News: BTB: Dallas Cowboys Offseason 2015: Did The Cowboys Improve? (Center Edition)

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Did the Dallas Cowboys improve at center from 2014 to 2015?

Continuing our perusal for improvement around the Cowboys roster, we look into the center position. Have the Cowboys made any noticeable improvements there?

2014: Travis Frederick, Mackenzy Bernadeau2015: Travis Frederick, Mackenzy Bernadeau, Shane McDermott

C1- Travis Frederick


When Frederick was taken in 2013, there were many doubters that the Cowboys possibly made the biggest reach. Now entering his third year, all doubts have been buried. Frederick has been a phenomenal talent for this offensive line. His intelligence is impeccable and his mean streak is noted by every tackle he faces. PFF graded Frederick very highly with +18.3, making him second only to Nick Mangold of the Jets. Jerry Jones loves drafting players that are at the top of their class in their position, Frederick fit that mold and the Cowboys pulled his card. He's a huge part of what makes this offensive line the most dominant in the NFL. Being only 24 years old, Frederick should be anchoring this line for many years to come.

C2- Mackenzy Bernadeau


Bernadeau is such a unique player for the Cowboys to have, a few years ago we were ready to get rid of him. Mackenzy played better in his second year at right guard but was eventually replaced by All-Pro Zack Martin. Now Bernadeau serves multiple purposes not only as a backup guard but center as well. He is versatile enough to play all interior positions and really gives Dallas a luxury on their young line. If the Cowboys should ever have to call his number, they would be in better position than most teams could say.

C3- Shane McDermott


McDermott will have to move the earth to be able to make this roster and probably is outside the bubble of a practice squad player too. He was a three-year starter at Miami and is a very high effort type of player according to scouts. However, he has below average strength and cannot hold blocks for very long. His lack of athleticism also gets him in trouble and he doesn't play with much power either. McDermott is likely here to help the Cowboys get through camp, but he doesn't have much upside to offer.

My take: The only improvement to see here is what Frederick will be with another year under his belt. With him being such a young player and already making the Pro Bowl, the Cowboys look to be solid for years to come. It's nice to know that an experienced player such as Bernadeau is behind him. As far as the depth chart is concerned, I would be surprised to see a change this year. All should be status quo in the center position.

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Did the Dallas Cowboys improve at center?

• Yes
• No
• Same

44 votes | Results

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