Change in draft priorities

[bbailey423]

With the emergence of Tony Romo....the Cowboys draft priorities have suddenly changed.

All of a sudden the OL actually looks good...that does not mean we do not need to address it, but it means we can actually draft someone and allow them to develop

Same thing at WR...I think we can draft someone and allow them to develop. I like Hurd, Crayton, Miles, Rector...but none of them are frontline guys....we need to draft someone that will command a double team.

Reading articles this weekend...it sounds like Aaron Glenn has the desire to play football for 3 - 5 more years. If the price is right...I would keep him.

So here are my thoughts. On the 1st day of the draft.....I would like to see us come away with an OT, CB, NT and WR. The highest priority being OT and the 2nd highest being WR and the 3rd being CB and the 4th being NT.

Of course you know that there are only 3 rounds on the 1st day, so yes, I am suggesting we should trade out of the 1st to pick up additonal picks.

Don't forget where Jason Ferguson was drafted (7th round)...so I hope Parcells resists the temptation of drafting a NT in the 1st round. Remember, I think he wanted DeWayne Robertson the year he drafted Newman.

I like Columbo, and if Parcells likes McQuistan, then I like him...but I think we need a blue chipper. Romo is our future and we need to get his blindside protected long term.

Henry will only get worse because he was never fast to begin with and I am pretty sure his speed will continue to get worse. Imagine if we did not have to help either CB out. We could unleash Roy and he would challenge for DPOY awards. I truly believe Roy has a 6 sack, 6 interception, 80 tackle season in him.

I want a WR that will allow Crayton, Hurd etc...to stay in their role. The presence of TO allows all of those other guys to work seams and zones. Both TO and Glenn do not have a lot of tread in them. We don't Romo to take a step back in 2 years because he has no one to throw to...so this offseason is the offseason we need to get someone on the roster and start grooming them to be the man in 2 yeaars.

What are the draft priorities for you guys/gals out there?

[VACowboy]

OG, NT, CB, LB, in that order.

I have faith in McQuistan and I love Darelle Revis.

[MichaelWinicki]

I think we potentially do drop out of the first round.

We absolutely need depth at NT.

A "speed" WR, a-la Glenn would be nice.

A guard with starting potential would be a good thing.

I would like to see another corner brought on board.

I would consider a QB sometime in the later rounds.

[austintodallas]

Og, Ot, Ng, Cb

[Gaede]

Definitely gotta be looking OG.

Rivera gets pushed back straight into the QB once every game

[cowboyfan4life_mark]

I like Columbo, and if Parcells likes McQuistan, then I like him...but I think we need a blue chipper. Romo is our future and we need to get his blindside protected long term.

You talking a replacement for Adams, right?

I just have a feeling that the O-line will be addressed in FA. With the exception of LT if someone is high on our board at our pick.

I just don't see us waiting til the draft for a "possible" pick if their is some one that Parcells likes in FA. After all, we do have a lot of wiggle room in cap space. It could be a situation like the Kosier signing.

[theogt]

WR, OG, & CB are at the top of my list.

[MichaelWinicki]

Og, Ot, Ng, Cb

Tackle won't be a priority unless they let Adams walk.

[burmafrd]

OG depending on how Proctor looks. I think BP believes that mcQ is the future at LT. Frankly, if we could get Steinbach in FA we would be set on the O line for quite a while. CB- good idea since Henry is getting older and you never know with Glenn when he might lose it. NT- the young guys BP are looking at right now might do the trick. I really do not see any immediate needs that we need to worry about beyond maybe CB. And OG. Outside of that we need to look at BPA.

[dmq]

OLB in the first or RB if a Malroney type falls in our lap.

[REDVOLUTION]

I am predicting we will pick 32nd :D

[burmafrd]

BP is NOT going to draft a RB high. Ain't gonna happen.

[Displaced Cowboy]

i think this is could be a real good year to take a WR late in round 1.

i'd look to James Hardy if he comes out.

[Screw The Hall]

I never want to stop making young fast defensive players especially LB's a priority in the draft.

You simply can't have to many of them especially with the defense we run.

We do need a first day lineman and I wouldn't mind taking a developmental QB late sometime. But outside of that just keep piling on the defensive talent if you ask me.

Romo has the potential to do for this franchise what McNabb has done for Philly ... and that's make the offensive side of the ball a strength regardless of who lines up with him.

But if you let the LB's in a 3-4 get old, slow, or thin you are Screweeeeeeeed with a capital S.



... with that being said we'll probably take 7 TEs and a KR.

[Apollo Creed]

Why hasn't anyone mentioned Free Safety?

[theogt]

Pat Watkins.

[Displaced Cowboy]

I believe there is only 1 free safety with a first round grade and that would Landry and he will be gone by the time we select.

[dwmyers]

I believe there is only 1 free safety with a first round grade and that would Landry and he will be gone by the time we select.

Free Safety is still our biggest hole, and a first day safety wouldn't hurt. It'd be nice to look for a bookend for Ware, with Ellis's recovery uncertain.

Parcells seems to be looking for NT candidates in late rounds and FA. And with Bledsoe probably leaving for some other starting job, we need to look for a developmental QB 2nd day.

Our line isn't perfect, but there isn't an absolute need to look for a OT using our first round pick; we're actually in position to go BPA first round.

David.

