Broaddus: Castonzo most likely will be the pick

[GloryDaysRBack]

Have a great deal of respect for @mattmosley and others that have told me Castonzo will most likely be the pick. Still ?s to ask and will

Via twitter

[GloryDaysRBack]

Here is his follow up

even if they have to stand in there at 9, it sounds like they are prepared to take Castonzo or maybe Watt. Needs to see board

[SDogo]

I'm not going to jump on Brian's side just because he is saying something I agree with, I have been very critical of him in the past but this is jiving with everything I have been saying for 2 or 3 weeks now.

With that said, your not going to convince me that Dallas will take him at 9. I know they have Castanzo, Smith, Watt and Jordan are very closely graded and would be happy to walk away with any of them.

They know as well as we do that a trade down 5 or 6 slots is likely to land you one of those guys in addition to multiple picks.

[GloryDaysRBack]

Let's assume these are the two players we are selecting from..let's leave out whether it's @ 9 or 15 or anywhere else...which player would you rather have? I fully believe these are our top 2 targets

[SDogo]

Let's assume these are the two players we are selecting from..let's leave out whether it's @ 9 or 15 or anywhere else...which player would you rather have? I fully believe these are our top 2 targets

I would rather have Smith but as I have been saying with very unwelcoming responses, Smith is simply not ready to step in and play this year. The Cowboys see it the same way but they also see his ceiling is twice that of Anthony.

Castanzo offers you a player ready to come in Day 1 and play yet and be solid for the next 10 years. Maybe making a pro bowl or two in that time.

Smith offers you a players that need a years development and an additional of growing pains but will give you 15 years of pro-bowl level play.

The Cowboys just need to weigh the importance of production now or franchise player later.

[burmafrd]

they will not take Castonso without a trade down. They will not take him at #9. Mosely is being fed BS.
Broadus has fallen in love with being a mediot and his quality is dropping. He wants to be 'relevent' and it is not a good thing.

[DFWJC]

I'm not going to jump on Brian's side just because he is saying something I agree with, I have been very critical of him in the past but this is jiving with everything I have been saying for 2 or 3 weeks now.

With that said, your not going to convince me that Dallas will take him at 9. I know they have Castanzo, Smith, Watt and Jordan are very closely graded and would be happy to walk away with any of them.

They know as well as we do that a trade down 5 or 6 slots is likely to land you one of those guys in addition to multiple picks.
I'd be a little upset if they took him at 9. Unless they have have him valued that high (which I doubt) I'd prefer to take Castanzo in a trade down (if at all) then use the extra pick(s) to trade up later if necessary to grab anther starter. That's IF we went for this guy.

[burmafrd]

IF the boys really do believe that Smith is going to be that much better down the road there is NO excuse for not taking him.

[Bowdown27]

I think we all agree a trade down with picking castonzo or even a long shot in smith we would all be ecstatic. I still want to trade for pp but I'd be happy with one of these two ol

[SDogo]

I think we all agree a trade down with picking castonzo or even a long shot in smith we would all be ecstatic. I still want to trade for pp but I'd be happy with one of these two ol

I would be ecstatic with any 3 of those scenario's.

[fishspill]

If they're that high on him then I really hope I'm wrong on his level of ability. I love his IQ, I love how he doesn't waste energy and plays smart, I just don't know about his ability to stick to a guy.

I'm no scout. I've also seen him do really well. I'm concerned about consistency. Just one uneducated opinion.

[fortdick]

If they're that high on him then I really hope I'm wrong on his level of ability. I love his IQ, I love how he doesn't waste energy and plays smart, I just don't know about his ability to stick to a guy.

I'm no scout. I've also seen him do really well. I'm concerned about consistency. Just one uneducated opinion.

Of whom do you speak?

[jobberone]

IF the boys really do believe that Smith is going to be that much better down the road there is NO excuse for not taking him.

As I've said before a lot depends on how much of last year was due to injury to Colombo and how much they think they can depend on him this year. Smith is not ready to play right away. Constonzo is.

[Chocolate Lab]

IF the boys really do believe that Smith is going to be that much better down the road there is NO excuse for not taking him.

Amen.

It seems to me that we're getting way too far into need and "ready to play now" this year. Whatever happened to taking the best player available? Does anyone really think Anthony Castonzo is truly the ninth (or better) best player in the entire country? Or better said, that in two to three years he'll be the ninth (or better) best NFL player from this draft class?

I don't. He seems very ordinary to me. What's so special about him?

[casmith07]

If we were drafting Smith to play LT, I'd go for it. I think it makes more sense to trade down for a RT.

[fishspill]

Of whom do you speak?

Sorry. Castonzo. I don't hate the pick, I just don't like him that high. I like 4 or 5 OL ahead of him. People that get paid for knowing disagree.

[fortdick]

As I've said before a lot depends on how much of last year was due to injury to Colombo and how much they think they can depend on him this year. Smith is not ready to play right away. Constonzo is.

If they trade down to get Peterson, that will tell us they think Columbo is good to go for another year. I would be happy if he was healthy and back to form, then we could fill other needs like FS and DE.

[realtick]

I'm not going to jump on Brian's side just because he is saying something I agree with, I have been very critical of him in the past but this is jiving with everything I have been saying for 2 or 3 weeks now.

With that said, your not going to convince me that Dallas will take him at 9. I know they have Castanzo, Smith, Watt and Jordan are very closely graded and would be happy to walk away with any of them.

They know as well as we do that a trade down 5 or 6 slots is likely to land you one of those guys in addition to multiple picks.


I'm sure you've written on the topic before, but what's your take on Castanzo? What do you think about him?

[GloryDaysRBack]

Amen.

It seems to me that we're getting way too far into need and "ready to play now" this year. Whatever happened to taking the best player available? Does anyone really think Anthony Castonzo is truly the ninth (or better) best player in the entire country? Or better said, that in two to three years he'll be the ninth (or better) best NFL player from this draft class?

I don't. He seems very ordinary to me. What's so special about him?

MOST, key word there, draft sites have Castonzo ranked anywhere from 11-15 overall..and a few of those guys between 9-15 that are ahead of him are guys like Gabbert, Newton, Jones..etc..guys we wouldn't consider taking

[GloryDaysRBack]

I'm sure you've written on the topic before, but what's your take on Castanzo? What do you think about him?

I have the same question for you...and one other..Watt or Castonzo if you had to pick?

[jobberone]

If they trade down to get Peterson, that will tell us they think Columbo is good to go for another year. I would be happy if he was healthy and back to form, then we could fill other needs like FS and DE.

Even if they trade up for PP, I think they will draft OL this year. An OT and an OG. It just doesn't have to be in the first round if they think Colombo can start.

[realtick]

Does anyone really think Anthony Castonzo is truly the ninth (or better) best player in the entire country? Or better said, that in two to three years he'll be the ninth (or better) best NFL player from this draft class?

I don't. He seems very ordinary to me. What's so special about him?

I don't see him as the ninth best player in the draft, which is why it gives me a unsettling feeling thinking the Cowboys might consider him that high.

Funny how draft position changes your perspective, because I wouldn't be upset if we traded down and grabbed him at #18-25 or something, along with adding a pick or two.

[SDogo]

I'm sure you've written on the topic before, but what's your take on Castanzo? What do you think about him?

He's a great athlete and has good feet but his lack of technique irks me. I take a special kind of price in the offensive line and I'll take a technical player 9 times out of 10 over an athlete. Of course it's something that can be worked on but I would prefer my prospects to have a better base when entering the league.

He also has a long way to go in a NFL weight room.

I think the kid has potential at the next level but I would not take him at 9.

[GloryDaysRBack]

I don't see him as the ninth best player in the draft, which is why it gives me a unsettling feeling thinking the Cowboys might consider him that high.

