Bledsoe has done well this preseason, but...
Does Bledsoe have "lasting power"? The media wanted to create some QB Contraversy when Romo played in an entire preseason game, but then Bledsoe started again, and dazzled fans and the media with his great passes. We all know Bledsoe is one the most prolific QBs in NFL history, and he's done a lot in this league, so this should not be a big surprise to everyone.
Last year, we saw the same production from Bledsoe early on, but as the season progressed his production topped off and declined. Could this be attributed to the offensive line being decimated by injuries, or is it Bledsoe's "lasting power"
Can Bledsoe keep the same good production from start to end? This year we will see. I think the good thing about this offseason, training camp, and preseason has been Tony Romo. Right now, this is definitely Bledsoe's team this year, but if Bledsoe's "lasting power" fails towards the critical part of the second half of the season we will be hearing the calls for Romo to jumpstart the offense. Whether or not Parcells would pull Bledsoe during the season would be something else. Parcells usually sticks with his guys, but at some point he could do this, depending on the situation.
I like what I see in Bledsoe, the young receivers corps, and the offense as a whole. We should be good. Let's see how this unfolds.
Your trusted source for Dallas Cowboys news, breaking updates, and expert analysis. Since 2003, we bring you year-round Cowboys editorials, game reviews, and draft coverage.
8/27/2006
8/23/2006
How's That 2004 Draft Class Doing?
Parcells has stated time and time again that you build your team through the draft. Let's take a look back at the Cowboys 2004 Draft Class and see how this crop is doing heading into the 2006 Season.
Day1
2 (11, 43) - Julius Jones, Notre Dame (starting RB)
2 (20, 52) - Jacob Rogers, USC (Injured,Cut,Bust)
3 (20, 83) - Stephen Peterman, Louisiana State (Cut)
DAY2
4 (25, 121) - Bruce Thornton, Georgia (Cut)
5 (12, 144) - Sean Ryan, Boston College (Injury Riddled, may not make the cut this year)
7 (4, 205) - Nathan Jones, Rutgers (Probably makes the cut)
7 (15, 216) - Patrick Crayton, NW Oklahoma State (#3WR)
7 (22, 223) - Jacques Reeves, Purdue (Probably makes the cut)
When you look at this draft class, you truly see an average to good crop here. RB Julius Jones headlines the group. Julius is in his 3rd year, and has yet to have that "magical" year, the type of Emmitt Smith year we have not had since the '90s. Jones has the potential, but he has been sidelined the last two years by bad luck.
Rogers was injured before we drafted him, and he never became anything but a complete and uttter BUST.
Parcells stuck by Peterman despite his injuries, unfortunately time ran out on Peterman. Cory Procter overcame him on the depth chart, and Peterman was released today.
Bruce Thornton had big potential coming out of college as the team captain of the Georgia Bulldog defense, unfortunately Thornton never developed into anything.
Sean Ryan is another player that has been given plenty of time to contribute and make the team, but this may be the year he is cut. Ryan has been on and off the roster the past couple of years. His days are numbered with the drafting of Fasano and the signing of Hannam.
Nate Jones is the man of mystery, he never gets any attention at all, good or bad, but Parcells recently stated that each year it becomes harder and harder to cut Jones. Jones will be cutting it very close this year. He may or may not make this team this year, we'll know in the coming days.
Patrick Crayton was the 2nd day gem in this draft class. Crayton came into camp and turned heads ever since. He has solid hands, and makes plays after the catch. As a former QB, Crayton knows where to position himself when he runs his routes. The only knock on Crayton is his durability. Patrick Crayton and Julius Jones share the same hardships, just wishing to complete a full season.
Jacques Reeves continues to make the team every year due to his committment to the game, he's a solid back up and a versatile player that Parcells likes in the secondary. Reeves should make the team once again.
Summary:
Day 1 is a near washout with the exception of Julius Jones. Day 2 is interesting, the last (3) picks were 7th rounders and all remain on the team, unlike the higher picks before them. If you remember Parcells made some trades to acquire those 7th rounders, once again applying his theory of being in the "Talent Acquisition Business" even during the NFL draft back in 2004.
