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The VRR: Tony Romo Chats, Bradie James and Cory Proctor Help Out

Tony Romo did a live chat today on NFL.com. Thanks for not answering any of my questions, Tony. Anyways, he had a little to say about Roy Williams, more to say about Jason Garrett, and even shared some thoughts on Free Reign.

Roy has worked really hard this offseason. Think it’s shown so far in OTAs and minicamps. He’s going to have a good year this year. He’s been very good so far this offseason.

On Garrett:

I think that Jason has a great feel for the game. He’s a very intelligent individual, and he still maintains a certain level … There needs to be good, open lines of communication between the QB and the coordinator and the QB coach. They need to trust you as a QB, and you need to be able trust the coaches.

I think we have a great relationship in that regard. He allows me to voice my opinions, and i always like it when he’s coaching me up and we’re doing the things that we need to do to get better as a group. That’s the key — to improve collectively as a group. He’s an ex player, so he looks at himself through my perspective. He’s always going to try to improve the same way that I do as a player.

I’m lucky to have him around me — he’s helped make me a better player.

On metal:

Free Reign? Those are some good guys. They love music, and they love getting out there and jamming to hard rock. I think they’re a bunch of good guys. I like it. They do have some good songs … but they’re still young. They’re still growing.

More VRR after the jump.

DC.com’s Rob Phillips speculates that 7th-round pick, Manny Johnson, may have Razorback “potential”.

We never saw Johnson work as the point man in practice, but he is yet another skill player with passing experience (a la Patrick Crayton, Tashard Choice and Stanback). The Gilmer, Texas, native led his high school to the state title in 2004 as a quarterback before committing to Oklahoma as a wideout. He threw for 48 touchdowns in his high school career — and by the way, he led Gilmer past sixth-round pick Stephen Hodge’s team during those ‘04 playoffs.

“He always wanted to be a wide receiver,” Gilmer head coach Jeff Traylor said. “I always thought he was crazy. I thought he’d have been an amazing quarterback.”

The Star-T did a little Q&A with new Cowboys tight end, Scott Chandler. Here’s their bio on him:

Born in Bedford, Chandler starred at wide receiver for Southlake Carroll in high school. He went to college at Iowa where he moved to tight end to take advantage of his 6-foot-7 frame and was a fourth-round pick by the San Diego Chargers in 2007.

But his pro career hasn’t gone as he wanted. He was inactive for all but one game during his rookie season and spent 2008 on injured reserve with a toe injury.

He hopes to change his fortune this season after signing with the Cowboys on May 30. He’ll be battling it out with Rodney Hannah, John Phillips and Jamar Hunt for the third tight end spot behind Jason Witten and Martellus Bennett.

The first two Cowboys to go in KFFL’s Fantasy Football Analysis Draft are the team’s #1 and #2 running backs, who were ‘drafted’ in Round 2.

6) Marion Barber III, running back, Dallas Cowboys 

Reason: Even though there is a three-headed monster in Dallas, and they may use the “Razorback” formation, Barber is clearly the team’s No. 1 running back as well as their short-yardage runner. He was slowed by a toe injury last season but is fully healthy and has reached paydirt at least 10 times in two of the last three seasons.

[snip]

10) Felix Jones, running back, Dallas Cowboys

Reason: I realize this was a little early to draft Jones, considering his uncertain role with the team along with last year’s toe injury. In 2008, Jones played in only six games all year, and started none, but averaged 8.9 yards per carry. Reports are that Jones will have an expanded role in 2009. There has even been word out of Valley Ranch that Barber could go back to the more limited role he played under former head coach Bill Parcells, and Jones could be implemented as the featured back. It’s a gamble, but I think Jones will be a much bigger part of the Cowboys offensive in 2009, amassing a lot of yards and scoring a lot of touchdowns.

Others Considered: None Standards Set: I don’t know that Jones could have the kind of production that, say, Houston Texans running back Steve Slaton had last year, but I think Jones’ knack for big plays will make it difficult for the Cowboys to keep him on the bench for too long. I expect to see Jones touch the ball up to 20 times per game both on the ground and through the air, ending the year with approximately 1,500 total yards and 12 touchdowns.

1,500 yards?!? That would be awesome!

Staying in fantasyland, Bradie James helped me win an FF championship last year. This article says he’s a “must-have” for this year.

His ability to make both tackles and sacks makes James fantasy gold. In addition to having three more sacks than any other inside linebacker, James also had 117 tackles, which tied for 16th in the league. Of the 47 players with the most tackles, only one other linebacker (Chad Greenway) had more than four sacks.

[snip]

James is a must-have fantasy pick for other reasons as well. At age 28 he is just hitting his prime, and he has not missed one regular-season game in the last five years. His 2009 numbers should also be helped by the acquisition of 11-year veteran linebacker Keith Brooking, who had two of his best seasons while playing in Wade Phillips’s 3-4 scheme in Atlanta in ‘02 and ‘03. Brooking will occupy the inside spot that was manned last year by Zach Thomas, who admitted after the season that he was not comfortable in the system. “Keith knows how to play, and that helps me,” James says. “When everybody knows their role in the defense, then we all play well.”

A heart-warming story: Bradie James and Cory Proctor helped restore a fan’s stolen Cowboys memorabilia.

When Cowboys Linebacker Bradie James heard that someone broke into this man’s (53-year-old Butch Franklin) apartment and stole his Cowboys stuff, he wanted to make sure those empty spaces were filled with new and shiny memorabilia, so he brought a bag full of autographed items to give to his new friend.

[snip]

Before Bradie left, there was one important matter to take care of. He presented Butch with a #56 jersey to wear, in addition to the Tony Romo jersey he was currently wearing. Butch proceeded to switch to the #56. Butch said with a smile, “Bradie James! Number 56!”

Earlier today, Cowboys Lineman Cory Proctor also paid Butch a surprise visit and autographed and delivered a seat-back from Texas stadium with signatures from fellow linemen Leonard Davis and Mark Columbo.

Emmitt Smith and Daryl Johnston get in at #7 on NFLN’s Top 10 dynamic duos list. Moooose!

If the Cowboys were to induct somebody into the Ring of Honor this year (Jerry Jones said they’re not), who do you think it should be? David Quinn at NFLGridiron Gab ‘nominates’ Charlie Waters and Jay Novacek.

To manage all parking functions at Cowboys Stadium, the team has selected Central Parking System, the country’s largest parking management company. Now we know whom to complain to about the costs.

Talking a Little Cowboys @ Buccaneers

Is it too soon to talk about Tampa?

Obviously, we’ve got training camp to get through. We’ve got players to waive (down to 75 on Sept. 1st; 53 by Sept. 5th), perhaps players to acquire, and almost assuredly will have injuries (hopefully minor) to account for. The fine-tuning will begin in Oakland (Aug. 13th); then, for the first game in Cowboys Stadium against the Titans (Aug. 21st). The next game against the Niners (Aug. 29th) should allow us a real look at the starters for much of the game, and then a preseason wrap-up in Minnesota (Sept. 4th) will define the roster.

