Do you use a 14th Pick on a Guard?

[egn22]

I keep hearing how great Decastro is, and how if he's there at 14 we need to take him. I'm just wondering if the 14th pick should really be used on a guard with all of the glaring holes in our defense.
I don't have anything against Decastro, and I'm not saying he isn't worth a 14th pick, i'm just wondering if that's really the best move for the Boys to make at this point.

Our pass rush this year seemed extremely pedestrian, and with a poor secondary, you simply can't afford to not get pressure on the QB. It seems as though we could really use a few linebackers.

Move Josh Brent to Center, slide Ratliff over, and inject some youth into the LB corps.
Pick up a Free Agent corner and draft one late. That's what would be ideal in my world.

[Doomsday101]

I keep hearing how great Decastro is, and how if he's there at 14 we need to take him. I'm just wondering if the 14th pick should really be used on a guard with all of the glaring holes in our defense.
I don't have anything against Decastro, and I'm not saying he isn't worth a 14th pick, i'm just wondering if that's really the best move for the Boys to make at this point.

Our pass rush this year seemed extremely pedestrian, and with a poor secondary, you simply can't afford to not get pressure on the QB. It seems as though we could really use a few linebackers.

Move Josh Brent to Center, slide Ratliff over, and inject some youth into the LB corps.
Pick up a Free Agent corner and draft one late. That's what would be ideal in my world.

Draft is about long term not quick fix. Having said that I have no issue with other position being addressed with the 1st pick as long as the Cowboys do not reach in doing so.

[Dough Boy]

Draft is about long term not quick fix. Having said that I have no issue with other position being addressed with the 1st pick as long as the Cowboys do not reach in doing so.

I'm with you.

The draft is not only about winning now, but acquiring talent that will allow you to win over the next 5+ years. The franchises that endure, they get this concept. You take the best player available at a position of need. For example, Green Bay took Jordy Nelson in the 1st round even though they had Driver, James Jones and Greg Jennings on the team and all of them were initially ahead of him on the depth chart. The Giants take this same approach with DE. They had Osi and Tuck and Kiwi and DE and still drafted JPP. Now they did move Kiwi to OLB, but you get the point (they still drafted another pressure player).

In the long run, I don't think you can go wrong by taking the highest rated player that you have on the board. This should be the rule so there are a few exceptions that make sense.

FYI, I would not view DeCastro as a luxury. I firmly see him as a need; he would feel a rather large void (no pun intended). If you can't entirely fix the defense, you might as well outscore your opponent. See GB, NE and NO for recent examples. The more pressure you put on the opposing offensive to continue to score (i.e. take chances) the better position you place your defense. The more aggresive an offense the more opportunity that they make a critical mistake.

If DeCastro is there at 14, I run to the podium.

[MichaelWinicki]

I'm with you.


If DeCastro is there at 14, I run to the podium.


We may throw you to the podium if DeCasto is there. :)

[Dough Boy]

We may throw you to the podium if DeCasto is there. :)

Just make sure its a completed pass! ;)

[MichaelWinicki]

I keep hearing how great Decastro is, and how if he's there at 14 we need to take him. I'm just wondering if the 14th pick should really be used on a guard with all of the glaring holes in our defense.
I don't have anything against Decastro, and I'm not saying he isn't worth a 14th pick, i'm just wondering if that's really the best move for the Boys to make at this point.

Our pass rush this year seemed extremely pedestrian, and with a poor secondary, you simply can't afford to not get pressure on the QB. It seems as though we could really use a few linebackers.

Move Josh Brent to Center, slide Ratliff over, and inject some youth into the LB corps.
Pick up a Free Agent corner and draft one late. That's what would be ideal in my world.

Depending on what happens to Spencer, the Cowboys may not have an opening at LB... At least for a starter.

Whereas the situation at guard, especially with Kosier having a torn MCL and other injuries is really bad.

[egn22]

I appreciate the replies. thanks for clarifying. definitely makes sense.

[RS12]

14th pick needs to be a dead bang winner. Most draft gurus have DeCastro any where from the second to fifth best player in the draft. To answer your question yes you take him and dont look back. Reaching would be the wrong thing to do despite other glaring holes.

[Biggems]

Just make sure its a completed pass! ;)

so you are saying make sure Austin isn't at the podium waiting..:laugh1:

[Biggems]

Imagine Smith and DeCastro protecting Romo's blindside for the next 5 years.....I am sure that would make Romo sleep snug as a baby in a crib at night

[ABQCOWBOY]

I don't think you do. I think you sign a good quality Guard in FA and draft a good quality talent later in the draft. That's just me.

[MichaelWinicki]

I don't think you do. I think you sign a good quality Guard in FA and draft a good quality talent later in the draft. That's just me.

That's a valid point.

And who knows what the team truly thinks about Arkin and Nagy... Or for that matter Holland.

I will say that if DeCastro is there at #14, he's probably the highest rated player left on the board and he's a strong consideration.

[VACowboy]

I do, in a heartbeat.

(bangs the PROTECT ROMO drum)

[Doomsday101]

I do, in a heartbeat.

(bangs the PROTECT ROMO drum)

Romo new bride is in favor of getting DeCastro. :laugh2:

[Dough Boy]

I don't think you do. I think you sign a good quality Guard in FA and draft a good quality talent later in the draft. That's just me.