Funny how draft position changes your perspective, because I wouldn't be upset if we traded down and grabbed him at #18-25 or something, along with adding a pick or two.

Most places have him rated much higher than 18-25

[SDogo]

I have the same question for you...and one other..Watt or Castonzo if you had to pick?

Watt all day and every day.

[supercowboy8]

I'm ok with Castanzo or Watt as long as its in a trade back. If I'm at 9 I want Smith but if I trade back I will be fine with Castanzo. I think Castanzo will go 19-22 and Watt will got 17 or 18. I want a RT more than I want a 3-4 DE, I think their is a bigger talent difference between top OT and second round OTs than their is with 3-4 DEs.
My rankings for first round are
Smith
Castanzo
Watt
Carimi
Jordan

also I want Rackley and Harris in this draft and I think the only way we can get both is by trading back in the first.

[CowboyStar88]

I am holding out hope that we trade up for PP that is my bday wish

[Chocolate Lab]

He's a great athlete and has good feet but his lack of technique irks me. I take a special kind of price in the offensive line and I'll take a technical player 9 times out of 10 over an athlete. Of course it's something that can be worked on but I would prefer my prospects to have a better base when entering the league.

He also has a long way to go in a NFL weight room.

I think the kid has potential at the next level but I would not take him at 9.

That's funny, was this post about Castonzo or Smith?

[GloryDaysRBack]

It appears to me that Garrett (and I'm only saying it's him bc he's the biggest change from previous years to now) is putting an added premium on intangibles/character..these two guys specifically have some of the best intangibles/leadership/character or whatever you want to call it in the entire draft

[realtick]

I have the same question for you...and one other..Watt or Castonzo if you had to pick?


I've shared my thoughts on Castanzo before, so it might be redundant to some here. I'll share them again though since you asked.

In my view from what I've seen of Castanzo is that he's an effort guy with some tenacity and grit to his game. He's apparently shown the flexibility to move inside at OG too. I'll also give him the benefit of the doubt and say he's intelligent because he's been considered as a Rhodes Scholar.

Here's what concerns me about him: he has questionable technique and is a goofy athlete IMO.

In terms of technique, he often allows speed rushers to get high and around him because he doesn't kick-out of his stance quickly. He has a real problem with speed rushers off the edge; he opens up because he gets beaten and then ends up in trail position running after them. He also lets defenders get into his body at times (he doesn't have a great base to begin with) because he has an inconsistent initial punch, which is why you see him bowing/arched up with the defender's hands underneath his shoulder pads and pushing him back into the pocket.

Athletically, he's a bit goofy. Generally, you put a man in front of him and he will find a way to block him. However, you get Castanzo moving and he gets all out of sorts. Defenders with strong counter-moves take advantage of him time after time because he commits so strongly.

I think in a typical draft with a couple of true blue-chip OT prospects, Castanzo would be a late 1st round, early 2nd round prospect. The bottomline for me is that I don't dislike Castanzo, I just don't like the idea of taking him 9th overall. That's effectively saying Castanzo is the 9th best prospect in all of the draft and I simply don't agree with that. I think he's somewhere between the 25-30th best prospect.

As for your question about Watt vs. Castanzo at #9? It's tough. I almost can't bring myself to answer it. Generally, on paper, knowing the needs of this team, I'd go OT > DE. But considering the players involved, I'd have to lean Watt > Castanzo reluctantly.

[SDogo]

That's funny, was this post about Castonzo or Smith?

Castanzo

[SDogo]

I've shared my thoughts on Castanzo before, so it might be redundant to some here. I'll share them again though since you asked.

In my view from what I've seen of Castanzo is that he's an effort guy with some tenacity and grit to his game. He's apparently shown the flexibility to move inside at OG too. I'll also give him the benefit of the doubt and say he's intelligent because he's been considered as a Rhodes Scholar.

Here's what concerns me about him: he has questionable technique and is a goofy athlete IMO.

In terms of technique, he often allows speed rushers to get high and around him because he doesn't kick-out of his stance quickly. He has a real problem with speed rushers off the edge; he opens up because he gets beaten and then ends up in trail position running after them. He also lets defenders get into his body at times (he doesn't have a great base to begin with) which is why you see him bowing/arched up with the defender's hands underneath his shoulder pads and pushing him back into the pocket.

Athletically, he's a bit goofy. Generally, you put a man in front of him and he will find a way to block him. However, you get Castanzo moving and he gets all out of sorts. Defenders with strong counter-moves take advantage of him time after time because he commits so strongly.

I think in a typical draft with a couple of true blue-chip OT prospects, Castanzo would be a late 1st round, early 2nd round prospect.

As for your question about Watt vs. Castanzo at #9? It's tough. I almost can't bring myself to answer it. Generally, on paper, knowing the needs of this team, I'd go OT > DE. But considering the players involved, I'd have to lean Watt > Castanzo reluctantly.

Very good post

[fortdick]

Even if they trade up for PP, I think they will draft OL this year. An OT and an OG. It just doesn't have to be in the first round if they think Colombo can start.

I would hope they would draft a couple OL, but if they don't grab one of the top rospects, that tells me Columbo is good to try again. I have no problem if they think he can go. I liked his play when he was healthy. They can grab a tier two OT is need be and wait for him to develop. That is why I asked about Solder. Lot of upside and seems to be dropping. Trade down for Peterson and take Solder in the second, if he is there?

[johnnyd]

I don't see him as the ninth best player in the draft, which is why it gives me a unsettling feeling thinking the Cowboys might consider him that high.

Funny how draft position changes your perspective, because I wouldn't be upset if we traded down and grabbed him at #18-25 or something, along with adding a pick or two.

Well said. People like to feel like they got a bargain or a steal in every aspect of life the draft is no different.

Meanwhile if say your the giants and you get Castanzo your estactic, Fans and media calling him a steal and predicting pro bowls for years to come. But If we take him a 9 espcially over Smith he's a reach who will be forever compared to Smith and will be deemed a bust by fans and media the first sack he gives up.

End of the day i just take Smith if the PP trade up doesnt happen. I want the player we believe is better and more talented . I could live with him not playing day 1 if we think he would be a stud down the road. Im still in the quality over quantity crowd.

[bbgun]

At #9? Permission to weep, please.

[realtick]

Most places have him rated much higher than 18-25

This will sound completely egotistical and not directed at you at all, but I could care less where most pundits rate players.

The NFL Draft has been a keen interest of mine since about '91. I've gone through thinking Mel Kiper was a prophet from on high to realizing he's completely fallible. I've missed on a slew of players, but also "hit" on a couple. I've also wathed the scene basically change, where as Kiper and a few annual paper publications were the few main sources of information, to now, where every pimple-face kid with a website builder can put together a draftsite and parrot information from others.

Basically, through the past 20 years my knowledge base has grown to the point where I can confidently say most of these pundits are no more knowledgable than you or I. Now they may have some access to insider knowledge I don't have as far which teams are interested in specific players, but as far as actually assessing/evaluating individual players, I'm pretty content with my eyes. If I'm wrong about a player then I sink in my own ship, not because I trusted in someone else's analysis.

On the flip-side, I like guy's like SDogo because they have a lot of useful insider information that you can gleam from.

I'd encourage anyone who is really interested in the draft to simply just watch as much football as you can and trust your instincts.

[realtick]

Very good post

Thank ya, thank ya verrry much.

[GloryDaysRBack]

This will sound completely egotistical and not directed at you at all, but I could care less where most pundits rate players.

The NFL Draft has been a keen interest of mine since about '91. I've gone through thinking Mel Kiper was a prophet from on high to realizing he's completely fallible. I've missed on a slew of players, but also "hit" on a couple. I've also seen scene basically change, where as Kiper and a few others were the main sources of information, to now, where every pimple-face kid with a website builder can put together a draftsite and parrot information from others.