Parcells has stated time and time again that you build your team through the draft. Let's take a look back at the Cowboys 2004 Draft Class and see how this crop is doing heading into the 2006 Season.
Day1
2 (11, 43) - Julius Jones, Notre Dame (starting RB)
2 (20, 52) - Jacob Rogers, USC (Injured,Cut,Bust)
3 (20, 83) - Stephen Peterman, Louisiana State (Cut)
DAY2
4 (25, 121) - Bruce Thornton, Georgia (Cut)
5 (12, 144) - Sean Ryan, Boston College (Injury Riddled, may not make the cut this year)
7 (4, 205) - Nathan Jones, Rutgers (Probably makes the cut)
7 (15, 216) - Patrick Crayton, NW Oklahoma State (#3WR)
7 (22, 223) - Jacques Reeves, Purdue (Probably makes the cut)
When you look at this draft class, you truly see an average to good crop here. RB Julius Jones headlines the group. Julius is in his 3rd year, and has yet to have that "magical" year, the type of Emmitt Smith year we have not had since the '90s. Jones has the potential, but he has been sidelined the last two years by bad luck.
Rogers was injured before we drafted him, and he never became anything but a complete and uttter BUST.
Parcells stuck by Peterman despite his injuries, unfortunately time ran out on Peterman. Cory Procter overcame him on the depth chart, and Peterman was released today.
Bruce Thornton had big potential coming out of college as the team captain of the Georgia Bulldog defense, unfortunately Thornton never developed into anything.
Sean Ryan is another player that has been given plenty of time to contribute and make the team, but this may be the year he is cut. Ryan has been on and off the roster the past couple of years. His days are numbered with the drafting of Fasano and the signing of Hannam.
Nate Jones is the man of mystery, he never gets any attention at all, good or bad, but Parcells recently stated that each year it becomes harder and harder to cut Jones. Jones will be cutting it very close this year. He may or may not make this team this year, we'll know in the coming days.
Patrick Crayton was the 2nd day gem in this draft class. Crayton came into camp and turned heads ever since. He has solid hands, and makes plays after the catch. As a former QB, Crayton knows where to position himself when he runs his routes. The only knock on Crayton is his durability. Patrick Crayton and Julius Jones share the same hardships, just wishing to complete a full season.
Jacques Reeves continues to make the team every year due to his committment to the game, he's a solid back up and a versatile player that Parcells likes in the secondary. Reeves should make the team once again.
Summary:
Day 1 is a near washout with the exception of Julius Jones. Day 2 is interesting, the last (3) picks were 7th rounders and all remain on the team, unlike the higher picks before them. If you remember Parcells made some trades to acquire those 7th rounders, once again applying his theory of being in the "Talent Acquisition Business" even during the NFL draft back in 2004.
8/22/2006
Inching Closer to More Roster Cuts
Aug. 29th - Cut down to 75
Sept. 2nd - Cut down to 53
Last night there were several players that did not play, and when you're not playing in a preseason game, you're in trouble - on the bubble.
Some notable players that did not play against the Saints were: OG Stephen Peterman, QB Drew Henson, QB Matt Baker, WR JR Tolver, LB Carl-Johan Bjork, TE Erik Jensen, and K Mike Vanderjagt.
Henson and Vanderjagt make the roster, but the same cannot be said about the rest of those guys. Most notable is OG Stephen Peterman, a former 3rd round pick. Peterman has been riddled with injuries, and this year it appears that Cory Proctor is poised to beat him out.
Marcus Coleman is going to be suspended for (4) games for violating the leagues illegal substance policy. He's going to be cut.
LB Oliver Hoyte is doing everything possible to stay on the team, he's been a tackling machine, and will at least make the practice squad. WR Miles Austin has done his part as well, and could be on his way to the practice squad as well.
WR Battle: Rector vs. Green
Rector has made some great catches, but he has also dropped a few passes during practice. Its a tight race between Rector and Green for one of the last WR spots. This is too close to call at this point, I honestly don't know which of these two makes the team.
