Training Camp Next
Cowboys Have July 27 Reporting Date
This year's training camp will have lots of different storylines playing throughout the Cowboys' stay in Oxnard, Calif.
Most of the stories will carry over into the regular season, which promises to be another exciting run for the Cowboys, who are just trying to get back in the playoffs for the first time since 2003.
As the Cowboys head back to sunny California for camp, which officially begins on July 28. It will be the Cowboys' last time in Oxnard, at least for another five years. The Cowboys already announced they will return to San Antonio for training camp in 2007, signing a five-year deal with the Alamo City.
So this is it for a while for the Cowboys and Southern California, where the always comfy temperatures have made it a favorite spot among the players.
But surroundings aside, there are plenty of other important football matters to deal with, starting with the one and only, Terrell Owens.
Yes, all eyes will be perched on T.O. with every step he makes during camp and the season.
The Cowboys are anticipating a focused Owens, which could help them become one of the league's most potent passing teams.
Owens has that potential. Team him up with Terry Glenn, who is coming off his best season in years (62 catches 1,136 yards, seven touchdowns), Pro Bowl tight end Jason Witten and quarterback Drew Bledsoe, and the Cowboys look to have all the tools to air it out on offense.
Funny thing though, that's not exactly what Bill Parcells and the Cowboys want to do.
No, the addition of Owens won't change the Cowboys' philosophy of trying to run the ball first, establish field position and control the clock.
But at least they have another home-run hitter in Owens when the situation arises.
While T.O. will certainly be the talk of camp, there are plenty of other issues to keep Cowboys fans entertained as well.
What about the running back situation?
Sure, the Cowboys think they have a starter in place in Julius Jones, but just how much can they rely on a player who has already missed 11 games in two years because of injury?
The flip side to Jones is that in a short amount of time, he has also produced four games of at least 149 yards of rushing, including 198- and 194-yard efforts, which rank third and fourth, respectively, on the Cowboys' all-time single-game lists.
But it's not likely that Parcells will give Jones a long leash this year to perform. And that's nothing against Jones, as it is his admiration for Marion Barber, a second-year player who is more of a jack-of-all-trades back.
While the chase for the starting running back spot will be a hot topic of discussion in camp, don't expect Parcells or the coaching staff to get caught up in it. In fact, Parcells will gladly welcome a "problem" of which running back to start.
But neither Jones nor Barber will have any success this season without a competent offensive line, a position that was rather inconsistent at the end of last year.
Injuries certainly caught up to the Cowboys last season, but Flozell Adams is back at left tackle after suffering a torn ACL. The team patched together a makeshift line that included rookie Rob Petitti, who started all 16 games and will certainly give veteran Jason Fabini some tough competition for the starting right tackle position.
In between, the tackles will see a distinctive change with the loss of Larry Allen, who was released in the offseason. Four-year vet Kyle Kosier gets first crack replacing Allen, a 10-time Pro Bowler and future Hall-of-Famer and Ring of Honor inductee.
"Well, I know I've got some pretty big shoes to fill," Kosier said. "He's a great player, probably one of the best guards to ever play the game. But I have a lot of confidence in myself. I think we can work together and get the job done."
There will be a training camp battle once again at center between Al Johnson and Andre Gurode, who also gives the Cowboys some depth at guard. The team is also hoping starting right guard Marco Rivera returns to Pro Bowl form after battling back and neck injuries in 2005.
Switching to the defensive side of the ball, the biggest question the Cowboys have centers on more off-the-field issues.
Defensive end Greg Ellis, one of the most respected players in the locker room since his arrival to the team in 1998, has publicly asked the Cowboys to make more of a financial commitment this offseason. Ellis, who has either led or tied for the team lead in sacks for each of the last five years, has not only lost his starting position to second-year pro Chris Canty, but will likely move to a hybrid outside linebacker spot.
Ellis, who has always been the consummate team player, isn't upset about the change, but just wants the Cowboys to compensate him for what he considers to be a risk.
"Just the level of commitment from them is what I'm looking for," Ellis says "You're going from a guy who has played with his hand on the ground for eight years, now you want me to change. I have no problem with that, but it's not right for me to have signed that contract (in 2003) with the intent on what we're going to do, then we switch.
"And that's fine, but I'm doing something that I've never done before. It's not right for me to be out there taking that risk and not receive any commitment."
Ellis, who decided to skip four days of voluntary practices at Valley Ranch, has four years remaining on his contract and is scheduled to count $3.35 million on the salary cap this season, which includes a $2.25 million base salary. The cap figures for the final three years of the deal are $3.1 million, $3.92 million and $4.75 million in 2009.
Ellis obviously fears that a disappointing season in 2006, especially for a player who turns 31 in August, would not only lead to his release from the Cowboys, but severely damage his chances of getting a hefty free-agent contract with another team.
"It's not about more money; I'm not asking for a penny more new money," Ellis says. "I'm under this contract and I'm not demanding anything. But I'm not a three-year guy or a five-year guy. If I have a bad year, I can't just say, �All right, I'll be back next year.' When you're in your eighth or ninth year, bad years lead to no years."
While Ellis says he doesn't want a new contract, he wouldn't mind either the Cowboys pushing forward some of the money at the end of the contract to this year or guaranteeing his salary this year and possibly the next two.
"The ball is in their court because I'm under contract," Ellis says. "It's just not beneficial to have a guy on their team who feels like he's not being committed to. If I wasn't committed to them, they would have a problem with me, then it works both sides."
So what if the Cowboys don't come up with a new deal by the start of training camp? Does that mean Ellis holds out?
"I don't know," Ellis says. "I'm not saying that. I don't know what's going to happen. I would say this, if we can't get anything done, I think it's best for me to be gone - at their discretion. They can trade me or do whatever. Not in a hostile way. I understand the business. I'm just saying I probably shouldn't be here."
However, the Cowboys seem to want Ellis around.
Even Parcells says Ellis is one of the team's top pass rushers and he will be needed this season.
