL. If he was a sure thing, he would have gone higher. That doesn’t mean he can’t play, but it doesn’t mean he’ll make the final roster either. I hope he has a great career right were he is and have said so. I didn’t think I actually had to say that I believe tackling well is a good skill to have in the NFL. When did I ever say it wasn’t important? Want to see a scouting report on Beriault?
http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/playerprofiles/s/justinberiault.html
Before I ever saw this, I was suggesting that he’ll most likely be a special teams player his first year. The “doesn’t look natual in coverage” certainly doesn’t look good for our starting FS, does it? Or how about “May only be a situational player at the next level”? Or maybe “Doesn’t have the physical tools you look for”? I have never seen the guy play, but what I see says he played SS at Ball State. And I think I’ve seen some people here saying he would serve as a backup to Roy. Yes, it appears he’s a good tackler, but I think you read way too much into my words.
And if you had read what I said, Glenn is a better CB, but don’t tell me that “size dictates that” and being 5-8 makes him a better CB than a FS. He has played much bigger than that his whole career. What matters is the ability to play the position. Whether he can play FS, I don’t know, but I think it would be wise to get him on the field as much as his 32 year old body can handle. I’ve been hearing Dat Nguyen is too small to be an LB, but it sounds like he finally won Bill over. My posts in this thread have mainly been about exploring the possibility of getting Glenn on the field at FS because no one else is even a sure thing to be on the team at that position and I don’t see him starting over Newman and Henry.
Part of the fun of what we do in this group is play armchair GM and coach and AG is just flat out a better player than the other guys talked about at FS. Doesn’t mean he would be a good one. Doesn’t mean that Bill doesn’t already have plans for him - as has also been talked about. It’s just me putting out the idea for discussion that it is a way to have the 4 best DBs on the field for most of the plays.
And if you read what I’ve said, Glenn WILL be an asset playing CB in multiple WR sets. I said even if he does play FS, he would slide over to the 3rd CB when necessary. It’s during that majority of the time we’re in a 3-4 or 4-3 that I’m playing coach to see if getting our 4 best DBs on the field is a better option than going with those who don’t want to be here, have been here for a while and haven’t made a name for themselves, or a 6th round rookie who hasn’t done anything yet.
I’m not putting down your belief in Beriault as FS, but I’m betting we don’t see him at DB unless a game is already decided. Even if it’s not Glenn, he still has to beat Hunter if he’s here, Scott and any of the other stiffs they’re bringing back.
So, if you’re going to call me out, at least read what I say and try not to read into it what I don’t say.
Remember–none of us here are the coach of the ‘Boys, so everything we put in here are opinions. That means instead of telling other people they are wrong, we try to support our ideas and whatnot.
dave, I think an important distinction that has sort of been made, is that there is a very big difference between Big Hitter, and Good Tackler. And I know AGlenn has played much larger than his size during his career, but that is something that is much more easily done at CB than it is at either S. A CB can keep the ball out of a WR’s hands, and doesn’t have to tackle him, or plays close to the WR and can get to him quickly after he catches it and gains momentum and starts trying to break tackles (applies more to the need to be able to stop RBs and bigger guys). And I think I remember that Beriault played both SS and FS in college. And hey, don’t play down the significance of a guy makin 120 tackles from the S position in only 11 or 12 games. And he played like that for all four years. I think BP knows what he’s doing with this pick.
Strengths: Is a hard-nosed, tough, aggressive and powerful SS type. Has a great frame to continue to add bulk. He decent range in zone coverage and adequate straight-line speed. Shows excellent instincts and diagnostic skills. Makes his reads quickly. Is aggressive but disciplined. Won’t take a lot of false steps and takes good angles in pursuit. Has adequate ball skills in coverage. Is at his best, however, defending the run. He diagnoses the run quickly, takes solid angles, fills hard and plays with reckless abandon. He is a powerful tackler who also is solid in terms of his open-field tackling skills. Rarely misses a tackle he should make.
Weaknesses: Has adequate but not good speed. Has the frame to get bigger but needs to add the bulk and prove that he can play with the same quickness with extra mass. He is just a decent athlete. Is better coming forward than he is when forced to turn and run. Has adequate range in zone coverage for a SS, but lacks the catch up speed to make up for a mistake and doesn’t show great closing burst when chasing down the ball in the air. Also has limitations in man-coverage because of somewhat stiff hips and lack of ideal top-end speed.
this is about beriault, reason hes not good in man coverage is lack of ideal speed? 4.56 is not slow, his hips (from kiper) this is deffinetely something that can be fixed and maybe bp knows how to fix this. all im saying about this is 2 hard hitting safeties is better then 1 if beriault can cover which we will find out even its its average hell be fine, if we have no passrush like last year hell get burnt. part of learning part of being a rookie. go to http://www.dallascowboys.com bp told beriault its his spot to lose.
