cowboyjoe
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OK, here is my team report, It's kinda long, and with one of my new found friends, A Dallas Cowboys fan too, his help, encouragement too.
CowboyJoe’s Report on the Dallas Cowboys
CowboyJoe’s Report on the Dallas Cowboys
July 24th, 2009 Team Report
My thoughts on the Cowboys, Needs, Strengths and Weaknesses
We all know as loyal Dallas Cowboys fans that the bulls eye is squarely on Tony Romo now leading into the 2009 season. With the break-up of his ex girlfriend Jessica Simpson, & the release of certain players like T O, PacMan, and Tank Johnson, we could see the Romo friendly atmosphere Jerry was refering to.
There are some doubts now leading into this season with Romo’s lack of winning in December the last 3 years. Tony Romo’s percentage is way down from the start of the season. You can contribute that to the possibility of lack of dedication by Romo to be the true leader, or not staying in shape throughout the season. There were stories during mini-camp that Romo had gained some weight in the rear end. Only time will tell now, if Romo is ready to take over, be more mature and lead this team to Super Bowls.
We all know how you win with chemistry first in the NFL , not win first, then chemistry starts to develop like Jerry Jones has stated several times.
The Cowboys have taken that first big huge step by getting rid of certain players that I mentioned above.
If you have looked at star teams that won multiple superbowls, teams like the Steelers, Patriots, Cowboys in 70’s and 90’s, 49ers and Broncos, those teams had super star QB’s like Bradshaw, Staubach, Aikman, Montana and Elway. I believe in winning with super star QB’s. not just a QB that drives the bus like Parcells mentions. So, comparing those QB’s, especially 2 of the Dallas Cowboys finest in Staubach and Aikman, with super bowl rings on their fingers for their resume, Tony Romo is starting to look like Craig Morton of the Dallas Cowboys or Danny White. Those are both Dallas Cowboys QB’s in the 70’s and 80’s whom couldn’t win the big game when you needed to win just by the QB. Sometimes in a game, the QB has to step up, become that leader and win that must game by himself so to speak like Staubach or Aikman did in their career.
With a combined 5-10 career record in December and January, including two first-round losses in the playoffs, Romo is starting to get the label of not being able to win the big game. As a loyal Cowboy fan, the Seattle loss and the loss to the Giants in Texas Stadium that the Dallas Cowboys should have won truely hurt.
One of my favorite sayings is, "No More Excuses"! It is now time for Tony Romo to step up.
The Dallas Cowboys or you could say Jerry Jones, has done everything they could in the world to allow for Tony Romo's success. This lead to the team's decision to release controversial receiver Terrell Owens. Who was a problem in the huddle and the locker room, depending on whose opinion is heard. Along with his release was Pacman, Tank Johnson, and Tony Curtis. These moves should give Romo full control of the team, with no more distractions for the Dallas Cowboys and Romo.
Which brings us to another thought of mine, this team must get back to smash mouth football, not glitz and glamour like Jerry Jones possibly likes. Even Jessica Simpson and Tony Romo no longer seeing each other, has positive sides for the Cowboys. It’s like Nate Newton once said; "In pro football, you have no time for girlfriends, or all of the glitz and glamour. Your total energy should be on the Dallas Cowboys during the season, not distractions.
CAMP CALENDAR: Players report to camp in San Antonio July 28. The first practice is July 29. Camp ends Aug. 19. Here is the Cowboys' training camp schedule from the official team site (walkthroughs in bold):
Wednesday, July 29 -- 2:15 p.m.
Thursday, July 30 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Friday, July 31 -- 2:15 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 1 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 2 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 3 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 4 -- 2:15 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 5 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 6 -- 2:15 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 7 -- 2:15 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 8 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 9 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 10 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 11 -- 2:15 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 12 -- 10:45 a.m.
Thursday, Aug. 13 -- No practice (9 p.m. preseason game in Oakland)
Friday, Aug. 14 -- No practice
Saturday, Aug. 15 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 16 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 17 -- 2:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 18 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 19 -- 10:45 a.m.