Sunday, September 13^th, will be Cowboy Kickoff Day. The defense will do its best to limit those pirate cannons from firing at anytime other than during the halftime show. Mike Jenkins will have the opportunity to avenge his infamous missed tackle on new Buccaneer back Derrick Ward. Gerald Sensebaugh’s return to Florida will be tested by the talented, yet oft-injured Kellen Winslow and the former towel-thrower, Antonio Bryant. Will it be Byron Leftwich trying to make the offense forget about Chucky?

More after the jump.

On the flipside, new head coach Raheem Morris posts consistency in his defensive-laden resumé:

Morris takes over a defense that has produced 36 Pro Bowlers since 1996, the most in the NFL, and finished as the NFLs top-ranked defense two times (2002 and 2005). The past 13 seasons have also seen the Buccaneers defense rank in the Top 10 on 11 occasions and in the Top 5 eight times.

Romo will have to be accurate against a good trio of Cover-2 safeties, Tanard Jackson, Jermaine Phillips, and Sabby Piscitelli. Corners Ronde Barber and Aqib Talib will be looking to corral the Cowboys receivers. Dallas’ running game and reliability in tight ends, Jason Witten and Martellus Bennett, should help keep Morris’ secondary honest.

This website has the Cowboys as 3-point favorites with the over/under resting at 42. Here’s some of what they say about the game:

Both teams have impressive running back corps and will lean on the rushing attack while the passing game works out the kinks. Totals bettors should look to the under on the 42 points, with the ground game eating up the clock.

Tampa Bay added Derrick Ward this offseason and he will share carries with Earnest Graham. The Cowboys have a healthy Marion Barber and Felix Jones behind Romo. Those two were on pace for a huge year last season before injuries took out Jones and slowed Barber.

It’s early to talk about Tampa and there is much work ahead. Assuming the coaches have already scouted the Bucs, we might as well brainstorm the match-up as well. It certainly beats wondering what went wrong with last season!

The VRR: Romo Stuff, Free Reign on Stage

No real ‘football’ news coming out from the Cowboys. Here are some links to the ‘human interest’ side of Dallas. Hey, it’s the the ‘dead zone’ - but only a month to go!

From The Sporting News, a list of QB’s that have yet to win a SB, but with a shot this year, includes Romo.

Romo, however, never has won a playoff game and has become perhaps the NFL’s most scrutinized QB. The pressure on Romo never has been greater, following the Cowboys’ late-season collapse and the decision to cut Terrell Owens. Yet, Romo insists he never has felt better about Dallas’ chances.

“This has been the best offseason, as far as people competing at any extremely high level and people getting better,” Romo said. “Just because stuff’s going well now doesn’t guarantee us success this year.”

Free Reign gets the Deadspin treatment. Their conclusion:

But they play their own instruments, and they’re competent, and that’s enough to dub them best crossover athlete/musicians in history.

More VRR after the jump.

Former Cowboys Robert Newhouse and Toby Gowin expressed their thoughts on the current Cowboys team.

Newhouse: “I think the team is going in the right direction,” said the former Houston Cougar, who still has many relatives that live in Marshall. “Will they win this year? I know they have a lot of great players. Will they mix? That’s what they go to training camp for and what they work hard for to get those things done. I look for a pretty decent season this year.”

Gowin: “I’d just like to see them win a playoff game,” said Gowin, who grew up as a Cowboys fan in Jacksonville and who now resides in Tyler. “These days in the NFL, you never know who’s going to come out and have a breakout year. Every year is different. One year the expectations are Super Bowl and then nothing happens. Maybe if the expectations are a little bit less, then they can not have so many distractions and they can take care of business and do well.”

When Jason Witten started his annual football camp in his hometown of Elizabethton, Tennessee back in ‘03, 120 kids participated. This weekend, more than 1,800 campers and 3,500 spectators came to see the Pro Bowl tight end help teach teamwork and dedication.

Part of the draw is the chance to see Witten and receive instruction from the other football stars who volunteer their time to help out at the camp. Back for his second year was former Ohio State and current Cowboy linebacker Bobby Carpenter. Two of the newest Cowboys were also on hand - defensive backs DeAngelo Smith and Gerald Sensabaugh. 

[snip]

Witten spoke highly of his old rival, Sensabaugh. “I think I lost two games on this field in high school and he was one of them,” said Witten. “You come to Dallas to take over for Roy Williams and there’s a lot of pressure. He’s met every standard if not more. He’s just an amazing athlete and I didn’t really realize how talented he was. He’s a great guy and has overcome a lot. I’ve developed a great friendship with him. He’s a really, really good football player and people will see that this season.”

 

Romo played in a golf tournament this weekend and was used as a measuring stick. Tom Halla, a 40-year old amateur who has been playing in Wisconsin tournaments for over two decades, had this to say:

“We have our own tournament, the LOG - low old golfer - and I’m happy to win that,” [Halla] said. “And I beat Tony Romo by 10.”

Romo, the Dallas Cowboys quarterback and a Burlington native, tied for 18th place at 1-under 287.

Stadium reviews…it’s all good.

The latest on the practice ‘bubble’ collapse

Cowboy Stew: Serving Seconds

When I have some intriguing tidbits to share with you, but those tidbits are not enough to warrant a full post, I save them up and then I throw them into the pot, stir it up and serve you some Cowboy Stew. These bits and bites don’t have much in common other than that they are Cowboy related and got stuck in my brain for a while. So, dig into the stew, and share your thoughts.

Will our rookies be able to make an impact? That requires pure speculation and we won’t know until the season is fully under way. Now, if we had a powerful computer that could run multiple scenarios and model future behaviors in the NFL based on past behaviors in college we might get some interesting data. Oh wait, there is a computer website that does just that. It’s called Whatifsports.com. A few of the Cowboy rookies made the top 100.

Rookies present the biggest challenge. To come up with statistical inputs for rookies, we run a very complex set of algorithms that factors collegiate performance, role in college, strength of collegiate competition, “measurables,” likely NFL role, previous performance of a similar player in that NFL role for this coaching staff and trends of similar rookies in the past. This gives us the player’s projected ratio stats (expected yards per carry, completion percentage, etc.), as well as his forecasted usage for the upcoming season. From there, we can compare all rookies based on who we think will make the biggest positive impact for his new NFL team in his first year. The Top 100 from this ranking are listed below.

74. Mike Mickens, CB, Dallas
55. Victor Butler, LB, Dallas
52. DeAngelo Smith, CB/S, Dallas

Riddle me this Batman - (A line borrowed from Frank Gorshin and the old Batman TV series) Is there an anti- Cowboy bias in the media? Here is a recent scenario. The Cowboys release a certain aging receiver and they are slammed by the sports media and predicted to struggle in 2010.