Aug. 29th - Cut down to 75
Sept. 2nd - Cut down to 53
Last night there were several players that did not play, and when you're not playing in a preseason game, you're in trouble - on the bubble.
Some notable players that did not play against the Saints were: OG Stephen Peterman, QB Drew Henson, QB Matt Baker, WR JR Tolver, LB Carl-Johan Bjork, TE Erik Jensen, and K Mike Vanderjagt.
Henson and Vanderjagt make the roster, but the same cannot be said about the rest of those guys. Most notable is OG Stephen Peterman, a former 3rd round pick. Peterman has been riddled with injuries, and this year it appears that Cory Proctor is poised to beat him out.
Marcus Coleman is going to be suspended for (4) games for violating the leagues illegal substance policy. He's going to be cut.
LB Oliver Hoyte is doing everything possible to stay on the team, he's been a tackling machine, and will at least make the practice squad. WR Miles Austin has done his part as well, and could be on his way to the practice squad as well.
WR Battle: Rector vs. Green
Rector has made some great catches, but he has also dropped a few passes during practice. Its a tight race between Rector and Green for one of the last WR spots. This is too close to call at this point, I honestly don't know which of these two makes the team.
8/18/2006
8/17/2006
Cowboys Acquire Denver WR
The Cowboys traded a conditional 7th round pick to the Broncos for WR Charlie Adams. This is a camp body, he has some special teams experience, and I wouldn't expect much else out of this trade...
Additional Notes:
Position: WR
Height: 6-2
Weight: 190
Born: 10/23/1979
College: Hofstra
NFL Experience: 4
The Cowboys traded a conditional 7th round pick to the Broncos for WR Charlie Adams. This is a camp body, he has some special teams experience, and I wouldn't expect much else out of this trade...
Additional Notes:
Position: WR
Height: 6-2
Weight: 190
Born: 10/23/1979
College: Hofstra
NFL Experience: 4
Englewood, CO (Sports Network) - The Denver Broncos traded wide receiver Charlie Adams to the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday in exchange for an undisclosed draft pick.
Adams played in all 16 games -- and two playoff contests -- for Denver last season. He totaled 21 receptions for 203 yards and also netted 351 total return yards in 2005.
Over the past several years, Adams has been up and down between the practice squad and the active roster before he finally became Denver's third receiver last season.
No news from the "Scout Swap" we had with the Patriots as of yet.
8/09/2006
Ask Coach Parcells
editor@dallascowboys.net
By DCW Staff
Q: Given his track record, do you have any concerns about Julius Jones and his health?
- Reggie Joseph, Allen,
A: I don't think concern is the right word. I would be concerned if I didn't see him working every day at a high level. I think he has something to prove to himself, as well. But I do see that, so I'm not as concerned about him. Durability is a big thing in the running back position. He had a little tough luck a couple of times, but I think things will get better for him. I do think that.
Running back is a tough position, and it takes a little while sometimes to get established there and learn how to do exactly right by it. I think he is a kid that has the mental capacity to understand it and is trying to do the right thing. He's not a big man, but I don't necessarily think that he's injury-prone. Injuries are not a problem for him; they are a problem for anyone in pro football.
Playing running back is one of the most demanding jobs in pro football. It is hard on a young kid starting out, and it's not something that you can easily explain to them what it is all about no matter how hard you try. I have a lot of experience doing it with some of these kids and it is still tough. You try to tell them this is what it's going to be like, and you tell them why they have to do the things that I am asking them to do.
I can tell them to believe me because I can point to specific players I coached and let our guys know that this worked for this guy, and this other guy and this other guy and it will work for them too. It's what I know to teach you to do and no matter how hard you try to do that, it takes a little while before they really get it.
The pressure on these runners is really difficult. They have to block the blitz, they have to catch the ball and they have to run the ball 25 times a game. That all adds up on these guys.
Q: What do you know about Bobby Carpenter based on your familiarity with his father, Rob?
- Jamar Thomas, Milford, Ohio.