Teams Personnel Analysis
QUARTERBACKS: Starter -- DALL Quarterback HGT WGT Speed RATING
Starter 9 ROMO Tony 6- 2.3 232 4.77 599.80
Backup 3 KITNA Jon 6- 1.0 217 4.77=2 0562.44
McGEE Stephen 6- 3.0 217 4.62 397.80
We all know how the Cowboys suffered when Romo went down last year with an injury, and Brad (Too Old) Johnson took over for the Cowboys. So, needing a better backup QB, the Cowboys fixed that need by signing Kitna and drafting McGee for the future. Jerry Jones even said that McGee had some Romo type scrambling ability. Kitna will help Romo by his leadership in the locker room and presence on the field. If you remember also WR Roy Williams whom came from Detroit too, know each other. So, Kitna should be able to show Romo and Jason Garrett, Roy Williams strengths and weaknesses in the passing game.
Stephen McGee could be the quarterback of the future. Reports are that he is very unrefined in the passing game, due to not playing in a pro style offense at Texas A & M. Yet, the Cowboys have liked what they saw of McGee at the combine, and in mini camp.
RUNNING BACKS: Starter
　
DALL Running Back HGT WGT Speed RATING
24 BARBER Marion III 5-11.3 232 4.64 577.07
28 JONES Felix 5-10.2 207 4.44 520.06
23 CHOICE Tashard 5-10.5 214 4.52 449.82
30 COLEMAN Alonzo 5-11.0 208 4.49 399.79
DALL Fullback HGT WGT Speed RATING
34 ANDERSON Deon 5-10.0 243 4.72 459.06 0
CROSSLIN Julius - 5-11.0 244 4.78 398.73
SCHWAPP Asaph 6- 0.0 239 4.64 293.59 -- FB Asaph Schwapp- has a long ways to go to make the team. Lattimore has an outside chance, but doubtful.
The running back position is the first strength of the Dallas Cowboys football team.
With the departure of T O, the Cowboys should, and take note that I said should build their offense around the running game. The main key to this will be what Jason Garrett, a former QB for the Cowboys, does towards passing and running. I think we all saw that the 2007 season was largely due to Sparano calling the plays in to Garrett from upstairs in the booth that year. With 2 full years under his belt, Jason Garrett should do a better job of mixing the run and pass, as well as the assistant coaches sending in signals to Garrett from upstairs according to what they see on the field. Now with Barber (the Barbarian), Felix (the slick cat), and Choice a mixture of Barber & Felix together, the Cowboys should have a very good tandem of running backs. Similar to the New York Giants earth, wind and fire combination. So, you should be able to see a more balanced attack with screens, draws, play action and passing to the backs out of the backfield. Felix is the pure game breaker on offense, that can change the game in an instant, like Tony Dorsett used to do with his game breaking speed. Choice can spell Barber some in tough runs, to allow Barber not to be beaten up so much at the end of the year.
TIGHT ENDS:
DALL Tight End HGT WGT Speed RATING
82 WITTEN Jason 6- 5.0 273 4.84 628.65
80 BENNETT Martellus 6- 5.8 259 4.69 461.02
85 PHILLIPS John 6- 5.4 251 4.77 399.79
87 CHANDLER Scott 6- 6.4 267 4.82 392.15
0 HANNAH Rodney 6- 6.0 249 4.78 387.67
The TE position is one of the strengths of the team now, just like the running back position.
Witten is a five-time Pro Bowler and Tony Romo's most trusted pass catcher. He has caught at least 60 passes in each of the last five years and holds almost all of the Cowboys tight end receiving records. Yes, most of all the TE records, and that means beating Jay Novachek and Doug Cosbie. He caught 81 passes last season. The 6-7 Bennett is a big-time target and could be the go-to guy in the red zone. He caught four touchdowns on just 20 receptions last season.