During the same off season the New York Giants lose their number one receiver in Plaxico Burress, lose another receiver in Amani Toomer, lose a 1000 yard rusher in Derrick Ward and lose their successful Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and still the sports press picks the Giants to win the division and possibly the Super Bowl.

The Giants and the Cowboys split their two games last season indicating that the gap between them is relatively small and yet the loss of the Cowboys number one receiver is predicted to have a greater negative impact than the Giants loss of several starters. Go figure.

4^th and Long - I like Michael Irvin’s reality show. Maybe it’s just because there is a bit of football during the long dry offseason and I’m having withdrawals or maybe Irvin and his writers have done a good job of letting the characters develop. I’m picking the big wide receiver Montrell Jones to be the winner. He’s not the most likable guy there but he has the size and strength and I feel like he has already been given a couple of mulligans to keep him on the show.  My favorite character? Coach Joe! He cracks me up with some of his comments to the players and to Mike. What exactly is a slapdick?

Yes, but I’m the tallest midget! - Last season there were 13 NFL teams who finished the season in the negative total points category. What that means is the combined scores of your opponents totaled more than the total number of points scored by your offense. As you might expect, all of these teams finished at the bottom of their divisions and all of these teams had losing records - save one. The 2008 Dallas Cowboys. Clearly the Philly butt-whipping put the Cowboys in that position, but there they are at 9 -7 and boasting a minus 3 points. That’s another dubious distinction to a disappointing season. Yes, we were the best of the losers.

So, how did you like the stew?

Golden Opportunities For a Few Cowboys

“Success occurs when preparation and opportunity intersect.”  I’m not sure on who said it first, but that is one of my favorite phrases in the world, and boy is it ever true. Take a guy like Tashard Choice for example. In college Choice found himself behind future NFL backs like Adrian Peterson and P.J. Daniels. In his inaugural NFL season he found himself third on the depth chart behind Pro Bowler Marion Barber, and first-round pick Felix Jones. In both instances, Choice kept himself prepared and was able to capitalize on his opportunity when he was called upon.

The stars are beginning to align for a few other current Cowboys. A handful of Cowboys have a chance to prove their worth, and play more significant roles than they ever have. What remains to be seen is whether or not said players will truly be ready to make the most of their opportunities.

A look at a few Cowboys who have a chance to make a significantly greater impact going forward:

Anthony Spencer, OLB: The Cowboys’ release of veteran linebacker Greg Ellis says a lot about the kind of hopes the Cowboys are hanging on Spencer. The team will most likely enter the season with only a pair of rookies to provide any type of a mirage of competition for Spencer. This job has been handed to Spencer on a blue and silver platter. He is a natural rusher with adequate speed, and sturdy enough base to perform well against the run. He has the tools, but his embarrassing offseason arrest validates questions about his maturity. Spencer is a former first-round pick entering his third season. Time to step your game up, Spence.

Montrae Holland, G/C: This Cowboys want badly for Montrae Holland to succeed. The question is whether or not Holland wants to succeed as bad as the team wants him to. Last year’s starter Kyle Kosier has been a rock for the Cowboys, but his injury status creates uncertainty at the left guard position. The team loves the push that Holland generates in the running game, and would love for him to just grab this training camp battle by the throat. However, to no one’s surprise, Holland reportedly showed up to mini-camp in less than outstanding shape, and performed averagely. The Cowboys have been working Holland in at center as well, so even if Kosier does reclaim his starting spot at left guard, Holland would still be in contention for the swing G/C this season. It’s all on the table for Holland, but I guess there must be some reason Mike Shanahan let him go for a late round pick.

Doug Free, OT: When Doug Free was drafted a lot of Cowboy fans looked at him as possibly being the steal of the draft and maybe the heir apparent to Flozell Adams’ left tackle position. Neither has come to fruition, but there is still time for Free. Doug Free was drafted because he had the physical talent, most notably technique and foot-quickness to be an NFL left tackle. It’s not clear what’s holding Free back, but he’s got to put it all together soon. Free will probably be given this season to prove that he is an eventual starter. If not he will likely have to find employment elsewhere. Free had better be ready though, because at Flozell Adams’ age (and size) the injury bug is a little harder to elude. Something tells me Free may get his shot this season.

Junior Siavii, DT: Siavii last recorded a countable NFL statistic in 2005. 2005! With that said he is probably still the frontrunner to be Jay Ratliff’s backup at nose tackle. Siavii was the 36^th overall pick in the 2004 draft. You don’t get selected that high without talent. Siavii is the best athlete among the backup NT candidates but has never been able to put it together. Maybe being reunited with former University of Oregon teammate and friend Igor Olshansky will light a fire under Junior. This job is his for the taking. If Siavii can show the Cowboys that he can be even adequate, he would add a lot to the team from an standpoint of depth and flexibility.

Jason Williams, ILB: I know he was only a 3^rd round pick but Jason Williams kind of feels like the chosen one, doesn’t he? From the minute he was drafted, Williams was talked about as the nickel linebacker of the present, and the weak inside backer of the future. The knock on Williams coming out of college was that he was a better athlete than he was a football player. If Williams is able to pick up the mental part of the game and let his great athletic ability do the rest, the Cowboys will be able to stop the revolving door at weak inside linebacker. Williams will face competition from fellow 2009 draftee Stephen Hodge and holdover Bobby Carpenter.

Isaiah Stanback, WR: Do I really have to say anything here? Just stay healthy, man. That’s all you’ve got to do, Ike. Just stay healthy, please. That’s been easier said than done for Stanback, who has struggled with injuries dating back to his college days. It will be a shame to see so much natural ability go to waste if Stanback can’t fight off the injury bug this season. It’s unclear how far along he is in his progression as a wide receiver (which has no doubt been slowed by injuries), but Stanback is still the team’s best kick return option after Felix Jones. Though he has no experience, Stanback’s open-field vision, quickness, and change of direction capabilities lend itself to punt returning. Also, it would be a lot of fun to see the former University of Washington quarterback line up in the Wildcat. Stanback will be competing with seventh-rounders and undrafted free agents for the fifth or sixth wideout spot, so if he’s not on crutches at the end of camp he will probably make the squad. If Stanback can stay healthy, he may have a chance to have a big role this season. That is one gargantuan “if” though.

Golden Opportunities For a Few Cowboys

“Success occurs when preparation and opportunity intersect.”  I’m not sure on who said it first, but that is one of my favorite phrases in the world, and boy is it ever true. Take a guy like Tashard Choice for example. In college Choice found himself behind future NFL backs like Adrian Peterson and P.J. Daniels. In his inaugural NFL season he found himself third on the depth chart behind Pro Bowler Marion Barber, and first-round pick Felix Jones. In both instances, Choice kept himself prepared and was able to capitalize on his opportunity when he was called upon.

