Good Hamlin, Bad Hamlin
Posted: February 27, 2007 @ 11:34 pm
Hamlin would seem to be the better of those [Hamlin and Deion Grant] but he struggled big time against the deep pass this year.
KC Joyner on Ken Hamlin’s 2006, Espnet
Ken Hamlin was having and excellent season before he was injured in an off the field incident. Hamlin was stopping nearly 70% of the passes thrown at him and was especially good at shutting down the deep pass.
– Joyner, Scientific Football 2006, on Hamlin’s abbreviated 2005 season
If you could promise me the 2005 Ken Hamlin, I’d take a shot at him later this week. Here are some comparisons with his 2005 play and Keith Davis’, to give you yet one more piece of evidence to show Dallas really, really, I’m begging you please really, needs a free safety.
Coverage Safeties, 2005
Success %
1. Nick Collins, Green Bay, 69.4%
2. Ken Hamlin, Seattle, 68.2%
24. Keith Davis, Dallas, 45.2%
Yards Allowed
1. Sam Brandon, Denver, 94
2. Ken Hamlin, Seattle, 135
32. Keith Davis, Dallas 435
Yards per Attempt
1. Sam Brandon, Denver 4.1
5. Ken Hamlin, Seattle, 6.1
36. Keith Davis, Dallas 15.6
SYPA — Success x YPA
1. Sam Brandon, Denver, 1.4
3. Ken Hamlin, Seattle, 2.0
36. Keith Davis, Dallas, 8.6
Deep Pass Success %
5. Ken Hamlin, Seattle 80%
11. Brian Dawkins, Phila., 71%
34. Keith Davis, Dallas, 42.9%
Deep Pass Yards Allowed
13. Chris Hope, Pitt., 125
15. Darren Sharper, Minn, 138
36. Keith Davis, Dallas, 369
Let’s put aside the question of which Hamlin will show up in 2007. Look at Davis’ coverage stats. They were the worst in the NFL that year among coverage safeties. Joyner’s synopsis echoes something said on this blog time and again this past year, “what happens when a team has two run safeties and no cover safeties?”
Know that 36 safeties played enough to earn ratings, so Davis ranked dead last in several categories, including all the deep coverage stats. The 2006 numbers are not out, but when you consider that Pat Watkins was benched for a time to reinsert Davis, well, I think you know my take.
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Oh my Lord I hate Keith Davis. I didn’t realize the numbers were that bad. And that was in 2005! Before the major collapse!
I think a great first step for Keith would be to take a break from his getting-shot offseason training program. Keith, I am not asking you to hit the film room, or to work out, or anything at all really– JUST DON’T GET SHOT FOR ONE OFFSEASON.
Man, we need a free safety.
Raf…
I’m confused. Where’s the correlation here? PW is our FS, not Davis. Davis’ forte is ST according to the Big Tuna. FS was his secondary role and he spelled PW for a time so BP, or so it was touted, could work on PW’s mechanics at the position. From the looks of his play after his little “time out” on the bench, I’d say that it was pretty effective. Wouldn’t you?
Shovelin’ along…
Digger,
No.
In what game, Digger? Versus the Lions? Versus the Saints? The Eagles? The Seahawks?
There were games where Watkins didn’t suck out loud, but I’d like a higher standard than that. I don’t recall him standing out in any of those late games.
Tim,
I’ve been saying for a long time that a league-average free safety would boost this defense a lot. An exceptional one would make it scary.
Dallas does not and has not had league-average FS play in a while. And a better pass rush will only mask the deficiency better, not make it go away.
Raf,
I follow you logic about Watkins, which backs up why you have repeatedly said hope in Watkins is not a good option.
Good Hamlin Bad Hamlin? From watching Seahawks games I think Hamlin was helped greatly by SS Boulware. It’s not his skill set it’s his mentality “The Hammer”. I would prefer Babinuex. He’s a FS with the skill set to play corner(zone). I wouldn’t break the bank for him but he can provide depth and FS and play nickel corner if the Glenn rumor is correct.
Keith ‘Leadfoot’ Davis should never be allowed step on the field as a Free Safety ever again.
I think Pat Watkins still has a lot of talent though but he obviously needs work on his recognition and technique. Plus, Watkins wasn’t the only Cowboy Safety getting burnt last year, and even Cornerbacks Newman and Henry had some poor games in the late season slump. Basically nearly everybody but DeMarcus Ware sucked as the season went on.
If we draft a Free Safety in the first this year we are probably going to have to draft a CB in the first the year after. Newman is 29 this season, Henry 31 and Glenn (who apparently might not be around this season) is 35. Reeves couldn’t even get out onto the field when Anthony Henry was pathetically hobbling around on one leg out there last year. I hardly think anyone in Dallas thinks Reeves is the answer as a starter. It’s also twice in a row 31 year old Henry has had lingering leg injuries, 2005 Hamstring, 2006 Knee. Henry wasn’t a speedster to begin with and this isn’t making him faster, how’s he going to go if we play less cover-two (getting Roy closer) like they’ve stated they want to and most of us here want them to as well.
