[Foo Fighter]

Originally Posted by Dale

Tatum Bell, Chris Perry, Steven Jackson, etc aren't being handed starting jobs. About the only highly touted running back that figures to be a sure-fire starter is Kevin Jones.

Sometimes, you're in a situation where you're forced to start a rookie. Either you have so little depth that there are no alternatives, or you have so much money locked up in a draft pick that you can even think about starting another player.

But in Jones' case, neither applies. I agree we didn't need to go and sign the first guy available just to have "someone." It seems to me like we got a runner that complements George's style, has proven he can play hurt, and can take some pressure off if Jones isn't as good as some expect.

[View Full Quote]Like you have said, we have won with no-name backups before. But why discount the possibility of signing a veteran runner to provide depth and competition if it can be done without killing your cap or preventing your rookie from getting his chance to shine?

I was for signing George before it was ever rumored we were interested. But I also said that I was of the opinion he was highly overrated throughout the vast majority of his career.

His statistics weren't much different from Hambrick's last season, but his grit and toughness were. As was his work ethic, class and heart.

It's difficult to find a run where Hambrick actually broke through tackles, kept his balance and made a solid run. George can at least get you some tough yards. He won't spring many (read: any) big runs, but he does bring a tough, physical presence in the running game. He'll also likely support Parcells' message from the day he signed with the club.

I'm a fan of options, at as many positions as possible. That's why I liked the George signing.

In my mind, if Jones is as good as he potentially can be, that talent will be evident (as running back is considered one of the easier position to transition into the NFL at). If not, then we'll likely see more of George.

I just cringed at the thought of Cason being our most proven running back entering the season. Considering Lee wasn't good enough to lock himself onto the team last year that lacked talent at the position (he could have made it had he not gotten hurt, but it wasn't a sure thing), I have little faith that he'll become anything more in this league than the fringe player that he is. He's a great guy to root for, but realistically, it'll be tough for him to amount to much.

And I do indeed consider George an upgrade over Lee and Cason if any of them were to receive extensive amounts of carries. That, alone, was reason enough in my mind for the Cowboys to pursue George.

Yea.

What he said.