[bbailey423]

there is no way I want a guard on the 1st day. Rivera, double digit signing bonus. Kosier, 5M dollar signing bonus. We need a blue chip OT. You build your offensive line from the outside in.

I totally disagree with drafting a LBer on the 1st day. We are having trouble getting the ones we drafted on the field. Lets not forget Burnett was a 2nd rd pick and Carpenter was a 1st round pick in back to back years. Let's work on getting THEM on the field more consitently before we start adding more LBers.

A couple of responses yielded no WRs. You have to understand that the defense will play you totally different if YOU DO NOT have someone that they respect. TO can drop a ball every week and we will still get favorable matchups that we did not get with KeyShawn Johsnon because of the threat of what he can do. We should not wait for TO or Glenn to slow down before we address what will be a gaping hole in 2 years. Hurd, Miles, Rector and Crayton are guys that make plays because of the presnece of 2 other big gime WRs. Let's add another bigtime WR and get him ready to be the face of our WR corps in 2 years.

NT must be addressed

And Chris Canty will get one more year to show up...or he is going to be coming off the bench BEHIND Jason Hatcher.

[Clove]

WR/OG/CB/NT/PR/K/FS/T

We need to groom a number 1, and I don't think we need to trade out of the 1st round. We need talent to groom over the next couple of years.

We need to replace Rivera, he is the weak link unless you get one in free agency.

Time for a new stud CB to be groomed over the next 2 years. I like Henry, but I actually think Aaron Glenn is better.

A big big NT with power to fill in for Ferguson every once in a while.

Time for a drafted kicker and a FAST punt returner.

[Apollo Creed]

Any free agent Free Safeties out there? Bledsoe and our 1st round pick to the Raiders for Michael Huff - wow I love Madden.

[Dat Dude]

there is no way I want a guard on the 1st day. Rivera, double digit signing bonus. Kosier, 5M dollar signing bonus. We need a blue chip OT. You build your offensive line from the outside in.

I totally disagree with drafting a LBer on the 1st day. We are having trouble getting the ones we drafted on the field. Lets not forget Burnett was a 2nd rd pick and Carpenter was a 1st round pick in back to back years. Let's work on getting THEM on the field more consitently before we start adding more LBers.

A couple of responses yielded no WRs. You have to understand that the defense will play you totally different if YOU DO NOT have someone that they respect. TO can drop a ball every week and we will still get favorable matchups that we did not get with KeyShawn Johsnon because of the threat of what he can do. We should not wait for TO or Glenn to slow down before we address what will be a gaping hole in 2 years. Hurd, Miles, Rector and Crayton are guys that make plays because of the presnece of 2 other big gime WRs. Let's add another bigtime WR and get him ready to be the face of our WR corps in 2 years.

NT must be addressed

And Chris Canty will get one more year to show up...or he is going to be coming off the bench BEHIND Jason Hatcher.


Hatcher is getting sacks in garbage time coming fomr the outside in a Nickel pass rush... Canty isnt supposed to get sacks fromhis 3-4 end spot on first and second down.. He is doing a fine job of run support....

Get Real...

[K-DOGG]

As long as the Boys keep the 3-4 defense, they should draft a LB on the first dayof every draft. With the risk of injury every season, the need for a catalytic LB is always a priority! Then OL and NT are also important positions to address.:star:

[MichaelWinicki]

there is no way I want a guard on the 1st day. Rivera, double digit signing bonus. Kosier, 5M dollar signing bonus. We need a blue chip OT. You build your offensive line from the outside in.

I totally disagree with drafting a LBer on the 1st day. We are having trouble getting the ones we drafted on the field. Lets not forget Burnett was a 2nd rd pick and Carpenter was a 1st round pick in back to back years. Let's work on getting THEM on the field more consitently before we start adding more LBers.

A couple of responses yielded no WRs. You have to understand that the defense will play you totally different if YOU DO NOT have someone that they respect. TO can drop a ball every week and we will still get favorable matchups that we did not get with KeyShawn Johsnon because of the threat of what he can do. We should not wait for TO or Glenn to slow down before we address what will be a gaping hole in 2 years. Hurd, Miles, Rector and Crayton are guys that make plays because of the presnece of 2 other big gime WRs. Let's add another bigtime WR and get him ready to be the face of our WR corps in 2 years.

NT must be addressed

And Chris Canty will get one more year to show up...or he is going to be coming off the bench BEHIND Jason Hatcher.

We will not draft a OT the first day unless Adams is cut loose... it just won't happen.

[ghst187]

You knew if there was a draft thread that I would jump all over it....

