Ed Werder on ESPN about Bledsoe

[blindzebra]

He talked to Jerry and Jerry has RESERVATIONS about signing Bledsoe.

He also said Bledsoe is looking at 4 teams and wants to play at least 2 more years.

Come on Jerry do what is best for the team LONG TERM, and say NO to Bledsoe.

[TheKey]

Reservations? Whats that mean? :confused:

[Portland Fanatic]

He talked to Jerry and Jerry has RESERVATIONS about signing Bledsoe.

He also said Bledsoe is looking at 4 teams and wants to play at least 2 more years.

Come on Jerry do what is best for the team LONG TERM, and say NO to Bledsoe.
Jerry needs to put his foot down on this one...for the good and future of the franchise!

[JBRockBottom31]

Bledsoe party of two?

[thewivil]

You guys think there may be some tension between Jerry and Bill on this one? I know Jerry is eager to get Henson out there, but Bill has the win-now mentality.

This one could get very interesting.

[BrAinPaiNt]

He talked to Jerry and Jerry has RESERVATIONS about signing Bledsoe.

He also said Bledsoe is looking at 4 teams and wants to play at least 2 more years.

Come on Jerry do what is best for the team LONG TERM, and say NO to Bledsoe.


If not bledsoe...then who, do we go back with vinny or sign another QB that nobody really wants.

For the record I am not even considering Brees because of picks and I do not think Hasselbach is on our radar.

So who do we get as a vet to at the very least be backup?


Now do not take this as me complaining...I am simply asking who else.

Because although I would love henson to blow everyone away in camp and become our next great Franchise QB.....somehow I doubt that happens right off the bat, but even if it does I do not even want to think of the idea of Romo as being our only backup besides another rookie QB.

[Cbz40]

Jerry just say "NO". Let's start another dynasty of our own.

Step 1....................Let's get a young franchise QB whether it be Henson or not....Let's at least find out.

Jerry J you know as well as I, the day Bledsoe starts looking like Vinny you will have a mess to clean up.

[hardcorebob]

Just sign B Griese to be a backup and let Henson start from day one. After a few games with our easy schedule we should know what the deal is with him. If he sucks, put Griese in and deal Henson for a draft pick.

[InmanRoshi]

You guys think there may be some tension between Jerry and Bill on this one? I know Jerry is eager to get Henson out there, but Bill has the win-now mentality.

Funny you say that, because I always had the feeling Eddie George was very decidedly a Jerry Jones signing.

[InmanRoshi]

Just sign B Griese to be a backup and let Henson start from day one. After a few games with our easy schedule we should know what the deal is with him. If he sucks, put Griese in and deal Henson for a draft pick.

Why would he agree to come to the Cowboys to be a backup and not even be allowed the chance to compete for the job? He can resign with the Bucs and at least be given the opportunity to compete with Simms.

[ddh33]

Pretty interesting stuff from Ed.

It wouldn't surprise me if there is some tension between Bill and Jerry on this,and I don't think that means the sky is falling or anything.

Put me down in the crowd that is dying to see Henson play and play well. I'm just unsure if he will, and that is why I wouldn't throw a fit if Bledose came in. Whether Henson does or doesn't play well, I agree with the sentiment that there needs to be another QB brought in anyway.

Since all of this started, I have figured that Bledsoe would be that guy. In my mind, there are only about 3 places that make sense for Bledsoe. Dallas, Cleveland, and Miami. I assumed that Dallas would give him the best chance at success, and familiarity would help him make his decision.

I also note that real possibility that Henson will be ready faster than Bledsoe will like. There's also a possibility that Parcells will be leaving sooner. Either of those things could speed up his departure. I'm sure that some stability is important to him.

So, basically, I understand why both parties might be wavering a little bit. I'm just interested to see how it all shakes out...

Perhaps, the question we should be considering is what happens if Bledsoe doesn't come here and Henson isn't ready?

[hardcorebob]

Why would he agree to come to the Cowboys to be a backup and not even be allowed the chance to compete for the job? He can resign with the Bucs and at least be given the opportunity to compete with Simms.


I meant he should compete in offseason with Henson, but Henson should be considered the starter unless his playing dictates he shouldn't be. If he sucks, put Griese in and have Henson as a backup.

[blindzebra]

If not bledsoe...then who, do we go back with vinny or sign another QB that nobody really wants.

For the record I am not even considering Brees because of picks and I do not think Hasselbach is on our radar.

So who do we get as a vet to at the very least be backup?


Now do not take this as me complaining...I am simply asking who else.

Because although I would love henson to blow everyone away in camp and become our next great Franchise QB.....somehow I doubt that happens right off the bat, but even if it does I do not even want to think of the idea of Romo as being our only backup besides another rookie QB.

Werder said that Jerry does not want to set Henson further back and would prefer to bring back Vinny.

He followed that up with Parcells prefering a vet QB starting and we will see if Jerry leaves this decision up to Parcells.