The stars are beginning to align for a few other current Cowboys. A handful of Cowboys have a chance to prove their worth, and play more significant roles than they ever have. What remains to be seen is whether or not said players will truly be ready to make the most of their opportunities.

A look at a few Cowboys who have a chance to make a significantly greater impact going forward:

Anthony Spencer, OLB: The Cowboys’ release of veteran linebacker Greg Ellis says a lot about the kind of hopes the Cowboys are hanging on Spencer. The team will most likely enter the season with only a pair of rookies to provide any type of a mirage of competition for Spencer. This job has been handed to Spencer on a blue and silver platter. He is a natural rusher with adequate speed, and sturdy enough base to perform well against the run. He has the tools, but his embarrassing offseason arrest validates questions about his maturity. Spencer is a former first-round pick entering his third season. Time to step your game up, Spence.

Montrae Holland, G/C: This Cowboys want badly for Montrae Holland to succeed. The question is whether or not Holland wants to succeed as bad as the team wants him to. Last year’s starter Kyle Kosier has been a rock for the Cowboys, but his injury status creates uncertainty at the left guard position. The team loves the push that Holland generates in the running game, and would love for him to just grab this training camp battle by the throat. However, to no one’s surprise, Holland reportedly showed up to mini-camp in less than outstanding shape, and performed averagely. The Cowboys have been working Holland in at center as well, so even if Kosier does reclaim his starting spot at left guard, Holland would still be in contention for the swing G/C this season. It’s all on the table for Holland, but I guess there must be some reason Mike Shanahan let him go for a late round pick.

Doug Free, OT: When Doug Free was drafted a lot of Cowboy fans looked at him as possibly being the steal of the draft and maybe the heir apparent to Flozell Adams’ left tackle position. Neither has come to fruition, but there is still time for Free. Doug Free was drafted because he had the physical talent, most notably technique and foot-quickness to be an NFL left tackle. It’s not clear what’s holding Free back, but he’s got to put it all together soon. Free will probably be given this season to prove that he is an eventual starter. If not he will likely have to find employment elsewhere. Free had better be ready though, because at Flozell Adams’ age (and size) the injury bug is a little harder to elude. Something tells me Free may get his shot this season.

Junior Siavii, DT: Siavii last recorded a countable NFL statistic in 2005. 2005! With that said he is probably still the frontrunner to be Jay Ratliff’s backup at nose tackle. Siavii was the 36^th overall pick in the 2004 draft. You don’t get selected that high without talent. Siavii is the best athlete among the backup NT candidates but has never been able to put it together. Maybe being reunited with former University of Oregon teammate and friend Igor Olshansky will light a fire under Junior. This job is his for the taking. If Siavii can show the Cowboys that he can be even adequate, he would add a lot to the team from an standpoint of depth and flexibility.

Jason Williams, ILB: I know he was only a 3^rd round pick but Jason Williams kind of feels like the chosen one, doesn’t he? From the minute he was drafted, Williams was talked about as the nickel linebacker of the present, and the weak inside backer of the future. The knock on Williams coming out of college was that he was a better athlete than he was a football player. If Williams is able to pick up the mental part of the game and let his great athletic ability do the rest, the Cowboys will be able to stop the revolving door at weak inside linebacker. Williams will face competition from fellow 2009 draftee Stephen Hodge and holdover Bobby Carpenter.

Isaiah Stanback, WR: Do I really have to say anything here? Just stay healthy, man. That’s all you’ve got to do, Ike. Just stay healthy, please. That’s been easier said than done for Stanback, who has struggled with injuries dating back to his college days. It will be a shame to see so much natural ability go to waste if Stanback can’t fight off the injury bug this season. It’s unclear how far along he is in his progression as a wide receiver (which has no doubt been slowed by injuries), but Stanback is still the team’s best kick return option after Felix Jones. Though he has no experience, Stanback’s open-field vision, quickness, and change of direction capabilities lend itself to punt returning. Also, it would be a lot of fun to see the former University of Washington quarterback line up in the Wildcat. Stanback will be competing with seventh-rounders and undrafted free agents for the fifth or sixth wideout spot, so if he’s not on crutches at the end of camp he will probably make the squad. If Stanback can stay healthy, he may have a chance to have a big role this season. That is one gargantuan “if” though.

The Valley Ranch Review: DeMarcus Ware and Jason Witten Rank in the League’s Top 50

Pete Prisco of CBSSports ranks the top 50 players in the NFL. He places DeMarcus Ware just behind QBs Peyton Manning and Tom Brady.

3. DeMarcus Ware, OLB, Cowboys: One number says it all: 20. That’s his sack total from 2008. He’s the best pass-rushing linebacker in football.

Jason Witten also made the list.

33. Jason Witten, TE, Cowboys: He’s a great threat in the middle of the field and has improved as a blocker. Tony Romo loves him and with T.O. gone he might be even more of a factor.

Just a bit outside were Tony Romo and Andre Gurode.

Mike Perrin at The Birmingham News agrees with Prisco’s ranking of Ware.

If Prisco’s list weren’t intended to spark arguments, then you might not argue his choice. Ware had 20 sacks last season for Dallas, his fourth in the NFL after earning All-America honors for coach Larry Blakeney’s Trojans.

The Cowboys are doing a top 50 list of their own, counting down the best players in their history to celebrate the 50th anniversary season. Ware is No. 23 on that list - which is at No. 21 today.

That’s pretty impressive.

More VRR after the jump.

Jerry Jones says all those injured Cowboys receivers will be ready come training camp. Hallelujah!

“My expectations are that all receivers that were limited, maybe not [Travis] Wilson [knee] — he might not be ready — but other than him, all the rest should be ready for training camp,” Jones said.

Scout.com blurbs about one of the Cowboys’ rookies who is making an impression.

LB Stephen Hodge is making the transition from college safety. He is a little small but he is very instinctive and aggressive. Hodge will make his biggest impact for the Cowboys on special teams. That was his forte in college and that will be his forte in the NFL. He is expected to be the next standout special team player in the line of Bill Bates, Kenneth Gant and Keith Davis.

The Johnson City Medical Center in Tennessee will rename its children’s emergency department in honor of Jason Witten, who has donated $200,000 to the hospital.

Cowboys legend Randy White did a Q & A during an annual Salvation Army Dinner. Here’s what he had to say about today’s Dallas team:

I’m still a fan. I root for them and I go through the ups and downs with them. Obviously at the end of last season I was very disappointed like everybody else and I’m looking forward to bigger and better things.”

“This year, we really don’t know what we’re going to get. Two years ago they looked like a playoff team that was going somewhere and last year, they kind of struggled. I don’t know what we’re going to get this year.”

The ‘Manster’ will be running a football camp this Saturday in Corpus Christi.