If though, you draft a Cornerback in the first instead of a Free Safety you might be able to solve the other problems mostly in house by moving Henry to Free Safety and having Pat Watkins backing him up and hopefully replacing him in the line-up for the 08 Season. A low to mid priced Free Agent Safety like Jordan Babineaux (only 25) could provide insurance at safety; If Henry can’t transition to FS or is injured again there’ll still be 2nd year Watkins and Babineaux to fill in, if the first round rookie Cornerback is struggling Henry can switch back to CB in a heartbeat while the rookie learns and as before Watkins and Babineaux fill the FS spot.
That way you’re not giving up on the talented Watkins after a mixed rookie year and you’re also not investing 2 first round picks in your Safety’s.
I still have hope for Watkins, and yes Raf hope is a freakin option, the same way you have hope for our 7th round OT you project as our future Left or Right Tackle even though he’s hardly even touched the field, what’s that if not hope?
If a good Corner is there in the first I think they’ll take him.
I live in Seattle, so I have some familiarity with both Babineaux and Hamlin.
I cannot plead enough to JJ to not consider either player. Hamlin is not the same after his injury and Bab’s is a liability. He is slow and gets beat alot.
Any of the big 4-5 FS in the draft will be a much greater asset (even as rookies).
Luke,
I see your point. Ilike the Babinuex option but I haven’t seen any games and didn’t watch the combine for the corners in the draft. I don’t know how many are really worth that high a draft pick. Leon Hall is rated 1 and I’ve seen him play and he doesn’t jump out at you. I’ve read good reviews about Ross and Houston. Houston had a good combine and played against good competition. Have you or anyone else seen any game film.
FanSince72,
Good to hear another from the 206 area. You really don’t like Babinuex? This year may not be the best to judge a Seahawk DB. Massive injury’s had inexperienced players out of position and the front 4 could not apply enough pressure so these guys were left covering for too long. I’m with you on Hamlin and I think they have the cap room to resign him. i wouldn’t do it but who knows what goes on in the head of the walrus.
lamonte_g
No sir, unfortunately. Here in Australia looking for college game film is like looking for a virgin at an ex-wives convention.
There does seem to be some decent Cornerbacks who will go around our pick. I’m not against drafting a Free Safety, I actually really like the sound of Michael Griffin, I just don’t think it’s our only option or that we’re doomed if we don’t get one. And as I said in my post I think drafting a Cornerback might be more helpful long term since we seem to have no upcoming prospects there and our 3 top corners are 29, 31 and 35.
Lamonte_g,
Does highlights on YouTube count? LOL.
Luke,
I like your take on the age factor. So JJ may be looking at the BPA whether it is FS or CB. There may be no move for a FS in FA. The rest of the defense is pretty young overall and they have fortified the front 7 pretty well except for NT.
I miss Australia it’s like single mans paradise, too bad I was married when I was there. Have a hot dog with peas adn mashed potatoes for me.
Luke,
Hey get it where you can, even if it’s jagged and grainy.
Lamonte_g,
Will do.
If the cowboys trade down from 22, they could use their 2nd rounders to grab a FS like Michael Griffin and DT Tank Tyler. Might have to trade our current 2nd round pick and a late rounder to move up to get Tyler.. but he is 320+ and put up 42 reps on the bench press. If they plan on moving Henry to FS, the 1st rounder could be a CB, but I’d still like to see the boys move up to get Tyler.
Babinooooooooo has had some good games against Dallas. I’m not an expert on the guy but he seems like a decent FA choice if you dont want to go the draft route. I would consider him better than Hamlin, he is young, and can play corner if needed.
He is restricted FA, I think, so I’m not sure what he’d cost.
We’ll see what happens soon.
Tank Tyler is 306 not 320+ and he’s not a 3-4 NT in my opinion. doesn’t handle double teams well and doesn’t play low enough. Though the double teams thing I got from ESPN.
I thought I read somewhere he was 323 at the combine? I did read he doesnt have the greatest lower body strength though
Raf,
Jeeeez! Great info. That’s why I find myself coming here practically everyday. “Bad” used to be a general term. From now on, when someone says player x is bad I will ask, “is he just bad, Redskins bad, or is he Keith Davis bad?”
As in: Daymieon Hughes’ 40 time was Keith Davis bad.
Even with Hamlin’s lower level of play this past year, I doubt he was Keith Davis bad. I’m suddenly all for Hamlin.
Wasn’t his injury to the head? Not like it was a knee or something. I didn’t follow it all that closely but I seem to recall something about a guy cheapshotting Hamlin with a street sign and cracking open his skull. Unless he had brain damage it’s possible a lot of his decline was due to not being able to work out.