Three questions:

1) How much does it take to sign this good quality Guard in FA?
2) How much better will the FA play over what some consider to be the 5th best player in the draft?
3) How much will you pay the 14th pick in the draft?

Anytime you can feel a true need through the draft with the best player at his position, it's always cheaper. Plus, with the FA you will most likely get 4 good years (if you are lucky). If you draft a player, and if he's good you get at least 2 contracts out of him - 3 if you are very fortunate (Witten and Ratliff are prime examples and Tyron may be another).

[TheDallasDon]

What would y'all think if Garrett went for a powerhouse offense and drafted something like this....
1.)David Decastro
2.)Peter Konz/Ben Jones
3.)Kevin Zeitler/Brandon Washington
4.)Ladarius Green

And forgetting defense for a year and patching them to the next draft??

Oh but still get C.Campbell in Offseason

[Biggems]

What would y'all think if Garrett went for a powerhouse offense and drafted something like this....
1.)David Decastro
2.)Peter Konz/Ben Jones
3.)Kevin Zeitler/Brandon Washington
4.)Ladarius Green

And forgetting defense for a year and patching them to the next draft??

Oh but still get C.Campbell in Offseason

Add RB/FB Cody Johnson with our comp pick in the 6th and OT Jeff Adams in the 7th and you have one heckuva offensive upgrade.

Unfortunately, our defense would still be garbage.

[TheDallasDon]

Add RB/FB Cody Johnson with our comp pick in the 6th and OT Jeff Adams in the 7th and you have one heckuva offensive upgrade.

Unfortunately, our defense would still be garbage.

Hahahha I was actually thinking about C.Johnson to.

Fill with one year vets..........try to win by offense, then draft mostly D next year and get FA to fill holes.

Edit: and you can make those one year vets earn a new contact, if not then there gone.

[Bigdog]

Without any question, you draft him. This is a qb now and the rules are set up for the qb. We need to protect Romo and other teams can't score if we have the ball with a running game. We all know what happen in 2010 when Romo went down. Hopefully Jones understands that (I know it might be asking too much). I say draft DeCastro and sign either Nicks or Grubbs and we would have a very good ofensive line for years.

[VACowboy]

1. David Decastro (OG) - Stanford
2. Peter Konz (C) - Wisconsin
3. LeMichael James (RB) - Oregon
4. Ladarius Green (TE) - LA-Lafayette
5. Joe Adams (PR/WR) - Arkansas
6. Levy Adcock (OT) - OSU
6. Matt Daniels (S) - Dook
7. Aaron Corp (QB) - Richmond

[TheDallasDon]

What would y'all think if Garrett went for a powerhouse offense and drafted something like this....
1.)David Decastro
2.)Peter Konz/Ben Jones
3.)Kevin Zeitler/Brandon Washington
4.)Ladarius Green

And forgetting defense for a year and patching them to the next draft??

Oh but still get C.Campbell in Offseason

Hey Hos, Sdogo what do y'all think the odds of Garrett doing something like this?

Then getting
Campbell/Griffin
Campbell/Thomas
Campbell/Soliai
Then finsh the defense next year

[windward]

1. David Decastro (OG) - Stanford
2. Peter Konz (C) - Wisconsin
3. LeMichael James (RB) - Oregon
4. Ladarius Green (TE) - LA-Lafayette
5. Joe Adams (PR/WR) - Arkansas
6. Levy Adcock (OT) - OSU
6. Matt Daniels (S) - Dook
7. Aaron Corp (QB) - Richmond

This activates the pleasure part of my brain. As long as we added a couple of FA defenders.

My goodness.

[MichaelWinicki]

1. David Decastro (OG) - Stanford
2. Peter Konz (C) - Wisconsin
3. LeMichael James (RB) - Oregon
4. Ladarius Green (TE) - LA-Lafayette
5. Joe Adams (PR/WR) - Arkansas
6. Levy Adcock (OT) - OSU
6. Matt Daniels (S) - Dook
7. Aaron Corp (QB) - Richmond

Gotta try finding a 3-4 DE who can supply some pass rush.

And there are no corners listed here.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Three questions:

1) How much does it take to sign this good quality Guard in FA?
2) How much better will the FA play over what some consider to be the 5th best player in the draft?
3) How much will you pay the 14th pick in the draft?

Anytime you can feel a true need through the draft with the best player at his position, it's always cheaper. Plus, with the FA you will most likely get 4 good years (if you are lucky). If you draft a player, and if he's good you get at least 2 contracts out of him - 3 if you are very fortunate (Witten and Ratliff are prime examples and Tyron may be another).

Depends on how long the contract is and the age of the player. Evan's signed a deal that pays him 8 million a year. Waters signed a deal that pays him 2.75 million a season. Both are in the Pro Bowl.

I would like to know who thinks DeCastro is the 5th best player in this draft? I certainly don't. I seriously doubt DeCastro makes the Pro Bowl team next year.