Our draft priorities have definitely changed. But I think we almost have to call it "offseason priorities" because we should have plenty of FA money to sign one big name or several solid guys. Some of our needs are more about having some youth behind established starters rather than about immediately upgrading the position. So I have to rank those (WR, NT, and CB) below those I believe need immediate upgrade (RG, backup QB, PR, and possibly LT & K).
With that in mind here's how I rank our offseason priorities:

1) RG: Rivera sucks. I'd like to keep him as backup or see him retire. Perhaps the Tx Tech guy (Whitley I think?) can play here? What I'd REALLY like to see though is Eric Steinbach brought in, unless he wants Hutchinson-type money. I do trust that if our staff looks more for a Kosier-type guy that they will find a quality player. But Rivera has been the weakest link along the OL IMO.
Possible FA target: Eric Steinbach
Possible Draft Targets:
Justin Blalock, Texas
Arron Sears, Tennessee
Josh Beekman, Boston College
Ben Grubbs, Auburn
Manuel Ramirez, Texas Tech
Mike Jones, Iowa Tim Duckworth, Auburn
Jake Kuresa, BYU
Kasey Studdard, Texas
Samson Satele, Hawaii

2) Backup QB: We all believe that Bledsoe will depart after the season and look for another starting opportunity. If he was smart, he'd stay, accept his role, and help the team. But I doubt he'll do that. If and when DB leaves, all we'll have left is Matt Baker. And if the window for a UDFA QB is 4 years, then Baker has a lot of time left to serve. We have to bring in a decent backup that BP will be comfortable with. I doubt Griese (not a FA but could get released), Simms, Schaub, Volek (not a FA but could get released), or some of the others will be interested in a backup role but you never know. Someone might get smart, accept that they're not going to get a starting gig, and like to enjoy a free-ride to a possible SB ring. We all know BP's tendencies to like a veteran backup, and frankly I think we'd all like that too. But I think we'd also all like to see someone taken in the draft that our scouts feel could develop into something special.

Possible FA targets: (which doesn't really inspire)
Rohan Davey, RFA, Arizona Cardinals
Shaun King, UFA, Indianapolis Colts
John Navarre, RFA, Arizona Cardinals
Tim Rattay, UFA, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Seneca Wallace, UFA, Seattle Seahawks
Anthony Wright, UFA, Cincinnati Bengals
Possible draft targets:
Brady Quinn, Notre Dame
Brian Brohm, Louisville Jr.
Drew Stanton, Michigan St. Don't like him myself
Jamarcus Russell, LSU, Jr. No
Troy Smith, Ohio St. if he somehow fell to the 2nd or 3rd.....
Chris Leak, Florida ditto as Troy Smith
Jordan Palmer, UTEP Like this guy IF he slips to the 3rd or 4th
Trent Edwards, Stanford
Kevin Kolb, Houston Like this guy a lot anywhere beyond the middle 2nd
Tyler Palko, Pitt


3) PR: We all LOVE Newman back there but we are also all SCARED to death of him getting injured returning punts. Guys that can do this can probably be found cheaply in FA or if a guy like Steve Breaston slips (since he isn't a very good WR) to the 4th, would be worth considering. I saw Green firsthand returning punts and I really don't think he'll ever be any good at it in the NFL.

4) LT: The Flo situation could be a little dicey. He is still a very capable LT and LT's are HARD to come by. But, he still gets abused by speed rushers and looks like his knees are so bad he can barely get into his stance, let alone maneuver to handle a dwight Freeney. Flo would also have some serious trade value if we wanted to go that route. What we do here, if anything, may depend on what the coaches think of McQuistan. Is McQ going to be starting caliber LT by next year? I tend to doubt it. On the other hand, I believe Flo is locked up for a while and we can afford to stand pat here and give McQ more time to develop. If we decide to stand pat here, then I guess we'll have more options elsewhere. I do tend to believe that we will stand pat at the T position though, making this discussion moot.
Possible FA target: Mike Gandy?
Possible draft targets:
Joe Thomas, Wisconsin
Jared Gaither, Maryland, So.
Jake Long, Michigan This would be my pick if we go after a first day T
Levi Brown, Penn St.
Doug Free, Northern Illinois
Sam Baker, USC, Jr.
Joe Staley, Central Michigan
Ryan Harris, Notre Dame
Mike Otto, Purdue
Andrew Cameron, Cal

5) K...? If Vanderjagt keeps sucking, he will be gone bottomline. He already had a strike against him since his kickoffs suck. There aren't going to be a lot of better options out there but if Matt Bryant became available for one reason or another, I'd expect us to go grab him up quickly.
Here are what the FA options are looking like right now:
Josh Brown, UFA, Seattle Seahawks (not expected to leave Seattle)
Rian Lindell, UFA, Buffalo Bills
Josh Scobee, RFA, Jacksonville Jaguars (not too bad)
Lawrence Tynes, RFA, Kansas City Chiefs (not too bad either)

Draft target: Mason Crosby Colorado (awesome kicker, count on touchbacks on kickoffs and 50+yard fgs to be routine)

6) CB: Aaron Glenn is pretty old but still playing at a pretty high level. I think he's proven the requirement of having 3 starting caliber CBs on your roster. Glenn can probably play another year or two and Reeves is decent but needs to step up a little too. I tend to expect us to stand pat at CB and draft a later round CB who could potentially develop into our #3. Here are the FA options for next year:
Nate Clements, UFA, Buffalo Bills (going to get BIG $$$)
Asante Samuel UFA New England Patriots (Ditto)
Roc Alexander, RFA, Denver Broncos
Jordan Babineaux, RFA, Seattle Seahawks
Jason David, RFA, Indianapolis Colts
Randall Gay, RFA, New England Patriots
Nick Harper, UFA, Indianapolis Colts
David Macklin, UFA, Arizona Cardinals
Draft:
Antoine Cason, Arizona, Jr.
Marcus McCauley, Fresno St.
Leon Hall, Michigan (love this guy but OSU put a hurt on him)
Daymeion Hughes, Cal
Darrelle Revis, Pitt, Jr.
Fred Bennett, South Carolina
Aaron Ross, Texas (love this guy if he somehow fell to the 3rd or later)
Tanard Jackson, Syracuse
Tarell Brown, Texas
Travarous Bain, Hampton