He’ll only be 26 this season. Hasn’t even reached his peak years. A Gurode-like contract would be a no-brainer ( no disrespect to Mr. Hamlin ).
FS Michael Griffin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynFNxQ3b5-U
Luke,
Was the “leadfoot” remark about Davis having been shot? I thought he was shot in the thigh, so perhaps “lead-thigh” would be a bit more appropriate.
To my ‘Boys Brethren:
Some questions I have are: who are the top tier FA FSs? Hamlin? and who are in the next tier?
Will the Cowboys be able to negotiate with Diehlman, or is he out of range? If he’s as good or close to being as good as Hutchinson, then perhaps the Cowboys should sign him at Hutchinson’s price, gotta account for “inflation”.
If Posluzny is available when the ‘Boys 22nd pick comes around, do they draft him? LB depth is a concern and I know there have been speculation about Edwards and/or Godfrey following Phillips here, but I think it is essential that backup LBs play special teams and I doubt either Edwards or Godfrey would be doing that. I know that LB isn’t as pressing a need as FS or OL, but how does Pozluzny rate overall compared to some of the safeties being mentioned as potential first round picks? Is Aaron Ross worthy of the 22nd pick?
Tank Tyler weighed in at the combine at 306. Players do drop weight all the time to try and shave 10ths off their test numbers. It’s definitely possible he played at a higher weight.
He did do 42 reps of 225 lbs. though. Best in the bench this year. 45 is the record.
Also, Jason Ferguson is practically the same size. Tyler seems like a guy who will be consistently around 310-320 with a couple of years in an NFL program.
NT seems like a weak draft position this year.
Turbo,
I have to imagine Dielman is out of range now. Especially with us giving big money to Gurode and probably Columbo too. Right Guard seems like a position a rookie could fill well enough — someone like Ben Grubbs or Aaron Sears — at $1.5m per season for the next 5 years rather than $7m.
Posluzny seemed to have an ok combine if he moves ILB in a 3-4 or OLB in a 4-3. I think I’ve seen him in the picks 25 to 40 area.
If we want depth though, someone like a Desmond Bishop (Cal) or Anthony Waters (Clemson) would be around in the 3rd - 5th round area. Plenty of prospects to work in behind our current starters and challenge them down the line. I also think Burnett could make a move inside. He seems Donnie Edwards-like.
Aaron Ross seems definitely worthy at 22. Chris Houston probably moved ahead of him. He’ll probably be the 4th best CB. Maybe 3rd if Revis runs poorly on his Pro Day.
Im not so sure that Aaron Ross is worth 22.
The reason I say that is guys like Jonathon Wade and David Irons. These guys could be just as good or better. There are quite a few CBs a some are gonna slip to the second maybe even the third.
Personally, I’m not so sure Ross is worth 22.
I’d be interested to know who the coaching staff thinks is the better player-
Aaron Ross vs. Micheal Griffin
Brian Robison vs Tim Crowder
I wonder if they’d give their true opinions to Wade and Jerry
Darrelle Revis
Eric Wright
Jonathon Wade
David Irons
Fred Bennet
Aaron Ross
there is also Marcus MacCauley, Leon Hall, Chris Houston, Zach Bowman, CJ Gaddis, Ken Scott
are just some of the good corners in this draft. I think you can get a guy with similar talents as Ross in the second
Dallas 2007 Draft picks;
Round 1 Pick 22
Round 2 Pick 21 (53)
Round 3 Pick 23 (87)
Round 4 Pick 22 (118)
Round 5 Pick 21 (149)
Round 6 Pick 20 (180)
Round 6 Pick 25 (185)
Round 7 Pick 1 (193)
Round 7 Pick 23 (215)
Round 7 Pick 26 (218)
Ten picks in total.
Now, the Trade Up scenario;
Picks 2 (53) and 3 (87) equal about round 2 pick 5 (37). Then trade picks 5 (149), 6 (180) and 7 (193) that equal about round 4 pick 19 (115).
That would give Dallas;
Round 1 Pick 22
Round 2 Pick 5 (37)
Round 4 Pick 19 (115)
Round 4 Pick 22 (118)
Round 6 Pick 25 (185)
Round 7 Pick 23 (215)
Round 7 Pick 26 (218)
That’s still 7 draft picks. Two early picks where Dallas should get two good players for their biggest weaknesses at the CB/FS and OG/OT spots. Two fourth rounders for a pass rushing OLB and a WR or NT. Then three late rounders for projects or practice squad.
Dallas is not a rebuilding team. Ten rookies from the draft are not going to make this roster, especially considering that 7 of our current draft picks are on the second day plus any rookie free agents that are brought in. These guys will end up cut or get poached from the practice squad if they’re any good. Trade up and get the best defensive back and offensive lineman we can get in the first 2 rounds I say.
Luke,
Definitely a scenario that might be in Jerry’s mind. We don’t need much. I agree that two impact guys in the top 40 might ultimately help us more immediately.