Basically, through the past 20 years my knowledge base has grown to the point where I can confidently say most of these pundits are no more knowledgable than you or I. Now they may have some access to insider knowledge I don't have as far which teams are interested in specific players, but as far as actually assessing/evaluating individual players, I'm pretty content with my eyes. If I'm wrong about a player then I sink in my own ship, not because I trusted in someone else's analysis.

On the flip-side, I like guy's like SDogo because they have a lot of useful insider information that you can gleam from.

I'd encourage anyone who is really interested in the draft to simply just watch as much football as you can and trust your instincts.

No offense taken..I value your opinion, that is why I originally asked for it..I agree w you that anyone can put up a site and rank players and most of them just rip opinions from other places..however, the consensus of that opinion has to have originated from somewhere..It's definitely OK to have a different opinion, nobody is flawless in this draft game

[AsthmaField]

This will sound completely egotistical and not directed at you at all, but I could care less where most pundits rate players.

The NFL Draft has been a keen interest of mine since about '91. I've gone through thinking Mel Kiper was a prophet from on high to realizing he's completely fallible. I've missed on a slew of players, but also "hit" on a couple. I've also wathed the scene basically change, where as Kiper and a few annual paper publications were the few main sources of information, to now, where every pimple-face kid with a website builder can put together a draftsite and parrot information from others.

Basically, through the past 20 years my knowledge base has grown to the point where I can confidently say most of these pundits are no more knowledgable than you or I. Now they may have some access to insider knowledge I don't have as far which teams are interested in specific players, but as far as actually assessing/evaluating individual players, I'm pretty content with my eyes. If I'm wrong about a player then I sink in my own ship, not because I trusted in someone else's analysis.

On the flip-side, I like guy's like SDogo because they have a lot of useful insider information that you can gleam from.

I'd encourage anyone who is really interested in the draft to simply just watch as much football as you can and trust your instincts.


Very well said.

I remember distinctly so badly wanting Dallas to draft Marc Spindler DT out of Pitt in the 1990 draft. He was a big, mean, hard working guy who would be perfect for the middle of Jimmy Johnson's defense.

When the Cowboys traded up from the 20's to pick #17, I was convinced that they were moving up for my guy Spindler. Instead they drafted a guy named Emmitt Smith, and while I thought he was a good player, I was greatly disappointed to see them pass on Spindler.

I just knew they missed the next Randy White. :o:

No need to explain how off I was on that. Emmitt was one of the best RB's ever, Spindler was average and they simply picked up Tony Castillas from Atlanta to man the middle of the DL.

I have watched every draft since that one and it never fails to amaze me how far off the draft "experts" can be. Or how far off we fans can be.

The bottom line I suppose is that you can just never tell. If we pass on T Smith and take JJ Watt, there will be a lot of teeth gnashing, but in three years, Watt could very well be a pro bowler and Smith could be another Alex Barron.

Or vice versa.

I agree that so called draft guru's probably don't know any more than you or I do, and really the only one's who know more are the team's coaches and scouts. They have access to things we can only dream of and they get the chance to sit down with the players and pick their brains.

And since they do get the chance to do that, when they pick a guy I don't want them to... like they did in 1990 with Emmitt Smith... I now tend to think they know a whole lot more than I (or any of the Kiper types) do about it.

If the Cowboys take Castonzo at 9, I'll be just fine with it.

[MarionBarberThe4th]

This will sound completely egotistical and not directed at you at all, but I could care less where most pundits rate players.

The NFL Draft has been a keen interest of mine since about '91. I've gone through thinking Mel Kiper was a prophet from on high to realizing he's completely fallible. I've missed on a slew of players, but also "hit" on a couple. I've also wathed the scene basically change, where as Kiper and a few annual paper publications were the few main sources of information, to now, where every pimple-face kid with a website builder can put together a draftsite and parrot information from others.

Basically, through the past 20 years my knowledge base has grown to the point where I can confidently say most of these pundits are no more knowledgable than you or I. Now they may have some access to insider knowledge I don't have as far which teams are interested in specific players, but as far as actually assessing/evaluating individual players, I'm pretty content with my eyes. If I'm wrong about a player then I sink in my own ship, not because I trusted in someone else's analysis.

On the flip-side, I like guy's like SDogo because they have a lot of useful insider information that you can gleam from.

I'd encourage anyone who is really interested in the draft to simply just watch as much football as you can and trust your instincts.



See I always thought the pundits were good for telling you about where a guy is supposed to go. For the most part when it comes to my personal opinion on a player I like to do it the old school way and watch youtube.

For example besides Vontaze Burfict(Bucking feast), Luck, Alshon Jeffrey, Mohamed Sanu, Blackmon, Trent Richardson, and a few others I would not know who to keep an eye on next year. I like to use the sites as a programming guide.

[Chocolate Lab]

Castanzo

I was partly kidding because I knew he was the question, but really, when most people read

- Good feet but lacks technique
- More athlete than technical player
- Needs a lot of time in an NFL weight room

they'd think that describes Smith (or even Solder), not Castonzo.

Just curious, how does this jibe with what you said earlier about Castonzo being ready to play from Day One and be solid for a decade?

Meh... I'm with realtick on Castonzo. He looks awkward as athlete to me, and you can't have that in a top-10 overall OT.

Also, this "he can be moved to guard" talk doesn't mean anything to me. If anything, it's a negative, much like when people talk about how corners can be moved to safety. When was an Okung or Williams talked about being versatile enough to play inside? Never. A top 10 or even 15 pick should excel at his original, more valuable position with no hedging in case he can't play.

[MarionBarberThe4th]

Very well said.

I remember distinctly so badly wanting Dallas to draft Marc Spindler DT out of Pitt in the 1990 draft. He was a big, mean, hard working guy who would be perfect for the middle of Jimmy Johnson's defense.

When the Cowboys traded up from the 20's to pick #17, I was convinced that they were moving up for my guy Spindler. Instead they drafted a guy named Emmitt Smith, and while I thought he was a good player, I was greatly disappointed to see them pass on Spindler.

I just knew they missed the next Randy White. :o:

No need to explain how off I was on that. Emmitt was one of the best RB's ever, Spindler was average and they simply picked up Tony Castillas from Atlanta to man the middle of the DL.

I have watched every draft since that one and it never fails to amaze me how far off the draft "experts" can be. Or how far off we fans can be.

The bottom line I suppose is that you can just never tell. If we pass on T Smith and take JJ Watt, there will be a lot of teeth gnashing, but in three years, Watt could very well be a pro bowler and Smith could be another Alex Barron.

Or vice versa.

I agree that so called draft guru's probably don't know any more than you or I do, and really the only one's who know more are the team's coaches and scouts. They have access to things we can only dream of and they get the chance to sit down with the players and pick their brains.

And since they do get the chance to do that, when they pick a guy I don't want them to... like they did in 1990 with Emmitt Smith... I now tend to think they know a whole lot more than I (or any of the Kiper types) do about it.

If the Cowboys take Castonzo at 9, I'll be just fine with it.


I think if I had to chose between Tyron Smith at 9, or Gabe Carimi and a 3rd I will take Tyron. And I respect what Carimi brings.

In other words, in order to drop down to our #2, or #3 tackle I am going to need a 2nd round pick back in some fashion.

[GloryDaysRBack]

See I always thought the pundits were good for telling you about where a guy is supposed to go. For the most part when it comes to my personal opinion on a player I like to do it the old school way and watch youtube.

For example besides Vontaze Burfict(Bucking feast), Luck, Alshon Jeffrey, Mohamed Sanu, Blackmon, Trent Richardson, and a few others I would not know who to keep an eye on next year. I like to use the sites as a programming guide.