7) WR: This one is tricky. We have one of the best trios in the league right now and if Glenn is fine for next year, then there isn't going to be room for anyone, even a guy like Calvin Johnson, to crack the starting lineup. I think TO stays another season. Crayton is young and going to be a RFA but he isn't going anywhere. Although if someone was going to give up a first rounder for him, I might take it and use it to trade up and get someone like Calvin Johnson, who would eventually turn into #1 WR IMO.
We also have a stable of young guys who are decent and getting better...Austin (who has increased his value by returning kicks) and Hurd who may turn into a legit #3 or #2 in another year or two.
HOWEVER, this draft is absolutely going to be STOCKED with WR talent IMO. And the last time a guy like Calvin Johnson came along...his name was Larry Fitzgerald. But I tend to think that Calvin may end up being better because he's bigger and faster, if that is believable to you. I also like Steve Smith of USC a lot. He seems like he could turn into a TG type WR. I couldn't envision us going after a FA WR unless TG retires or can't go but here they are just in case:
Drew Bennett, UFA, Tennessee Titans
Kevin Curtis, UFA, St. Louis Rams
Marc Boerigter, UFA, Green Bay Packers
David Boston, UFA, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (um NO!)
Tyrone Calico, UFA, Tennessee Titans
Patrick Crayton, RFA, Dallas Cowboys
Andre' Davis, UFA, Buffalo Bills
Bobby Engram, UFA, Seattle Seahawks
Justin Gage, UFA, Chicago Bears
D.J. Hackett, RFA, Seattle Seahawks
Keenan McCardell, UFA, San Diego Chargers
Shaun McDonald, UFA, St. Louis Rams
Samie Parker, RFA, Kansas City Chiefs
Jerome Pathon, UFA, Atlanta Falcons
Willie Ponder, UFA, New York Giants
Edell Shepherd, RFA, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Travis Taylor, UFA, Minnesota Vikings
Scottie Vines, RFA, Detroit Lions
Bobby Wade, UFA, Tennessee Titans
Peter Warrick, UFA, Seattle Seahawks
Kelley Washington, UFA, Cincinnati Bengals
Alvis Whitted, UFA, Oakland Raiders
Ernest Wilford, RFA, Jacksonville Jaguars

Draft Targets:
Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech, Jr. (love to see us make a bold move and get him to be Romo's guy for years to come)
Dwayne Jarrett, USC, Jr. (reminds me of Plax, not sure about the 'tude tho)
Ted Ginn Jr, Ohio St, Jr. (Pure speed and can return kicks...hmmm but may never be a legit #2 WR)
Sydney Rice, South Carolina (color me not sold)
Jeff Samardzija, Notre Dame (Jurivicious (sp?) reincarnated?)
Robert Meachem, Tennessee, Jr.
Dwayne Bowe, LSU
Steve Smith, USC (like this guy a lot, reminds me of TG)
Jason Hill, Washington St.
Rhema McKnight, Notre Dame

8) NT: Fergi has been great this year, but he is getting up there. Some guys have been able to do it until 34 or 35 so who knows. We definitely don't have anyone behind Fergi to play 1st and 2nd down runs though. I'd imagine we could make due by moving someone, but I really don't think it'd be anything more than a band-aid fix that would bite us in the end. I do think that we will look for someone again in the later rounds of the draft like we did with Stanley. It also wouldn't completely surprise me if BP didn't make this his top draft priority and go after a guy like Branch. I do know BP values the NT position tremendously and I do know that we are actively looking for a backup and future behind Fergi.

Potential FA target:
Terdell Sands UFA Oakland Raiders

Draft Targets:
Alan Branch, Michigan, Jr. (if you want a 3-4 NT, this guy is IT! but will cost you a high first round pick, probably higher than we will have without a big trade up)
None of these others are very inspiring to play 3-4 NT IMO.
Frank Okam, Texas, Jr.
DeMarcus Tyler, North Carolina St.
Quinn Pitcock, Ohio St.
Marcus Thomas, Florida
Brandon Mebane, Cal
Justin Harrell, Tennessee
Amobi Okoye, Louisville
Jay Alford, Penn St.
Demario Pressley, North Carolina St. Jr.

[Vinnie2u]

Henry is our future FS and with the 32 Pick in the Draft the Dallas Cowboys select.... the best cover DB left in the Draft or the best available OL in the draft. Guard, Tackle or Center.

[Screw The Hall]

As long as the Boys keep the 3-4 defense, they should draft a LB on the first dayof every draft. With the risk of injury every season, the need for a catalytic LB is always a priority! Then OL and NT are also important positions to address.:star:

Yep ... we aren't as deep there as some people think we are.

The great Steeler 3-4's have almost always had a star in the making on the bench just waiting for his chance by constantly reloading that position.

[Woods]

I hope we get the following positions via FA/Draft next year,

NT to rotate with Fergy - Maybe FA? Not sure a rookie will have the necessary girth and strength to hold up unless it's a very high pick. These guys take time to develop strength.

CB - Draft, Day 1 pick.