I began to question Parcells plan for this team's long term success last year. If we sign a washed up bum like Bledsoe, I have no doubt that his, "I'm too old to lose," quote is going to keep us right where we are at, a sub-500 team.

We need to find out about Henson and he will never be able to prove he gives us the best chance to win holding a clip board because Parcells keeps bringing in re-treads he "trusts".

[InmanRoshi]

Speaking of a proven method to remain a sub .500 team....

Jerry overanxiously stepping in and overriding his HC on his quest to find the next franchise QB has worked beautifully in the past.

[TheHustler]

He talked to Jerry and Jerry has RESERVATIONS about signing Bledsoe.

He also said Bledsoe is looking at 4 teams and wants to play at least 2 more years.

Come on Jerry do what is best for the team LONG TERM, and say NO to Bledsoe.

I think they misunderstood. Jerry has a reservation for Bledsoe, a reservation on United Airlines from Oregon to Dallas. First Class of course.

[ddh33]

I don't think everyone should get so worked up about all this. Jerry, in many ways, is nothing more than a fan. Like most fans, he wants to see Henson. Among other things, he also wants to market Henson. He can't do that with other QBs in front of him - especially one that might actually beat him out of a spot for the next few years.

I have no doubt that Jerry would prefer to get Henson on the field, but there's a reason I want Parcells making the decisions. I think he'll do what gives Dallas the best chance at winning right now - all while providing an opportunity to win later as well.

[TLW47]

What's the main difference between Bledsoe and Vinny besides a few years?

[Bullet22]

GM Jerry needs to get to work...:stop2:

[blindzebra]

What's the main difference between Bledsoe and Vinny besides a few years?

None.

The difference is Bledsoe or any other vet would need extra snaps, snaps that need to go to Henson.

So equal ability means edge Vinny.

[ddh33]

I have only one question...

Are any of the people here who are champions for Vinny's return the same folks booing him mercilessly last season?

[Hostile]

I have only one question...

Are any of the people here who are champions for Vinny's return the same folks booing him mercilessly last season?I must have missed anyone championing his return.

[Portland Fanatic]

Werder said that Jerry does not want to set Henson further back and would prefer to bring back Vinny.

He followed that up with Parcells prefering a vet QB starting and we will see if Jerry leaves this decision up to Parcells.

I began to question Parcells plan for this team's long term success last year. If we sign a washed up bum like Bledsoe, I have no doubt that his, "I'm too old to lose," quote is going to keep us right where we are at, a sub-500 team.

We need to find out about Henson and he will never be able to prove he gives us the best chance to win holding a clip board because Parcells keeps bringing in re-treads he "trusts".
This is the exact thing that scares me about Parcell's....BP will not be here much past 2006...if he is here in 2006. Jerry MUST put his foot down and get Vinny in here. forget the Bledsoe disaster waiting to happen!

[ddh33]

Just seems to me that a lot of folks couldn't wait to get Vinny run out of town, but now that it looks like Vinny could suit their purpose (read: give Henson more of a chance), folks are anxious to bring him back now. Just seems unfair to me.

[Portland Fanatic]

I have only one question...

Are any of the people here who are champions for Vinny's return the same folks booing him mercilessly last season?
I will...ONLY AS A BACKUP!!!

If Vinny were to start...I'd go into a self induced coma until a young stud has a chance to take this team over once and for all.

[InmanRoshi]

Just seems to me that a lot of folks couldn't wait to get Vinny run out of town, but now that it looks like Vinny could suit their purpose (read: give Henson more of a chance), folks are anxious to bring him back now. Just seems unfair to me.

Kind of like how some folks couldn't stand the idea of Jerry making personnel decisions so we need to bring in a Hall of Fame type head coach to come in and take charge, who now believe Jerry needs to override his Hall of Fame head coach and go back to making all the decisions.

Yeah, things change pretty quickly around here.

[Portland Fanatic]

Just seems to me that a lot of folks couldn't wait to get Vinny run out of town, but now that it looks like Vinny could suit their purpose (read: give Henson more of a chance), folks are anxious to bring him back now. Just seems unfair to me.
IF Vinny is here as a back up...I'm 100% in support.

[ddh33]

Kind of like how some folks couldn't stand the idea of Jerry making personnel decisions so we need to bring in a Hall of Fame type head coach to come in and take charge, who now believe Jerry needs to override his Hall of Fame head coach and go back to making personnel decisions.

Yeah, things change pretty quickly around here.

The exact sort of thing actually. Thanks.

[junk]

The team needs a vet option. I would prefer that it be one that could start if Henson doesn't turn out to be the guy.

I would at least call Cincy and Jacksonville about Kitna and Garrard.

[EveryoneElse]

As much as I want to see Henson, I have to believe if BP doesn't get what WE think he wants in Bledsoe, this could be the beginning of the end of BP in Dallas.

[Alexander]

Funny you say that, because I always had the feeling Eddie George was very decidedly a Jerry Jones signing.
Of course. If it were a Parcells move, it would be hailed as a stroke of genius.

Just remember, when things go wrong, there is always Jerry Jones to blame.