Back off my boy Burfict ;)

[realtick]

Very well said.

I remember distinctly so badly wanting Dallas to draft Marc Spindler DT out of Pitt in the 1990 draft. He was a big, mean, hard working guy who would be perfect for the middle of Jimmy Johnson's defense.

When the Cowboys traded up from the 20's to pick #17, I was convinced that they were moving up for my guy Spindler. Instead they drafted a guy named Emmitt Smith, and while I thought he was a good player, I was greatly disappointed to see them pass on Spindler.

I just knew they missed the next Randy White. :o:

No need to explain how off I was on that. Emmitt was one of the best RB's ever, Spindler was average and they simply picked up Tony Castillas from Atlanta to man the middle of the DL.

I have watched every draft since that one and it never fails to amaze me how far off the draft "experts" can be. Or how far off we fans can be.

The bottom line I suppose is that you can just never tell. If we pass on T Smith and take JJ Watt, there will be a lot of teeth gnashing, but in three years, Watt could very well be a pro bowler and Smith could be another Alex Barron.

Or vice versa.

I agree that so called draft guru's probably don't know any more than you or I do, and really the only one's who know more are the team's coaches and scouts. They have access to things we can only dream of and they get the chance to sit down with the players and pick their brains.

And since they do get the chance to do that, when they pick a guy I don't want them to... like they did in 1990 with Emmitt Smith... I now tend to think they know a whole lot more than I (or any of the Kiper types) do about it.

If the Cowboys take Castonzo at 9, I'll be just fine with it.


That's the thing; you just have to kowtow to the Cowboys' scouting department's expertise and believe they know much better about a player. That's when you have to turn optimist.

[AsthmaField]

I think if I had to chose between Tyron Smith at 9, or Gabe Carimi and a 3rd I will take Tyron. And I respect what Carimi brings.

In other words, in order to drop down to our #2, or #3 tackle I am going to need a 2nd round pick back in some fashion.


I don't really disagree with that, in principle. However, if Dallas thinks Smith is only very slightly better than their second rated tackle (probably Castonzo), or even about equal to each other... then picking up a third and getting the same kind of player (in Dallas' eyes) would be a good thing.

Overall though, if they have Smith rated much higher than Castonzo, then no, a third wouldn't be enough to skip Smith. Heck, a second wouldn't really be enough if they think Smith is all that.

In my mind, you get the blue chipper and worry about the rest of the draft later on.

[MarionBarberThe4th]

Back off my boy Burfict ;)

Sounds like a name I would make in Madden.

I love his physicality, he flies around and is not afraid of contact. I think thats what you need to pair w/ Sean Lee for years. Thats why Im also a fan of Bruce Carter this year. Super athlete that can fly around and make plays.

If we come out of this draft/FA with Huff, Peterson, and a top tier tackle I would be ok with having to go into the 2012 draft with huge needs at DE and ILB. To me thats a fair trade off after we have seen the results of having no safety or RT.

Get starters. Fills the craters and worry about the pot holes later

[AsthmaField]

That's the thing; you just have to kowtow to the Cowboys' scouting department's expertise and believe they know much better about a player. That's when you have to turn optimist.

Exactly.

[realtick]

See I always thought the pundits were good for telling you about where a guy is supposed to go. For the most part when it comes to my personal opinion on a player I like to do it the old school way and watch youtube.

For example besides Vontaze Burfict(Bucking feast), Luck, Alshon Jeffrey, Mohamed Sanu, Blackmon, Trent Richardson, and a few others I would not know who to keep an eye on next year. I like to use the sites as a programming guide.

Trust me, there are a handful of players that I don't know of today that we'll be talking about a year from now, lol. Those sites are useful for looking at names to put on your radar.

I think the role of the pundits (ie. Kiper, McShay, et cetera) has really changed from giving player analysis to now mainly insider information. If you notice when you watch the programs, they're often giving you information on what they've heard teams like, want or will do, versus just straight player assessment.

Lol, I've got nothing against YouTube, it's actually a great resource nowadays. You've got folks putting all the snaps of a specific player on video (good or bad) and posting it, which is infinitely better than just a "highlight" clip.

[AKATheRake]

I would rather have Smith but as I have been saying with very unwelcoming responses, Smith is simply not ready to step in and play this year. The Cowboys see it the same way but they also see his ceiling is twice that of Anthony.

Castanzo offers you a player ready to come in Day 1 and play yet and be solid for the next 10 years. Maybe making a pro bowl or two in that time.

Smith offers you a players that need a years development and an additional of growing pains but will give you 15 years of pro-bowl level play.

The Cowboys just need to weigh the importance of production now or franchise player later.

15 years of pro bowl level play?

Any prospect that any team would see that in, would surely be the first player picked at their position and probably # 1 overall.

15 years of pro bowl level play. Wow! Like come on.

There's an argument that the guy can't step in his first season as a starter and he's supposed to be a guy who can start for 15 years and provide pro-bowl level play throughout 15 years?

If that's what teams thought of this guy, he would go 1st overall. Hands down. Nevermind questioning if he would be the first player taken at his position.

Like, Demarcus Ware will never make 15 pro bowls, might not even play 15 years. What player in the NFL has ever done such a thing.

This kid will never be better than Anthony Munoz, but for some reason we're talking probowls for 15 years.

We've got Patrick Peterson and Marcell Dareus in this draft who are clearly the 2 best prospects in the draft. Not one mention of being a future 15 pro-bowl level season player.

Suh looks like a beast and surely won't be considered a future 15 pro-bowl level player. It doesn't exist.

I don't know.

Talk about hype.

[Illini88228]

If we were drafting Smith to play LT, I'd go for it. I think it makes more sense to trade down for a RT.

I really don't understand the hate for RTs. Good teams have pass rushers on both sides, or at least move their best rusher around to both sides throughout the game. I would think the team that has had to deal with Torrin Tucker, Ryan Pettiti, Colombo on one leg, etc. would appreciate the importance of having two good tackles. I think the bottom line is, if they think this Tyron Smith is a special player who will potentially make pro bowls for years to come, then they need to just suck it up and take him even if he will be on the right side.

[RS12]

I still say smoke screen on Costonzo. Didnt that guy get abused by some of the better pass rushers in the ACC IIRC?

[tm1119]

If we were drafting Smith to play LT, I'd go for it. I think it makes more sense to trade down for a RT.

I agree with this. No one seems to be thinking about $ when they say draft Smith at #9. If we take Smith at 9 he's going to get paid LT $, regardless of the CBA. That means when it's time resign Free we will be paying 2 guys LT $. Not sure if that's in Jerry's plans. But if we take Castonzo further down at 14 or 15 he will be a more reasonable price. Plus we will add another young player to a position of need with the additional 3rd we would get. Just seems like a more reasonable scenario than taking the chance on Smith alone.

[MarionBarberThe4th]

Trust me, there are a handful of players that I don't know of today that we'll be talking about a year from now, lol. Those sites are useful for looking at names to put on your radar.

I think the role of the pundits (ie. Kiper, McShay, et cetera) has really changed from giving player analysis to now mainly insider information. If you notice when you watch the programs, they're often giving you information on what they've heard teams like, want or will do, versus just straight player assessment.

Lol, I've got nothing against YouTube, it's actually a great resource nowadays. You've got folks putting all the snaps of a specific player on video (good or bad) and posting it, which is infinitely better than just a "highlight" clip.


Another reason why its a great fallback is because at a certain point I want to just sit back and enjoy my college football. The way the day unfolds is you start off w/ what you think will be the GOTD, for me it was usually on the SEC on CBS, and then you wait and see what unfolds around the country and follow the action.


I love you Tyron but your teams games were meaningless and I can only get to you so many times over the course of a season. Your snaps are documented and Ill catch ya later.