Robert Quinn was the 14th pick last year and I believe his contract was worth 9.4 million for 4 years. That's about 2.35 Million a year. Now, I am not certain what the 2012 slot will make so lets say 2.5 million a year? But, what does this have to do with the price of tea in China? DeCastro is not a sure thing. No draft pick is. Chris Naeole, the 10th overall pick in the 1997 draft played for 11 seasons in the NFL and made zero Pro Bowls. There is no guarantee.

The question that I think is more relivent is, what would it cost to go out and replace a number 1 starting CB or upgrade a 34 ROLB? We need two Guards, not 1.

[Dash28]

Depends on how long the contract is and the age of the player. Evan's signed a deal that pays him 8 million a year. Waters signed a deal that pays him 2.75 million a season. Both are in the Pro Bowl.

I would like to know who thinks DeCastro is the 5th best player in this draft? I certainly don't. I seriously doubt DeCastro makes the Pro Bowl team next year.

Robert Quinn was the 14th pick last year and I believe his contract was worth 9.4 million for 4 years. That's about 2.35 Million a year. Now, I am not certain what the 2012 slot will make so lets say 2.5 million a year? But, what does this have to do with the price of tea in China? DeCastro is not a sure thing. No draft pick is. Chris Naeole, the 10th overall pick in the 1997 draft played for 11 seasons in the NFL and made zero Pro Bowls. There is no guarantee.

The question that I think is more relivent is, what would it cost to go out and replace a number 1 starting CB or upgrade a 34 ROLB? We need two Guards, not 1.
You don't think DeCastro is worth the 14th pick but Gilmore is?

[jnday]

Depends on how long the contract is and the age of the player. Evan's signed a deal that pays him 8 million a year. Waters signed a deal that pays him 2.75 million a season. Both are in the Pro Bowl.

I would like to know who thinks DeCastro is the 5th best player in this draft? I certainly don't. I seriously doubt DeCastro makes the Pro Bowl team next year.

Robert Quinn was the 14th pick last year and I believe his contract was worth 9.4 million for 4 years. That's about 2.35 Million a year. Now, I am not certain what the 2012 slot will make so lets say 2.5 million a year? But, what does this have to do with the price of tea in China? DeCastro is not a sure thing. No draft pick is. Chris Naeole, the 10th overall pick in the 1997 draft played for 11 seasons in the NFL and made zero Pro Bowls. There is no guarantee.

The question that I think is more relivent is, what would it cost to go out and replace a number 1 starting CB or upgrade a 34 ROLB? We need two Guards, not 1.
10 years ago , I would have agreed with you . Today , I don't . The days of undervaluing linemen are over . DeCastro is the highest rated OG in years . He may not make the probowl his first year , but he might make for next 10 . He is the type of player that will make Romo , Murray and Jones better . I really liked what the 49ers have done . They spent top picks on linemen and it has paid off . They took note of the 90's Cowboys lines and what it produces . The Cowboys did not . The Cowboys went the other direction wth the flashy picks .

[ABQCOWBOY]

You don't think DeCastro is worth the 14th pick but Gilmore is?

I don't think that DeCastro is worth the 14th pick because I think it will be much easier to go out and get a guard then it will be to go out and get a starting #1 CB.

I think you guys are going a bit overboard on the whole Mock thing. Combine hasn't even happened yet. What do you like about DeCastro from what you've seen? What is it that you believe makes him worthy of being taken higher then any other Guard, save one, in the last 20 years?

[ABQCOWBOY]

10 years ago , I would have agreed with you . Today , I don't . The days of undervaluing linemen are over . DeCastro is the highest rated OG in years . He may not make the probowl his first year , but he might make for next 10 . He is the type of player that will make Romo , Murray and Jones better . I really liked what the 49ers have done . They spent top picks on linemen and it has paid off . They took note of the 90's Cowboys lines and what it produces . The Cowboys did not . The Cowboys went the other direction wth the flashy picks .

Where is this coming from with DeCastro? Who is saying that he is the highest rated OG in years?

The problem here is not that I want to go out and get another WR or RB. Far from it. In fact, if you know me at all, you know that I lean towards Lineman in the draft and have for the past 6 years or so. When everybody wanted Dez, I did not. When everybody wanted Felix, I did not. I just don't see the value in taking a Guard at 14 when we have needs at CB, OLB, amoung other positions. We would be better served to sign a quality FA and draft a great prospect and bring him along. That's how you build an OL IMO.

[jnday]

I don't think that DeCastro is worth the 14th pick because I think it will be much easier to go out and get a guard then it will be to go out and get a starting #1 CB.

I think you guys are going a bit overboard on the whole Mock thing. Combine hasn't even happened yet. What do you like about DeCastro from what you've seen? What is it that you believe makes him worthy of being taken higher then any other Guard, save one, in the last 20 years?

He is just that damn good .

[ABQCOWBOY]

He is just that damn good .


According to who?

[burmafrd]

something else to consider:

Our NEW O line coach might evaluate current players a little differently.

[jnday]

According to who?

Every scouting report and scouting service , along with every scout that is willing to speak about him . I would say anybody that knows linemen has the same opinion about him at this time .

[dboy214]

ok everyone wants decastro.

lets say the cardinals are sitting at 13 and are sold on taking decastro, is he worth trading up and leap frogging arizona to snatch him up?

i think this might be the only we get him.


Every scouting report and scouting service , along with every scout that is willing to speak about him . I would say anybody that knows linemen has the same opinion about him at this time .

better than iupati?