[Portland Fanatic]

Kind of like how some folks couldn't stand the idea of Jerry making personnel decisions so we need to bring in a Hall of Fame type head coach to come in and take charge, who now believe Jerry needs to override his Hall of Fame head coach and go back to making personnel decisions.

Yeah, things change pretty quickly around here.
OK...for this particular issue...I resemble that remark...I do!

[InmanRoshi]

The team needs a vet option. I would prefer that it be one that could start if Henson doesn't turn out to be the guy.

I would at least call Cincy and Jacksonville about Kitna and Garrard.

By Week 3, the fans (and 90% of the Henson-ophiles on this board) would be screaming for Kitna to come in. Then Henson would be a bum, we'd get rid of him after his 2nd year of an 8 year contract, and we'd have to draft QB in the first round of 2006.

Lather, Rinse, Repeat.

We're not exactly known for our convictions around here.

[Cbz40]

Kind of like how some folks couldn't stand the idea of Jerry making personnel decisions so we need to bring in a Hall of Fame type head coach to come in and take charge, who now believe Jerry needs to override his Hall of Fame head coach and go back to making all the decisions.

Yeah, things change pretty quickly around here.


Agree......and I am guilty.........but so are many folks on the opposite side.

[diehard2294]

He talked to Jerry and Jerry has RESERVATIONS about signing Bledsoe.

He also said Bledsoe is looking at 4 teams and wants to play at least 2 more years.

Come on Jerry do what is best for the team LONG TERM, and say NO to Bledsoe.ahmen to that brother! he's stiffer then a lightpole

[blindzebra]

Just seems to me that a lot of folks couldn't wait to get Vinny run out of town, but now that it looks like Vinny could suit their purpose (read: give Henson more of a chance), folks are anxious to bring him back now. Just seems unfair to me.

Most were not wanting Vinny run out of Dallas, they just wanted him where he should have been at the end of last season, AS THE BACK UP.

My problem with Bledsoe and Henson is not the competition, it's I don't think there will be one.

With Vinny, Henson would get extra snaps and more of a chance to show he's ready or close to being ready. Putting him on a more equal footing to beat out Vinny.

With Bledsoe, Henson loses snaps to Bledsoe who would need to learn the offense, so he has less of a chance to beat him out. It also gives Tuna the opportunity to use the "best chance to win" BS from last year.

If the battle is even close Parcells will go with the vet to protect his legacy. I am saying the same thing I said last season, I'd rather lose looking toward the future than scratching out a winning season that will lead to nothing long term.

[blindzebra]

Kind of like how some folks couldn't stand the idea of Jerry making personnel decisions so we need to bring in a Hall of Fame type head coach to come in and take charge, who now believe Jerry needs to override his Hall of Fame head coach and go back to making all the decisions.

Yeah, things change pretty quickly around here.

That would be fine if Parcells was coaching like a hall of fame coach.

The problem is he was not. ;)

[Alexander]

That would be fine if Parcells was coaching like a hall of fame coach.

The problem is he was not. ;)
Despite his gaffes last year, i think Parcells is still coaching like a hall of fame coach.

Where people get misguided is that they think he is also a hall of fame personnel guru.

[diehard2294]

Despite his gaffes last year, i think Parcells is still coaching like a hall of fame coach.

Where people get misguided is that they think he is also a hall of fame personnel guru.he sure thinks he is,that's why he wants to call all of the shots. If he isn't a personel guru then he should hand it off to someone who is. Like Jerry did when he hired him!

[S. Fla Sting]

Good point Junk, I think we should take a long look at Garrard from Jax. I saw him in Jacksonville two years ago in a pre season game against the Cowboys, he was very impressive. Gerrard has a strong arm and is very mobile.

[Waffle]

If what Werder says is true, it would be ironic. Bill probably spent every week "selling" Vinny to Jerry over putting Henson out there. Now that Bledsoe is available, it sounds like Jerry bought into Vinny and isn't interested in The Human Statue.

[ravidubey]

Jerry just say "NO". Let's start another dynasty of our own.

Step 1....................Let's get a young franchise QB whether it be Henson or not....Let's at least find out.

Jerry J you know as well as I, the day Bledsoe starts looking like Vinny you will have a mess to clean up.

If Henson can't compete with Bledsoe then he's not ready to play.

And what are the odds Bledsoe stays healthy the entire season? That's the typical way a starter loses his job: injury. Rarely do you see a player with no experience start on a team unless it's a high draft pick or the Cowboys with QC. Henson will play when he's ready, Bill isn't being that hard-headed-- the fans and reporters have just magnified things.

[BrAinPaiNt]

Werder said that Jerry does not want to set Henson further back and would prefer to bring back Vinny.

He followed that up with Parcells prefering a vet QB starting and we will see if Jerry leaves this decision up to Parcells.

I began to question Parcells plan for this team's long term success last year. If we sign a washed up bum like Bledsoe, I have no doubt that his, "I'm too old to lose," quote is going to keep us right where we are at, a sub-500 team.