OG - Draft, groom behind Rivera. Round 3 or early Day 2. I don't see BP taking an OG in the 1st or 2nd round. Does BP take OL often in Day 1? I'm not sure, but I don't think so.

WR - Draft, to groom behind Glenn, TO. Possibly 1st or 2nd round. This draft class is deep at WR, so we may be able to get a good one 2nd round.

OLB - Big pressure player in Ware/Ellis mold - Draft/FA. I would not be surprised if this position is our 1st round pick or priority in FA. I guess it depends on Ellis' availability as well and whether BP still prefers to have Carp play inside. But if a guy like B. Berry is available again in FA, we could take the FA route here.

TE - Draft DAY 2, a quality 3rd TE in case of injury - unless Hannam comes back 100% next year. With 2 TE sets, this is important.

QB - Back-up to groom and at least be number 2 QB a few years down the line, DAY 2 pick.

[Doomsday]

NT, OG, CB, WR

Most importantly best available player. We are pretty lucky that this team is pretty solid at almost every position, they can afford to draft by their board. Thats how you find guys like a Marion Barber when you already have a JJ.

Mason Crosby as stated above would be worthy of a first day pick in my opinion, he is a great kicker. It will be interesting to see how high he goes in the draft.

[Big Country]

Best Player Available in 2007.

Offensive Line... in order of Guard, Tackle
Nose Tackle
Wide Receiver
Pass Rusher... in order of OLB, DE
Cornerback
Running Back

Quarterback... fugettabahtit

[big dog cowboy]

I'm just thankful we have a pro-active owner who will sign free agents to fill holes that will allow us draft by our draft board and not for need positions.

[MONT17]

NT on day 1... just like RB, BP would never do that! at least I hope not with guys like Sam Adams playing forever!

PR (only) in the 4th... yeah that works! why cant we just call Wal Mart like every other team in the NFL!!!

OG are a dime a dozen but in BP case 10 million a dozen... day 2 or move Flo!

CB should be a concern...

OLB who can actually rush the passer should be a major concern!!!


In the mid 90s Jerry traded out of the first round time and time again so he didnt have to pay first round salaries.... we all know how that worked out!!! when you have great team you have to add great players by moving up in the draft much like the Broncos did last year!!

[bbailey423]

You guys who think OLB or G should be a round 1 priority are on the fast track to ruining roster building...are you suggesting Bobb Carpenter is not the answer at OLB? This is a perfect year to get a project DE with the ability to play on his feet in like the 4th round.

And for the poster who says Flo is locked up long term...he is NOT. Next year will be the last year of his deal and he will NOT get a big money deal out of the Cowboys. We went down that road with Larry Allen and that is not a good road especially near the middle to end of that contract. We should have never passed on Marcus McNeil (sigh). But the playoffs will show how we stack up against the elite...if Flozell is dominated...we need to draft someone. If he holds his own, we can bring him back and continue to groom McQuistan.

We do not want to be arrogant like the Pats...who think that Brady can make any WR productive....we are still the Dallas Cowboys...we are still America's team...we still get everyone's best shot (even when we were not good)...so we still need blue chippers. Our offense is a multi faceted attack because of the presence of WRs that scare people. TO and Glenn have 2 years at most to continue playing...the replacements for them need to be on the roster next year. I say we got the draft on this route. I know there are always WRs available that teams draft high and let go after 3 years....so I can understand waiting until one of them falls into your lap. But how about going out and crossing your fingers that you draft the right guy? Having said that...I think Mike Williams, Troy Williamson, Ashley Lelie are well on their way to being let go by their current teams. But do any of those guys scare a defense on a consitent basis?

Let's be glad that we actually are to the point where draft picks don't HAVE to start on day 1...that is when you know you have a solid roster built that can stay competetive for a long time

[Rockytop6]

I think we potentially do drop out of the first round.

We absolutely need depth at NT.

A "speed" WR, a-la Glenn would be nice.

A guard with starting potential would be a good thing.

I would like to see another corner brought on board.

I would consider a QB sometime in the later rounds.

My sentiments exactly.

[EveryoneElse]

IMO, I think we ned to avoid the mistake we made in the early to mid 90s. We never drafted Aikman's replacement, same with Irvin, and Emmitt.

I think we need to draft WR, unless the coaching staff really believes tha Crayton and Hurd will be top flight guys.

Other needs in order:

NT, RG, CB,

I only see 5 potenial holes in our team opening in the next 1-2 years.

Ferguson, Rivera, To, Glenn, Henry.

[ghst187]

[QUOTE=bbailey423;1185688]You guys who think OLB or G should be a round 1 priority are on the fast track to ruining roster building...are you suggesting Bobb Carpenter is not the answer at OLB? This is a perfect year to get a project DE with the ability to play on his feet in like the 4th round.
Isn't Hatcher one of those guys? Can't really drop back into coverage but he is our project passrusher. I do agree that a late round project for this type of player is in order.

And for the poster who says Flo is locked up long term...he is NOT. Next year will be the last year of his deal and he will NOT get a big money deal out of the Cowboys. We went down that road with Larry Allen and that is not a good road especially near the middle to end of that contract. We should have never passed on Marcus McNeil (sigh). But the playoffs will show how we stack up against the elite...if Flozell is dominated...we need to draft someone. If he holds his own, we can bring him back and continue to groom McQuistan.
I thought Flo had more time left. my bad. Flo isn't coming back once his contract is up IMO. Depends on how McQ is viewed as to how we approach this position in the offseason. I expect we'll be planning for his replacement. I personally like Jake Long a lot.