Im finding the roles of the McSchays to be rather easy. Hop on Sportscenter and give each team in the top 10 2-3 ways they could go. Im finding I could finish their sentences after a while

Im more impressed when Mayock locks himself in the film room and talks to the kids coaches and gets super specific on the minutia of an Edmond Gates.

[burmafrd]

15 years of pro bowl level play?

Any prospect that any team would see that in, would surely be the first player picked at their position and probably # 1 overall.

15 years of pro bowl level play. Wow! Like come on.

There's an argument that the guy can't step in his first season as a starter and he's supposed to be a guy who can start for 15 years and provide pro-bowl level play throughout 15 years?

If that's what teams thought of this guy, he would go 1st overall. Hands down. Nevermind questioning if he would be the first player taken at his position.

Like, Demarcus Ware will never make 15 pro bowls, might not even play 15 years. What player in the NFL has ever done such a thing.

This kid will never be better than Anthony Munoz, but for some reason we're talking probowls for 15 years.

We've got Patrick Peterson and Marcell Dareus in this draft who are clearly the 2 best prospects in the draft. Not one mention of being a future 15 pro-bowl level season player.

Suh looks like a beast and surely won't be considered a future 15 pro-bowl level player. It doesn't exist.

I don't know.

Talk about hype.


Not really. Looke at some of the top LTs and other O linemen in the past. Many of them got Pro Bowl nods and actually were worthy in their mid 30's. Smith will be 21 in December. So if he does not make his first pro bowl ( or be considered for one) until his second season he could if uninjured and consistent still get one at age 36. So that is 15 years. But even if he did not get it until say year 3 and got 10 straight that would be a huge plus for this team. Look at Jason Witten. He was drafted at about the same age. How many Pro Bowls does he have now?

[Dash28]

This is a little bit of a letdown if we select him at 9 and not with a trade down.

I like the Peterson and Smith route a lot more.

[ThreeSportStar80]

Welcome to the Cowboys Tyron Smith...

[CATCH17]

they will not take Castonso without a trade down. They will not take him at #9. Mosely is being fed BS.
Broadus has fallen in love with being a mediot and his quality is dropping. He wants to be 'relevent' and it is not a good thing.

Haha easy man.

I bet he is right and Dallas is only thinking short term.

[baj1dallas]

Amen.

It seems to me that we're getting way too far into need and "ready to play now" this year. Whatever happened to taking the best player available? Does anyone really think Anthony Castonzo is truly the ninth (or better) best player in the entire country? Or better said, that in two to three years he'll be the ninth (or better) best NFL player from this draft class?

I don't. He seems very ordinary to me. What's so special about him?

What's so special is that there are only 8 non defensive end players that are better than him. The other OTs might end up better than him, but they also might not because it's unknown how much they can improve.

[Illini88228]

I really don't understand the hate for RTs. Good teams have pass rushers on both sides, or at least move their best rusher around to both sides throughout the game. I would think the team that has had to deal with Torrin Tucker, Ryan Pettiti, Colombo on one leg, etc. would appreciate the importance of having two good tackles. I think the bottom line is, if they think this Tyron Smith is a special player who will potentially make pro bowls for years to come, then they need to just suck it up and take him even if he will be on the right side.

Should be Rob Pettiti...D'oh

[SDogo]

Not really. Looke at some of the top LTs and other O linemen in the past. Many of them got Pro Bowl nods and actually were worthy in their mid 30's. Smith will be 21 in December. So if he does not make his first pro bowl ( or be considered for one) until his second season he could if uninjured and consistent still get one at age 36. So that is 15 years. But even if he did not get it until say year 3 and got 10 straight that would be a huge plus for this team. Look at Jason Witten. He was drafted at about the same age. How many Pro Bowls does he have now?

Thanks for addressing that.

It was right in line with what would of been my response.

[Chocolate Lab]

Not to speak for AKA, but I don't think age was his main concern, it was the overall greatness being predicted for Smith. No one's ever made 15 Pro Bowls. Anthony Munoz only made 11.

I'm sure SDogo was just exaggerating a tad. ;)

[unionjack8]

I would rather have Smith but as I have been saying with very unwelcoming responses, Smith is simply not ready to step in and play this year. The Cowboys see it the same way but they also see his ceiling is twice that of Anthony.

Castanzo offers you a player ready to come in Day 1 and play yet and be solid for the next 10 years. Maybe making a pro bowl or two in that time.

Smith offers you a players that need a years development and an additional of growing pains but will give you 15 years of pro-bowl level play.

The Cowboys just need to weigh the importance of production now or franchise player later.

if they choose anything other than the latter option then it seems to me they vastly oversestimate the talent on this team, cos we are 2 years awyf from challenging at leasstb imo.

[Dash28]

Amen.

It seems to me that we're getting way too far into need and "ready to play now" this year. Whatever happened to taking the best player available? Does anyone really think Anthony Castonzo is truly the ninth (or better) best player in the entire country? Or better said, that in two to three years he'll be the ninth (or better) best NFL player from this draft class?

I don't. He seems very ordinary to me. What's so special about him?
I just don't see him being worth the 9th or being the best tackle in this class down the road.

I hate that we would take him over Smith just because he's more "ready" now. I think Smith could plug into RT and start this season imo.

I want PP as my first choice so i'm rooting for that even more now instead of this option.

[speedkilz88]

I really don't understand the hate for RTs. Good teams have pass rushers on both sides, or at least move their best rusher around to both sides throughout the game. I would think the team that has had to deal with Torrin Tucker, Ryan Pettiti, Colombo on one leg, etc. would appreciate the importance of having two good tackles. I think the bottom line is, if they think this Tyron Smith is a special player who will potentially make pro bowls for years to come, then they need to just suck it up and take him even if he will be on the right side.

Most qbs are right handed so they can see the rush on the right side.
TEs typically line up on the right side which slows down an outside speed rush.
Teams typically run to the right and want to run behind physical brutes not finesse types with great feet.

[burmafrd]

Most qbs are right handed so they can see the rush on the right side.
TEs typically line up on the right side which slows down an outside speed rush.
Teams typically run to the right and want to run behind physical brutes not finesse types with great feet.


That did not help Tony when Ray Edwards was using Colombo like a rag.

The days when you could afford to not have a very good pass protecting RT are gone.

[SDogo]

Not to speak for AKA, but I don't think age was his main concern, it was the overall greatness being predicted for Smith. No one's ever made 15 Pro Bowls. Anthony Munoz only made 11.

I'm sure SDogo was just exaggerating a tad. ;)

Ok, I should of clarified and said he will play at a Pro Bowl level for 15 years.

[Dash28]

Ok, I should of clarified and said he will play at a Pro Bowl level for 15 years.
Are you hearing that Castonzo would be selected ahead of Smith at 9 or he could be the target only after a trade?

[SDogo]

Are you hearing that Castonzo would be selected ahead of Smith at 9 or he could be the target only after a trade?

I'm not buying he would be the selection at 9 at all.

Honestly the more info I get the more I believe Dallas does not want to take anyone at 9. At this point I would be absolutely stunned if they dont move up or down out of 9.

[burmafrd]

Kind of strange not wanting to stay put; I mean is Jerruh just wanting to move around to look good or what?

[Dash28]

Kind of strange not wanting to stay put; I mean is Jerruh just wanting to move around to look good or what?
My first two options would be up for PP or take Smith at 9. But if they have Smith, Watt, Jordan, Castonzo rated that closely than I see the trade down possibility.

[SDogo]

Kind of strange not wanting to stay put; I mean is Jerruh just wanting to move around to look good or what?