We need to find out about Henson and he will never be able to prove he gives us the best chance to win holding a clip board because Parcells keeps bringing in re-treads he "trusts".

That is a fair response...but let me give you something to think about, not to try and sway your opinon, just something to think about.

Are we really sure Vinny would want to come back, after all his time here has not been pleasant for him with all of Texas Stadium booing him and the media draggin and fans draggin him over the coals (fairly or not).

Also I, along with others, see that if it is Vinny or Bledsoe that comes in, it may indeed mean they like Henson and think he can be the future and just want the stop gap guy until Henson is ready.

If you think Henson is the guy then a sure sign that he is not is if they woud somehow get Brees or Matt H from seattle (not that I think either will be here next season).

Once again not to sway your opinion or argue the matter, just things to think about.

One thing that I will say is that unless Henson blows them away in camp, then the odds of him being the starter are slim to none....but it does not hurt for a young guy to sit and learn before just being handed the starting job.
After all he is not a high priced, first round pick. And I do not know about you, but I have had a terrible taste in my mouth for what Jerry Jones has done when free lancing for a starting QB...or have we forgotten QC and Hutch?

Once again just some things to think about....I personally would love to see Henson starting, but I want him to EARN the job.

Later and take care. :cool:

[Portland Fanatic]

If Henson can't compete with Bledsoe then he's not ready to play.

And what are the odds Bledsoe stays healthy the entire season? That's the typical way a starter loses his job: injury. Rarely do you see a player with no experience start on a team unless it's a high draft pick or the Cowboys with QC. Henson will play when he's ready, Bill isn't being that hard-headed-- the fans and reporters have just magnified things.
There lies the problem.....who here can honestly say Bill will not annoint Bledsoe the starter if he's signed??? Henson will not get a FAIR competition...and guess what Jerrah knows that.

[BrAinPaiNt]

That would be fine if Parcells was coaching like a hall of fame coach.

The problem is he was not. ;)


To me the biggest problem was not his coaching...it was his cheap ways in the last off season...either way he IS to blame for the bad record this season in one way or the other.

[Dale]

Werder said that Jerry does not want to set Henson further back and would prefer to bring back Vinny.

He followed that up with Parcells prefering a vet QB starting and we will see if Jerry leaves this decision up to Parcells.

I began to question Parcells plan for this team's long term success last year. If we sign a washed up bum like Bledsoe, I have no doubt that his, "I'm too old to lose," quote is going to keep us right where we are at, a sub-500 team.

We need to find out about Henson and he will never be able to prove he gives us the best chance to win holding a clip board because Parcells keeps bringing in re-treads he "trusts".

I agree for the most part, but I gotta be honest. If Jones is going to give control to Parcells, I think it's IMPERATIVE he gives him control over the most important part of the team.

It seems like when Jerry has gotten involved, things have gone wrong -- and not because of poor decisions necessarily, but because it simply interferes with the true plan Parcells has envisioned for this team. Just look at Jerry's insistance on (as widely reported) Parcells keeping Hutch and Quincy his first year here as opposed to bringing in a veteran.

Now, I think in theory, that was a fine decision. We needed to know what we had. But what if Parcells had a guy in mind that would have changed the whole complexion of the position here, and he had been able to get the veteran he wanted from day one?

I don't think Jones should really have control over the quarterback position if he's continually granting Parcells control over all the other personnel matters. I just think it's a recipe for disaster, and will result in nothing but more losing under Parcells.

[junk]

By Week 3, the fans (and 90% of the Henson-ophiles on this board) would be screaming for Kitna to come in. Then Henson would be a bum, we'd get rid of him after his 2nd year of an 8 year contract, and we'd have to draft QB in the first round of 2006.

Lather, Rinse, Repeat.

We're not exactly known for our convictions around here.

Oh, I am sure, but I think that is the typical nature of football fans everywhere.

I have been pretty firm in my belief that Henson needs a viable vet option to either compete with or learn from. I don't really understand this determined belief from both sides of the fence that Henson is simply a superstar in the waiting who is being held back by Parcells or that he is a total bust and shouldn't be given an opportunity. I fall somewhere in the middle, but would like to see the team try to win while they figure out what they have in Henson.

I'll admit, he looked far better than I expected in preseason and Baltimore. He looked like the rookie QB I expected against the Bears. Only time will tell, but QB is a hole and I would like to see some contingency plans considered.

BTW, Inman, I have to give you the award for most condescending poster on this board. It can be quite amusing at times.

[Dale]

There lies the problem.....who here can honestly say Bill will not annoint Bledsoe the starter if he's signed??? Henson will not get a FAIR competition...and guess what Jerrah knows that.

Perhaps, but I don't really think Parcells was wrong in the basis of what he said last season.

He continually said his goal was to get as many wins out of last year's team as possible. Now, therein lies the debate. Maximize the most out of a bad team, or look ahead toward the future?

But Parcells was right that Testaverde was a better quarterback and gave the team a better chance to win than Henson. We saw Henson against Chicago and he was clearly in over his head. There's no debate Testaverde was the better quarterback.