[ABQCOWBOY]

Every scouting report and scouting service , along with every scout that is willing to speak about him . I would say anybody that knows linemen has the same opinion about him at this time .

I'm willing to read any of these evaluations. I have not seen one. That is not to say they are not out there but I have not seen it. I have heard him called one of the best Guard prospects in the last 10 years but not the best. He's not even the best OL prospect in this draft. None of this really means anything until the combine is here but honestly, I think we take a CB or a stud OLB if they are there.

[jnday]

ok everyone wants decastro.

lets say the cardinals are sitting at 13 and are sold on taking decastro, is he worth trading up and leap frogging arizona to snatch him up?

i think this might be the only we get him.




better than iupati?

He grades out better than Iupati .

[jnday]

I'm willing to read any of these evaluations. I have not seen one. That is not to say they are not out there but I have not seen it. I have heard him called one of the best Guard prospects in the last 10 years but not the best. He's not even the best OL prospect in this draft. None of this really means anything until the combine is here but honestly, I think we take a CB or a stud OLB if they are there.

Check out the draft websites thread at the top of draft forum . There are many more on DeCastro that are not listed .

[ABQCOWBOY]

Check out the draft websites thread at the top of draft forum . There are many more on DeCastro that are not listed .

OK, I did what you asked. Actually, I went through the first ten and only one said he was the best prospect and they actually said he was the best Guard Prospect in 5 years but whatever. I don't think anybody is saying he's not a good prospect or Guard prospect but how can anybody say he is the best in 10 or 20 years when the combine hasn't even happened. You can't possibly grade him out until you have that information. That's just the bottom line on any of these players.

[casmith07]

With this offensive line being as offensive as it is, yes. You spend #14 on a kid that will protect your best asset - Tony Romo.

This is a very deep CB draft - guys like Boykin, Hosley, and others can be had in the 2nd or 3rd rounds and will be able to provide better play in their first year than Newman has in his last. It isn't deep for elite, day-1-starter Guards.

[dboy214]

He grades out better than Iupati .

well that's all i need to hear.

question is, is he worth trading up for b/c i don't think he falls to us. arizona needs a guard too.

[jnday]

OK, I did what you asked. Actually, I went through the first ten and only one said he was the best prospect and they actually said he was the best Guard Prospect in 5 years but whatever. I don't think anybody is saying he's not a good prospect or Guard prospect but how can anybody say he is the best in 10 or 20 years when the combine hasn't even happened. You can't possibly grade him out until you have that information. That's just the bottom line on any of these players.

I stated in a previous post that DeCastro's rating was at this time . Sure , the combine could change things . I don't think it will , but it might . If you want to read more , check out Wes Bunting's scouting report .

[Marktui]

I keep hearing how great Decastro is, and how if he's there at 14 we need to take him. I'm just wondering if the 14th pick should really be used on a guard with all of the glaring holes in our defense.
I don't have anything against Decastro, and I'm not saying he isn't worth a 14th pick, i'm just wondering if that's really the best move for the Boys to make at this point.

Our pass rush this year seemed extremely pedestrian, and with a poor secondary, you simply can't afford to not get pressure on the QB. It seems as though we could really use a few linebackers.

Move Josh Brent to Center, slide Ratliff over, and inject some youth into the LB corps.
Pick up a Free Agent corner and draft one late. That's what would be ideal in my world.

Our defensive needs are glaring, but DeCastro is a pretty good lineman. He can improve our rushing attack and also improve our redzone rushing. Something that was also very pedestrian. Plus if we score points and eat clock, we can help the defense out even more.

[jnday]

well that's all i need to hear.

question is, is he worth trading up for b/c i don't think he falls to us. arizona needs a guard too.

I read that they really like him but they also need a tackle . Who knows ? As for trading up , I guess it would depend on cost .

[Dough Boy]

You don't think DeCastro is worth the 14th pick but Gilmore is?

Great point. Gilmore is not worth a top 54 pick.

[Dough Boy]

OK, I did what you asked. Actually, I went through the first ten and only one said he was the best prospect and they actually said he was the best Guard Prospect in 5 years but whatever. I don't think anybody is saying he's not a good prospect or Guard prospect but how can anybody say he is the best in 10 or 20 years when the combine hasn't even happened. You can't possibly grade him out until you have that information. That's just the bottom line on any of these players.

Were is Mr Gilmore on any of those list you read. Talk about reaching because of a need, Gilmore is just that. You will not take the # 1 rated guard @ 14 but you are willing to take the #5 rated CB @ 14.

Great way to build a team!

Also, forget the combine- how do they play on the field.

[bbailey423]

I do not recall when Larry Allen was drafted....but if that draft was re-done...he would be a top 5 pick.

[ABQCOWBOY]

I stated in a previous post that DeCastro's rating was at this time . Sure , the combine could change things . I don't think it will , but it might . If you want to read more , check out Wes Bunting's scouting report .

I read that report. I don't think I would take a guard at 14.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Were is Mr Gilmore on any of those list you read. Talk about reaching because of a need, Gilmore is just that. You will not take the # 1 rated guard @ 14 but you are willing to take the #5 rated CB @ 14.

Great way to build a team!