1 (22) - Chris Houston, CB or Reggie Nelson, FS
2 (37) - Aaron Sears, RG
4 (115) - Laurent Robinson, WR
4 (118) - Jacob Ford, OLB
versus something like…
1 (22) - Chris Houston, CB or Reggie Nelson, FS
2 (53) - Doug Free, T (future T, starts out at G)
3 (88) - Aundrae Allison, WR
4 (118) - Marshall Yanda, G
There’s definitely more certainty with the first group. The second scenario falls apart if we can’t find a OL at pick 53.
Maybe we fix the DB spot in Free Agency. Then we have our cake and eat it too
Trade back with the 1st, and trade up with the 2nd. We’d still have a shot at bringing in 2 impact guys, retain a 3rd rounder, and pick up the extra 4th.
1 (29) - Ben Grubbs, G
2 (37) - Joe Staley, LT
3 (93) - Johnny Lee Higgins, WR
4 (115) - Tanard Jackson, FS/CB
4 (118) - Jacob Ford, OLB
We all keep batting around what to do at ROG. There are two options;
if you want a stop-gap to give Proctor or a draft pick development time, how about Adam Timmerman formerly of St Louis, or
my fav pick for the money would be derrick dockery. he is big, rates well, played for U Texas and is from Texas. Washington is desparately trying to resign him but it doesn’t look like it will happen. He must want out.
1)RAF, but what about D Grant?? Where does he fall in those rankings? Can you give just #’s if you don’t want to give the whole report?
As you said, even if he’s ranked 15th or 20th, I’ll take that-average is great when compared to Davis.
2) Some of you are ’surprised Davis was ranked so low’? Did you watch the games last year?
just a question…following those glenn rumors about leaving for houston, is he gonna play with us unless we cut or trade him? What woudl houston give us for him? Could we give them our first and him for their first?
Surrounded by Skins,
no way would the texans give up the 8th pick in the draft for the 22nd and an old CB on his way out of the league. I dont know that they’d give anything over a 5th rounder for him… if that.
These Aaron Glenn rumors sound silly to me. Houston released him outright in 2004 when he was 32. The difference between the draft value points of the Cowboys pick at 22 and Houston at 8 is equivalent to a low 1st round pick. I don’t see any trade for Glenn happening.
for your reading pleasure, might be a little outdated.
The Cowboys have signed their top free-agent priority, inking center Andre Gurode to a six-year, $30 million contract that includes a $10 million signing bonus.
Now the Cowboys are turning their attention to unrestricted free agent offensive tackle Marc Colombo and restricted free agent punter Mat McBriar. They would like to get long term deals done for both before the start of free agency March 1.
Look for the Cowboys to pursue Texans defensive end Antwan Peek in free agency.
TEAM NEEDS/OFF-SEASON STRATEGY
The Cowboys did most of their free-agent damage before the season and during the season with contract extensions for prospective free agents like TE Jason Witten, safety Roy Williams and linebacker Bradie James. As a result, the Cowboys don’t have any major free-agent decisions, although they would like to re-sign center Andre Gurode, tackle Marc Colombo and kicker Martin Gramatica. The Cowboys would like to re-sign them but they are not going to break the bank for them. Consider restricted free-agent punter Matt McBriar and receiver Pat Crayton priorities as well, of course at the right price.
The Cowboys are likely going to cut quarterback Drew Bledsoe, rather than paying him a $1 million roster bonus in March. Look for them to pay a $5 million roster bonus to keep receiver Terry Glenn. The good news for them is they don’t have to make a decision on receiver Terrell Owens’ $3 million roster bonus until June.
1. Offensive line: The Cowboys must upgrade on the offensive line. It’s a familiar refrain in Dallas but no less crucial. They need help at guard and tackle especially with veteran guard Marco Rivera facing his second back surgery in the last three years.
2. Safety: The Cowboys have been held hostage by their poor play at free safety for the last three years. It has hurt the production and play of strong safety Roy Williams. The Cowboys are toying with the idea of moving cornerback Anthony Henry to safety. If not they could take one in the draft, possibly Florida’s Reggie Nelson.
3. Wide receiver: The Cowboys contend they are bringing back both Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn. Although both were productive last year, they are old. The decline is coming if it hasn’t already. The Cowboys must get younger at receiver. This is a major area of emphasis in the draft.
MEDICAL WATCH: No updates.
FRANCHISE PLAYER: None.
TRANSITION PLAYER: None.
UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
OT Marc Colombo came out of nowhere and was the biggest surprise of 2006 not named Tony Romo. Will be back.
K Martin Gramatica solved the team’s questions at kicker. The Cowboys want him back at the right price. They will not pay big money for a kicker again.
S Tony Parrish never really got a chance to show what he can do. It’s unlikely he will be back. But he could be invited to camp at the right price.
LB Al Singleton was a luxury for the Cowboys last season. His run here is probably over. He is no longer a starter and cost too much to be a spot backup.