We do not want to be arrogant like the Pats...who think that Brady can make any WR productive....we are still the Dallas Cowboys...we are still America's team...we still get everyone's best shot (even when we were not good)...so we still need blue chippers. Our offense is a multi faceted attack because of the presence of WRs that scare people. TO and Glenn have 2 years at most to continue playing...the replacements for them need to be on the roster next year. I say we got the draft on this route. I know there are always WRs available that teams draft high and let go after 3 years....so I can understand waiting until one of them falls into your lap. But how about going out and crossing your fingers that you draft the right guy? Having said that...I think Mike Williams, Troy Williamson, Ashley Lelie are well on their way to being let go by their current teams. But do any of those guys scare a defense on a consitent basis?
I agree we need to be looking. I think Sydney Rice seems like he could be another Troy Williamson type. I do think Calvin Johnson is a nearly can't miss all-star though.
I do have to remember though that our top two WRs have come to us via FA.

[bbailey423]

IMO, I think we ned to avoid the mistake we made in the early to mid 90s. We never drafted Aikman's replacement, same with Irvin, and Emmitt.

I think we need to draft WR, unless the coaching staff really believes tha Crayton and Hurd will be top flight guys.

Other needs in order:

NT, RG, CB,

I only see 5 potenial holes in our team opening in the next 1-2 years.

Ferguson, Rivera, To, Glenn, Henry.
Crayton will never be more than a 3rd WR. He has good hands, he blocks well and he plays special teams. These are exactly the qualities you want in a 3rd guy...but he does not have the athleticism to be anything more. He makes plays because of the presence of better WRs on the field. Hurd does not have the speed to ever be more than a #2....there is nothing wrong with that, but we need a baller in the mold of Moss, TO, Irvin, Harrison...the last time our offense looked this good was when Micheal Irvin was here...so the presnece of TO is just reminding us what a dominant physical specimen at WR can do for an offense.

[jbsg02]

we should be in a position to take the BPA, there isn't any GLARING holes in this team.

[conner01]

i would'nt be surprised if we trade off some picks for next year picks. we have 8 picks i believe and there are'nt 8 holes on the team. we need some youth on the oline, i've been for youth at wr but i'm starting to cool on wr unles a special guy is there.i really like hurd and crayton alot.we could use a future #1 cb so that might be an option.too early to take a qb very high with romo's age. you would loose the guy before he ever got on the field.
don't see us doing much inn f.a. this year. no major needs and they cost too much.save the money to lock up our young stars

[bbailey423]

we should be in a position to take the BPA, there isn't any GLARING holes in this team.
I see your point..but that is how you get yourself in trouble...there are holes that will become glaring in 2 years...which is why you address them now. And if BPA is a QB, you can't just decide to take him. You make a list of the biggest potential holes (OT, G, NT, WR, CB)...and you decide how deep the draft is at those positions...and you strike. I would accept any of those positions in the 1st round except NT or G.

[Clove]

i would'nt be surprised if we trade off some picks for next year picks. we have 8 picks i believe and there are'nt 8 holes on the team. we need some youth on the oline, i've been for youth at wr but i'm starting to cool on wr unles a special guy is there.i really like hurd and crayton alot.we could use a future #1 cb so that might be an option.too early to take a qb very high with romo's age. you would loose the guy before he ever got on the field.
don't see us doing much inn f.a. this year. no major needs and they cost too much.save the money to lock up our young starsIf this is the case, and we don't have glaring holes, it's time to move up in the draft and get a STUD Wide Receiver al Calvin Johnson. Package Ellis (if healthy) our 1 and 2 and next years 1 to move up if you have to. We have to have a stud Receiver, and just like someone else said, when you have a power house receiver on your team, defenses bow down to you.

[burmafrd]

Austin, Hurd and Clayton are the young wr's coming up for the future. I would go for a real speed burner- deep threat. Austin is big and physical, and the other two can take care of possession, etc. BUT we need the burner for the deep threat.

[cowboys19]

Austin, Hurd and Clayton are the young wr's coming up for the future. I would go for a real speed burner- deep threat. Austin is big and physical, and the other two can take care of possession, etc. BUT we need the burner for the deep threat.

Austin is fast


DT
CB
WR
LB
OL
DT/DE
OL

in that order

[Displaced Cowboy]

i think wr/cb will be our best value at the end of round 1.

[MarionBarberThe4th]

Id like a CB/FS. A Marlin Jackson type who can fill in for both spots, whichever is the looking worse.

Or if theres a stud CB that falls. Im not loving Anthony Henry so much right now.

So for me

1 CB/FS
2 NT
3 RG
2nd 3rd rounder Pass rushing hybrid DE/OLB with big upside

Id like to take a kicker, but it seems like kickers taken real high turn out disapointing

[Tristan]

No offfense to Fasano, but I still get sick to my stomach when I watch the chargers and see Marcus Mcneil pancaking people on run plays, and using his quick feet and long arms to snuff out pass rushers as a ROOKIE STARTING LEFT TACKLE! I cried about it then, and I still can't comprehend how we passed on this guy in the second round when he actually would have been a great value with our first.