I think it has more to do with plethora of prospects they have ranked closely. If you take into account that Dallas grades DE's and OT's similar and their interest lies in Tyron Smith, Anthony Castonzo, JJ Watt and Cameron Jordan the odds that you can trade down even 7 spots and still likely land one of those guys while obtaining additional picks is good then those are the types of moves that can give you flexibility to get a player that drops at the end of Round 1 or beginning of Round 2 when your select in the top 10.

[baj1dallas]

If we were drafting Smith to play LT, I'd go for it. I think it makes more sense to trade down for a RT.

What if the OT we draft at 9 turns out to start for 10+ years with at least probowls and misses less than a season whereas the next 2 tackles taken start for 10 years combined with only 1 pro bowl between them?

[Corleone]

IF the boys really do believe that Smith is going to be that much better down the road there is NO excuse for not taking him.

Exactly. If we ended up getting Peterson, I would be just fine with trading next years first to get Smith, so he can have that year to learn and grow into a starting RT and we could call him our first rounder next season. In saying that, I am assuming (hoping) we don't pick anywhere near #9, I'd rather be in the 32 spot or as close to it as possible and Smith would be a steal.

[Hoofbite]

I think it has more to do with plethora of prospects they have ranked closely. If you take into account that Dallas grades DE's and OT's similar and their interest lies in Tyron Smith, Anthony Castonzo, JJ Watt and Cameron Jordan the odds that you can trade down even 7 spots and still likely land one of those guys while obtaining additional picks is good then those are the types of moves that can give you flexibility to get a player that drops at the end of Round 1 or beginning of Round 2 when your select in the top 10.

I have to take a little issue with that line of thought.

Dallas has a clear need at OT. The need at DE might be there but they absolutely cannot go another year without addressing OT.

OT has to be the top, or tied for the top, priority. FS is the only position that you can make an argument for as the biggest need.

If you have equally rated guys, some who play at a position of serious need and some who do not, the guys that play at the position of need have to be a priority. You can't reasonably settle on a guy at a position that isn't needed nearly as much because you have them rated similarly.

I really hope that Dallas doesn't try to get too cute and misses out on one of the better OTs in the draft because they had a non-needed position player rated right along with those OTs

[tm1119]

What if the OT we draft at 9 turns out to start for 10+ years with at least probowls and misses less than a season whereas the next 2 tackles taken start for 10 years combined with only 1 pro bowl between them?

That's a pointless hypothetical. I can make the argument the other way around just as easily. Unfortunately there's no science to this NFL draft thing. You have to do your homework as best as you can and hope you make the right choice. There's going to be a lot of failure no matter what. It's becoming apparent that Jerry and the rest of the decision makers have graded Smith and Costanzo very closely. If that's really the case and they are set on taking an OT in the 1st(which I'm still not sure on) then there's no real reason not to trade down.

[Bizwah]

Most qbs are right handed so they can see the rush on the right side.
TEs typically line up on the right side which slows down an outside speed rush.
Teams typically run to the right and want to run behind physical brutes not finesse types with great feet.

I think most here realize this.

But I've said, and I think the poster you were quoting was saying this too, that you need two top-notch pass protectors to bookend your line.

The NFL is becoming more and more a passing league. Defenses are adjusting by having two good pass rushers on the ends.

IMO, the line that divides ORTs and OLTs is blurring.

So, I don't see that drafting a RT high is any worse than drafting an LT. The NFL is changing.

[casmith07]

What if the OT we draft at 9 turns out to start for 10+ years with at least probowls and misses less than a season whereas the next 2 tackles taken start for 10 years combined with only 1 pro bowl between them?

In my opinion, I don't care whether our tackles are All-Pro, multiple Pro Bowl guys or not, as long as they do their job and do it well.

If they can give me Doug Free type production - steady with few mistakes - I'll be plenty happy. Was Doug Free worthy of a Pro Bowl selection? Maybe, but I don't care as long as they keep Tony upright and give him time to hit Miles and Dez down field.

[SDogo]

I have to take a little issue with that line of thought.

Dallas has a clear need at OT. The need at DE might be there but they absolutely cannot go another year without addressing OT.

OT has to be the top, or tied for the top, priority. FS is the only position that you can make an argument for as the biggest need.

If you have equally rated guys, some who play at a position of serious need and some who do not, the guys that play at the position of need have to be a priority. You can't reasonably settle on a guy at a position that isn't needed nearly as much because you have them rated similarly.

I really hope that Dallas doesn't try to get too cute and misses out on one of the better OTs in the draft because they had a non-needed position player rated right along with those OTs

Problem is your doing what many fans do and I even do myself and that's thinking you know that OT is a bigger priority then DE to the Cowboys.

Even I dont claim to know the exact situation with the current players and the contract situations as they stand right now. I can make some educated guesses based information I received and right now that information points towards the Cowboys entering the season with 3 OT's under contract and 4th in Free likely to be tagged or signed giving them 4 while only 1 DE is under contract in Igor and it looks as if there will be an issue resigning Spears and Hatcher.

Also factor in, the FA class lacks in 3-4 DE's while there are several OT's that can be had.

These are all factors that come into play.

[UnoDallas]

I agree with this. No one seems to be thinking about $ when they say draft Smith at #9. If we take Smith at 9 he's going to get paid LT $, regardless of the CBA. That means when it's time resign Free we will be paying 2 guys LT $. Not sure if that's in Jerry's plans. But if we take Castonzo further down at 14 or 15 he will be a more reasonable price. Plus we will add another young player to a position of need with the additional 3rd we would get. Just seems like a more reasonable scenario than taking the chance on Smith alone.

the only good part about that you got two young swing tackles

[Sasquatch]

Problem is your doing what many fans do and I even do myself and that's thinking you know that OT is a bigger priority then DE to the Cowboys.

Even I dont claim to know the exact situation with the current players and the contract situations as they stand right now. I can make some educated guesses based information I received and right now that information points towards the Cowboys entering the season with 3 OT's under contract and 4th in Free likely to be tagged or signed giving them 4 while only 1 DE is under contract in Igor and it looks as if there will be an issue resigning Spears and Hatcher.

Also factor in, the FA class lacks in 3-4 DE's while there are several OT's that can be had.

These are all factors that come into play.

DB depth is pretty worrisome as well.

[Alexander]

Kind of strange not wanting to stay put; I mean is Jerruh just wanting to move around to look good or what?

I believe it is the "or what" part.

In the past, I think he has liked to show off, but that was moving late first round picks to stockpile choices later.

I think they are struggling right now with the draft pool itself and the fact we are picking ninth and may have to pay a player who is not necessarily worth that selection. I can understand how they would be a little concerned with their spot. Nobody that would be a value gels with need. We have perhaps the most uncomfortable position in the first round.

This is such a strange draft and the uncertainty of everything has got to be maddening. Most teams are looking to move somehow. The idea of standing pat has got to be driving Jones crazy.

[jobberone]

I have to take a little issue with that line of thought.

Dallas has a clear need at OT. The need at DE might be there but they absolutely cannot go another year without addressing OT.

OT has to be the top, or tied for the top, priority. FS is the only position that you can make an argument for as the biggest need.

If you have equally rated guys, some who play at a position of serious need and some who do not, the guys that play at the position of need have to be a priority. You can't reasonably settle on a guy at a position that isn't needed nearly as much because you have them rated similarly.

I really hope that Dallas doesn't try to get too cute and misses out on one of the better OTs in the draft because they had a non-needed position player rated right along with those OTs

I think that OL is more of an immediate need than DE. But that doesn't mean we need to draft a RT to start this year. I don't see anyone knowing how well Colombo is and what he and/or Young can do this year. It seems most are just assuming Colombo is finished and Young will not be able to contribute. And I'm not saying I wouldn't take an OT in the first round this year. I'm not certain even the team knows how much they can depend on Colombo or Kosier this year. And that leaves Davis out of the conversation.