DE Kenyon Coleman came out of nowhere to have his best season in 2006. But he is not a starter. So the Cowboys will only pay so much. Will get a chance to return as a role player.
C Al Johnson lost his starting job. There is no need for him to come back. The Cowboys have upgraded the position. He will look for a starter’s job elsewhere in 2007.
RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
P Mat McBriar was a Pro Bowler last year. The Cowboys would like to work out a long-term deal for him, although don’t be surprised for them to slap the second-round tender on McBriar.
WR Patrick Crayton is a solid third receiver. The Cowboys want him back and will likely put a high tender on him so they can cover themselves in case he gets a better contract on the market.
TE Brett Pierce is just snake bit. The Cowboys liked his potential but he missed much of the past two years with a knee injury. Could be brought back to camp.
CB Jacques Reeves is a quality backup and special teams player. But he is not starting material. He will be offered the standard restricted free-agent tender to return.
CB Nate Jones has had a nice run for someone who has no future as a starter. The Cowboys like his versatility at safety, cornerback and special teams. They don’t want to let him go.
LB Ryan Fowler is a solid backup inside linebacker and special teams performer. But he has no future as a starter in Dallas. Will be invited back to training camp.
FB Lousaka Polite yo-yoed on and off the roster last season. He lacked the toughness the Cowboys wanted to be a starting fullback. He will be invited to training camp because the Cowboys have limited options at fullback.
LB Junior Glymph showed potential as a pass rusher although production is limited. He has yet to make any significant plays. Will get offer to come back to camp.
EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS
DE Stephen Bowen had one sack in the only game played this year. Might have something for next year.
S Abram Elam is a very good special teams player and has some potential as a safety. This could be make or break.
G Cory Procter has shown potential in practice, but he has yet to play. He might be needed next year with Marco Rivera facing surgery.
G Joe Berger was picked up late in the season for future potential. The Cowboys hope he can develop like Marc Colombo.
DT Montavious Stanley was a 2006 draft pick who was cut in training camp. He was brought back late in the season for depth purposes. He still has yet to make an impact.
PLAYERS RE-SIGNED
C Andre Gurode: Potential UFA; $30M/6 yrs, $10M SB.
J-Man
I hope that more people than the folks on this blog hear us talking about Dockery- I CANNOT understand why he is not in the buzz around potential RG targets.
CapeBreton,
Can’t paste entire articles here, just a short section from it and the link to it. It’s a copyright problem.
The Glenn stuff doesn’t make any sense to me, either– he rejuvenated his career in Dallas. With Houston, he was about a year away from being out of the legaue. I know part of Glenn’s allegiance was to Parcells, not the Cowboy organization, but I still don’t see any reason for him to want to move on unless he’d be getting a financial windfall, and I don’t see any reason for the Cowboys to move him for equal value (which would be a second day draft pick), since it would deplete an already thin CB corps.
I think Watkins will be the starting Free saftey next year. He made some bonehead plays this year but to say he didnt suck out loud implying when he wasnt on the hot seat he was still stinking it up is just wrong. He was in on many plays and seemed to play well when he didnt have a rookie moment. I thnk Henrys play was to blame for a lot of it. If I was playing saftey and I watched pass after pass being caught in front of me eventually the rookie bites and I saw him get set up by Henrys poor play. If we draft a free saftey I think Watkins wins the job and we have a “bust” 1st rnd pick. I say bust because some of you see it that way. Hamlin maybe.
Norm!
don’t forget the non existent pass rush- that didn’t help ANY of our DB’s.
Even after I said all that I think Henry moves to saftey and plays nickle corner and watkins plays saftey on nickle.
It’s all about creating quality competition gentlemen. Keith Davis and Pat Watkins competing for the starting job last year was like choosing between a giant douche and a turd sandwich (a la Southpark).
Henry is our most effective DB when he’s healthy, as he has proven over the last two years. I say keep him at corner.
The trick is to draft elite talent at free safety and let him compete with Watkins for the job. For my money, I take Michael Griffin from Texas. Jerry is trying to cloak the Cowboys in the “Lone Star Flag” (to quote a local sports columnist) anyway, and Griffin is sure-fire 1st round talent with good size, good speed, solid intangibles, and serious upside. He also has the potential to be one of the best special teams players on the team (he was UT’s best for the last two seasons), and Wade Phillips is one of those old school coaches who wants young players to be able to contribute on special teams just like Parcells does.
I need information on Proctor. Some said on here even last year they thought he might be ready to play. If so why go after Deilman or Davis?
Porter from Pitt would be the team leader we are missing on defence.
swirvin- Yes, what puzzles me is it seems by design if you hear Zimmer talk about it now.
JJ talks about building from within so not many roster spots. I dont remember who put up the drafting up scenerio but if we found buyers Id be all for it.10 draft picks for this team is just silly.