The debate was whether it was really wise to consider getting wins #5 and 6 so important.

[Waffle]

I agree for the most part, but I gotta be honest. If Jones is going to give control to Parcells, I think it's IMPERATIVE he gives him control over the most important part of the team.

It seems like when Jerry has gotten involved, things have gone wrong -- and not because of poor decisions necessarily, but because it simply interferes with the true plan Parcells has envisioned for this team. Just look at Jerry's insistance on (as widely reported) Parcells keeping Hutch and Quincy his first year here as opposed to bringing in a veteran.

Now, I think in theory, that was a fine decision. We needed to know what we had. But what if Parcells had a guy in mind that would have changed the whole complexion of the position here, and he had been able to get the veteran he wanted from day one?

I don't think Jones should really have control over the quarterback position if he's continually granting Parcells control over all the other personnel matters. I just think it's a recipe for disaster, and will result in nothing but more losing under Parcells.
For what it's worth, I'm totally in agreement with this analysis. Jerry has screwed up the QB situation now for years.

With that said, I hope Parcells comes to his senses and makes the right call at QB when considering a Vet. Unless Drew Bledsoe changed his name to Steve Austin, Parcells should make the decision himself to pass.

[Alexander]

Good point Junk, I think we should take a long look at Garrard from Jax. I saw him in Jacksonville two years ago in a pre season game against the Cowboys, he was very impressive. Gerrard has a strong arm and is very mobile.
Strong arm. Mobile.

Is he accurate? Me thinks that counts just as much.

[Big Country]

Despite his gaffes last year, i think Parcells is still coaching like a hall of fame coach.

Where people get misguided is that they think he is also a hall of fame personnel guru.
Good point Alexander, very good point.

[Portland Fanatic]

Perhaps, but I don't really think Parcells was wrong in the basis of what he said last season.

He continually said his goal was to get as many wins out of last year's team as possible. Now, therein lies the debate. Maximize the most out of a bad team, or look ahead toward the future?

But Parcells was right that Testaverde was a better quarterback and gave the team a better chance to win than Henson. We saw Henson against Chicago and he was clearly in over his head. There's no debate Testaverde was the better quarterback.

The debate was whether it was really wise to consider getting wins #5 and 6 so important.
This is a tough one...you always want your team to win...and hope to leverge positive things with the current roster vs. getting higher draft pics. I love the draft, but I hate losing too. We know how BP feels about that...and I don't fault him for thinking that way at all.

Another thing we all forget...Henson was not supposed to see the field at all last year.

[Alexander]

The debate was whether it was really wise to consider getting wins #5 and 6 so important.
I don't agree.

I think he made the right decisions at Thanksgiving. We needed to win that game and he did the right thing. We won in Seattle. When the wheels fell off against New Orleans, we had the Redskins. I can buy wanting to win that game just because it was Washington.

But the last game of the year was inexcusable. We were done. We were toast. I don't exactly buy into the idea that he would have lost the team if he started Henson there. That was more of him attempting to prove a point. The only point was it did not matter what we did on offense, our defense was still bad.

[Big Country]

Perhaps, but I don't really think Parcells was wrong in the basis of what he said last season.

He continually said his goal was to get as many wins out of last year's team as possible. Now, therein lies the debate. Maximize the most out of a bad team, or look ahead toward the future?

But Parcells was right that Testaverde was a better quarterback and gave the team a better chance to win than Henson. We saw Henson against Chicago and he was clearly in over his head. There's no debate Testaverde was the better quarterback.

The debate was whether it was really wise to consider getting wins #5 and 6 so important.
I want to say I agree that Henson's head was spinning in that Thanksgiving game. But trememdous pressure was added when RG Gurode went out with a sprained knee in the 1st half... CHI DT Tommie Harris commenced to whipping Tyson Walter like a red-headed stepchild...

All Chicago did from that point was to make sure they were sending one more defender than Dallas could block. Henson started to make some bad decisions against all that pressure. Not that it was all on the OL however, but I was hoping Henson finished that game.

Sorry for the politically incorrect or insensitive statement. No offense to any red-headed stepchildren.

[Dale]

This is a tough one...you always want your team to win...and hope to leverge positive things with the current roster vs. getting higher draft pics. I love the draft, but I hate losing too. We know how BP feels about that...and I don't fault him for thinking that way at all.

Another thing we all forget...Henson was not supposed to see the field at all last year.

I agree. I don't really think it was a big deal that Henson didn't play since that was the plan when we signed him.

But I also don't necessarily place too much importance on wins 5 and 6. Theoretically, every game is important. A one-win team wants to win the final game of the season to get to 2-14. But at the same times, bad teams are routinely looking toward the future. Just look at baseball where bad teams trade away their superstars to start building for the future and cleaning their slate.

I don't think it would have truly jeopardized the state of the team for '05 and beyond if Parcells conceded (and I use the term loosely) last season with three games remaining. IMO, the players would have understood what was going on even though they probably would rather have a veteran on the field.