"Greg is a pressure player - that's where he will help us," Parcells says. "He might drop off (in coverage) once in a while. But in a 3-4 defense, you need pressure players and usually, the linebackers are the pressure players. I think Greg fits into this defense and I think he fits in well."
But that's something Ellis can't see for himself until he gets to training camp. Now, the question is, will he go to camp without a new deal?
Other than the Ellis watch, there are some traditional linebackers to keep an eye on at camp, including the first-round draft pick, Bobby Carpenter. While he will undoubtedly be the first-team water boy, something Parcells issues to every first-round pick, Carpenter is looking to get a starting job on the defensive side of the ball. Look for a quality camp battle between the rookie from Ohio State and veteran Al Singleton.
So definitely, there will be plenty to watch this year at training camp. And no, it doesn't all have to do with Terrell Owens.
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7/05/2006
6/21/2006
Talent Stockpiled at LB
Size and Depth Added
No position was bitten more by the injury bug last season than linebacker.
Not only did the Cowboys lose starters Dat Nguyen and Al Singleton for the entire season, but five linebackers ended up on injured reserve.
So it made sense to address the position heavily through both free agency and the draft.
With the signings of veterans Akin Ayodele and Rocky Boiman, followed by the drafting of Ohio State's Bobby Carpenter in the first round, consider the linebacker position addressed.
Now the Cowboys can only wait to see how it pays off.
Remember, this is only the second season for the Cowboys defense in the 3-4 scheme, and Bill Parcells has said in the past that making a complete switch can take as long as three years.
The Cowboys certainly added the right parts on the defensive line last year, getting Marcus Spears and Chris Canty. And the Cowboys made the first step in acquiring linebackers for the 3-4 by drafting DeMarcus Ware in the first round (11th overall).
This year, they took it to another level, especially in drafting Carpenter, who is the first Cowboys first-round pick to actually play linebacker in college since Billy Cannon (Texas A&M) in 1984.
Now just because Carpenter is a first-round pick (18th overall), don't expect Parcells to slide him into the starting lineup immediately. The Cowboys haven't forgotten about Singleton, who played eight games before a shoulder injury ended his season early.
Although a bit undersized, Singleton played well last season at outside linebacker in the 3-4 scheme, holding off Kevin Burnett.
But whether he cracks the starting lineup right away or not, all eyes will be set on Carpenter, who says he will be ready for anything.
"There's a lot of talented linebackers they have here and hopefully I'll be able to play opposite DeMarcus," says Carpenter, who will graduate this summer with a degree in business economics. "I think that's what their plan was, and I think I just have to come in, play well and hopefully live up to their expectations.
"I know they brought in a lot of guys and had a pretty solid linebacking corps last year," Carpenter adds. "So I'm just going to work as hard as I can and when the vets get in here I'll try to fit in with those guys and continue to work hard."
Being the first-round pick, Carpenter already has one job in place - being Parcells' personal water boy during practice this entire season. Each year, Parcells mandates that his first draft choice fetch him water during practice breaks. Carpenter has joined Terence Newman, Julius Jones and Ware in the Cowboys' lineage of well-paid water boys.
"They said it used to be bottled but I think he's gone to tap now," says Carpenter, who brought Parcells a fresh cup in each of the Cowboys' first three mini-camp practices. "The trainers and everybody, they get the order ready. I'm just the delivery boy."
However, unlike his three previous water boys, Parcells had some prior history with Carpenter, whose dad Rob played for him as a running back with the New York Giants in the early 1980s.
"I've always kind of dreamed of playing for him," Carpenter says of Parcells. "Growing up, I was always a fan of the team he coached for. Now to have a chance to play for him is almost like a dream come true.
"
As for Parcells, who has proven he prefers to sign former players, he pointed out that any coach would like to have Carpenter, whether his dad played for him or not.
"I like the player as an athlete," Parcells says. "He's a real pure linebacker."
Parcells needs his 3-4 linebackers to be versatile, and at 6-2 and 254 pounds, Carpenter appears to have the size and speed to stand up on the line of scrimmage against the run and drop into coverage on tight ends.
In college, Carpenter occasionally lined up at defensive end in pass-rush situations. He finished 10th on Ohio State's all-time sack list with 14.5. And the Cowboys also think Carpenter could move inside if need be, or if they should have the opportunity to put another speed-rusher on the outside.
"There's always things you have to learn, especially jumping to another level," Carpenter says. "You always have to refine your technique because the talent level is so much closer. There's not the disparity that some people enjoyed in college. Definitely refining your technique and learning a scheme inside and out - that's what I like to do early and learn what everyone's responsibility is.
"I did a lot of pass-rush at Ohio State. I did a lot of pass-dropping early in my career - in the flats and seams. Really, just trying to think of things that I didn't do a lot, and really I did a lot of things throughout this past season. I think it really helped me develop as a player."
For now, the Cowboys have Singleton and possibly Burnett to compete for the starting position. Burnett had an up-and-down rookie season last year, suffering three separate injuries that never put the second-round pick from Tennessee on track.
In fact, Burnett suffered a torn ACL in the final week of the season, forcing him to spend most of the spring and summer rehabbing the knee. However, Burnett is expected to be ready for the start of training camp on July 27.
One player who could figure into the mix at either inside or outside is Boiman, a four-year veteran who comes over from Tennessee.
The former Titan not only can play both positions, but is a standout on special teams, setting a Tennessee club record in 2002 with 30 special teams tackles.
And despite having both Ware and Carpenter on the outside, Boiman might have just as good a chance to win a starting job there as at inside linebacker, where the Cowboys return leading tackler Bradie James, who had 109 stops last season and also developed more of a leadership role in Nguyen's absence.
James will be teamed with Ayodele, who played outside linebacker for four seasons with the Jaguars, but will now move to inside linebacker.
"That's the position Harry Carson played when Carl (Banks) was playing and that is what we expect to be our high-producing, tackling machine, so to speak," Parcells says of Ayodele, but referring to his coaching days with the Giants.