If Meachum is on the board in the 2nd I think we take him if drafting best player available.
Rejoice in the fact redskins are in salary cap hell even with the extra money and they really suck.
they always find a way out though, my buddy who comes over for all games, works for Snyder….he will never let that team go under.
speaking of working for snyder, if a position paid more money and had more job growth, you might want to take it, what if it was working marketing for the redskins, you guys would ban me huh?
I agree Cowboys with the 22nd pick take Micheal Griffin Fs from Texas.
NFC Championship games we lose final seconds and in 08 Champs again
A rookie FS will not fix our problems
Is Glenn really leaving? He was playing for peanuts too…he must’ve really liked Parcells.
Griffin is alot better option than a second year Pat Watkins or a vet. Kieth Davis. I cant get out of my mind how good is hamlin that Seattle is letting him go. We need a ball hawk, a center fielder a play maker. He will be a special team ace as a rookie he just makes playes. He is also battle tested. On that Utube video they didnt even show my favorite hit of his career on Ad this year which made him fumble and took him out of the rest of the game.
Some Scouts thoughts on Griffin’s weaknesses-
http://warroom.sportingnews.com/nfl/draft/2007/players/6909.html
Struggles with the mental part of the game. Lacks instincts. Often gets caught flat-footed in the open field. Misreads too many pass routes, and ends up out of position to play the ball. Loses sight of the ball too often. Does not always use good tackling technique, missing far too many tackles for such a good athlete
I’m not sure why anyone would take a 2nd round talent (Griffin) with the 22nd pick. There will be better value at that pick than Griffin. Griffin wasn’t even the best DB on his college team. That title would go to Arron Ross.
Ross at CB with Henry at FS is better than Griffin at FS and Henry at CB.
I’m not really on board with the calls for a Joey Porter signing. He contributes 6-8 sacks per year (which is exactly what we need, I know), but I think we’ll be getting that boost from Phillips’ scheme alone. Outside of pass-rushing, he’s not a great linebacker. Farrior is a MUCH better ‘backer on that team, but Porter runs his mouth more often so he gets all the press. He gets media coverage like a Pro Bowler but isn’t any more valuable than a Clark Haggans or the 2003 version of Kendrell Bell, in my opinion.
Also, from reading his press clippings, he just seems like a total idiot. The feuds with Winslow and Stevens were absurd.
Cash
I agree- if we are going to make a move for a FS in the first it better not be Griffin
Tim,
I have no desire to see Porter on the team, but I heard, not read, some of the clips you speak of. I didn’t find them nearly as controversial as some scribes tried to make them.
Norm-
I agree with you on Meachum. I like him better than Ginn and Jarret myself. He is one WR who may be worth the first IMO.
BUt I disagree with you that a Rookie could not fix our FS problems. I would expect that 1 of the top 4 safetys would be a serious upgrade even with rookie mistakes.
I like Watkins and I think he can develop, but there is a reasn that teams let him pass round after round til we grabbed him and we had a NEED. He wasnt necessarily BPA.
How do I post a link
I know most of you dismiss the notion but
1. Jerry likes to draft Pass Rushers
(Shante Carver, Kavika Pittman, Greg Ellis)
2. Parcells taught him about Mybrid DE/LB
3. Ireland have been looking for hybrids
4. Wade would probably give approval
5. Cowboys have talked to Anthony Spencer, Charles Johson, Dan Bazuin
It is true we do ot have a NEED at SOLB, but I would not be surprised if Nelson or Lvi Brown are there that we may draft a hybrid pass rusher.
that is-
if Nelson nor Brown were already taken and not there
surroundedby skins-
do go to work for snyder. it wouldn’t be worth it. I have friends that worked for him at Snyder communications. they hated the little field gnome!
surounded-
i meant do NOT go to work for snyder.
yeah if you wondering who the cowboys are gonna draft it`s gonna be anthony spencer of purdue, congrats to those who called it, also the comment on how the secondary would look better with a pass rush is very very true just likee the o-line looked vastly improved with a more mobile romo at qb.
What if Henry moves to FS? Jerry even mentioned it several weeks ago.
Would that me n we would select a CB in round 1or go with Reeves or Jones?
I will predict that Henry does move to FS and that Dallas looks at CB Chris Houston and CB Daymeion Hughes.
Also, we could trade down and then try to pick up CB Tanard Jackson in round 2 or 3.
Gray,
Jerry backed off the Henry to FS statement yesterday.
Cape,
Let’s hope Spencer is there in the 2nd round, because he’s not going that early in the 1st.
joker-
He could very easily go that high.
Gray-
Chris Huoston measured at 5′9″ and Damien Hughes is very slow for a corner. I like Eric Wright, Jon Wade, David Irons, Fred Bennet, Aaron Ross more.
Darrel Revis is the top IMO
Cash-
I was asking that yesterday.