Even so, I can't get too heated that Henson didn't play. When he signed, I was in the boat that absolutely didn't want to see him in '04. Just because Quincy got caught being a pothead shouldn't change the initial plan with Henson, or it could very well result in the destruction of yet another young QB.

[Big Country]

I don't agree.

I think he made the right decisions at Thanksgiving. We needed to win that game and he did the right thing. We won in Seattle. When the wheels fell off against New Orleans, we had the Redskins. I can buy wanting to win that game just because it was Washington.

But the last game of the year was inexcusable. We were done. We were toast. I don't exactly buy into the idea that he would have lost the team if he started Henson there. That was more of him attempting to prove a point. The only point was it did not matter what we did on offense, our defense was still bad.
The fourth quarter of every game last year was absolutely horrible too. Dallas could do nothing but give up big play after big play at the end of games. I hope we get some mean mo fos on the defensive side of the ball.

[Dale]

I don't agree.

I think he made the right decisions at Thanksgiving. We needed to win that game and he did the right thing. We won in Seattle. When the wheels fell off against New Orleans, we had the Redskins. I can buy wanting to win that game just because it was Washington.

But the last game of the year was inexcusable. We were done. We were toast. I don't exactly buy into the idea that he would have lost the team if he started Henson there. That was more of him attempting to prove a point. The only point was it did not matter what we did on offense, our defense was still bad.

I probably agree. All I was saying is that (the importance of winning the final games) was the true root of the argument so many here are having. I think there is a philosophical difference between what Parcells did and what a lot of people think should have been done -- just like the post made yesterday about a business that fails to look into the future.

Parcells was stubborn about squeezing every win out of a bad team, while a lot of people were wanting him to start getting ready for '05 so we won't have to endure a similarly poor season.

Regardless of which philosophy was being implemented, Testaverde did give the team a better chance to win. I think that was pretty clear.

[Dale]

I want to say I agree that Henson's head was spinning in that Thanksgiving game. But trememdous pressure was added when RG Gurode went out with a sprained knee in the 1st half... CHI DT Tommie Harris commenced to whipping Tyson Walter like a red-headed stepchild...

All Chicago did from that point was to make sure they were sending one more defender than Dallas could block. Henson started to make some bad decisions against all that pressure. Not that it was all on the OL however, but I was hoping Henson finished that game.

Sorry for the politically incorrect or insensitive statement. No offense to any red-headed stepchildren.

You're certainly correct aardvark.

Again, all I'm saying is an 18-year veteran (even an over-the-hill 18-veteran...hehe, as if an 18-year veteran isn't over the hill?) is probably going to be better than a rookie who has been playing baseball for 3 years. I don't think Parcells was ever wrong in that evaluation.

[Portland Fanatic]

I agree. I don't really think it was a big deal that Henson didn't play since that was the plan when we signed him.

But I also don't necessarily place too much importance on wins 5 and 6. Theoretically, every game is important. A one-win team wants to win the final game of the season to get to 2-14. But at the same times, bad teams are routinely looking toward the future. Just look at baseball where bad teams trade away their superstars to start building for the future and cleaning their slate.

I don't think it would have truly jeopardized the state of the team for '05 and beyond if Parcells conceded (and I use the term loosely) last season with three games remaining. IMO, the players would have understood what was going on even though they probably would rather have a veteran on the field.

Even so, I can't get too heated that Henson didn't play. When he signed, I was in the boat that absolutely didn't want to see him in '04. Just because Quincy got caught being a pothead shouldn't change the initial plan with Henson, or it could very well result in the destruction of yet another young QB.
I would have been in the same boat, but the Baltimore drive for a TD tainted me...

Last year was a series of things that went wrong for BP...Woody not coming back was huge...QC was huge..Drew would have been #3 all year...Hunter going down (not having plan B was all on BP, but he knows that)...Gorode and Tucker sucking...not expected for Parcell's lineman.

I'm surprised he did not land a big DT before the season, but I think he was planning on Blade and Stewart panning out...another bad thing. We all know he wanted Wilfork in the draft...NE stole him away.

I really think things that could go wrong for Parcells last year did go wrong...most of them unplanned for.

[DWAREZ]

He talked to Jerry and Jerry has RESERVATIONS about signing Bledsoe.

He also said Bledsoe is looking at 4 teams and wants to play at least 2 more years.

Come on Jerry do what is best for the team LONG TERM, and say NO to Bledsoe.
Drew gives us the best chance to win :)

[CanadianCowboysFan]

It is strange to see people demanding that Jones step in and override Parcells when for years people complained that Jones only wanted puppets as the head coach.

[Waffle]

It is strange to see people demanding that Jones step in and override Parcells when for years people complained that Jones only wanted puppets as the head coach.
Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. Here's to hoping Parcells reviews game tapes of Bledsoe from 2003 and 2004 and comes to senses. He can only conclude that Bledsoe is washed up and won't need Jerry to interfere after all.