Jazmyn Reynolds-Dorsett, “Touchdown” Tony’s daughter, will be a Cowboy–an Oklahoma State Cowboy, that is. She recently agreed to play basketball for OSU.

The 5-foot-11 shooting guard is considered one of the top shooting guards in the country, by ESPN’s scouting service. The daughter of former Dallas Cowboys and Hall of Fame running back Tony Dorsett averaged 14.2 points and 6.8 rebounds in her junior year at Frisco (Texas) High School.

It looks like Dorsett will be playing against Jim Jeffcoat’s daughter, Jacqueline, who says she will commit to the Oklahoma Sooners.

Jeffcoat, a 6-2 center, averaged 7.6 points and 6.5 rebounds – both team highs – last season. Jeffcoat plays AAU basketball for the Fort Worth Frogs.

Cowboys Stadium: the Ring of Honor, trees, and tailgating. Jerry Jones said no new Cowboys will be inducted into the ROH this season.

“We are of course excited about the Ring of Honor. We won’t be doing anything in the Ring of Honor this year, as far as any new inductees but it will be every bit as emphasized in our new stadium as it was at Texas Stadium.”

[snip]

12 trees were planted on the west side of the stadium. The trees were rescued from Texas Stadium as the site will be converted for other uses.

“These trees were a part of the stadium property and they were going to more than likely just be removed and be dealt away with and its a great honor to share in a kinship with the City of Arlington” explains Irving Mayor Herbert Gears.

In addition to the Cowboys adding shade and scenery to the parking lot, some parking spaces at the new stadium specifically include a grassy area for tailgaters to park. Arlington’s Greene Park is also being transformed into an area for fans to gather before and after events, complete with picnic tables and walking paths.

Stadium tours, anyone?

Stadium tours, at $15 for adults and $12 for children, will be conducted every half-hour and last up to 75 minutes.

The tour includes the high-tech scoreboard control room, the press box, the Cowboys locker-room and limited field access.

DC.com posted some vids of Michael Jackson’s halftime performance during the 52-17 smackdown the ‘Boys put on the Bills in Super Bowl XXVII. Pourin’ some out for you, “King of Pop”.

Cowboys Pre-Camp: The Far Side of Optimism

More promising and some not so promising news and notes from the recently completed Cowboys camps:

–None of the rookies are counted on this year but a few made positive impressions.  I was told quarterback Stephen McGee will take time, but has the required skill set.  My source said of McGee, “he’s competitive, makes accurate throws and can move around a bit…I Iike the kid.”

– The U of Cincinnati duo of Mike Mickens and D’Angelo Smith also got a brief, positive mention.  With the second and third year corners and safeties making a push (see yesterday’s report) these guys will have time to develop without immediate pressure.  4th round pick Brandon Williams lacks that luxury.  He also stood out, but I was told Williams will have to rush the passer exclusively this season.  This suggests to me that Williams lacks the power to hold the point.  On the plus side, it appears Jay Ratliff is not the only person who noticed Williams rush skills. 

I don’t know how effective Williams can be, but if he and starter Anthony Spencer can divide up Greg Ellis‘ eight ‘08 sacks in some combination, they’ll keep offensives from sliding their blocking schemes towards Demarcus Ware.

– 3rd-rounder Robert Brewster was the last rookie who stood out for my source.  Brewster impressed with his effort but I was told he’ll need time to develop, and build his strength.

One player who didn’t impress was Brewster’s linemate Montrae Holland.  I understand he does not look any more svelte than last year.  If Kyle Kosier rehabs slowly, we may be looking at another Holland/Cory Proctor rotation at left guard, at least early on.  That can’t make anybody smile.

The second significant caveat involves the receivers.  The backups Miles Austin, Sam Hurd and Isaiah Stanback barely practiced this month.  The National Football Press’ Mike Lombardi wrote an excellent piece last week explaining why this makes organizations fret:

Practice repetitions are directly tied to the time allowed for each period. So there might be a two-hour practice, 120 minutes, but in that time, there are 60 repetitions in all phases of the game. For example, if a team is working on its inside run drill, it might want to get 12 plays/repetitions in that period. In camp, there are normally three groups of players — three teams of offensive and defensive players — so some players might only get two repetitions. Before the assistant coaches leave for vacation, they must know how many repetitions each player will be able to get before the first game, in all phases of the game. Clearly, the more reps, the better chance a player has to either improve or, in some cases, fail to meet the challenge.

When injuries become a part of the above equation, the amount of repetitions is reduced, resulting in limited progress for the player and the team…

Jason Garrett certainly has an idea of how many reps Hurd, Stanback and, most importantly, Austin need. These guys are not rookies, but they’re not polished pros either.  They need as many reps as they can get.  They’re going to San Antonio with little practice mileage on their odometers.  It’s not critical on June 26th, but watch the injury reports in camp closely.  If more than one of these guys misses significant time there with a pull, sprain, or other ailment, wide receiver becomes a major concern.

The Valley Ranch Review: Football, Golfing and Music

Michael Silver at Yahoo Sports has another good Cowboys article up. Initially, he focuses on Jerry World. He gives it a thumbs-up.

It is, quite simply, the finest athletic venue in the world, the new millennium’s answer to the Roman Colosseum.

But then the article switches gears and talks about the sobering fact of the bubble collapse, Rich Behm’s injury, and how those events have made for a different offseason. Even Jerry isn’t celebrating the move to the new stadium quite as care-free as he would have liked. It’s also caused the Cowboys to perform a new routine for the OTA’s and mini-camp, and the tragedy might be forging some bonds.

“We’ve had to go through a little bit of adversity here,” quarterback Tony Romo(notes) said after last Tuesday’s minicamp practice in Carrollton. “Having to bus out here every day, it’s kind of like we’re in high school again. But it’s good for us. It has forced us to hang together and focus in on ourselves as a unit and realize that it’s all about us, and nothing else.”

The article is a good read, check it out.

Good, long interview with Jason Williams over at the Ranch Report.  Williams commenting on beating the 40 times of almost all the linebackers at the combine.

“It really wasn’t about beating anybody, it was just proving that my name should be in the same sentence as those guys,” Williams maintained. “I made this shirt, it was just a black t-shirt and the letters read, ‘numbers don’t lie,’ and it was kind of my own slogan. I’m just an energetic, charismatic guy and I just like to do stuff to entertain, I guess. And the shirt was just a reminder to myself that since I didn’t get invited to the Combine, my numbers are going to speak to why I should have been invited.”

[snip]

Besides his speed and strength, another reason he was picked so high has to do with his impressive versatility. Williams played multiple positions before ending up at linebacker, and at Western Illinois he showed that he can play inside or outside ‘backer, stuff the run or bring the pass rush. “There were certain times in our scheme where I’d be playing inside, other times I’d walk outside of the box, where I’d be lined with the slot receiver,” noted Williams, who registered 15 sacks over his college career. “I did a little bit of everything in college.”