Ross vs Griffin
So you opinion is that Ross is a better prospect than Griffin. Why do you say so? Do you think Mack Brown’s opinion would be the same as yours?
cape
I definately think it is a probability but you seem certain.
I say:
30% trade down
30% FS/CB
25% HYbrid Pass Rusher
10% Olineman
5% trade up
Does anyone think that Phillips and our new DC can make Pat Watkins into a “good” FS? Is he a scrap? I really hope they can focus on him for the entire D’s sake.
As for the draft, lets see what the FA market brings. We may have new holes, we may have less holes.
I like Ross but if we take one later I don’t hate Josh Wilson out of MD either. Big hitter for his size and has elite speed. his height is his big draw back at 5′9 1/2″ but he would be a good replacement for Reeves as a nickel CB/CB in training and would add a dimension to the PR game without risking TNew
ESPNews reported that we’ve signed Mat McBriar to a five yr contract. No details about the amount yet, and no other news service is reporting it (found it on the AP wire)
5 yr $8.5MM with a $2.5MM bonus. Believed to be the highest bonus ever paid a punter
Donny,
Could go that high, but I think it would be more of a reach by whoever took him.
Good to hear Mcbriar is locked.
McBriar is a Cowboy for 5 more years.
Good signing!
Does anyone know anything about Brian Russell FS from Cleveland who is a free agent?
I woder if Columbo’s deal will get done?
donny-
on Russell-
2006 scouting report
Has excellent recognition skills, gets nice jumps on balls and takes good angles. Is an outstanding open-field tackler. Lacks ideal size and speed. Has good instincts but will gamble to compensate for so-so range. Is solid and dependable; gives up plays here and there, but he makes far more.
Guess that means Columbo wasn’t exactly priority number 1. I’m sure they’re still looking at some numbers but time is really starting to crunch.
apparently they feel good sbout getting a deal done with Columbo. Stephen Jones made comments that they had a really good talk with his people and they were much closer. I expect Columbo signed tomorrow and the table set for them to do what they want in FA.
Russell was one of the Cleveland players who suffered from a staph infection mid season- apparently they have never heard of “disenfectant” in Cleveland. He missed the last 1/4 of the season
“Tank Tyler is 306 not 320+ and he’s not a 3-4 NT ”
Again, how did Paul Soliai (NT Utah) do at the combine. He might be a poor man’s (those not picking in the top 10) Allan Branch.
Matt McBriar signs 5 year deal for 8.5 million.
I cant wait for some real news…
“especially considering that 7 of our current draft picks are on the second day plus any rookie free agents that are brought in. These guys will end up cut or get poached ”
I agree but where does JJ get his trade partner. I’m thinking the evil RedSkiz would trade better 08 for more picks this year.
“Could we give them our first and him for their first? ”
Will you give my your car for my bike?
That’s new car for my old bike.
i was about to say, what type car for my bike, i got a nice bike
What about Brad Johnson for a backup to Romo? Brad has a solid history especially in the back up role and has that veteran leadership that could bring back the days of the Romo-sexual.
“I like Watkins and I think he can develop, but there is a reasn that teams let him pass round after round til we grabbed him and we had a NEED. He wasnt necessarily BPA”
I thought all the safties slid last year. Wasn’t Watkins projected round 3. Ko Simpson was around for a long time.
i think the vikings are offering their second round pick and johnson for schaub
Article on McBriars resigning:
http://www.dfw.com/mld/dfw/sports/football/16803945.htm
Surrounded- no way I take that if I am Atlanta- not with injury prone Ron Mexico as my starter.
KFFL is reporting that B Johnson has been released.
http://www.kffl.com/hotw/nfl
i totally like that ron mexico name..haha….but as a die hard virginia fan, i hate vick, and it kills me to watch schaub have to be his back up
“So you opinion is that Ross is a better prospect than Griffin. Why do you say so?”
Which one won the Thorp Award?
from Wikipedia
“The Jim Thorpe Award, named in memory of multi-sport legend Jim Thorpe, has been awarded to the top defensive back in college football since 1986. It is voted on by the Jim Thorpe Association”
It wasn’t Griffin or any other DB not named Ross.
Aaron Ross …
Looks very good to me.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nVjwzOCxQU
I think Ross will be gone but Hall may still be there. that wouldn’t suck.
I doubt we go CB inthe first though- look for Blaylock unless something happens in FA.
birdness-
I personally distrust awards as they are partly personality/popularity contests and I didnt watch Texas too much this year.
Regardless of the Thorpe award, I think it is a fair question. It is very possible that Ross is the better player But I would like to have Mack Bown’s opinion.
I think Brad Johson would be a perfect back-up.
He’d be an extra QB coach at the same time.
If we do that, however, we might want to draft a Qb prospect to develop as a backup with the assumption that Brad Johnson may retire soon
What is the fascination with Blalock?
Most scouting department probably have Ben Grubbs ahead of Blalock.
I wouldnt take Blalock til the 2nd.