"Because in the defense that we play, the 3-4, the teams really don't run to the weak side very effectively against the 3-4. There are not that many schemes that they employ versus the 3-4 on the weak side. So as a result, a lot of the plays are going away from that player and it allows him to run. He's going to get the opportunity to be in pursuit quickly a lot of the time and so anyone that is in that pursuit quickly is expected to produce at a high level. That's really where we're going to try to play him, where we played Harry and for a little while Pepper (Johnson), and Marvin Jones when I was with the Jets, guys like that who could run and hit pretty well.
"
The Cowboys should have some depth inside with Scott Shanle and Ryan Fowler, who both started inside after Nguyen suffered his neck injury, which eventually led to his retirement.
So the Cowboys have certainly provided themselves with options at linebacker. And considering how things turned out last year, they may need every one of them.
Size and Depth Added
No position was bitten more by the injury bug last season than linebacker.
Not only did the Cowboys lose starters Dat Nguyen and Al Singleton for the entire season, but five linebackers ended up on injured reserve.
So it made sense to address the position heavily through both free agency and the draft.
With the signings of veterans Akin Ayodele and Rocky Boiman, followed by the drafting of Ohio State's Bobby Carpenter in the first round, consider the linebacker position addressed.
Now the Cowboys can only wait to see how it pays off.
Remember, this is only the second season for the Cowboys defense in the 3-4 scheme, and Bill Parcells has said in the past that making a complete switch can take as long as three years.
The Cowboys certainly added the right parts on the defensive line last year, getting Marcus Spears and Chris Canty. And the Cowboys made the first step in acquiring linebackers for the 3-4 by drafting DeMarcus Ware in the first round (11th overall).
This year, they took it to another level, especially in drafting Carpenter, who is the first Cowboys first-round pick to actually play linebacker in college since Billy Cannon (Texas A&M) in 1984.
Now just because Carpenter is a first-round pick (18th overall), don't expect Parcells to slide him into the starting lineup immediately. The Cowboys haven't forgotten about Singleton, who played eight games before a shoulder injury ended his season early.
Although a bit undersized, Singleton played well last season at outside linebacker in the 3-4 scheme, holding off Kevin Burnett.
But whether he cracks the starting lineup right away or not, all eyes will be set on Carpenter, who says he will be ready for anything.
"There's a lot of talented linebackers they have here and hopefully I'll be able to play opposite DeMarcus," says Carpenter, who will graduate this summer with a degree in business economics. "I think that's what their plan was, and I think I just have to come in, play well and hopefully live up to their expectations.
"I know they brought in a lot of guys and had a pretty solid linebacking corps last year," Carpenter adds. "So I'm just going to work as hard as I can and when the vets get in here I'll try to fit in with those guys and continue to work hard."
Being the first-round pick, Carpenter already has one job in place - being Parcells' personal water boy during practice this entire season. Each year, Parcells mandates that his first draft choice fetch him water during practice breaks. Carpenter has joined Terence Newman, Julius Jones and Ware in the Cowboys' lineage of well-paid water boys.
"They said it used to be bottled but I think he's gone to tap now," says Carpenter, who brought Parcells a fresh cup in each of the Cowboys' first three mini-camp practices. "The trainers and everybody, they get the order ready. I'm just the delivery boy."
However, unlike his three previous water boys, Parcells had some prior history with Carpenter, whose dad Rob played for him as a running back with the New York Giants in the early 1980s.
"I've always kind of dreamed of playing for him," Carpenter says of Parcells. "Growing up, I was always a fan of the team he coached for. Now to have a chance to play for him is almost like a dream come true.
"
As for Parcells, who has proven he prefers to sign former players, he pointed out that any coach would like to have Carpenter, whether his dad played for him or not.
"I like the player as an athlete," Parcells says. "He's a real pure linebacker."
Parcells needs his 3-4 linebackers to be versatile, and at 6-2 and 254 pounds, Carpenter appears to have the size and speed to stand up on the line of scrimmage against the run and drop into coverage on tight ends.
In college, Carpenter occasionally lined up at defensive end in pass-rush situations. He finished 10th on Ohio State's all-time sack list with 14.5. And the Cowboys also think Carpenter could move inside if need be, or if they should have the opportunity to put another speed-rusher on the outside.
"There's always things you have to learn, especially jumping to another level," Carpenter says. "You always have to refine your technique because the talent level is so much closer. There's not the disparity that some people enjoyed in college. Definitely refining your technique and learning a scheme inside and out - that's what I like to do early and learn what everyone's responsibility is.
"I did a lot of pass-rush at Ohio State. I did a lot of pass-dropping early in my career - in the flats and seams. Really, just trying to think of things that I didn't do a lot, and really I did a lot of things throughout this past season. I think it really helped me develop as a player."
For now, the Cowboys have Singleton and possibly Burnett to compete for the starting position. Burnett had an up-and-down rookie season last year, suffering three separate injuries that never put the second-round pick from Tennessee on track.
In fact, Burnett suffered a torn ACL in the final week of the season, forcing him to spend most of the spring and summer rehabbing the knee. However, Burnett is expected to be ready for the start of training camp on July 27.
One player who could figure into the mix at either inside or outside is Boiman, a four-year veteran who comes over from Tennessee.
The former Titan not only can play both positions, but is a standout on special teams, setting a Tennessee club record in 2002 with 30 special teams tackles.
And despite having both Ware and Carpenter on the outside, Boiman might have just as good a chance to win a starting job there as at inside linebacker, where the Cowboys return leading tackler Bradie James, who had 109 stops last season and also developed more of a leadership role in Nguyen's absence.
James will be teamed with Ayodele, who played outside linebacker for four seasons with the Jaguars, but will now move to inside linebacker.
"That's the position Harry Carson played when Carl (Banks) was playing and that is what we expect to be our high-producing, tackling machine, so to speak," Parcells says of Ayodele, but referring to his coaching days with the Giants.