[Chuck 54]

Jerry needs to put his foot down on this one...for the good and future of the franchise!
You must be joking....you can't have it both ways....either JJ is in charge of football matters...or Parcells is. Whether we like the moves or not, when JJ starts overruling Parcells on anything other than the salary cap implications, Parcells will be done in Dallas...I believe that's a fact.

Whatever happens with players and the draft and the coaches, that's all Parcells.

[Alexander]

I probably agree. All I was saying is that (the importance of winning the final games) was the true root of the argument so many here are having. I think there is a philosophical difference between what Parcells did and what a lot of people think should have been done -- just like the post made yesterday about a business that fails to look into the future.

Parcells was stubborn about squeezing every win out of a bad team, while a lot of people were wanting him to start getting ready for '05 so we won't have to endure a similarly poor season.

Regardless of which philosophy was being implemented, Testaverde did give the team a better chance to win. I think that was pretty clear.
I can understand that.

But what it seems like now is that we are going to go through the same thing again.

I have not seen enough of Henson to say yey or nay.

I have seen enough of Bledsoe to see that he is about the same as Testeverde. Why not just keep the Vin-man?

[jimmy40]

He talked to Jerry and Jerry has RESERVATIONS about signing Bledsoe.

He also said Bledsoe is looking at 4 teams and wants to play at least 2 more years.

Come on Jerry do what is best for the team LONG TERM, and say NO to Bledsoe.I think the only reason Jerry has reservations is because Bledsoe sucks, besides that he's a great guy to bring in. No thanks, we could just sign the original Vinny instead of the Bledsoe version.

[TheSkaven]

If Henson can't compete with Bledsoe then he's not ready to play.
Yes! I've been waiting for someone to point that out. Since when is it a bad thing to sign the best players available on the market and let them battle it out in the pre-season? Let's look at the options.

Option A: Vinny Testaverde and Drew Henson
Option B: Drew Bledsoe and Drew Henson

Either way, no one is annointed a starter. They come into camp and the best quarterback plays. If Henson can't beat out the wiley veteran, he sits on the bench and tries again next year, making the best of his opportunities given injuries, etc.

Please guys, stop with the "taking snaps away from the kid" nonsense. The only time I was on that bandwagon was during the final four games of last year, when Bill literally wasted valuable time that he could have used to evaluate Henson.

[mr.jameswoods]

Speaking of a proven method to remain a sub .500 team....

Jerry overanxiously stepping in and overriding his HC on his quest to find the next franchise QB has worked beautifully in the past.

Yes, it has worked beautifully in the past. In fact we won 3 Superbowls because Jerry Jones stepped in and kept Troy Aikman when Jimmy favored Steve Walsh.

Guess which player we traded

[Portland Fanatic]

Yes! I've been waiting for someone to point that out. Since when is it a bad thing to sign the best players available on the market and let them battle it out in the pre-season? Let's look at the options.

Option A: Vinny Testaverde and Drew Henson
Option B: Drew Bledsoe and Drew Henson

Either way, no one is annointed a starter. They come into camp and the best quarterback plays. If Henson can't beat out the wiley veteran, he sits on the bench and tries again next year, making the best of his opportunities given injuries, etc.

Please guys, stop with the "taking snaps away from the kid" nonsense. The only time I was on that bandwagon was during the final four games of last year, when Bill literally wasted valuable time that he could have used to evaluate Henson.
Do not even think for one minute that their would be a FAIR competition with Bledsoe and Henson...Bledsoe would literaly be annoited starter before he got here under BP....that's not even a debate.

You better believe he would be taking valuabel snaps away from Henson....Henson needs all the snaps and time he can get.

[InmanRoshi]

I would have been in the same boat, but the Baltimore drive for a TD tainted me...

What you saw was the Frank Reich/Don Strock phenomenon. Nothing more, nothing less.

[Zaxor]

What you saw was the Frank Reich/Don Strock phenomenon. Nothing more, nothing less.
Wrong

Zaxor

[LA=Pancakemaker]

Bledsoe party of two?
Sold!

[Charles]

Do not even think for one minute that their would be a FAIR competition with Bledsoe and Henson...Bledsoe would literaly be annoited starter before he got here under BP....that's not even a debate.

You better believe he would be taking valuabel snaps away from Henson....Henson needs all the snaps and time he can get.
It's only February and you are already making exucuses if Henson doesn't win the QB competition........ (if Bledsoe is signed).

I agree it won't be a fair competition. Not because Parcells will favor Drew Bledsoe but because Bledsoe experience alone gives him leg up over Drew Henson.

Bledsoe doesn't need favoritism from Parcells to win the job. At this stage in his career Bledsoe should be able to win the battle with one eye closed. If Henson is able to win the job then he'll be right on track in taking the nexst step in his development...........earning and taking the starting gig.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Faith - Belief; the assent of the mind to the truth of what is declared by another, resting solely and implicitly on his authority and veracity; reliance on testimony.