More important, Bennett is more focused than ever and is ready to tap into his enormous potential. He and Witten could be the best tight end tandem in the league. In fact reports were out of mini-camp that Bennett was being used some at WR position in certain offensive packages. Phillips, a rookie, should fill the all-important, do-everything role of the third tight end. Don’t forget Rodney Hannah who has superior speed and size too. Hannah had a broken hand at mini camp, but due to his limited exposure at TE. Mainly due to not playing football till his senior year at college. Hannah has a chance to really blossom under John Garrett the TE’s coach. Adding into the mixture for Rodney is his great leaping ability, due to playing basketball like Bennett.
WIDE RECEIVERS:
DALL Wide Reciever HGT WGT Speed RATING
WILLIAMS Roy 6- 2.4 215 4.44 609.53
84 CRAYTON Patrick - 6- 0.0 207 4.53 604.91
19 AUSTIN Myles 6- 2.0 204 4.42 507.45
17 HURD Sam ., 6- 2.2 195 4.60 459.22 81
WILSON Travis . 6- 2.0 214 4.47 433.23
REID Willie 5-10.4 189 4.37 427.24 0
JEFFERSON Mike 6- 2.4 200 4.55 389.76
OGLETREE Kevin 6- 1.4 198 4.38 373.16 1
JOHNSON Manuel 5-10.3 187 4.45 326.24
HAWKINS Julian 6- 3.0 234 4.65 322.42
86 STANBACK Isaiah 6- 3.0 206 4.55 373.66
Regardless of the philosophy known as "Addition by Subtraction", the team must replace the procuction of Owens -- namely three straight double-digit touchdown seasons. The test for this team will be if the Cowboys can get over the distraction that T O caused in the locker room and move on towards winning as a unified team.
Roy Williams was acquired from Detroit for three draft picks last season, but there are questions about his ability to be the No. 1 receiver. He has worked all off season to get on the same page with Romo, this is a strong plus. Also, reports were that Roy Williams put more time in the weight room more then he ever did in Detroit. The jury will be out on Roy throughout the season, so he must step up as a number one WR.
Crayton became a very capable No. 3 receiver; whether he can be a No. 2 is unknown. They are hoping that the speedy Miles Austin, who has 18 career catches, will have a breakout season. He will be counted on to replace Owens as the downfield big-play threat.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN: Starters --
DALL Center HGT WGT Speed RATING
65 GURODE Andre 6- 3.6 318 5.28 721.00 0
GIBBONS Ryan -- 6- 5.2 318 5.02 379.84
DALL Right Guard HGT WGT Speed RATING
75 DAVIS Leonard 6- 6.0 363 5.57 623.02
70 HOLLAND Montrae 6- 1.6 326 5.19 520.
77 BRIGHT Travis 6- 5.0 304 5.19 354.01
DALL Left Guard HGT WGT Speed RATING
63 KOSIER Kyle 6- 4.7 293 5.06 640.54
71 PROCTOR Cory . 6- 4.6 305 5.25 461.
58 ISDANER Greg 6- 3.6 324 5.27 363.53
DALL Right Tackle HGT WGT Speed RATING
75 COLUMBO Marc 6- 7.8 318 5.39 627.16 0
McQUISTAN Pat 6- 6.2 314 5.10 396.89
BREWSTER Robert 6- 5.0 324 5.32 367.29
DALL Left Tackle HGT WGT Speed RATING
76 ADAMS Flozell 6- 7.0 328 5.39 585.97 0 FREE Doug 6- 6.2 318 5.22 435.15 TURKOVICH Mike 6- 6.0 305 5.36 292.34
This is the make or break it position for the Dallas With 2 pro bowlers in Gurode and Davis, with back to back Pro Bowl seasons, they must anchor the draw and runs up the middle.
The glue to the whole offensive line is Kosier. The Cowboys must have him back healthy. A lot of people don’t know that Kosier helped call plays at the line of scrimmage, somewhat helping Gurode out. At the same time, yelling and telling Flozell Adams the plays when they walked up to the line of scrimmage.
Having Holland to anchor in at backup OG and Center will truly help the Cowboys. Frankly folks, Proctor just can’t cut it as a OC or OG. Too many times you would see Proctor get shoved back in the QB’s face or just stand there looking down field at the line of scrimmage while the defensive linemen would go around Proctor and sack the QB.