"Because in the defense that we play, the 3-4, the teams really don't run to the weak side very effectively against the 3-4. There are not that many schemes that they employ versus the 3-4 on the weak side. So as a result, a lot of the plays are going away from that player and it allows him to run. He's going to get the opportunity to be in pursuit quickly a lot of the time and so anyone that is in that pursuit quickly is expected to produce at a high level. That's really where we're going to try to play him, where we played Harry and for a little while Pepper (Johnson), and Marvin Jones when I was with the Jets, guys like that who could run and hit pretty well.
"
The Cowboys should have some depth inside with Scott Shanle and Ryan Fowler, who both started inside after Nguyen suffered his neck injury, which eventually led to his retirement.
So the Cowboys have certainly provided themselves with options at linebacker. And considering how things turned out last year, they may need every one of them.
6/19/2006
2006 PLAYER MOVEMENT
Re-signed Status
Andre Gurode, OL 1 year
Scott Shanle, LB Restricted
Additions
Terrell Owens, WR Unrestricted (PHI)
Ryan Hannam, TE Free Agent (SEA)
Jason Fabini, OL Free Agent (NYJ)
Kyle Kosier, OL Free Agent (DET)
Akin Ayodele, LB Unrestricted (JAC)
Rocky Boiman, LB Free Agent (TEN)
Mike Vanderjagt, K Unrestricted (IND)
Marcus Coleman, S Unrestricted (HOU)
Subtractions
La'Roi Glover, DT Unrestricted (STL)
Scott Fujita, LB Free Agent (NO)
Dan Campbell, TE Unrestricted (DET)
Keyshawn Johnson, WR (CAR)
Larry Allen, G Unrestricted (SF)
Torrin Tucker, T Unrestricted (TB)
Re-signed Status
Andre Gurode, OL 1 year
Scott Shanle, LB Restricted
Additions
Terrell Owens, WR Unrestricted (PHI)
Ryan Hannam, TE Free Agent (SEA)
Jason Fabini, OL Free Agent (NYJ)
Kyle Kosier, OL Free Agent (DET)
Akin Ayodele, LB Unrestricted (JAC)
Rocky Boiman, LB Free Agent (TEN)
Mike Vanderjagt, K Unrestricted (IND)
Marcus Coleman, S Unrestricted (HOU)
Subtractions
La'Roi Glover, DT Unrestricted (STL)
Scott Fujita, LB Free Agent (NO)
Dan Campbell, TE Unrestricted (DET)
Keyshawn Johnson, WR (CAR)
Larry Allen, G Unrestricted (SF)
Torrin Tucker, T Unrestricted (TB)
6/17/2006
John Saldi
Position: Linebacker
Year in NFL: Rookie
Height: 6-5
Weight: 233
Family: Single
College: Texas Tech
Major: Corp Communications
Birthdate: June 6, 1982
Birthplace: Dallas
Essentials: John Saldi doesn't have to look too hard for inspiration as he tries to defy odds and make the Cowboys as a rookie free agent. The Linebacker from Texas Tech is facing the same uphill struggle his father Jay Saldi did back in 1976 as a rookie Tight End.
Jay Saldi not only earned a roster spot that first year but stayed with the Cowboys until 1982. His son signed with Dallas as a rookie free agent after going undrafted in 2006. John, who played high school ball at nearby Southlake Carroll, was a four-year letter winner at Texas Tech.
He finished his college career with 213 tackles, 89 for a loss, 29 sacks and 9 interceptions. As a redshirt freshman, he was named the Mazda Tangerine Bowl defensive MVP in Tech's 55-15 win over Clemson. Saldi had 5 tackles, an interception, a sack and broke up 4 passes. He was named honorable mention All-Big 12 Conference all 4 years.
At Southlake Carroll, Saldi finished his career with 153 tackles, 18 for losses, 4 interceptions, 4 forced fumbles and 5 sacks. He was named all-state as a senior.
Saldi majored in corporate communications with a minor in restaurant, hotel and institutional management.
Notable:
Best advice I ever got: "From my Dad, (former Cowboys tight end Jay Saldi) he told me I can do whatever I want to if I put my mind to it."
Pro athlete I admire the most: " My Dad. He came here as a free agent and played 9 years in the NFL."
When it's time to relax I: "Hang out with my friends. There isn't much to do up in Lubbock so we'd go fishing or hunting or just hang out at the lake."
Favorite meal: "Anything Italian, I love pasta."
Food I won't eat: "Chocolate or vanilla, not a big fan of sweets."
Sports moment I'll never forget: "My sophomore year in college we beat Texas A&M, Texas and TCU all in the same year."
If I wasn't playing football I'd be playing: Golf.
My mentor in sports is/was: "Not to many outside my Dad. I can talk to him about anything."
Last concert I went to: Todd Green.
My dream home must have: A movie theater.
Most important lesson I've learned about playing in the NFL: "Big eyes, big ears. Listen and learn from these guys, learn what you can."
Vacation I would like to take: Italy.
Best movie I've seen recently: "Inside Man."
Nickname: "Nuts' because I play pretty hard, not because of anything bad."
First car: "2000 Pontiac Trans Am, it was nice."
My favorite subject in school: History.
TV show I didn't miss growing up: "Fresh Prince of Bel Air" or the "Three Stooges."
Favorite cartoon character: Bugs Bunny.
I hate it when people: "Clip their fingernails in public."
Dream dinner guests: "Donald Trump, Angelina Jolie and Michael Jordan."
Position: Linebacker
Year in NFL: Rookie
Height: 6-5
Weight: 233
Family: Single
College: Texas Tech
Major: Corp Communications
Birthdate: June 6, 1982
Birthplace: Dallas
Essentials: John Saldi doesn't have to look too hard for inspiration as he tries to defy odds and make the Cowboys as a rookie free agent. The Linebacker from Texas Tech is facing the same uphill struggle his father Jay Saldi did back in 1976 as a rookie Tight End.