A: I knew there would be discipline because that was in the family. I knew his mom, too. I knew that he would be taught right from wrong. He's probably been spoken to on a few matters. I have a very high regard for his father. His father was one of the key guys for me. I was fortunate to have him come along at the right time for me along with Phil Simms and Lawrence Taylor and few of those to really get me started coaching in this league. I give him as much credit as I did several of those others that were kind of the nucleus for us. He was very good with young players when he was a veteran. He was a good player himself.
I know he has coaching experience. He coached all those years. He's got four boys, they're all playing football now too. Football was something that was really pretty important in that family. I kind of like that. I like the player as an athlete. He's a real pure linebacker.
Q. What concerned you the most going into camp?
- Ray Kuale, Tualatin, Ore.
A: There are several positions where we have a degree of uncertainty, a couple on the offensive line and maybe one position particularly in the secondary. We are going to have some transition at a couple of linebacker spots.
Every year is different. It always unfolds differently as you go through it. You don't know what is going to happen during the course of camp that could cause you problems. Right now, there are still a couple of places where I feel like we've got to get something done. I'm not sure what those answers will be just yet.
I do think I have a good class of kids on my team. Players that want to work hard. I think each year we have been here we have improved that. We have several young guys now who are really starting to come as real good players in the league. They have a couple of years in now, and that kind of encourages us. They have a pretty good ceiling to get to. They haven't gotten there yet, but a couple of them are headed that way.
Q: Terrell Owens has been in a West Coast offense his entire career. Do you change what you want to do because of that or do you work him into your system?
- Omar Hollard, Floresville, Tex.
A: We want to use the player's assets. We would be foolish not to try to do that. I have a general idea of what he does well from having played against him. But I have to see what he thinks about things like I would any player that's experienced. I need to learn what routes he likes. What he feels comfortable with and what routes he struggles with.
You know, they all have them. They don't just come in and say, "I can do anything you want me to do." We go over things and say, "How do you feel about this? How do you feel about that?"
I would do that with any player that was a veteran that we were trying to integrate into our scheme. I've done that over the course of my career. I remember vividly the day I got Shawn Jefferson. I said, "Shawn, what do you like?" He said, "Sevens, eights and nines, Coach." That's a tree route. Sevens, eights and nines. He said, "I can run those for you all day." I asked him, "Well, what about a four?" He said, "I can run a four." I said, "Well, what about a six?" He says, "I'm not in love with a six." So along the way I get an idea about what he can do, what he likes. I haven't had that conversation yet with Terrell.
editor@dallascowboys.net
By DCW Staff
Q: Given his track record, do you have any concerns about Julius Jones and his health?
- Reggie Joseph, Allen,
A: I don't think concern is the right word. I would be concerned if I didn't see him working every day at a high level. I think he has something to prove to himself, as well. But I do see that, so I'm not as concerned about him. Durability is a big thing in the running back position. He had a little tough luck a couple of times, but I think things will get better for him. I do think that.
Running back is a tough position, and it takes a little while sometimes to get established there and learn how to do exactly right by it. I think he is a kid that has the mental capacity to understand it and is trying to do the right thing. He's not a big man, but I don't necessarily think that he's injury-prone. Injuries are not a problem for him; they are a problem for anyone in pro football.
Playing running back is one of the most demanding jobs in pro football. It is hard on a young kid starting out, and it's not something that you can easily explain to them what it is all about no matter how hard you try. I have a lot of experience doing it with some of these kids and it is still tough. You try to tell them this is what it's going to be like, and you tell them why they have to do the things that I am asking them to do.
I can tell them to believe me because I can point to specific players I coached and let our guys know that this worked for this guy, and this other guy and this other guy and it will work for them too. It's what I know to teach you to do and no matter how hard you try to do that, it takes a little while before they really get it.
The pressure on these runners is really difficult. They have to block the blitz, they have to catch the ball and they have to run the ball 25 times a game. That all adds up on these guys.
Q: What do you know about Bobby Carpenter based on your familiarity with his father, Rob?
- Jamar Thomas, Milford, Ohio.