Also, forget the combine- how do they play on the field.

He plays pretty well on the field. The only issue I have with him is his closing speed. We need CBs. I will admit that the selection of a CB at 14 might be a reach but we can get guards later. We can't get good CBs later. Not guys who can come in and start. Sure I would like one of the top CBs but they will probably be gone at 14. I would not take a Guard at 14.

[Dough Boy]

He plays pretty well on the field. The only issue I have with him is his closing speed. We need CBs. I will admit that the selection of a CB at 14 might be a reach but we can get guards later. We can't get good CBs later. Not guys who can come in and start. Sure I would like one of the top CBs but they will probably be gone at 14. I would not take a Guard at 14.

I'm willing to venture that Gilmore will not be a top 50 rated player while DeCastro will be a top 15 rated player.

I understand you don't value guards or you would rather go the free agent route; i think it's an opinion that you are entitled to. If I could get Larry Allen @ 14, i think we both jump on that. But I understand your logic even though I disagree with you.

As to Gilmore, you are way off the mark. He is not a 1st round CB regardless of how he runs @ the combine. He doesn't play fast in pads so I don't care about a combine 40 time.

[jnday]

I read that report. I don't think I would take a guard at 14.

That's cool . We will agree to disagree . I can't say that if it was any guard other than DeCastro , that I would pick a guard at 14 .

[Oh_Canada]

This is one of the deeper drafts for guards in recent memory....I pass on a guard in the first round. Defense, defense, defense.

[Zaxor]

He plays pretty well on the field. The only issue I have with him is his closing speed. We need CBs. I will admit that the selection of a CB at 14 might be a reach but we can get guards later. We can't get good CBs later. Not guys who can come in and start. Sure I would like one of the top CBs but they will probably be gone at 14. I would not take a Guard at 14.I agree ABQ...CB or OLB with a 14th pick as a serviceable guard can be found later

[MichaelWinicki]

I agree ABQ...CB or OLB with a 14th pick as a serviceable guard can be found later

I think in most years that would be the best avenue to take BUT DeCastro looks like the best guard to come out in the last 3 years and maybe the best since Steve Hutchinson. If DeCastro is there at 14, then you have to take him and not worry about one of your guard positions for the next decade.

The other thing to keep in mind is that DeCastro is tall enough and moves well enough to play tackle if need be. Then in case Dallas loses a tackle for an extended period of time, I think this kid could man the position adequately.

[Hailmary]

I'm just wondering if the 14th pick should really be used on a guard with all of the glaring holes in our defense.


Absolutely you take DeCastro. He'll help the offense stay on the field more and the best cure for an ailing defense (or any defense for that matter) is to keep them off the field.

The top teams this year (GB, NO, NE) all rank near the bottom in total defense, and yet they seem unstoppable because of their prolific offenses and their ability to stay on the field, preventing their defenses from getting exposed too much.

Not saying we shouldn't address the D, but I think it would be more beneficial to shore up the OLine and see how much further we can go if Romo's not running for his life every other play.

[MichaelWinicki]

Absolutely you take DeCastro. He'll help the offense stay on the field more and the best cure for an ailing defense (or any defense for that matter) is to keep them off the field.

The top teams this year (GB, NO, NE) all rank near the bottom in total defense, and yet they seem unstoppable because of their prolific offenses and their ability to stay on the field, preventing their defenses from getting exposed too much.

Not saying we shouldn't address the D, but I think it would be more beneficial to shore up the OLine and see how much further we can go if Romo's not running for his life every other play.

Plus the running game did reasonably well, not because of the interior blocking but in spite of it.

The Cowboys run blocking was abysmal all season and this kid would help amp that up– a lot!

Put him next to Smith and you at least have one side of the line you can run behind.

[VACowboy]

I agree ABQ...CB or OLB with a 14th pick as a serviceable guard can be found later

I think this is a lot of the problem with our OL: We've been ok with "serviceable" players for a very long time.

I don't get this attitude. The offensive line has more effect on the outcomes of football games than any other position group (unless you include QB). A dominant offensive line makes the whole team better, from the QB to the defense. Why would anyone believe drafting great offensive lineman is any less important than drafting great linebackers or cornerbacks?

Particular to the 2012 draft, I firmly believe that DeCastro is a much better guard than any OLB or corner likely to be available at #14. I deplore any logic that says we must draft a pass rusher or DB because that's what we need. What we need is good football players, top to bottom, and DeCastro is one of the very best in this draft.

I have no problem taking a LB or CB over DeCastro if he's a better player, but from everything we know, unless Claiborne falls, this just isn't reality.

[MichaelWinicki]

I have no problem taking a LB or CB over DeCastro if he's a better player, but from everything we know, unless Claiborne falls, this just isn't reality.

I agree with that.

The top corners are good, but not DeCastro-good. They aren't as dominant at their positions as he is at his.

And the OLBers?

Forgettem.

I don't see any of them that are "knock-it-out-of-the-park" types at number 14.

I'd rather keep Spencer.

[burmafrd]

serviceable is what we have heard for too long. They said the interior of this line was serviceable. So said red ball and company. I call BS.

[BrAinPaiNt]

Some times people will say you take the BAP no matter what. Some times people say you go with need. I always liked the idea of getting a need that is also the BAP on the board.