Jay Saldi not only earned a roster spot that first year but stayed with the Cowboys until 1982. His son signed with Dallas as a rookie free agent after going undrafted in 2006. John, who played high school ball at nearby Southlake Carroll, was a four-year letter winner at Texas Tech.
He finished his college career with 213 tackles, 89 for a loss, 29 sacks and 9 interceptions. As a redshirt freshman, he was named the Mazda Tangerine Bowl defensive MVP in Tech's 55-15 win over Clemson. Saldi had 5 tackles, an interception, a sack and broke up 4 passes. He was named honorable mention All-Big 12 Conference all 4 years.
At Southlake Carroll, Saldi finished his career with 153 tackles, 18 for losses, 4 interceptions, 4 forced fumbles and 5 sacks. He was named all-state as a senior.
Saldi majored in corporate communications with a minor in restaurant, hotel and institutional management.
Notable:
Best advice I ever got: "From my Dad, (former Cowboys tight end Jay Saldi) he told me I can do whatever I want to if I put my mind to it."
Pro athlete I admire the most: " My Dad. He came here as a free agent and played 9 years in the NFL."
When it's time to relax I: "Hang out with my friends. There isn't much to do up in Lubbock so we'd go fishing or hunting or just hang out at the lake."
Favorite meal: "Anything Italian, I love pasta."
Food I won't eat: "Chocolate or vanilla, not a big fan of sweets."
Sports moment I'll never forget: "My sophomore year in college we beat Texas A&M, Texas and TCU all in the same year."
If I wasn't playing football I'd be playing: Golf.
My mentor in sports is/was: "Not to many outside my Dad. I can talk to him about anything."
Last concert I went to: Todd Green.
My dream home must have: A movie theater.
Most important lesson I've learned about playing in the NFL: "Big eyes, big ears. Listen and learn from these guys, learn what you can."
Vacation I would like to take: Italy.
Best movie I've seen recently: "Inside Man."
Nickname: "Nuts' because I play pretty hard, not because of anything bad."
First car: "2000 Pontiac Trans Am, it was nice."
My favorite subject in school: History.
TV show I didn't miss growing up: "Fresh Prince of Bel Air" or the "Three Stooges."
Favorite cartoon character: Bugs Bunny.
I hate it when people: "Clip their fingernails in public."
Dream dinner guests: "Donald Trump, Angelina Jolie and Michael Jordan."
6/15/2006
Cowboys Announce Training Camp Schedule
Football season is almost here, the Cowboys are reving up for training camp. Here is the Cowboys training camp schedule:
Friday, July 28
Noon - Jerry Jones/Bill Parcells Opening Press Conference
Saturday, July 29
Saturday, August 26
7:00 p.m. (CDT) Kickoff vs. San Francisco
Tuesday, August 29
Cut to 75 players
Thursday, August 31
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. (CDT) Kickoff Luncheon
7:00 p.m. (CDT) Kickoff vs. Minnesota
Saturday, September 2
Cut to 53 players
Football season is almost here, the Cowboys are reving up for training camp. Here is the Cowboys training camp schedule:
Friday, July 28
Noon - Jerry Jones/Bill Parcells Opening Press Conference
Saturday, July 29
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Practice
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Practice
Sunday, July 30
2:00 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. Practice
Monday, July 31
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Practice
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Practice
Tuesday, August 1
2:00 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. Practice
Wednesday, August 2
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Practice
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Practice
Thursday, August 3
2:00 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. Practice
Friday, August 4
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Practice
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Practice
Saturday, August 5
TBA Walk-through
2:00 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. Practice
Sunday, August 6
** PLAYERS OFF **
Monday, August 7
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Practice
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Practice
Tuesday, August 8
2:00 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. Practice
Wednesday, August 9
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Practice
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Practice
Thursday, August 10
2:00 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. Practice
Friday, August 11
TBA Walk-through
TBA Depart For Seattle
Saturday, August 12
9:00 p.m. (CDT) Kickoff at Seattle
Sunday, August 13
** PLAYERS OFF **
Monday, August 14
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Practice
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Practice
Tuesday, August 15
2:00 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. Practice
Wednesday, August 16
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Practice
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Practice
Thursday, August 17
2:00 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. Practice
Friday, August 18
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Practice
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Practice
Saturday, August 19
TBA Walk-through
2:00 p.m. - 4:20 p.m. Practice
Sunday, August 20
TBA Walk-through
TBA Depart For Shreveport, La.
*** BREAK CAMP ***
Monday, August 21
7:00 p.m. (CDT) Kickoff vs. New Orleans in Shreveport, La.
Return to Dallas following the game
Tuesday, August 22
** PLAYERS OFF **
Saturday, August 26
7:00 p.m. (CDT) Kickoff vs. San Francisco
Tuesday, August 29
Cut to 75 players
Thursday, August 31
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. (CDT) Kickoff Luncheon
7:00 p.m. (CDT) Kickoff vs. Minnesota
Saturday, September 2
Cut to 53 players
5/02/2006
Cowboys Sign Undrafted Free Agent Rookies
Here's the latest rookie free agent signings, these undrafted rookies will get their opportunity to make a name for themselves at the Cowboys Rookie Mini-Camp which will be held this weekend (May 5-7)
QB Jeff Mroz (Yale)
LB John Saldi (Texas Tech)
WR Sam Hurd (Northern Illinois)
S Darrell Brooks (Arizona)
WR Miles Austin (Monmouth)
ILB Oliver Hoyte (North Carolina State)
QB Nick Noce (Arkansas State)
OLB Kai Parham (Virginia)
OT Dennis Roland (Georgia)
CB Marcus King (Missouri)
CB Quincy Butler (TCU)
DT Steve Williams (Northwest Missouri State)
RB Demetrius Summers (South Carolina)
Here's the latest rookie free agent signings, these undrafted rookies will get their opportunity to make a name for themselves at the Cowboys Rookie Mini-Camp which will be held this weekend (May 5-7)
QB Jeff Mroz (Yale)
LB John Saldi (Texas Tech)
WR Sam Hurd (Northern Illinois)
S Darrell Brooks (Arizona)
WR Miles Austin (Monmouth)
ILB Oliver Hoyte (North Carolina State)
QB Nick Noce (Arkansas State)
OLB Kai Parham (Virginia)
OT Dennis Roland (Georgia)
CB Marcus King (Missouri)
CB Quincy Butler (TCU)
DT Steve Williams (Northwest Missouri State)
RB Demetrius Summers (South Carolina)
My take on the 2006 draft for the DALLAS COWBOYS
By Howard Cox
I like their first pick because it gives them another solid player on the outside. Singleton will start but he has shown injury problems the last 2 seasons and Carpenter gives them size and talent to not worry about that. He gives the team another "punch" on the outside opposite last years bonus pick DeMarcus Ware. Burnett will also play into the rotation to give the defense a solid second teir of players.