Marco Columbo is someone that the Cowboys definitely need on the offensive line. He has a nasty nature to him. Need I remind you of the game against Tampa Bay last year where Columbo mixed it up against a linebacker. That’s what this team needs some nastiness on the offensive line.
Flozell Adams was hurt somewhat last year, due to an injured finger and his shoulder that he couldn’t raise up above his head in 3 critical games last year. Which brings my biggest concern for the team, backups at OT. Granted Robert Brewster is a rookie, but he must show something, while getting on the field here and there to get a feel for the game. It’s like the first year Erik Williams was with the Cowboys. The great Reggie White beat him on his alley oop move, and Erik responded, that will never happen again next year. Which it didn’t because of one main thing, Erik Williams got that taste his first year, didn’t sit on the bench like several of our offensive linemen did last year. Why in the world wasn’t Doug Free in some to play for Flozell when he was injured. Or why wasn’t your main backup linemen that the Cowboys had at OG and OT, Joe Berger. Berger never played a down last year on the offensive line. For instance after the Cowboys had gotten blown out in the Ram game and the Eagle game, why was Flozell Adams still playing and not Doug Free or Berger.
This is one of the weakness of Head Coach Wade Phillips. If you remember last year, Wade said I don’t trust Felix on kickoff returns, but when Miles Austin got hurt, Wade had to play Felix. You saw the results, and the same thing happened with Choice. Wade said, I don’t trust Tasard Choice in the running game, but when Barber got hurt, you sw the results. Now this leads me to thinking that either the offensive line coach, and offensive coaches aren’t doing their jobs by coaching up these players. It’s their jobs to coach them up and get them ready for the game. To many times, we heard Wade Phillips say that the Cowboys got out played on offense, defense and special teams, as well as coaching. Sounds like to me, some serious coaching wasn’t being done last year. Let’s hope that the Camp Cupcake issue is to be no more, that players will be made to hit in practice and practice hard. Not be given days off, after they lose a ball game like they did after the Cardinal game.
Which brings us to the issue about accountability, players and coaches must be held accountable. The Dallas Cowboys players and coaches were held accountable by Wade this year. Example this year in the mini camp was when Robert Brewster went in when Columbo had a false start in mini camp. Marco Columbo showed the rookie aside and told him to get back off of the field. That’s one of the big keys to this whole year, players and coaches being made accountable. For one instance, Wade Phillips hollered across the field at Jason Garrett for not doing something right on the field. Exactly what the Head Coach is suppose to do, if Jason Garrett didn’t like it, then do your job right Jason. No more excuses, do your job. The big questions are on the left side where Adams is in full decline and Kosier is coming off a foot fracture that sidelined him last season. Maligned in the past, the Cowboys and fans didn't realize Kosier's true value until he was gone. Now they hope he can return to form. And even still that might not be enough because Holland has held the position throughout the off-season and has the body the prefer at the position. Adams, 34, gave up 7.25 sacks and was flagged for 12 penalties last season. Yet ,Flozell Adams is one of the biggest offensive linemen that the Cowboys have, and Adams is the biggest mauler that the Cowboys have too. Bigg Leonard Davis must step up to, and help the Cowboys become one of the elite offensive lines in the league.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN: Starters
DALL Right Dee End HGT WGT Speed RATING
OLSHANSKY Igor 6- 5.2 315 4.99 682.56
72 BOWEN Stephen 6- 5.0 306 4.99 455.41 0
ROBINSON Derrick 6- 4.2 289 5.01 392.67
WILLIAMS Brandon ,, 6- 2.5 254 4.81 383.75 0
DIXON Marcus 6- 4.0 295 5.25 333.11
DALL Left Dee End HGT WGT Speed RATING
96 SPEARS Marcus 6- 4.0 304 4.96 602.48
97 HATCHER Jason 6- 5.7 289 4.88 449.95
BUTLER Victor 6- 2.4 241 4.63 381.27 0
DALL Nose Guard HGT WGT Speed RATING
90 RATLIFF Jay 6- 3.6 293 4.91 727.
67 0 ANDERSON Tim 6- 3.2 317 5.12 436.25 0
SIAVIL Junior 6- 4.4 344 5.11 418.36
SEAWRIGHT Jonas 6- 6.0 334 5.42 408.11
The best defender that the Dallas Cowboys have on the defensive line is Jay Ratliff.