Without first hand knowledge of all the factors we can't really critique the decision of whether to draft Smith or Constanzo or even Sherrod or Solder.

IMO, we need to draft OL for the future and for immediate competition. Drafting in the lower part of the first round may end up being as good as the top.

Having said all that I'd still draft Smith because we need a swing tackle. And I am making an assumption that our current swing tackle won't be with the team this year. I can't even know that with certainty.

[Hoofbite]

I think that OL is more of an immediate need than DE. But that doesn't mean we need to draft a RT to start this year. I don't see anyone knowing how well Colombo is and what he and/or Young can do this year. It seems most are just assuming Colombo is finished and Young will not be able to contribute. And I'm not saying I wouldn't take an OT in the first round this year. I'm not certain even the team knows how much they can depend on Colombo or Kosier this year. And that leaves Davis out of the conversation.

Nobody needs to assume that Colombo is done. His play pretty much advertised it on a weekly basis.

And you can't even really talk about Young. He was drafted late last year. If he didn't warrant playing time last season while Colombo was failing week-in and week-out, he's not going to improve enough to be counted on this season.

Without first hand knowledge of all the factors we can't really critique the decision of whether to draft Smith or Constanzo or even Sherrod or Solder.

IMO, we need to draft OL for the future and for immediate competition. Drafting in the lower part of the first round may end up being as good as the top.

Having said all that I'd still draft Smith because we need a swing tackle. And I am making an assumption that our current swing tackle won't be with the team this year. I can't even know that with certainty.

I wasn't advocating for any specific OT. I was just saying that I don't think it's realistic to consider a group of players to be rated equally if some of them play at a position of need and other don't.

If all things are equal and one guy plays at a position of need, I don't think it makes sense to be "okay" with landing either of them. At some point, position of need has to come into play. If there was a DE who was just absolutely the better pick than an OT, fine. But, if the Cowboys have a couple DEs and a couple of OTs rated the same, I can't get on board with trading back with the assumption that any of the lot will work.

Of course, they could be considering position in their ranking I suppose. Something I really didn't put much thought to before. I guess they could view the DEs as being superior in a straight-up sense but are elevating the OTs based on need.

Who knows. Either way, I think if a team has a group of guys slotted equally, position should win out.

And yes, Dallas does need to draft OL for the future but between the draft and free agency, they need a RT. They absolutely cannot go without making a move at that position.

[Hoofbite]

Problem is your doing what many fans do and I even do myself and that's thinking you know that OT is a bigger priority then DE to the Cowboys.

Even I dont claim to know the exact situation with the current players and the contract situations as they stand right now. I can make some educated guesses based information I received and right now that information points towards the Cowboys entering the season with 3 OT's under contract and 4th in Free likely to be tagged or signed giving them 4 while only 1 DE is under contract in Igor and it looks as if there will be an issue resigning Spears and Hatcher.

Also factor in, the FA class lacks in 3-4 DE's while there are several OT's that can be had.

These are all factors that come into play.

Good points.

But as I have said in another thread......watching RT and FS hamstring the team for an entire season makes a pretty strong case that those are the weakest points.

I'm okay if Dallas doesn't go after a FS because I guess Huff is all but assured to come to Dallas.

RT on the other hand is a different story because RG is also pretty damn weak.

Ideally there would be an entire new right side to the OL but that's probably not going to happen.

I would just really hate to see Dallas try and work a little magic, only to get caught with their pants down.

[big dog cowboy]

In my opinion, I don't care whether our tackles are All-Pro, multiple Pro Bowl guys or not, as long as they do their job and do it well.

If they can give me Doug Free type production - steady with few mistakes - I'll be plenty happy. Was Doug Free worthy of a Pro Bowl selection? Maybe, but I don't care as long as they keep Tony upright and give him time to hit Miles and Dez down field.

And Roy.


:)

[Fla Cowpoke]

I am a little surprised in all this talk that no one has brought up the labor situation. Basically, both OT's that we all seem to agree are the top two choices both need NFL strength training and technique work. Likelihood is that neither is going to get that much of either the way things are looking.

So it almost seems like we better hope that Colombo has something left in the tank so that he can start at the beginning of the season and then if he falters we can go to the rookie a little later down the road.

Would seem that if we stay at 9 and draft Smith we might feel that Colombo is going to be able to contribute. And honestly, I don't see any way we can take Castonzo over Smith.

[stasheroo]

I was partly kidding because I knew he was the question, but really, when most people read

- Good feet but lacks technique
- More athlete than technical player
- Needs a lot of time in an NFL weight room

they'd think that describes Smith (or even Solder), not Castonzo.

Just curious, how does this jibe with what you said earlier about Castonzo being ready to play from Day One and be solid for a decade?

Meh... I'm with realtick on Castonzo. He looks awkward as athlete to me, and you can't have that in a top-10 overall OT.

Also, this "he can be moved to guard" talk doesn't mean anything to me. If anything, it's a negative, much like when people talk about how corners can be moved to safety. When was an Okung or Williams talked about being versatile enough to play inside? Never. A top 10 or even 15 pick should excel at his original, more valuable position with no hedging in case he can't play.

So then Tyron Smith is definitely out for you then?

[Hoofbite]

And Roy.


:)

Not sure any OL could give him enough time to get downfield.

Nah, just kidding. He looked much better last season.

[Hoofbite]

I am a little surprised in all this talk that no one has brought up the labor situation. Basically, both OT's that we all seem to agree are the top two choices both need NFL strength training and technique work. Likelihood is that neither is going to get that much of either the way things are looking.

So it almost seems like we better hope that Colombo has something left in the tank so that he can start at the beginning of the season and then if he falters we can go to the rookie a little later down the road.

Would seem that if we stay at 9 and draft Smith we might feel that Colombo is going to be able to contribute. And honestly, I don't see any way we can take Castonzo over Smith.

How much strength and conditioning do you think any person can get done in a few months?

They'll still be able to work out with the team. Sure, they won't have the benefit of direct coaching but I'd be more worried about them getting a feel for the speed and missing mini-camps.....or god forbid training camp if it comes to it.

[Fla Cowpoke]

How much strength and conditioning do you think any person can get done in a few months?

They'll still be able to work out with the team. Sure, they won't have the benefit of direct coaching but I'd be more worried about them getting a feel for the speed and missing mini-camps.....or god forbid training camp if it comes to it.

The technique work they will be missing is the important thing....I think both will be ok from a strength standpoint....

But the minicamps, training with Woicik and crew, that's priceless for a rookie, especially ones that we are hoping can start.

[stasheroo]

I guess you can color me as conservative on this subject. I would be just fine with getting Castonzo at #9.

He's regarded as this draft's best Offensive Tackle, Smith is projected to possibly be better in the future.

Castonzo is a 53-game starter. That's a ton of experience. Smith has started 24 games.

Advantage Castonzo in my opinion - big time.

One guy is a Rhodes Scholar candidate while the other missed the game against Castonzo and BC due to academic suspension - advantage Castonzo.

Castonzo has already shown the ability to play Left Tackle, not be projected there. He has shown the ability to play RT as well (if need be) and he also played some at guard during the Senior Bowl (although not where you want someone of his size).

I think you can get one guy who could be the next Joe Thomas or roll the dice on a guy who could be the next Winston Justice.

Again, this is just my opinion, but I think I would feel safer going with Castonzo.

[Alexander]

I guess you can color me as conservative on this subject. I would be just fine with getting Castonzo at #9.

He's regarded as this draft's best Offensive Tackle, Smith is projected to possibly be better in the future.

Castonzo is a 53-game starter. That's a ton of experience. Smith has started 24 games.

Advantage Castonzo in my opinion - big time.