Make the jump below to read the rest of the VRR.

JJT’s got a theory.

You don’t win in today’s NFL if your best players don’t play to their salaries. It’s that simple.

Safety Roy Williams, Terrell Owens, Anthony Henry, Leonard Davis and Tony Romo had the five highest salary-cap figures on the team last season. Only Davis consistently played to the standard he has established for himself.

Just so you know, that’s the best way to judge players.

Read the rest to see if you agree.

Nick Eatman calls out the young vets who need to produce.

Free Reign gets a deal. Marc Colombo, Leonard Davis and Cory Procter must now answer the ‘Romo Questions’. Are you spending more time writing songs than watching film? Are the groupies sapping you of that extra-energy for practice? Will your Behind The Music episode in 10 years discuss the regrets around your music success and how it made your football careers suffer?

Romo’s going to golf, and ain’t no one stopping him.

Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo has no problem getting tee times. At next week’s AT&T National, he will be playing in the Wednesday pro-am with tournament host Tiger Woods. Then he’ll compete in the American Century Championship celebrity tournament, which also includes former Cowboys RB Emmitt Smith, on July 17-19 at South Lake Tahoe, Nev.

Speaking of the American Century Championship, ex-pitcher Rick Rhoden is the favorite, but Romo isn’t far behind at 3-to-1.

In more golf news, this is a nice story.

[Pro golfer] Rich Beem helped raise $10,321 for Cowboys scouting assistant Rich Behm, who was severely injured in the collapse of the team’s practice facility. Through his ” Beem Fore Behm” project, Beem contributed $100 for each birdie he made at the HP Byron Nelson Championship and the Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial. Beem made seven birdies and one eagle despite missing the cut at both events. The PGA Tour, both tournaments, the Cowboys, Callaway Golf and online donors joined the effort. “It ended up being much more than I envisioned,” Beem said.

Dallas Thinks Safety First — Finally

Improved Secondary Play Should Make the New Stadium Blitz City

In the last three years, I’ve probably devoted more lines to analyzing, and ripping the Cowboys mediocre safety play than I have on any other subject.  How many spring pieces were devoted to safety draft options?  How many people were content with the team’s offseason moves there, given that it only signed the greatly overlooked Gerald Sensabaugh in free agency, and didn’t spend a draft pick on the spot until the 5th round, when Michael Hamlin became a Cowboy?

I spoke to a trusted source today who has seen several of the team’s recent workouts.  He predicted the secondary would be a team strength this year and mentioned some unexpected names as reasons for optimism, at the safety position and for the secondary as a whole.

The source reinforced head coach Wade Phillips’ claims that Sensabaugh can play.  What’s more, I was told that third-year D-back Alan Ball worked out at corner and safety and impressed at both spots.  Courtney Brown also earned some praise, but Ball was singled out for his performances.

This news marks an incredible improvement in the quality and scope of Ball’s play.  Recall that just one year ago, Ball beat out veteran Evan Oglesby for the final cornerback slot.  This caused some fans to howl i disapproval, since Oglesby had been an early star of the Oxnard workouts.  Ball, however, showed that position coach Dave Campo’s faith was well-placed.  He was prepared when he was thrown into the Tampa Bay game and did not embarrass himself in later appearances.

The impressive showings by Sensabaugh, Ball and Brown mean Dallas could finally have depth, after two years where Ken Hamlin was the team’s only dependable safety.  If these three can carry their play into the summer and fall, Dallas will have four safeties with coverage skills, a welcome improvement from the Roy Williams, Keith Davis and Pat Watkins days. 

The improved speed and range should give Wade Phillips the option to press more and to blitz more often.  With the Dallas linebacker pass rush in questionable shape after Greg Ellis‘ departure, Phillips was likely to blitz more heavily anyway.  Now, he may do so with greater confidence.

Who will win the NFC East? Don’t bet on it!

The Cowboys road to the playoffs goes through New York and Philadelphia and maybe Washington DC. Last season, the Cowboys split with each of their division rivals winning one and losing one. Each team took steps to improve in the offseason. Did the Cowboys manage to keep pace?

The NFC East is arguably the toughest division in the NFL. The rivalry between the four teams is intense. While the NFC East teams relish beating up on each other, they do a good job of beating up on the rest of the league as well. No team in the NFC East has had a losing regular-season record since 2006.

Here’s a brief rundown on the Cowboy’s division rivals (click the link below the poll):

New York Giants - Justin Tuck stepped up when Osi Umenyiora got hurt last year and their rush should only get stronger with Osi’s return added to FA pickups Chris Canty and Rocky Benard. The Giants linebackers and DBs are adequate and combined with that lightning rush the Giants defense should be formidable once again.

On offense can they recover from the loss of Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer? They spent a first round pick on WR Hakeem Nicks to try to plug that gap. Their three-headed running monster is now missing Derrick Ward. Eli Manning has shown he can take his team to the big show and win and I think this has made him more confident. New York is a strong contender for NFC East Champs but there are chinks in the Giant’s armor.

For more on the Giants, visit Big Blue View.

Philadelphia Eagles - I was jealous at the way the Eagles came together as a team toward the end of last season while the Cowboys disintegrated. That cohesion was a factor in the beatdown the Eagles put on the Cowboys to earn a spot in the playoffs. DeSean Jackson made some bonehead rookie mistakes last season but it is clear that he is a talent on the rise. McNabb has been provided with some upgrades on the O-Line through free agency with Jason Peters and Stacy Andrews. Draft pick Jeremy Maclin will pair with Jackson to give McNabb more pass catching weapons.  However, McNabb isn’t getting any younger and his history of injuries are always looming over the Eagles. Brian Westbrook’s current injury situation and his constant nagging-injury history is a large concern for the Eagles.

On the defense I believe the Eagles have lost two leaders, Brian Dawkins and coordinator Jim Johnson who is battling cancer. Sean McDermott will be the acting DC and he has been a Johnson protégé for 11 years so we can expect the same aggressive Eagles D we’ve seen in the past.  Still, he’s standing in for the master and has to prove himself.

For more on the Eagles, visit Bleeding Green Nation.

Washington Redskins - The Redskins should be a force on defense. They drafted Brian Orakpo from Texas as a rusher to pair with Albert Haynesworth in the middle.  LaRon Landry is a stud safety and even though they lost Shawn Springs the ‘Skins have an adequate defensive backfield.

On offense last year, QB Jason Campbell started strong by playing mistake free ball. It looked to me like the Redskins were going to build his confidence by giving him easy calls and reads, then build around him as he matured. The team went after Jay Cutler pretty hard and one has to wonder how much that undermined Campbell’s security. He has decent receivers in Chris Cooley, Santana Moss and Antwann Randle El but it doesn’t appear the team has full confidence in Campbell.

For more on the Redskins, visit Hogs Haven.