As for the second round pick I am still wondering where that came from. They seem to be going to get rid of the fullback position altogether which is alright but they seemingly already had enough TE's to fill the blocking scheme. I guess another target for Bledsoe isn't a bad idea but I will have to wait and see on this one.
Round three pick I also like because it is a talented player that isn't going to be expected to start but will be able to learn and play his way into the rotation, much like Canty and Spears did last season. This is a good thing also considering he has the size to move inside in a 4 man front.
Don't let the WR beside Green's name fool you he was brought in mainly to serve as a KR for the special teams. I would be surprised to see him listed higher than 5th on the depth chart, maybe 4th but that would be about it. Thompson's got some competition on the return game and likely will lose that portion of his duties. I like this pick because nothing can spark a team more than a good return for great field position or a quick TD from special teams.
Here, IMO, is going to be the steal of the draft for the Cowboys. They have needed a good "cover" safety and Watkins could very well turn out to be just that. His size and speed should allow him to patrol the backfield and give Williams the freedom to roam up near the line, something he hasn't had since Woodson retired. Wait and see on this one, he should turn out to be a very good one.
The rest of the picks were adding depth to the respective positions. Stanley will give them another "plug" in the middle behind Ferguson. Johnson showed promise last season and Stanley is the right size to get in there and shore up the middle. McQuistan and Whitley will compete for roster spots as depth behind the starting 5 up front on offense. I like all three choices for doing just that, and you never know they just may surprise and be playing a lot of time by the middle of the season, most likely Stanley.
By Howard Cox
I like their first pick because it gives them another solid player on the outside. Singleton will start but he has shown injury problems the last 2 seasons and Carpenter gives them size and talent to not worry about that. He gives the team another "punch" on the outside opposite last years bonus pick DeMarcus Ware. Burnett will also play into the rotation to give the defense a solid second teir of players.
As for the second round pick I am still wondering where that came from. They seem to be going to get rid of the fullback position altogether which is alright but they seemingly already had enough TE's to fill the blocking scheme. I guess another target for Bledsoe isn't a bad idea but I will have to wait and see on this one.
Round three pick I also like because it is a talented player that isn't going to be expected to start but will be able to learn and play his way into the rotation, much like Canty and Spears did last season. This is a good thing also considering he has the size to move inside in a 4 man front.
Don't let the WR beside Green's name fool you he was brought in mainly to serve as a KR for the special teams. I would be surprised to see him listed higher than 5th on the depth chart, maybe 4th but that would be about it. Thompson's got some competition on the return game and likely will lose that portion of his duties. I like this pick because nothing can spark a team more than a good return for great field position or a quick TD from special teams.
Here, IMO, is going to be the steal of the draft for the Cowboys. They have needed a good "cover" safety and Watkins could very well turn out to be just that. His size and speed should allow him to patrol the backfield and give Williams the freedom to roam up near the line, something he hasn't had since Woodson retired. Wait and see on this one, he should turn out to be a very good one.
The rest of the picks were adding depth to the respective positions. Stanley will give them another "plug" in the middle behind Ferguson. Johnson showed promise last season and Stanley is the right size to get in there and shore up the middle. McQuistan and Whitley will compete for roster spots as depth behind the starting 5 up front on offense. I like all three choices for doing just that, and you never know they just may surprise and be playing a lot of time by the middle of the season, most likely Stanley.
5/01/2006
Our Cowboys Draft Grade
1st round OLB Bobby Carpenter - Ohio State
Carpenter WILL be the starting OLB in our 3-4 scheme. Carpenter will bring his blue collar smashmouth gridiron football skills to the field every gameday
Grade: A
2nd round TE Anthony Fasano - Notre Dame
Fasano brings a very solid addition to the TE position and will help elevate the offensive game plans. We will see a true 2 TE set. This means we have eliminated the FB position. The TEs will block, and Fasano can catch the ball, looks for contact, big and strong smashmouth TE. Good pick
Grade: B+
3rd round DE/DT Jason Hatcher - Grambling
I strongly feel fans are going to like this pick alot once the season comes on. Jerry Jones said, "Can you say Leon Lett?" This is the plan for Hatcher, he will be expected to add some mass, and he WILL contribute at DE, and DT in the 4-3 alignment. Adds instant depth.
Grade: B-
4th round PR/WR Skyler Green - LSU
Green is a true specialist, and his job will be defined as such. Green will come in as our return specialist. We may see him in some reverses and other trick plays. Good pick, and a need in the return game.
Grade: B
5th round FS Pat Watkins - Florida State
Watkins was projected to be a 1st day pick. We got some major value here, 1st day talent in the 5th round. Watkins could be a steal here. We'll see him on special teams, nickel, and will be in the thick in the FS spot.
Grade: B+
6th round NT Montavious Stanley - Louisville
We saw many of the big NT taken in the later round, and Stanley is coming from a productive defense. Stanley is ready to get going after the QB. Another solid pick for this late day pick
Grade: B+
7th round LG Pat McQuistan - Weber State
Could compete for a roster spot, I'm not sure these last two picks make the roster. Hopefully I'm wrong, but we'll see. Pat does have some impressive size, and could be a ultra sleeper pick
Grade: D
7th round C/OG EJ Whitley - Texas Tech
Could compete for a roster spot, I'm not sure these last two picks make the roster. Hopefully I'm wrong, but we'll see. Whitley was drafted due to his major versatility.