Sometimes you might have two guys at different positions that grade out pretty much the same but one guy would fit a need where the other guy would be a position that you already have some strength in. So I say take the guy that fits the need since they are so close.

If DeCastro falls to us, and unless some other top end talent falls for some reason, I really think he would be the BAP and would also fit a need and would be a no brainer. I just think he would be graded out higher than the other players that would be available (once again unless another player falls).

This team has went so many years without taking Linemen in the first round and it has hurt us a great deal over recent years. Not only in the lack of young Olinemen but also in the cap area because many times we would have to go out and pay big money to FAs. Last year we took a step and took a good OT and it has paid off for us a great deal. This year I say we continue a good thing and get DeCastro who should be the BAP and a need. We need to shore up this oline or we will continue to see Tony Romo getting injured like we have the last two seasons.

I think he will be better than any 3-4 DE, 3-4 OLB, ILB, NT that will be available and the only other positions we could use would be DBs and I think DeCastro will be better than the DBs that will fall to us.

I will not be upset if we take another good player but I think if he falls to us he will probably be the best combination of BAP and Need pick to be taken and we run to the podium and take him.

[Doomsday101]

Some times people will say you take the BAP no matter what. Some times people say you go with need. I always liked the idea of getting a need that is also the BAP on the board.

Sometimes you might have two guys at different positions that grade out pretty much the same but one guy would fit a need where the other guy would be a position that you already have some strength in. So I say take the guy that fits the need since they are so close.

If DeCastro falls to us, and unless some other top end talent falls for some reason, I really think he would be the BAP and would also fit a need and would be a no brainer. I just think he would be graded out higher than the other players that would be available (once again unless another player falls).

This team has went so many years without taking Linemen in the first round and it has hurt us a great deal over recent years. Not only in the lack of young Olinemen but also in the cap area because many times we would have to go out and pay big money to FAs. Last year we took a step and took a good OT and it has paid off for us a great deal. This year I say we continue a good thing and get DeCastro who should be the BAP and a need. We need to shore up this oline or we will continue to see Tony Romo getting injured like we have the last two seasons.

I think he will be better than any 3-4 DE, 3-4 OLB, ILB, NT that will be available and the only other positions we could use would be DBs and I think DeCastro will be better than the DBs that will fall to us.

I will not be upset if we take another good player but I think if he falls to us he will probably be the best combination of BAP and Need pick to be taken and we run to the podium and take him.

I fully agree. I think BPA that fits a need is the right approach. I do think you can always make exceptions to any rule for example QB is not a big need area for us but if by some crazy turn of events Luck was sitting there hell I take him. Having said that Luck will not fall to 14 but I think you get the jest of it.

[visionary]

take DeCastro if you think he can play center

if not, trade back into the 20's and take best OLB

[MichaelWinicki]

take DeCastro if you think he can play center

if not, trade back into the 20's and take best OLB

I don't think center is any bigger a need than guard at this point.

Both starting guards are coming off of season-ending surgery... more extreme in Kosier's case. Plus Kosier's season was pretty poor overall.

And none of the OLBers are gang-busters.

[Zaxor]

I think in most years that would be the best avenue to take BUT DeCastro looks like the best guard to come out in the last 3 years and maybe the best since Steve Hutchinson. If DeCastro is there at 14, then you have to take him and not worry about one of your guard positions for the next decade.

The other thing to keep in mind is that DeCastro is tall enough and moves well enough to play tackle if need be. Then in case Dallas loses a tackle for an extended period of time, I think this kid could man the position adequately.

Mike while I agree DeCastro is going to be good I am not so sure that he is that much better than a guy you can pick up in the 2nd round as a guard...were as the CB or OLB you get at pick 14 the guy in the 2nd rnd is not usually even comparable.

now if we had only one pick I would agree but if we are trying to get as many good players as possible than the way ABQ and I are proposing makes more sense...

let me put it this way
Decastro= 4.0 perfect prospect
the guy we could get in the 2nd= 3.2 not so perfect but a very good player none the less

the OLB/CB at 14 = 3.4 the OLB/CB in rnd 2 = 2.5

if we did it the way ABQ and I suggest you would get a 3.4 and a 3.2 guy instead of a 4.0 and a 2.5 guy.

[Doomsday101]

I don't think center is any bigger a need than guard at this point.

Both starting guards are coming off of season-ending surgery... more extreme in Kosier's case. Plus Kosier's season was pretty poor overall.

And none of the OLBers are gang-busters.

I agree. Holland,Dockery and Kosier are also all up in age. Even a full recovery from Kosier will not change he is on the downhill side and we need to address OG.