As for next year I agree on best player available, with an emphasis on the OL, WR positons.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Why people always start 'draft need' threads when FA starts before April and our team is always active in FA in an attempt to be able to pick BPA is always beyond me.

Its bad enough that I have to wade through 16 million mock drafts the moment the bowl games are over. Minor league football woohoo!!!

[DallasDW00ds0n]

we still are too old with Rivera

Ginn would be a nice one add some youth and speed at WR

and NT of course

[Oh_Canada]

Not sure if Terdell Sands is simply too big to play the nose in a three four, but if BP doesn't think so he could be a good fit. Other wise I think NT will be where they go in the first round since both Parcells and Belichek seem to put a premuim on big men early and Fergie ain't no spring chicken.

After that...

WR--Boys will need someone in two seasons. Let's hope Hurd and Austin continue to develop for next season.

OG--Steinbach is my first choice though.

CB--Henry scares the bejezus out of me. I am sure Parcells will look for a speed guy who is physical even if a little tad short...ala Aaron Glenn.

LB--It's a cliche now, but you can never have enough 'backers in a 3-4. Prefer an outside guy and Anthony Spencer from Purdue seems to be the type of college DE who could easily be converted to linebacker in Parcells' system. Though I think he is going to go in the top two or three rounds.

[AmericasTeam]

I want two of these three in the draft

1) Justin Blalock RT or OG

2) Levi Brown RT or OG

3) Aaron Sears RT or OG

Imagine

LT Adams and McQuistan
LG Kosier and 1 of 3 above
C Gurode and Johnson (if back)
RG 1 of 3 above and Proctor
RT Columbo and 1 of 3 above

nice looking line and strong future



I have high hopes for Hurd and
Austin so I expect a CB and a NT to be a priority, but maybe Stanley is better than anything in the draft. I could see a FS or WR drafted early if
it is a BPA scenario.

[blindzebra]

The one thing nobody has brought up is kicker...we need to draft a kicker!

I think OT is our main need.

OG will be filled by Steinbach I hope, but I'd still draft a guard mid to late, one that can play center too.

NT is priority number 2.

Then I'd say CB, FS, LB, WR, QB and kicker in whatever order BPA falls.

[bbgun]

All of a sudden the OL actually looks good..

Don't kid yourself. Romo still got hit a lot yesterday as he delivered the ball, and as Troy observed, those hits add up. The line remains a huge priority.

[EGG]

Good grief,,, no way in heck would I classify the OL as "looking good". If and when this team hits the wall it will be the OL that fails them,,, and these are the starters! Thank goodness there haven't been any injuries yet.

I agree with many of the opinions here, priority goes to OG, OT, and NT this offseason,,, along with the obligatory LB, TE, and punt returner draft picks,,, :p:

[ABQCOWBOY]

Can't say that I agree with the title of this thread. IMO, LT is still our biggest need. I would like to see us draft a nice young LT prospect regardless of what's done in FA. To get a top tier LT in FA, we would have to pay a kings ransom. I don't love the idea of binging Adams back and it's going to be an expensive proposition to sign him long term. I just don't love how he's played over the life of his last contract and I don't see that improving much. LT would be what I would like to see us draft if at all possible.

[LaTunaNostra]

Can't say that I agree with the title of this thread. IMO, LT is still our biggest need. I would like to see us draft a nice young LT prospect regardless of what's done in FA. To get a top tier LT in FA, we would have to pay a kings ransom. I don't love the idea of binging Adams back and it's going to be an expensive proposition to sign him long term. I just don't love how he's played over the life of his last contract and I don't see that improving much. LT would be what I would like to see us draft if at all possible.

ABQ, I think MCQ will be a late round 'gift' that will almost equal the value of Romo's UDFA signing.

Seriously...another pot of gold.

[MichaelWinicki]

ABQ, I think MCQ will be a late round 'gift' that will almost equal the value of Romo's UDFA signing.

Seriously...another pot of gold.

I think you're absolutely right B.

I would almost guarantee at this point that this team will NOT draft an OT in rounds 1, 2 or 3 next year UNLESS they cut Flozell.

[ABQCOWBOY]

ABQ, I think MCQ will be a late round 'gift' that will almost equal the value of Romo's UDFA signing.

Seriously...another pot of gold.

Could be right Barb. I don't know one way or the other but the position, IMO, is too important to take a chance on, especially now that it looks like we might have a franchise player at QB. Sounds so weired when I read it back to myself but I guess it's actually true. Looks like we might have a pretty good one at QB.

[Clove]

The one thing nobody has brought up is kicker...we need to draft a kicker!

I think OT is our main need.

OG will be filled by Steinbach I hope, but I'd still draft a guard mid to late, one that can play center too.

NT is priority number 2.

Then I'd say CB, FS, LB, WR, QB and kicker in whatever order BPA falls.I believe I brought up kicker and return specialist. It's time to groom a young stud kicking the ball, and we need a speed returner that scares the daylights out of returners. That's why Devin Hester was on my draft board last year, and I was ripped to shreds. I chose him because of his bio.

Saying that everytime he touched the ball, he would do something that made the crowd go wow! I like that..