Just to add what mike said, look back at what the “draft gurus” said about Darren Woodson’s ability to play Safety.
And dave, while I think you have a point about the best DBs needing to be on the field, I think you’re generalizing too much. In the NFL, there is a difference between CB and FS and SS. Different types of physical abilities are needed, among other things. There is a reason why most teams don’t just convert CBs to FS’s, or why the guys that do try to convert are not as successful as they were before. I haven’t actually done the research on this though, but in quickly browsing, this is what I’ve noticed. Anyone who knows of a couple of good examples to prove me wrong, now’s youre chance to speak up.
Also dave, Glenn will be an asset, no question. But it sounds like he just isn’t going to be playing on the inside (I’m taking that to include S). Henry has the experience playing in the slot, so with 3+ WR sets, Glenn moves outside and Henry in. That’s one scary thing to be lookin at for Offenses (of course, they probably won’t get much of a chance to see it behind our many options for rushing the passer).
This is how a good discussion is carried out (kudos to dave, mike, and whoever else. Why us Cowboys fans are the best)
Dave,
Sorry if it wasn’t you who wrote, “… we have a big hitter in the secondary already.” My comment, “Get lost with ….” … wasn’t aimed at trying to get rid of anyone, more like get rid of the comments about Beriault’s ability to tackle is a flaw in his game while playing FS. We all have opinions and I respect yours. If you recall on a previous thread, I asked for your opinion.
TY mike!!
Dave,
If Glenn’s size doesn’t “dictate” playing CB, then name one successful safety his size.
can someone find darren woodsons 40 yd time please im tying to find it but having no luck. itd be nice to see what people thought of him coming out of college…
found it he had 4.40 time so he is faster then beriault, which helps in coverage, obviously
At RDE Greg Ellis, At DT Laroi Glover, At NT Jason Ferguson,At LDE Marcus Spears, At ROLB Demarcus Ware, At MLB Dat Nuguyn, AT LOLB Al Singleton, at RCB Anthony Henry, At LCB Terance Newman, At SS Roy Williams, At
I think it will be
4-3 Defense
LDE- Greg Ellis
DT- La Roi’ Glover
NT- J-Ferg
RDE- Marcus Spears(Short Yards)/Demarcus Ware(Passing downs)
LOLB- Al Singleton
MLB- Dat Nguyen
ROLB- Kevin Burnett
CB- Terrence Newman
FS- Roy Williams
SS- Justin Beriualt/Pete Hunter
CB- Antony Henry
NB- Aaron Glenn
DB- Lance Frazier
3-4 Defense
LDE- La Roi’ Glover/Chris Canty(could start if healthy)
NT- J-Ferg
RDE- Marcus Spears
LOLB- Greg Ellis/Al Singleton
MLB- Dat Nguyen
MLB- Kevin Burnett
ROLB- Demarcus Ware
CB- Terrence Newman
FS- Roy Williams
SS- Justin Beriualt/Pete Hunter
CB- Antony Henry
NB- Aaron Glenn
DB- Lance Frazier
i dont care who starts i really like the depth.
So based on the idea that if Ware does not start and become an impact player this draft pick was a waste. I believe that many were considering Aikman a waste that first year. We must remember that the difference between high school and college is almost the same as the difference between college and the NFL. In high school you might have one or two players that were gifted with outstanding talent. In college maybe 5 or six players had outstanding talent. In the pros everyone has outstanding talent. Those that can make the transition to the speed of the game become starters, those that can’t play special teams or become what they trained for in college. People with much less talent have made great contributions to teams that have won super bowls. We have had a few of them in our history in Dallas. Bateman comes to mind. Size and speed are great predictors of talent, but heart and desire are great predictors of winners. Whether this years collection of draft picks makes dramatic impact on our team is only speculation. They seem to have all the ingredients to become a great group of players. Time will tell. We tend to forget that making the transition from being a great college player to a great pro player may take a little time. Before we pass judgement on players and their lack of ability maybe we should give them a little time to show us what they have. I am not saying that talking about them and what this team will look like next year is not great fun. It is. I love this site and all of your comments. I spend a little of everyday lately reading what you all have to say. It brightens my day to hear all of the love and excitement everyone has for Our Boys. Barring any drastic problems it looks like the NFC East is in for some Cowboy heartache. I anticipate the reaction to this post and apologize profusely if I have aggravated anyone with my views. Jaoocf. (just and old, old cowboy fan)