One guy is a Rhodes Scholar candidate while the other missed the game against Castonzo and BC due to academic suspension - advantage Castonzo.

Castonzo has already shown the ability to play Left Tackle, not be projected there. He has shown the ability to play RT as well (if need be) and he also played some at guard during the Senior Bowl (although not where you want someone of his size).

I think you can get one guy who could be the next Joe Thomas or roll the dice on a guy who could be the next Winston Justice.

Again, this is just my opinion, but I think I would feel safer going with Castonzo.

Castonzo is safer. And yes, a very conservative pick. But there is a reason why he has not been consistently graded as the top OT. Quite simply he is not an elite athlete or talent. Solid as can be, but that kind of prospect you pick in the early twenties, not at nine. If he gets chosen at nine, it is a harsh indictment on the overall nature of this draft. I do not believe he is even close to being as good as Joe Thomas was.

[stasheroo]

Castonzo is safer. And yes, a very conservative pick. But there is a reason why he has not been consistently graded as the top OT. Quite simply he is not an elite athlete or talent. Solid as can be, but that kind of prospect you pick in the early twenties, not at nine. If he gets chosen at nine, it is a harsh indictment on the overall nature of this draft. I do not believe he is even close to being as good as Joe Thomas was.

I agree, at this point he is certainly not. But he is a prospect that has continued to make significant strides the past few seasons, specifically in the areas of strength. And I think Mike Woicik could work wonders with him.

And I feel tht Castonzo is an extremely motivated, intelligent player who loves the game and will definitely give his all to improve and succeed. I'm not sure I get the same feeling about Smith.

Another concern I have is the future of the offensive line from a coaching standpoint. If Tyron Smith is projected at Left Tackle, who will work with him long-term on that transition?

It seemed to me that this team was looking for 'help' for Hudson Houck already.

[Alexander]

Another concern I have is the future of the offensive line from a coaching standpoint. If Tyron Smith is projected at Left Tackle, who will work with him long-term on that transition?

It seemed to me that this team was looking for 'help' for Hudson Houck already.

And what did we end up with? Wade Phillips' son, who has never coached the position.

How exactly you go from pursuing Bruce Matthews to settling for that?

[Chocolate Lab]

So then Tyron Smith is definitely out for you then?

Not at all, why?

I am wary of a guy who gets graded up for what he looks like, but I'm not really out on anyone unless I've seen them play a lot and don't they'll make it.

And I think I like him more than Castonzo, who I did see get worked by Quinn. It's one thing to have a good player beat you on occasion, but to get just overwhelmed?

[stasheroo]

And what did we end up with? Wade Phillips' son, who has never coached the position.

How exactly you go from pursuing Bruce Matthews to settling for that?

Don't get me started on that one!

Your guess is as good as mine as to that thinking.

Maybe Wade's boy has some good organizational skills but I fail to see how that is a big help to coaching a position he's never coached.

I file that one right next to bringing Campo and Maxie back.

Still makes my head hurt!

But back to the two linemen, if I'm investing my #9 pick and money, I would go with the safer pick and the guy I feel is the smarter, more hard-working, more experienced, more versatile, more proven choice.

And this is not a bash-fest against Tyron Smith even if it seems that way. I'll be happy if they picked him and hope that they're right about his potential.

Mostly I'll be thrillled that they've woken up about fixing a broken line.

[Alexander]

Mostly I'll be thrillled that they've woken up about fixing a broken line.

I will need to see it first before becoming excited.

[burmafrd]

The boys have earned no trust at all as regards the O line. When you develope a grand total of 2 Starters in 8 years and 3 in 14 you do not deserve trust.

[garyv]

13 to 15 range not at 9 if at all possible. I realize people would rather have a sexy pick here but lets all us Cowboy fans be honest, these are the safe and smart picks that we have been failing on for years. We need guys that can plug in and play immediately. However I would like to trade down and add a 2nd or 3rd and take either Costanzo, Tyron Smith or Game Carimi with the trade down pick. I would be happy with any 1 of those 3. I like JJ Watt but feel strongly we can get a DE later in the Draft. In the 2nd and 3rd Rounds I like the following not in any order: Secondary, OL, DL. Few names that I've been thinking 3rd/4th Rounds is Will Rackley, Moffitt, Weisnewski. In the 2nd Round honestly I take the best available player that slides to #40 and there should be 3 or 4 1st Rounders that are sitting there.

[Illini88228]

Most qbs are right handed so they can see the rush on the right side.
TEs typically line up on the right side which slows down an outside speed rush.
Teams typically run to the right and want to run behind physical brutes not finesse types with great feet.

I understand historically why that has been the case. It just seems like an outdated way of thinking about it. Pass rushers are so fast anymore, if one gets through it doesn't really matter whether the qb can see them or not, they're still going to impact the throw enough to mess up the passing game.

You can't win if you can't protect the quarterback on both sides, see the Vikings game two years ago, and every game last year as proof.

[Illini88228]

And what did we end up with? Wade Phillips' son, who has never coached the position.

How exactly you go from pursuing Bruce Matthews to settling for that?

Garrett said on numerous occasions that Wes was his right hand man. Don't hold the sins of the father against him until we see what he's capable of.

Besides, the best players seldom make the best coaches. Just because he's Bruce Matthews doesn't mean he can make Tyron Smith play like he's Bruce Matthews.

[Sam I Am]

I cannot see the Cowboys taking Castanzo at #9. If they want him, they will trade back first.

[Double Trouble]

IF the boys really do believe that Smith is going to be that much better down the road there is NO excuse for not taking him.This. /thread

[newlander]

I cannot see the Cowboys taking Castanzo at #9. If they want him, they will trade back first.

....this kid is NOT a top ten pick, c'mon guys.:banghead:

[InmanRoshi]

Amen.

It seems to me that we're getting way too far into need and "ready to play now" this year. Whatever happened to taking the best player available? Does anyone really think Anthony Castonzo is truly the ninth (or better) best player in the entire country? Or better said, that in two to three years he'll be the ninth (or better) best NFL player from this draft class?

I don't. He seems very ordinary to me. What's so special about him?

Yep. I hate it when the Cowboys get into this "We're going to use the draft to plug immediate needs" mindframe. It's led to some of Jerry's truly greatest draft blunders. Drafting David LeFluer to fill the immediate TE need after Novacek retired. The CB draft of Larrimore/Goodrich/Mario Edwards after Deion retired. The Shante Carver/Kavika Pittman drafts after Haley retired. The great "We're going to draft backups and special teamers to fill depth issues for next year" drafts like the 1995 and 2009.

Jerry absolutely loves this trading back to aquire a horde of mediocre talent, and it's led to some mediocre roters.


If RT is that immediate of a need, go sign a stop gap vet free agent. That's what free agency is for ... to plug immediate holes with seasoned, veteran players. You don't have to get a premiere one, just get one who can fill in for a year or two the way the Steelers got Flozell.

You have a Top 10 pick. It's a rare opportunity to aquire an elite talent. It's your "reward" for suffering through a 6-10 season. Make the most of it. Invest in a potential difference maker. Spend it on someone who could end up on the Ring of Honor, don't spend it it on some guy who could be the next Jon Stinchcomb or Ryan O'Callaghan.

[Woods]

I cannot see the Cowboys taking Castanzo at #9. If they want him, they will trade back first.

I have to agree with you.

I just don't see Castonzo as the 9th best player in this draft or even in the top 12.

That said, I think he will probably be a solid player, especially once he improves his leg strength and run blocking. Not sure he will be a Pro Bowl player either. But just a solid player.

Personally, I don't know if there is much difference between Castonzo versus Carimi and Sherrod.

[InmanRoshi]

Anyone else besides me get the feeling that if Constanzo played at any other University than Boston College he would be a 2nd rounder (at best).