[IndianaCowboyFan]

4) LT: The Flo situation could be a little dicey. He is still a very capable LT and LT's are HARD to come by. But, he still gets abused by speed rushers and looks like his knees are so bad he can barely get into his stance, let alone maneuver to handle a dwight Freeney. Flo would also have some serious trade value if we wanted to go that route. What we do here, if anything, may depend on what the coaches think of McQuistan. Is McQ going to be starting caliber LT by next year? I tend to doubt it. On the other hand, I believe Flo is locked up for a while and we can afford to stand pat here and give McQ more time to develop. If we decide to stand pat here, then I guess we'll have more options elsewhere. I do tend to believe that we will stand pat at the T position though, making this discussion moot.
Possible FA target: Mike Gandy?
Possible draft targets:
Joe Thomas, Wisconsin
Jared Gaither, Maryland, So.
Jake Long, Michigan This would be my pick if we go after a first day T
Levi Brown, Penn St.
Doug Free, Northern Illinois
Sam Baker, USC, Jr.
Joe Staley, Central Michigan
Ryan Harris, Notre Dame
Mike Otto, Purdue
Andrew Cameron, Cal

Jake Long, Michigan I like this guy also. Mike Otto, Purdue, for what it is worth this kid has played 4 years for Purdue and has been very solid. According to Coach Tiller if he would have played at guard he would have been an All American. He didn't because Purdue had no one else of his caliber to play Tackle. Joe Thomas, Wisconsin not sold on him, Wisconsin often had to help him out against Anthony Spencer from Purdue.

[stealth]

I think with time sam hurd can be a number one receiver in this league, I wouldn't take a wr this year at all. We are stacked with good young talent.
You know I woudln't mind picking up a kicker in the later rounds. Other than that I guess all we really need to address is the O-line, and I wouldn't mind a big bruiser back if one is available.

[AdamJT13]

No offfense to Fasano, but I still get sick to my stomach when I watch the chargers and see Marcus Mcneil pancaking people on run plays, and using his quick feet and long arms to snuff out pass rushers as a ROOKIE STARTING LEFT TACKLE! I cried about it then, and I still can't comprehend how we passed on this guy in the second round when he actually would have been a great value with our first.

McNeil reportedly was red-flagged becuase of narrowing of the spine. So while he looks good now, you never know when his career will be over. Teams aren't always willing to spend a first- or second-round pick and millions of dollars to gamble that a guy like that will be able to play a long time.

[david smith]

I would love to see Jack Long on the cowboys. He's a beast!

[bbgun]

I would love to see Jack Long on the cowboys. He's a beast!

Jake Long, who's supposedly returning for his senior year.

[noletime95]

I think the biggest immediate need is NT and I would love it to be adressed on day one. Other than Romo, who can't be replaced, there isn't another position on the field besides NT that lacks a decent backup. Other than that, OL, WR, mabe RB.

[Cogan]

Here's my early prognostication on the Cowboy's 2007 Draft:

Rd. #pick Name Position Team Size 40 Time

1 #32 Justin Blalock OT/OG Texas 6-4, 330 N/A

*Excellent at either position, & we all know BP loves versatility.

2 #64 Victor Abiamiri OLB/DE Notre Dame 6-4, 270 4.75

*This guy's a monster pass rusher, who, at age 20 has plenty of growth potential-both in size & talent. This team needs better pressure on the QB, & Carp is not the answer at LOLB. Ellis is getting older, & doesn't really like playing there anyway.

3 #96 Jonnie Lee Higgins Jr. WR UTEP 6-0, 180 4.35

#The player the Cowboys thought they were getting with Skyler Green. Has a ton of school records, and was again there top receiver & PR. Already has 76 catches for 1,230 yds. & a 16.2 yd. avg. Returned 10 punts 243 yds. for a 24.3 avg. & two TDs, with a long of 88 yds. A little on the thin side, but at 6-0, big enough frame to add another 20 lbs. Speed to burn. Might have to take him first, then Abiamiri.

3 #96 Manuel Ramirez OG/OC Texas Tech 6-4, 340 N/A

Another guy I really like on the first day is Manny Ramirez. He would instantly upgrade the middle of the Oline. He is a mauler who bench presses 550 lbs. & is adept at pass blocking, since Tech passes so much. Also has a mean streak, which is always welcome in an OG.

Just a few ideas. We DO need a NT to groom to back up Ferguson & hopefully take over in a couple of years. I don't think we should wait until the 6th or 7th rd. to take one, either. Maybe 4th or 5th rd. They are SO important in the 3-4. If we don't have a very good NT, then we don't stop the run.

[GlitzCowboy]

I have no doubt TO finishes his career here, with at least 3-5 very productive years left in the tank. Crayton is quickly developing into prime real estate, with Hurd here to do the same in a year or two. We're good at wideout.

I think there's only one option we can do in a year like this; buckle down the fort with offensive linemen. You can never have enough. I don't care how well some of them play the remainder of the year, we should be looking to upgrade clear across the board because that's just what we're in position to do so why the hell not. I say bring in 1 big name in FA also. On draft day, at least 1 immediate starter if not 2.

We have the gun power it seems, now let's insure the armour and make this team into the beast it has the potential of coming. We can pass on anybody it appears in the new Romo-Era, now let's see if we can make it so we can also run on anybody.

[Teague31]

trade down in the first and draft mason crosby.