Grade: D
Final Grade: B
1st round OLB Bobby Carpenter - Ohio State
Carpenter WILL be the starting OLB in our 3-4 scheme. Carpenter will bring his blue collar smashmouth gridiron football skills to the field every gameday
Grade: A
2nd round TE Anthony Fasano - Notre Dame
Fasano brings a very solid addition to the TE position and will help elevate the offensive game plans. We will see a true 2 TE set. This means we have eliminated the FB position. The TEs will block, and Fasano can catch the ball, looks for contact, big and strong smashmouth TE. Good pick
Grade: B+
3rd round DE/DT Jason Hatcher - Grambling
I strongly feel fans are going to like this pick alot once the season comes on. Jerry Jones said, "Can you say Leon Lett?" This is the plan for Hatcher, he will be expected to add some mass, and he WILL contribute at DE, and DT in the 4-3 alignment. Adds instant depth.
Grade: B-
4th round PR/WR Skyler Green - LSU
Green is a true specialist, and his job will be defined as such. Green will come in as our return specialist. We may see him in some reverses and other trick plays. Good pick, and a need in the return game.
Grade: B
5th round FS Pat Watkins - Florida State
Watkins was projected to be a 1st day pick. We got some major value here, 1st day talent in the 5th round. Watkins could be a steal here. We'll see him on special teams, nickel, and will be in the thick in the FS spot.
Grade: B+
6th round NT Montavious Stanley - Louisville
We saw many of the big NT taken in the later round, and Stanley is coming from a productive defense. Stanley is ready to get going after the QB. Another solid pick for this late day pick
Grade: B+
7th round LG Pat McQuistan - Weber State
Could compete for a roster spot, I'm not sure these last two picks make the roster. Hopefully I'm wrong, but we'll see. Pat does have some impressive size, and could be a ultra sleeper pick
Grade: D
7th round C/OG EJ Whitley - Texas Tech
Could compete for a roster spot, I'm not sure these last two picks make the roster. Hopefully I'm wrong, but we'll see. Whitley was drafted due to his major versatility.
Grade: D
Final Grade: B
4/29/2006
Final Bold Mock Draft
01. Houston – DE Mario Williams – NC State (The Texans pass on Bush, Casserly to retire)
02.San Francisco – RB Reggie Bush – USC (49ers trade both 1st rounds and more to get Bush)
03.Tennessee – QB Vince Young - Texas (In interviews Fisher sure sounds like he loves Young here)
04. NYJets – OT D’Brickashaw Ferguson - Virginia (The Jets take the tackle here)
05. Green Bay – LB AJ Hawk – Ohio St. (Green Bay needs a playmaker on defense, Hawk is that answer)
06. New Orleans – TE Vernon Davis – Maryland (Payton needs a good TE in his offense, Davis is the pick)
07. Oakland – FS Michael Huff – Texas (Davis loves to draft defensive backs, and Huff could be the target)
08. Buffalo – DT Broderick Bunkley - FSU (Buffalo will take the DT or trade down)
09. Detroit – LB Ernie Sims - FSU (The Cards need more defense and better LBs a LB could be the position pick here)
10. Arizona – QB Matt Leinart – USC (The Cards need Leinart to make a playoff run, Warner is washed up)
11. St. Louis – CB Jimmy Williams – VTech (Most likely a CB or LB will be drafted here)
12. Cleveland - DT Haloti Ngata – Oregon (Crennel nabs Ngata to anchor the 3-4)
13. Baltimore – CB Antonio Cromartie - FSU (Cromartie could be a star for the Ravens in the secondary)
14. Philadelphia – OT Winston Justice – USC (Philly loves offensive line players and Justice could be the pick)
15. Denver – WR Chad Jackson – Florida (An instant impact starter in Denver this year)
16. Miami – DE Kamerion Wimbley – FSU (The versatile DE will be an instant impact starter in Miami)
17. Minnesota – RB DeAngelo Williams – Memphis (Childress sees Westbrook in Williams & may be the guy)
18. Dallas – LB Bobby Carpenter – Ohio St. (Carp is versatile, can play the run and would be an instant starter)
19. San Diego – CB Jonathan Joseph – S.Carolina (Chargers traded Davis and need a premier CB)
20. Kansas City– CB Tye Hill– Clemson (KC needs to upgrade the defense with a CB)
21. New England – WR Santonio Holmes – Ohio St (The Patriots are thin at WR and Holmes will bolster the WRs)
22. New Orleans* – OT Marcus McNeil - Auburn (Instant upgrade at OT, and will help in the running game)
23. Tampa Bay – FS Donte Whitner (Offensive tackle or DB could be the pick late here)
24. Cincinnati – TE Leonard Pope - Georgia (The Bengals want more options on the offense Pope is a great add)
25. NYGiants – DT Gabe Watson – Michigan (CB or DT would be choices for NYG to look at here)
26. Chicago – FS Jason Allen - Tennessee (Chicago is light at DB, and DB should be the pick here)
27. Carolina – LB Demeco Ryans – ‘Bama (LBs are thin in Carolina, and could see a top notch LB taken here)
28. Jacksonville – TE Marcedes Lewis – UCLA (Jags could take TE, but LB is another need for them)
29. NYJets* – QB Jay Cutler – Vanderbilt (Mangini will get a possible steal here with Cutler free falling)
30. Indianapolis – RB Laurence Maroney–Minnesota (With James gone Indy needs RB help to make it in ‘06)
31. Seattle – OG Max Jean-Gilles - Georgia (This is a no-brainer for Seagirl fans, OG needs to be addressed)
32. Pittsburgh – WR Maurice Stovall – Notre Dame (Local product and instant starter with great hands)
01. Houston – DE Mario Williams – NC State (The Texans pass on Bush, Casserly to retire)
02.San Francisco – RB Reggie Bush – USC (49ers trade both 1st rounds and more to get Bush)