A: I knew there would be discipline because that was in the family. I knew his mom, too. I knew that he would be taught right from wrong. He's probably been spoken to on a few matters. I have a very high regard for his father. His father was one of the key guys for me. I was fortunate to have him come along at the right time for me along with Phil Simms and Lawrence Taylor and few of those to really get me started coaching in this league. I give him as much credit as I did several of those others that were kind of the nucleus for us. He was very good with young players when he was a veteran. He was a good player himself.
I know he has coaching experience. He coached all those years. He's got four boys, they're all playing football now too. Football was something that was really pretty important in that family. I kind of like that. I like the player as an athlete. He's a real pure linebacker.
Q. What concerned you the most going into camp?
- Ray Kuale, Tualatin, Ore.
A: There are several positions where we have a degree of uncertainty, a couple on the offensive line and maybe one position particularly in the secondary. We are going to have some transition at a couple of linebacker spots.
Every year is different. It always unfolds differently as you go through it. You don't know what is going to happen during the course of camp that could cause you problems. Right now, there are still a couple of places where I feel like we've got to get something done. I'm not sure what those answers will be just yet.
I do think I have a good class of kids on my team. Players that want to work hard. I think each year we have been here we have improved that. We have several young guys now who are really starting to come as real good players in the league. They have a couple of years in now, and that kind of encourages us. They have a pretty good ceiling to get to. They haven't gotten there yet, but a couple of them are headed that way.
Q: Terrell Owens has been in a West Coast offense his entire career. Do you change what you want to do because of that or do you work him into your system?
- Omar Hollard, Floresville, Tex.
A: We want to use the player's assets. We would be foolish not to try to do that. I have a general idea of what he does well from having played against him. But I have to see what he thinks about things like I would any player that's experienced. I need to learn what routes he likes. What he feels comfortable with and what routes he struggles with.
You know, they all have them. They don't just come in and say, "I can do anything you want me to do." We go over things and say, "How do you feel about this? How do you feel about that?"
I would do that with any player that was a veteran that we were trying to integrate into our scheme. I've done that over the course of my career. I remember vividly the day I got Shawn Jefferson. I said, "Shawn, what do you like?" He said, "Sevens, eights and nines, Coach." That's a tree route. Sevens, eights and nines. He said, "I can run those for you all day." I asked him, "Well, what about a four?" He said, "I can run a four." I said, "Well, what about a six?" He says, "I'm not in love with a six." So along the way I get an idea about what he can do, what he likes. I haven't had that conversation yet with Terrell.
7/29/2006
That Worm Hansen
For the record, Dale Hansen is a mere maggot of a reporter. I do not like him and I know the Cowboys as a Organization do not care that much for his reporting and line of questioning.
For the record, Dale Hansen is a mere maggot of a reporter. I do not like him and I know the Cowboys as a Organization do not care that much for his reporting and line of questioning.
“Basically, Bill Parcells is a d---.’’ Channel 8 sportscaster Dale Hansen, explaining why he made a point in the press conference to direct questions at owner Jerry Jones and not at Parcells. Channel 8 is also trying to make a point about the restricted coverage of the NFL now allowed by the league – and the further restrictions placed on the media by Parcells.This guy has no class at all. You're a gutless worm.
7/17/2006
Makeup of Cowboys' Opponents Studied
By Mike Rabun
Anyone who follows any of the NFL teams closely can rattle off multiple story lines worth exploring as the upcoming season draws near.
A resident of Green Bay, for instance, might be able to regale us with tales of kicker Ryan Longwell, who made four of his five attempts from 50 yards or more last year. Or the Packer fan might want to talk about the fact that the team gave up the fewest aerial yards in the NFL during the 2005 season but had only 10 interceptions - tied for worst in the NFC.
Outside Wisconsin, however, the first thing that would come to mind when the Packers are mentioned would probably be this:
"Why did Brett Favre come back and what happens if he throws 12 interceptions in the first three games?"
It's like that with every team. Overriding all the ins and outs that go into the makeup of a club is one item that captures the attention of the far away observer.
At the moment, the item in Dallas attracting the most attention is Terrell Owens. But you already knew that.
What we are going to do here is glance at the teams the Cowboys must deal with this season and, in effect, mention the first thing that comes to mind. At least they will probably be the first thing that comes to the minds of Dallas fans.