I also like Manuel Rameriz late second or 3rd.
Chiefs are trying to shop Trent Green, he might be a good backup if we can get him for cheap. I wouldnt mind having Ross or Houston for corners they would be my pick. But from Jerry talking it seems he has changed his mind on moving henry.I read henry was second to only samuels from pats on pass’s defensed.
Ravens released Jamaal Lewis RB
Texans released Eric Moulds WR
Grubbs will most likely be gone by 22
Hypothetical-
what if Okoye slips to us at 22. Some boards have him projected at 18 so it is not out of the question.
Donny,
Blalock is big at 6’4†320 but is not fat. He benched 225 40 times so he’s very strong. He ran a 5.10 Forty which is excellent for a man his size and one of the fastest times for a guard at the combine. I’ve read he has good character and plays with a mean streak on the field. What’s not to like? Why are you so down on this guy?
Yeah, Donny—what Luke said!
Out of curiousity, I looked up past Jim Thorpe award winners with connections to the Cowboys:
- Thomas Everett
- Deion Sanders
- Roy Williams
- Terrance Newman
Other notable winners include:
- Bennie Blades
- Terrell Buckley
- Deon Figures
- Antonio Langham
- Charles Woodson
- Antoine Winfield
Not a bad list and while not all past winners panned out, there seems to be at least some validation winning translates to the Pro level (more so than the Heismann)
HowBout, damn straight LOL
Also,
Of the three top guards you mentioned; Ben Grubbs, Manuel Ramirez and Justin Blalock all have their question marks. Grubbs – strength, Ramirez – athletic ability, Blalock – athletic ability. Grubbs benched 29 and ran a 5.20 forty (at 311 pounds), so he fared ok at both. Ramirez had an excellent bench at 40 but didn’t run, hmmm, he has not answered any questions about his athletic ability. Blalock had an excellent bench at 40 then he ran a very good 5.10 forty (at 320 pounds) and also came 5th overall against all offensive lineman (not just guards) in the vertical leap. Blalock’s question mark was athletic ability and I think he’s had a very good showing in that regard.
Luke,
I have to say I’m with Donny on this one. Why are you putting so much stock into 40 times from the combine? Grubbs moved ahead of Blalock because he was the best pulling guard at the Senior Bowl. Dallas is looking for guys who can get out in space and move and that’s not Blalock’s profile, from what I’ve seen or read anywhere.
I may certainly be wrong but I’m baffled by the degree of love Blalock gets here. I can’t think of a single player plugged more often on this site.
Rafael,
Grubbs to me just looks like another guy who’s going to get pushed back at the snap. Sure he might be slightly better than Blalock in space but as the Combine showed Blalock is hardly un-athletic. Being good in space is important but remember these guys are offensive lineman and not wide receivers sometimes they just need to stand there and stone the Dlineman it’s not all prancing to the edges. Blalock is big and strong and will not be pushed back easily, why not have a big guy you can count on in short yardage when you need it. How great was our pulling and screens plays anyway last year? I don’t remember running many screens at all. Combination of size, strength and speed goes to Blalock hands down.
Im a huge Texas fan and I agree he does get plugged alot here but also on almost all mock drafts aswell. Maybe people just like Texans staying in Texas or because he is from Texas people have watched him so they now him better then most guards out there.Dont get me wrong I like him alot actually, I will follow him wherever he goes in hopes of him suceeding. I think Fs in round 1 and trade up in round 2 to grab Joe Staley. But I sure would like to have Ross or Houston on our team I just think they will wait till next yr. for corner.
Prior to the Senior Bowl Blalock was the number one OG. He gets extra points for his ability to play OT. Has anybody compared film?
Raf,
A good example is our Center problem. Al Johnson was solid, very good in space but he simply would get pushed around at the point of attack. Put in Andre Gurode, that big ol’ guard and what happens? The offensive line improves dramatically and Gurode gets a 6 year $30 million dollar extension while Al Johnson gets released. I think Blalock is going to be a better player than Gurode.
I went to junior high with Brian Russell, pretty athlete back then. He’s worked hard to become an NFL starting safety; played QB in HS and in college for San Diego St, then moved to safety his senior year. Other than that, I don’t know what kind of player he is now.
As for combine numbers, I think they should have some sort of drill to gauge an athlete’s reaction time. And the one where they pumped their legs while looking at some dude pointing in every which way doesn’t really count. A guy can run a 4.2 40, but if he can’t make cuts or react to anything, then he probably won’t be real good in the NFL; he should go run track. I’d put more stock in a player’s senior bowl scouting report.
donny,
Mac Brown said he thought Aaron Ross was the most qualified player on his team to be in the running for the heisman, if that says anything.
Raf-
Thanks. At least one person agrees with me.
Luke-
Its not that I am against Blalock. I wouldnt mid taking him in the 2nd. I just dont think he is worth that #22 in the first. I do think he’ll be a decent Guard.