The oddsmakers are anointing the Giants as the NFC East Champs with either the Cowboys or Eagles as possible runner ups. It’s hard to argue with people who make a living picking winners.

Will the Cowboys beat the oddsmakers? I don’t know, but it’s just one more reason to look forward to opening day.

Poll

If you had $1000 to bet on the outcome of the NFC East Division Championship, who would you put your money on?

• 
  Dallas Cowboys
• 
  New York Giants
• 
  Philadelphia Eagles
• 
  Washington Redskins

  5 votes | Results

Cowboys Offense: The Kitna Effect

The Dallas Cowboys never made the blockbuster move this offseason. The Cowboys were however quite efficient at filling holes with affordable free agents. One of the first moves the Cowboys made at the onset of free agency was shipping aging cornerback Anthony Henry to Detroit in exchange for quarterback Jon Kitna. This move was only a footnote to all of the madness that is the free agency signing period, but for the Cowboys it could prove to be the biggest move of the offseason.

Jon Kitna is not without his flaws. He has struggled with injury of late and has always had a propensity for throwing interceptions. Still, Kitna is quite the upgrade over last year’s backup, Brad Johnson. If nothing else, Kitna’s arm strength will force other teams to respect the entire field. Kitna’s arm will also keep the team from having to reign in the playbook, which Kitna is quite familiar with, having spent time in a system with similar terminology in Detroit.

Kitna knows he is not here to compete for a starting job and has said as much. While he offers security as a backup quarterback, his greatest value may be as a mentor. As a Bengal in 2003, Kitna served as a mentor for #1 overall pick Carson Palmer. The fact that Kitna was willing to groom a rookie to eventually supplant him says a lot in itself about Kitna’s character. Much like Trent Dilfer, Kitna is a player whose average play is not a fair indicator of his immense knowledge of the game. Some guys are just better teachers than players, and Carson Palmer has always gone out of his way to attribute much of his success to Kitna’s teaching. Palmer believes that Kitna will be an asset to Tony Romo as well.

Palmer Tuesday on ESPN’s The Herd with Colin Cowherd:

“…you said that the biggest move of the offseason wasn’t Jay Cutler. It wasn’t T.O., but it was Jon Kitna going to Dallas, and you couldn’t have been more right…If Tony just follows what he (Kitna) says and listens to him, he’s gonna have a great year.”

Maybe a guy like Kitna is just what Tony Romo needs. A backup who is not exactly breathing down his neck, but who is a good and willing teacher. Kitna is not a Hall of Famer by any stretch of the imagination, but he has seen a lot more live bullets than Tony Romo has in his short career. Kitna should be a great guy for Romo to have with him in the film room. If nothing else, Kitna ought to be able to draw from his experience and drop a few words of wisdom on Tony when times get tough. If things go well for the Cowboys, Jon Kitna won’t be playing a single meaningful down this season. If things go well for Tony Romo, it may have something to do with Jon Kitna.

10 Training Camp Battles for the Dallas Cowboys

Looking forward to training camp, I put together a list of 10 training camp battles I’ll be watching. Some are traditional battles - Player X vs. Player Y for a particular role. Some are more concept battles, or group battles. They’re not just about who will make the roster or not, but who will play important roles and what they must do. They’re sort of in order of importance, starting with the lesser battles.

TE vs. FB vs. Offensive Schemes

The Cowboys have been dabbling with more 2-TE sets in the recent OTA’s and mini-camps, utilizing Jason Witten and Martellus Bennett. With two TEs it’s usually a FB who gets sacrificed unless it’s short yardage. Deon “Cricket” Anderson is the incumbent FB joined by contenders Julius Crosslin and Asaph Schwapp. How much will the FB be used and will they carry only one on the roster? They also have to consider what they want their third TE to be, is he going to be used out of the backfield as a blocker on a significant amount of plays? This could affect the battle between rookie John Phillips and holdover Rodney Hannah. What the offensive scheme is geared more toward in 2009 will help decide which of these guys make the roster and how they will be utilized.

David Buehler vs. The Endzone

They brought in Buehler to improve the kickoffs. They can’t afford to keep him around and take up two roster spots with kickers if he isn’t providing a serious upgrade in touchbacks and deep kicks. Nick Folk is as close to a lock as you can get for kickers to remain as the guy on FG’s. In camp, Buehler has to prove he can consistently hit the endzone with his kicks. Only then, can they think about other special teams’ roles for the rookie.

Eight more battles after the jump.

Manuel Johnson vs. The Rest

For argument sake, let’s say the Cowboys keep six WR’s. Roy Williams, Miles Austin and Patrick Crayton are locks. Sam Hurd has a very good chance at remaining and Isaiah Stanback is probably going to get another year to prove his worth. (Of course, injuries can always change this scenario). If those five retain their spots on the roster, then you have one open WR position. And a long list of unknowns ready to fill it. I separated Manuel Johnson out because he was drafted this year, meaning the Cowboys are intrigued enough to give him an opportunity. But this is really a battle between Johnson and guys like Mike Jefferson, Kevin Ogletree, Julian Hawkins, and Travis Wilson - and possibly a guy from 4^th and Long. Can anybody make an impression at camp?

Alan Ball vs. Courtney Brown vs. Pat Watkins

These guys represent a larger battle between guys who have been on the team, and some new faces, to grab some of the last spots in the secondary. Terence Newman, Mike Jenkins and Orlando Scandrick are going to be the top corners. Ken Hamlin and Gerald Sensabaugh are going to be the top safeties. After that, there’s a mad scramble. Alan Ball and Courtney Brown have been tried at corner and safety. Pat Watkins is going to battle at safety. Throw into the mix draft picks Mike Mickens, DeAngelo Smith and Mike Hamlin, and you have a royal rumble to fill out the rest of the secondary. I give a little edge to the draft picks only because the other guys have had their time in Dallas and have yet to impress. The rookies will get to show their stuff and if they show potential, they could be kept over the veterans. Ball, Brown and Watkins all need to impress at training camp to remain with the Cowboys.

Kyle Kosier vs. Montrae Holland

I don’t know if this is a true battle or a media-created battle given Kosier’s absence from practices while still recovering from injury. I’ll admit, I’ve bashed Kosier before for being the weak link along the line before. Last year opened my eyes - without him, we suffered. But, will Kosier be healthy and remain healthy? Montrae Holland is a big lineman, the kind Dallas prefers. Now that he’s been with the team for a year, we’ll get to see if he really is the better option at guard. Then again, this could be much ado about nothing; Kosier might walk right back into his place and not miss a beat.

Anthony Spencer vs. Offensive Tackles

The Cowboys have definitely thrown in their lot with Anthony Spencer. After releasing Greg Ellis, Spencer is the clear starter opposite DeMarcus Ware. So how will he perform? We’ve seen bits and pieces of his talent, but can he create the need for offensive coordinators to pay attention to him, thus lessening the attention to Ware. The Cowboys need a credible threat opposite Ware so teams don’t start throwing two and three blockers his way on a consistent basis. Spencer has to be able to beat offensive tackles so that he will also demand chip blocks and occasional double-teams, in hopes of freeing up Ware.