We start with the NFC East.
Eagles
Has the window of opportunity officially closed? When Donovan McNabb threw the interception against the Cowboys and was injured trying to make the ensuing tackle, the Eagles cratered. They did not win a division game in 2005.
Once things start to go wrong, it sometimes gets into the minds of players that they can not become completely right again. Is that the way it will be in Philadelphia?
Redskins
Has the worm turned?
For the first time since 1995 and for just the third time ever, Washington defeated the Cowboys in both of their regular season meetings last season.
If Dallas plans on winning a division title, losses to the Redskins cannot become a trend. So when Washington comes to call for a Sunday night game during the second weekend of the season, it will be a very big deal.
Giants
Eli Manning. The younger brother of Peyton did not have a gaudy quarterback rating in 2005. He barely completed half his passes. Yet he threw for 24 touchdowns, tied for most in the NFC.
Manning got the ball into the end zone and the Giants won the division. Can he do it again?
The Dallas schedule will be filled out with the following:
Jaguars
Is this a team poised for greatness? Last season's playoff appearance has Jacksonville expecting much more this year and Dallas visits the Jaguars right out of the box. Whatever the best effort from Jacksonville might be, the Cowboys are likely to see it on Sept. 10.
Titans
Vince Young. Dallas plays Tennessee in the fourth week of the season, so the jury will still be out on whether the former Longhorn will alter the game as we know it. Maybe he will, maybe he won't. But until we figure out the answer, Young will be one of the chief characters in pro football.
Texans
Are they doomed to a generation of failure? Houston did not draft Reggie Bush. Houston did not draft Vince Young. Their quarterback has absorbed as much abuse as any in the history of the league. They have changed general managers. The future just doesn't look very good.
Panthers
Can they do anything but get close? Steve Smith delivered more yards and more touchdowns than any other NFC receiver last year, but it takes more than one guy. Carolina is a solid team. Just about as solid a team as there is in the league. But it appears the Panthers do not have the one explosive quality that can vault them to a Super Bowl title.
Cardinals
The new stadium. A glance at the Arizona website these days can cause a shock to the system. The first words one sees on the Cardinals' site are these - "2006 season sold out."
Arizona will have a true home field advantage as well as an improving team. The Cowboys should certainly not expect their trip to the Valley of the Sun this season to be a piece of cake. The fact that it will be the third straight road game for Dallas will make it only more difficult.
Colts
Can they win the big one? This was the question that haunted the Cowboys as the 1960s turned into the 1970s. Dallas finally got over the hurdle, but Indianapolis has yet to do so. Winning the first 13 games of the season is one thing. Losing to Pittsburgh at home in the playoffs limits a team's hope for greatness.
Buccaneers
Defense. Tampa Bay led the league in that department last year in winning the NFC South. The Bucs, however, won five of their games by four points or less. Winning teams have to have some breaks go their way and Tampa Bay got some in 2005.
Saints
What's to become of this team? The Saints' future is immersed in the future of its surroundings. No one wants the franchise to leave a city that nature has left as only a shadow of its former self. But, in time, it could happen.
Falcons
Is the bloom off Michael Vick. When Vick was healthy during the early stages of his career, Atlanta prospered. When he was injured, things turned bleak. Vick was relatively OK last season and the Falcons went 8-8. Playing in a division with Carolina and Tampa Bay means Atlanta needs the very best of Vick - and everybody else.
Lions
Is a brighter future in sight? It has been six seasons since Detroit has won more than six games. They have a four-game playoff losing streak dating to 1991. History has become weighted against them and the weight will probably remain heavy this year.
By Mike Rabun
Anyone who follows any of the NFL teams closely can rattle off multiple story lines worth exploring as the upcoming season draws near.
A resident of Green Bay, for instance, might be able to regale us with tales of kicker Ryan Longwell, who made four of his five attempts from 50 yards or more last year. Or the Packer fan might want to talk about the fact that the team gave up the fewest aerial yards in the NFL during the 2005 season but had only 10 interceptions - tied for worst in the NFC.