03.Tennessee – QB Vince Young - Texas (In interviews Fisher sure sounds like he loves Young here)
04. NYJets – OT D’Brickashaw Ferguson - Virginia (The Jets take the tackle here)
05. Green Bay – LB AJ Hawk – Ohio St. (Green Bay needs a playmaker on defense, Hawk is that answer)
06. New Orleans – TE Vernon Davis – Maryland (Payton needs a good TE in his offense, Davis is the pick)
07. Oakland – FS Michael Huff – Texas (Davis loves to draft defensive backs, and Huff could be the target)
08. Buffalo – DT Broderick Bunkley - FSU (Buffalo will take the DT or trade down)
09. Detroit – LB Ernie Sims - FSU (The Cards need more defense and better LBs a LB could be the position pick here)
10. Arizona – QB Matt Leinart – USC (The Cards need Leinart to make a playoff run, Warner is washed up)
11. St. Louis – CB Jimmy Williams – VTech (Most likely a CB or LB will be drafted here)
12. Cleveland - DT Haloti Ngata – Oregon (Crennel nabs Ngata to anchor the 3-4)
13. Baltimore – CB Antonio Cromartie - FSU (Cromartie could be a star for the Ravens in the secondary)
14. Philadelphia – OT Winston Justice – USC (Philly loves offensive line players and Justice could be the pick)
15. Denver – WR Chad Jackson – Florida (An instant impact starter in Denver this year)
16. Miami – DE Kamerion Wimbley – FSU (The versatile DE will be an instant impact starter in Miami)
17. Minnesota – RB DeAngelo Williams – Memphis (Childress sees Westbrook in Williams & may be the guy)
18. Dallas – LB Bobby Carpenter – Ohio St. (Carp is versatile, can play the run and would be an instant starter)
19. San Diego – CB Jonathan Joseph – S.Carolina (Chargers traded Davis and need a premier CB)
20. Kansas City– CB Tye Hill– Clemson (KC needs to upgrade the defense with a CB)
21. New England – WR Santonio Holmes – Ohio St (The Patriots are thin at WR and Holmes will bolster the WRs)
22. New Orleans* – OT Marcus McNeil - Auburn (Instant upgrade at OT, and will help in the running game)
23. Tampa Bay – FS Donte Whitner (Offensive tackle or DB could be the pick late here)
24. Cincinnati – TE Leonard Pope - Georgia (The Bengals want more options on the offense Pope is a great add)
25. NYGiants – DT Gabe Watson – Michigan (CB or DT would be choices for NYG to look at here)
26. Chicago – FS Jason Allen - Tennessee (Chicago is light at DB, and DB should be the pick here)
27. Carolina – LB Demeco Ryans – ‘Bama (LBs are thin in Carolina, and could see a top notch LB taken here)
28. Jacksonville – TE Marcedes Lewis – UCLA (Jags could take TE, but LB is another need for them)
29. NYJets* – QB Jay Cutler – Vanderbilt (Mangini will get a possible steal here with Cutler free falling)
30. Indianapolis – RB Laurence Maroney–Minnesota (With James gone Indy needs RB help to make it in ‘06)
31. Seattle – OG Max Jean-Gilles - Georgia (This is a no-brainer for Seagirl fans, OG needs to be addressed)
32. Pittsburgh – WR Maurice Stovall – Notre Dame (Local product and instant starter with great hands)
4/27/2006
Final 1st Day Draft Predictions
The draft almost never happens like fans would predict, but like past years I will give my final 1st Day Draft Predictions, they could be way off and most likely will be, but here it goes:
#18 - OLB Bobby Carpenter - Ohio State
#49 - DT Rod Wright - Texas
#80 - OG Charles Spencer - Pittsburgh
or
#18 - DE/LB Kamerion Wimbley - FSU
#49 - CB Ko Simpson - S.Carolina
#80 - DT Dusty Dvoracek - Oklahoma
There's no doubt we need a DT somewhere in this year's draft we are thin at DT, OLB is also a concern, Burnett could be a miss from last yrs draft and his injury history may continue, we need someone solid and someone that can come in a play, Carpenter is that player, lets take him.
We signed Marcus Coleman for a one year deal, I believe this means we WILL be looking at a DB early on.
Offensive line will probably be taken in the 3rd or on Day 2.
There's a big fall off in this year's draft from Day 1 and Day 2. I would not mind trading down or completely out of the 1st if we could pick up some 2nd and 3rds, the value seems really good in the 2 and 3rd round this year. Whatever the Cowboys do, I'm sure we will make the right picks that can contribute in our playoff run in 2006 and beyond!
Go Cowboys!
The draft almost never happens like fans would predict, but like past years I will give my final 1st Day Draft Predictions, they could be way off and most likely will be, but here it goes:
#18 - OLB Bobby Carpenter - Ohio State
#49 - DT Rod Wright - Texas
#80 - OG Charles Spencer - Pittsburgh
or
#18 - DE/LB Kamerion Wimbley - FSU
#49 - CB Ko Simpson - S.Carolina
#80 - DT Dusty Dvoracek - Oklahoma
There's no doubt we need a DT somewhere in this year's draft we are thin at DT, OLB is also a concern, Burnett could be a miss from last yrs draft and his injury history may continue, we need someone solid and someone that can come in a play, Carpenter is that player, lets take him.
We signed Marcus Coleman for a one year deal, I believe this means we WILL be looking at a DB early on.
Offensive line will probably be taken in the 3rd or on Day 2.
There's a big fall off in this year's draft from Day 1 and Day 2. I would not mind trading down or completely out of the 1st if we could pick up some 2nd and 3rds, the value seems really good in the 2 and 3rd round this year. Whatever the Cowboys do, I'm sure we will make the right picks that can contribute in our playoff run in 2006 and beyond!
Go Cowboys!
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