At this stage I would just as soon see Kowalski at Center, Move Smith to LT move Free to RT and have Nagy,Arkin and Holland fight it out for the one of the G spots and draft DeCastro

[jnday]

Mike while I agree DeCastro is going to be good I am not so sure that he is that much better than a guy you can pick up in the 2nd round as a guard...were as the CB or OLB you get at pick 14 the guy in the 2nd rnd is not usually even comparable.

now if we had only one pick I would agree but if we are trying to get as many good players as possible than the way ABQ and I are proposing makes more sense...

let me put it this way
Decastro= 4.0 perfect prospect
the guy we could get in the 2nd= 3.2 not so perfect but a very good player none the less

the OLB/CB at 14 = 3.4 the OLB/CB in rnd 2 = 2.5

if we did it the way ABQ and I suggest you would get a 3.4 and a 3.2 guy instead of a 4.0 and a 2.5 guy.
I understand your reasoning on this . This is one thing to consider , there are two elite CB prospects . Kirkpatrick and Claibourne are projected to be gone by the 14th pick . The rest of the CB prospects are late first and second round grades . All these later CBs , are very , very close in grading and they will be picked by teams to fit their system the best . If Dallas picks one of these at 14 , it will be a reach . It is a very high chance that the CB will be there in the second . That is the way this year's class grades out at this time . The CB position is very deep into the mid third round . If you picked one of these at 14 , yu are a round too early .

[Doomsday101]

I understand your reasoning on this . This is one thing to consider , there are two elite CB prospects . Kirkpatrick and Claibourne are projected to be gone by the 14th pick . The rest of the CB prospects are late first and second round grades . All these later CBs , are very , very close in grading and they will be picked by teams to fit their system the best . If Dallas picks one of these at 14 , it will be a reach . It is a very high chance that the CB will be there in the second . That is the way this year's class grades out at this time . The CB position is very deep into the mid third round . If you picked one of these at 14 , yu are a round too early .

I agree. Outside of Claibourne and Kirkpatrick you find decent talent in the 2nd to 3rd rd. Having said that if Kirkpatrick falls to 14 I would take him, if he is gone DeCastro is the top player at his position and an area of need for the Cowboys

[jnday]

I agree. Outside of Claibourne and Kirkpatrick you find decent talent in the 2nd to 3rd rd. Having said that if Kirkpatrick falls to 14 I would take him, if he is gone DeCastro is the top player at his position and an area of need for the Cowboys

If Kirkpatrick is still on the board it would create a tough decision . IMO you couldn't go wrong either way .

[Doomsday101]

If Kirkpatrick is still on the board it would create a tough decision . IMO you couldn't go wrong either way .

I agree. I never go into any draft thinking of only 1 player. Frankly there are about 4 guys at 14 I would not mind getting. Kirkpatrick is one of them

[Tobal]

I think Center is a bigger need than Guard, I think it's needed more than anything but CB.

knowing that and knowing that there is no center in the 14th pick range I feel if you can find a defensive player who is BPA in that range then you take him.

I'd like a CB, but a guy capable of collapsing the pocket at DE, NT or a guy flying off the edge would be a good pick.

In the 2nd round you hope that the Center is there.... If not You can go anywhere on the defense or OG

3rd round again you can take almost any position on defense and their should still be oline guys, and even now just about anything on defense.

[RS12]

The people that dont want DeCastro are the same the said dont draft Tyron Smith last year. Obviously that was the right move. DeCastro is a dominant player in a pro style offense which by the way was a dominant run offense as well. Now if his line mate Martin falls and they are both there, that would be a tough decision. Be honest, as bad as the secondary and pass rush are, the O Line is probably worse.

[Doomsday101]

The people that dont want DeCastro are the same the said dont draft Tyron Smith last year. Obviously that was the right move. DeCastro is a dominant player in a pro style offense which by the way was a dominant run offense as well. Now if his line mate Martin falls and they are both there, that would be a tough decision. Be honest, as bad as the secondary and pass rush are, the O Line is probably worse.

I agree. If by chance we do not get him I would not mind getting his teammate Kevin Zeitler


Pass blocking: Anchors against larger defenders in the middle, resets hands to maintain distance. Athletic enough to help on nose tackle then pick up twist or late blitzer. Mirrors quick interior rushers. Looks to help the center, or even the tackle a few yards upfield, if he is uncovered.

Run blocking: Good fit in a zone system, uses mobility and strength to move defender down the line. Dips shoulder and moves his feet to get outside leverage when needed. Strong and low coming out of his stance, effective in short-yardage situations. Finds the mike quickly and negates him when it is his responsibility. Gives effort to hit as many targets as possible, even if on the ground. Need to work on keeping outside leverage when doubling on the nose.

Pulling/trapping: Good foot quickness working behind the line, though losing a few extra pounds around the middle would help his agility. Brings hips to knock back linebackers in his way, maintains block until running back finds the hole behind him. Gets down low quickly to defeat defenders trying to cut down running backs. Ducks his head at times, must keep his posture to see and sustain against his target.

Initial Quickness: Possesses adequate quickness off the snap to get his hands into defenders and attack linebackers at the second level, but is not elite in this category and can be a step late at times.

Downfield: Regularly hits second-level targets, uses strong hands to latch on, and keeps legs churning to carry them out of the play. Knows correct blocking angles inside, gets into position with good footwork. Will punch at smaller defenders at times instead of latching on, allowing them to get off the block.

Intangibles: Dependable, no-nonsense mauler who works hard in the weight room and on the field. Did not start the first four games of 2010 due to a high ankle sprain suffered during the summer.