The assent of the mind to the statement or proposition of another, on the ground of the manifest truth of what he utters; firm and earnest belief, on probable evidence of any kind, especially in regard to important moral truth. "Faith, that is, fidelity, -- the fealty of the finite will and understanding to the reason." Coleridge.


This is the definition of faith. As a fan of the Dallas Cowboys, I must have faith in the fact that Jerry Jones will do whatever, in his power, to make us champions. Further, I must believe that Bill Parcells will also do the right thing for this franchise. He has done it eveywhere he has been. I can not believe he would throw young quality players to the wolves in favor of old worn out QBs simply because he has played with them before or whatever else may be the convenient reason for the day. We brought him here to do a job. I have faith that he will do it. Both men will do the right thing.

It is very easy to let our imaginations run away with us because we don't know what is going on behind the scense but I believe the Cowboys will make the right decisions here.

[Chocolate Lab]

Couple of random thoughts:

1) On ESPN radio in Dallas, Ed is a regular guest once a week, and he has expressed the same bewilderment at Parcells' insistence on sticking with Vinny as everyone else has. So he basically agrees with Jerry on the QB situation. For him to act like Jerry is trying to strongarm Parcells is pretty disingenuous.

2) On that same show, Ed has the nickname of "The Voice of Doom" because in the mid-90s when we were terrorizing teams and were the envy of the league, he still came up with negative news every week about some aspect of the team.

3) It's not at all uncommon for GMs and coaches to disagree, usually in a case just like this where the coach wants to win now (sometimes to protect his job) while the GM wants to build for the future. Each man is just doing his job. This is only a big story because of the two personalities involved here.

4) With Jerry's quotes this morning about how banking on two young quarterbacks would be foolish, is there really any disagreement?

[el_chevo]

In my opinion, the Cowboys are reluctant to have another losing season with the hopes that it will give Henson and any draft picks the time to mature. Simply put, the Cowboy's fans are some of the toughest in the league. I would like to see Henson start because we need to know what we have in(vested) him. Should he be the starter of the future, then we can focus our money on other free agents to make a better team. The relationship between Jones and Parcells will always have to potential to explode. It's sort of like have to pitbulls in the same house. One in the front yard and the other in the back. Parcells, I would offer has the experience to run a football team. I believe he sees the long term picture for the Cowboys and wants to ease Henson into the starting role. But, we don't know everything that is behind the scenes and their could be some serious problems with Henson. Bringing in Bledsoe or another credible quarterback will ensure two things: a healthy competition for the starting role and should Henson falter, our season won't go down the drain. I believe the Cowboys should sign a starting quarterback, start Henson, and make the decision on the future based on his performance.

[ABQCOWBOY]

In my opinion, the Cowboys are reluctant to have another losing season with the hopes that it will give Henson and any draft picks the time to mature. Simply put, the Cowboy's fans are some of the toughest in the league. I would like to see Henson start because we need to know what we have in(vested) him. Should he be the starter of the future, then we can focus our money on other free agents to make a better team. The relationship between Jones and Parcells will always have to potential to explode. It's sort of like have to pitbulls in the same house. One in the front yard and the other in the back. Parcells, I would offer has the experience to run a football team. I believe he sees the long term picture for the Cowboys and wants to ease Henson into the starting role. But, we don't know everything that is behind the scenes and their could be some serious problems with Henson. Bringing in Bledsoe or another credible quarterback will ensure two things: a healthy competition for the starting role and should Henson falter, our season won't go down the drain. I believe the Cowboys should sign a starting quarterback, start Henson, and make the decision on the future based on his performance.

I agree with all you've said except a single point. I don't believe that Bledsoe is a credible QB for this team.

[TheSkaven]

Do not even think for one minute that their would be a FAIR competition with Bledsoe and Henson...Bledsoe would literaly be annoited starter before he got here under BP....that's not even a debate.
I have to believe otherwise. Bill says there will be fair competition, and I believe him. Now, Henson can't just be as good as Bledsoe, because if that's the case, Bill will go with the veteran QB. He has to prove he can play better, both in the pre-season and in camp.

Bill says Henson was not good enough to replace Vinny on the field and I believe him. I still think it was wrong to waste those last four games with Vinny on the field, but I believe his competition is fair until I proven otherwise.

[Eddie]

I'd be happier enduring a 0-16 season with a young QB like Hensen, and watch him grow/progress ... than sit through a 8-8 season with an old piece of crap like Bledsoe.

[Doomsday101]

If not bledsoe...then who, do we go back with vinny or sign another QB that nobody really wants.

For the record I am not even considering Brees because of picks and I do not think Hasselbach is on our radar.

So who do we get as a vet to at the very least be backup?


Now do not take this as me complaining...I am simply asking who else.

Because although I would love henson to blow everyone away in camp and become our next great Franchise QB.....somehow I doubt that happens right off the bat, but even if it does I do not even want to think of the idea of Romo as being our only backup besides another rookie QB.

I agree, no matter if Henson comes out of the gates as our starter or not I think it is important that Dallas find a vet QB. I would hate to go into a season with 2 or 3 young QB's