Outside Wisconsin, however, the first thing that would come to mind when the Packers are mentioned would probably be this:
"Why did Brett Favre come back and what happens if he throws 12 interceptions in the first three games?"
It's like that with every team. Overriding all the ins and outs that go into the makeup of a club is one item that captures the attention of the far away observer.
At the moment, the item in Dallas attracting the most attention is Terrell Owens. But you already knew that.
What we are going to do here is glance at the teams the Cowboys must deal with this season and, in effect, mention the first thing that comes to mind. At least they will probably be the first thing that comes to the minds of Dallas fans.
We start with the NFC East.
Eagles
Has the window of opportunity officially closed? When Donovan McNabb threw the interception against the Cowboys and was injured trying to make the ensuing tackle, the Eagles cratered. They did not win a division game in 2005.
Once things start to go wrong, it sometimes gets into the minds of players that they can not become completely right again. Is that the way it will be in Philadelphia?
Redskins
Has the worm turned?
For the first time since 1995 and for just the third time ever, Washington defeated the Cowboys in both of their regular season meetings last season.
If Dallas plans on winning a division title, losses to the Redskins cannot become a trend. So when Washington comes to call for a Sunday night game during the second weekend of the season, it will be a very big deal.
Giants
Eli Manning. The younger brother of Peyton did not have a gaudy quarterback rating in 2005. He barely completed half his passes. Yet he threw for 24 touchdowns, tied for most in the NFC.
Manning got the ball into the end zone and the Giants won the division. Can he do it again?
The Dallas schedule will be filled out with the following:
Jaguars
Is this a team poised for greatness? Last season's playoff appearance has Jacksonville expecting much more this year and Dallas visits the Jaguars right out of the box. Whatever the best effort from Jacksonville might be, the Cowboys are likely to see it on Sept. 10.
Titans
Vince Young. Dallas plays Tennessee in the fourth week of the season, so the jury will still be out on whether the former Longhorn will alter the game as we know it. Maybe he will, maybe he won't. But until we figure out the answer, Young will be one of the chief characters in pro football.
Texans
Are they doomed to a generation of failure? Houston did not draft Reggie Bush. Houston did not draft Vince Young. Their quarterback has absorbed as much abuse as any in the history of the league. They have changed general managers. The future just doesn't look very good.
Panthers
Can they do anything but get close? Steve Smith delivered more yards and more touchdowns than any other NFC receiver last year, but it takes more than one guy. Carolina is a solid team. Just about as solid a team as there is in the league. But it appears the Panthers do not have the one explosive quality that can vault them to a Super Bowl title.
Cardinals
The new stadium. A glance at the Arizona website these days can cause a shock to the system. The first words one sees on the Cardinals' site are these - "2006 season sold out."
Arizona will have a true home field advantage as well as an improving team. The Cowboys should certainly not expect their trip to the Valley of the Sun this season to be a piece of cake. The fact that it will be the third straight road game for Dallas will make it only more difficult.
Colts
Can they win the big one? This was the question that haunted the Cowboys as the 1960s turned into the 1970s. Dallas finally got over the hurdle, but Indianapolis has yet to do so. Winning the first 13 games of the season is one thing. Losing to Pittsburgh at home in the playoffs limits a team's hope for greatness.
Buccaneers
Defense. Tampa Bay led the league in that department last year in winning the NFC South. The Bucs, however, won five of their games by four points or less. Winning teams have to have some breaks go their way and Tampa Bay got some in 2005.
Saints
What's to become of this team? The Saints' future is immersed in the future of its surroundings. No one wants the franchise to leave a city that nature has left as only a shadow of its former self. But, in time, it could happen.
Falcons
Is the bloom off Michael Vick. When Vick was healthy during the early stages of his career, Atlanta prospered. When he was injured, things turned bleak. Vick was relatively OK last season and the Falcons went 8-8. Playing in a division with Carolina and Tampa Bay means Atlanta needs the very best of Vick - and everybody else.
Lions
Is a brighter future in sight? It has been six seasons since Detroit has won more than six games. They have a four-game playoff losing streak dating to 1991. History has become weighted against them and the weight will probably remain heavy this year.
7/05/2006
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.
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.
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)