Ratliff is the bell cow on the defensive line. The former seventh-round pick notched 7.5 sacks and made the Pro Bowl last season. The Cowboys and mainly Wade Phillips as Head Coach and defensive coordinator are expecting even more this season from Ratliff, as well as Ratliff. What most of you are not probably aware of, Jay Ratliff was one of the main Cowboys a week after the Pro Bowl, Ratliff was seen back at valley ranch working out, getting tougher and stronger. Now, that’s the type of leader this team needs on defense. I can tell you because I have listened to Jay on numerous occasions on some sports shows, and Jay is fired up, really ticked off by the way the season ended. Jay’s motto now is Shut up and Play! Biggest question, and could be a weakness of the Cowboys is no true backup at NT. With the release of Tank Johnson in free agency, Junior Siavii will get a crack at the backup NT job. Wade Phillips was real high on this kid. Another player to keep your eye on is Jonas Seawright. Jonas was formerly with the Giants, and the Giants are great=2 0at developing defensive linemen. Seawright is a huge defensive linemen at 6-6 334, something that the Cowboys need a big body in the middle of the line to spell Ratliff. So, Jay Ratliff doesn’t wear down at the end of the year, because the NT specially in big running plays should be a big huge NT to clog up the middle of the line, so the linebackers can make the plays. That’s how the 3-4 defense works.
Not sure if some of you are aware or not, but I was a big homer on Chris Canty. I think we will miss him more then the Cowboys can release, but hopefully I am wrong. In Canty’s place the Cowboys signed Igor Olshansky, now this guy is huge, and really strong, but his quickness and moves to get away from offensive linemen is lacking. I am hoping that Marcus Spears can teach him some of the things that the Great Randy White showed Marcus at his big mans camp. Also, Randy White is going to training camp, hopefully Randy can give Igor some tips at camp on martial arts and hand technique. I talked to another great defensive linemen Bob Lily, who told me that to him, the Cowboys were in great physical shape weight room wise, but they needed to be in hitting shape. Bob went on to say to him, the Cowboys needed to be hitting more and get used to being hit more in training camp, while also saying that the Cowboys defenders obviously needed some technique work for the defensive line. Next, we have Marcus Spears who went to the Randy White big man’s camp for martial arts in using hand technique to keep offensive linemen off of the defensive linemen. I expect great things from Marcus this year, because Marcus is also motivated to play well this year. Due to being in the last year of his contract. Players generally play better the last year of their contract, so they can make that money the following year in free agency. Another area that will help the Cowboys tremendously is having Wade Phillips as head coach and defensive coordinator. Reports have been even from Bradie James that Wade is more focused in meetings and teaching aspects. Then, on top of that, this is the 3rd year under Wade’s defense so the players should be more focused in knowing their assignments and playing better. As you probably know Igor Olshansky is familar with Phillip’s defense when Wade was defensive coordinator with the Chargers. Yes, camp has been more intense this year in mini camp and OTA’s. I will cover that more in the next segment in the linebacker section with what Bradie James said about Wade being too soft. Finally, another kid to keep your eye on is Marcus Dixon, the head trainer really talked about how Dixon is stronger, and more ready to play this year after working out in the off-season hard. So, expect great things from this kid too.