Brandon Williams vs. Victor Butler vs. Rookie Expectations

The Cowboys are now depending on these two guys to make the transition from DE to OLB as the primary backups on the outside. While battling each other, they’re also battling the need to be at least a credible players in that role. Either player could be one injury to another player away from getting significant playing time. Can a rookie making that transition fill that role? Is one, or both, capable of meeting the expectations being placed on them? We’ll find out this year and our first real look will be at training camp.

Bobby Carpenter vs. The Rookies vs. His Reputation

Going into training camp, Carpenter will get the first look as the inside linebacker in the nickel defense. This is his last chance to create a home for himself with the Cowboys. Last year, Carpenter had a great camp but it didn’t translate into serious playing time. This year, the Cowboys don’t have Kevin Burnett to fall back on, so Carpenter is going to get his chance. But he’ll also have to compete with rookies Jason Williams and Stephen Hodge. Can Carpenter turn around his bust reputation this year?

Patrick Crayton vs. Miles Austin

Who will be the starter? All signs point to Austin. Jerry Jones has talked about him enough this offseason and the offense could clearly use his speed on the outside. Patrick Crayton has been solid for the Cowboys outside of a couple of high-profile mistakes. Crayton is a known quantity, we know he can produce, his numbers will tell you that. But is he better off being the third WR and playing in the slot? That’s what the Cowboys want, but Miles Austin has to finally get past the ‘potential’ label and actually make things happen. If the Cowboys can get that out of Austin, they’ll be very happy with their WR situation behind Roy Williams.

Mike Jenkins vs. Orlando Scandrick

One of them will start on the outside opposite Terence Newman, the other will be the nickel corner. Either way, they’re both going to be playing significant minutes. But I’m intrigued to see which one comes out on top for the traditional second CB role. Both are clearly talented and showed a lot of potential last year. This year will be about building on that momentum for each player and carrying their good work over to a new season. The battle between them at camp to be the ‘starter’ will be fun to watch, even though in the end both will be playing a lot.

Any battles you would add to the list?

Cowboys Jason Williams gets some love

Our own Jason Wililiams pops up on a list of non-first-round draft picks that could have an impact on defense this year for NFL teams.

OLB Jason Williams, Dallas (third; 69th): Despite not being invited to the Combine, Williams was the first of Dallas’ 12 draft picks and could be the rookie likeliest to make an immediate impact for the Cowboys. His initial impact may be felt only on special teams; he boasts 4.49-second speed in 40 yards at 6-1, 240 pounds. But don’t be surprised if Williams earns playing time as the nickel linebacker on obvious passing downs. He is undeniably raw, but his athleticism turned heads during early practices and the Cowboys aren’t yet sure what they have in veteran Keith Brooking and perpetual disappointment Bobby Carpenter.

I always liked La’Roi Glover, he was a guy we could count on to be a player on defense when he was here. Now, he’s retiring.

Couple of Cowboys holding youth camps. Bradie James holds his annual get-together. And whenever George Teague’s name comes up, he gets love from me for being the “protector of the star”. He’s holding a camp, too.

Just because no thread would be complete without it…a Tony Romo discussion with a ton of quotes.

Marcus Spears wins a golf tournament.

The thing that wouldn’t die.

Cowboys Linebackers Look Good on the Surface, but…

Now that we’re past the draft, the OTAs and the mini-camps, it’s time to start looking forward toward training camp. This training camp should be an interesting one especially where the bottom of the roster is concerned. When the Cowboys decided to draft 12 players back in April, that was a clear indication they weren’t content with the players and the competition for backup positions and special teams candidates. So instead of trading out of their picks, they stayed put, even adding a draft pick in the process.

Looking at the roster, there probably will be few true, starting-position battles going on. Who will start opposite Roy Williams? Will Mike Jenkins or Orlando Scandrick be the guy opposite Terence Newman? And possibly even a battle at guard with Kyle Kosier and Montrae Holland.

But there’s one position that has to be of some concern to the organization. It’s not a problem with the starters, but the backups across the board.

I’m talking about the linebacker position, both inside and outside. Everybody knows the paramount importance of linebackers in a 3-4 defense. They’re the playmakers, they’re the guys who set the tone. On the surface, it looks good for Dallas in 2009. DeMarcus Ware is simply one of the best defensive players in the NFL. No worries there. Opposite him will be Anthony Spencer. Spencer has shown flashes of playmaking ability in his time but you have to be a little worried about injuries and his elevation to full-time starter. Still, I have confidence that Spencer will produce. In the middle, Bradie James is solid, a team-leader and someone you can depend on to do the job. Keith Brooking may not be the same player he was three or four years ago, but even taking that into account he should be serviceable. So the starting four should be a plus for the team, especially with the contributions of Ware.

But what do we have behind those starters? A lot of wash-outs and a handful of fresh-faced college players looking to make their way in the league. Oh yeah, every one of those rookies is making some kind of transition to a new position, or at least some new responsibilities.

The lead candidate for the nickel LB to replace Brooking in passing situations is Bobby Carpenter. I won’t waste anybody’s time recounting his history with the Cowboys except to say he’s yet to show he can be a semi-regular contributor. He at least knows the defense by now but experience alone won’t get it done. Even if he comes out of San Antonio with the job, there’s no guarantee he will be any better than he has been so far in his career. The other two main candidates, Jason Williams and Stephen Hodge, are both rookies. Hodge was a safety/linebacker hybrid in college and Williams is looking at a new role that will be less about attacking and more about coverage and playing in space. It’s entirely possible one, or both, of those players will stand-out in training camp and prove to be a real gem, but the odds are not overwhelming in our favor. It can take time for college players to adjust, so they might not be ready yet for the responsibilities.

On the outside, we have even less experience behind the starters. With Greg Ellis‘ release (which I agreed with), the Cowboys really are counting on college DE’s Brandon WIlliams and Victor Butler to be ready to go should they be needed. Again, rookies learning a new position/responsibility in a new defense can be a scary proposition. We could be just one injury away from playing one of these guys regularly.

Other candidates for the backup spots include guys like Matt Stewart, Justin Rogers and Steve Octavien. There’s not much there to hang your hat on.

So training camp is going to be very interesting. We’ll get to see the rookies put through their paces and we’ll see if Bobby Carpenter can once again turn in a good training camp, but translate that to actual games in 2009.

Wade Phillips knows, as does any 3-4 defensive coordinator, how valuable and important linebackers are to the success of their defense. The Cowboys have a quality unit of starters, but the backups are a risky deal at this point.

I’ll be watching this area at training camp very closely. Let’s pray that some of the kids “get it” and can produce. Either that, or pray for no injuries.

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