[VACowboy]

Mike while I agree DeCastro is going to be good I am not so sure that he is that much better than a guy you can pick up in the 2nd round as a guard...were as the CB or OLB you get at pick 14 the guy in the 2nd rnd is not usually even comparable.

now if we had only one pick I would agree but if we are trying to get as many good players as possible than the way ABQ and I are proposing makes more sense...

let me put it this way
Decastro= 4.0 perfect prospect
the guy we could get in the 2nd= 3.2 not so perfect but a very good player none the less

the OLB/CB at 14 = 3.4 the OLB/CB in rnd 2 = 2.5

if we did it the way ABQ and I suggest you would get a 3.4 and a 3.2 guy instead of a 4.0 and a 2.5 guy.

I couldn't disagree more, especially in this draft. Give me DeCastro and Minnifield over Dennard and Washington ANY DAY.

[ABQCOWBOY]

There are a lot of pretty good Guard prospects in this draft guys. As to the comment that those who do not want DeCosta in this draft are the same that didn't want Smith last year, well, that doesn't mean all those people were wrong either. I wanted Aldon Smith over Tyron Smith last year. Certainly Tyron had a great, great season but it still doesn't mean those folks were wrong. Aldon Smith did have 14 sacks in his rookie season and it has been reported that if Aldon Smith would have fallen to us, the Cowboys would have taken him over Tyron.

[RS12]

There are a lot of pretty good Guard prospects in this draft guys. As to the comment that those who do not want DeCosta in this draft are the same that didn't want Smith last year, well, that doesn't mean all those people were wrong either. I wanted Aldon Smith over Tyron Smith last year. Certainly Tyron had a great, great season but it still doesn't mean those folks were wrong. Aldon Smith did have 14 sacks in his rookie season and it has been reported that if Aldon Smith would have fallen to us, the Cowboys would have taken him over Tyron.

Yes Aldon Smith had a nice year, and yes it would be nice to have him opposite of Ware. On the other hand take away Tyron Smith away from the O Line and what do have? I'm thinking Romo on a stretcher. Tyron Smith gives the Cowboys exactly one good O Lineman out of five IMO.

[Doomsday101]

Yes Aldon Smith had a nice year, and yes it would be nice to have him opposite of Ware. On the other hand take away Tyron Smith away from the O Line and what do have? I'm thinking Romo on a stretcher. Tyron Smith gives the Cowboys exactly one good O Lineman out of five IMO.

I agree. We had no one there to play the spot unless we choose to keep Colombo and I don't think anyone wanted to see that. There are always players in the draft you can look back and say what if but Dallas needed to address OT in the worst way and we ended up getting one of the tops in the nation and a young man who will only get better as he develops

In regards to DeCastro he is a clear cut option for the Cowboys at 14, depending on how the draft falls. DeCastro would in my view really make this line a strength of the team for years to come.

[Zaxor]

I wanted Tyron Smith last year as tackles/CB/pass rushers/QB's are the hardest to fill positions we need CB and Pass rusher...if a good one is there at 14 the Cowboys would do themselves a huge favor in taken them imho...

now of course this is all contingent on who graded out at what but if a Guard/Pass rusher/CB are all there at 14 and all grade out exceptionally well it would seem to me the play is at Pass rusher than CB than Guard in that order as it has been proven as to which the harder positions is to fill.

by the way I really appreciate the civil conversation guys

[ABQCOWBOY]

Yes Aldon Smith had a nice year, and yes it would be nice to have him opposite of Ware. On the other hand take away Tyron Smith away from the O Line and what do have? I'm thinking Romo on a stretcher. Tyron Smith gives the Cowboys exactly one good O Lineman out of five IMO.

I understand what you are saying but there were other options at Tackle for us in the draft. There were also options in FA. I'm saying that those who wanted other players besides Tyron were not necessarily wrong last year. Same as this year IMO.

[visionary]

I don't think center is any bigger a need than guard at this point.

Both starting guards are coming off of season-ending surgery... more extreme in Kosier's case. Plus Kosier's season was pretty poor overall.

And none of the OLBers are gang-busters.\

I think OC is a bigger need than OG but i was thinking in terms of "need" as well as "value"

with the 14th pick, i am not sure i would want and OG but an OC might be OK (although borderline)

my preference would be

trade down and get OLB

[Tobal]

I understand trading down, but in this case I don't think you do that Someone will fall to 14 that you love and this team needs everything just about. So unless we are at 14 and theres not a CB, C, OG, OLB, DT, DE or even an OT we have a top 14 grade on I think you use that pick.

[jnday]

I understand what you are saying but there were other options at Tackle for us in the draft. There were also options in FA. I'm saying that those who wanted other players besides Tyron were not necessarily wrong last year. Same as this year IMO.

I didn't want Tyron last year and I was wrong . I watched 3 games of his and he didn't look like the player that he is now . After Dallas drafted him , I watched the same 3 games again and came up with the same opinion . Two lessons came from Tyron . The first being that scouts have more knowledge and access to players than I will ever have . The second lesson is that it's hard to scout OL from a TV . I was right about the fact that he needed to get bigger . I agree with the coaching staff , he still needs to gain about 20lbs to be at his best . None of us should take this draft talk to heart . We are all wrong on some players .

[reddyuta]

I wouldnt be unhappy if we took him but our secondary is down to one man who is seems to get injured on every play and Spencer is not coming back.We need a OLB and another top CB desperately.