LINEBACKERS: Starters --
DALL Weak Backer HGT WGT Speed RATING
94 WARE Demarcus . 6- 4.0 259 4.62 824.09 0
STEWART Matt . 6- 3.0 236 4.74 446.72 50
ROGERS Justin . 6- 3.2 252 4.76 409.63 0
WILLIAMS Jason 6- 0.8 238 4.49 398.89
DALL Strong Backer HGT WGT Speed RATING
BROOKINS Keith 6- 2.0 246 4.68 661.83
93 SPENCER Anthony 6- 2.8 261 4.64 530.98 0
OCTAVIEN Steve 6- 0.0 252 4.67 371.99
DALL Strong Middle Backer HGT WGT Speed RATING
56 JAMES Brady 6- 1.3 248 4.63 591.65
54 CARPENTER Bobby 6- 3.0 252 4.62 470.49
If there is any question mark, it's at the strong-side outside linebacker position where Spencer will finally take over for the departed Greg Ellis. Spencer, a first-round pick in 2007, has double-digit sack potential but he has yet to put it all together. The key will be if when Spencer does get banged up some if he can play through that pain, and Wade push him. Butler and Williams, rookies who both make the transition from college defensive end, are the primary backups. I am real high on Brandon Williams, keep your eye on this player, he has a great first step. Williams reminds me of a young Tony Tolbert, but able to play outside linebacker and DE if need be.
I think we all agree that Demarcus Ware is the league's most feared pass rusher and is a perennial defensive player of the year candidate. I don’t think Demarcus will get as many sacks this year like last year, but he will still be a force. He has led the team in tackles in each of the last four years, including 206 last season Brooking was signed to replace Zach Thomas alongside James at inside linebacker. He is aging but comfortable in the Phillips 3-4. Brooking played his first 11 seasons in Atlanta, including 2002-03 when Phillips was the Atlanta Falcons' defensive coordinator. Now, this is the key to the defense and the linebackers this year. Bradie James said the other day that if the media hadn’t focused on Wade being soft, or having a camp cupcake, that the players would have gotten the last day of mini camp off from working out in the heat in Dallas this year. Yet, that didn’t happen, because Wade got tougher, woke up and realized that you need to push these players and make them accountable. That the ideal of them being professionals, keeping in shape, studying film etc., didn’t work, but you have to work on the players sorta like Jimmy Johnson and Parcells did. That’s a real good sign from what I heard about mini camp.
DEFENSIVE BACKS: CB S
DALL Right Corner HGT WGT Speed RATING
41 NEWMAN Terrence 5-10.4 188 4.27 651.34
0 HAWKINS Mike 6- 1.5 191 4.41 438.55
0 SCANDRICK Orlando 5-10.0 192 4.33 413.41
SMITH DeAngelo 5-10.7 191 4.52 358.78
DALL Left Corner HGT WGT Speed RATING
31 JENKINS Mike 5-10.2 197 4.38 509.61
20 BALL Alan 6- 1.0 183 4.52 447.74
MICKENS Mike 5-11.5 186 4.53 369.49
DALL Free Safety HGT WGT Speed RATING
26 HAMLIN Ken 6- 2.4 207 4.54 580.73
27 BROWN Courtney , 6- 1.4 200 4.38 412.45
0 CARTER Jerome 5-11.5 219 4.63 410.72
DALL Strong Safety HGT WGT Speed RATING
SENSABAUGH Gerald 6- 0.4 214 4.57 504.37
25 WATKINS Pat 6- 4.6 211 4.48 436.27
HODGE Stephen 5-11.6 234 4.54 385.30
25 HAMLIN Michael 6- 2.4 207 4.58 366.74
Newman is healthy again and primed for a big season. There will be a little war between the other 2 top flight CB’s in Jenkins and Stanback. Nevertheless, even if Stanback who has star elite CB written all over himself, stays at covering the slot WR that isn’t a bad thing. If you remember, Newman on obvious key passing downs would move to cover the inside slot wide receiver, but now Stanback can do that. Jenkins seems to have finally understood what being a number one pick means, gotten stronger, quicker in off-season. Only time will tell, but keep your eye on Jenkins too. Another young cornerback to keep your eye on is Mike Mickens, a very good cover cornerback, who has elite speed and coverage ability to he had a knee injury his senior year. Mickens reminds me of a young safety like Ed Reed but able to play cornerback. Another player to keep your eyes on is Hawkins, a cornerback from Oklahoma, ( who was drafted by the Packers in the 3rd round I believe and was having a great camp till he got hurt) who has great speed and coverage ability. Finally, which I think was a great move, the Cowboys moved Courtney Brown back to corner, after his try at safety last year didn’t pan out. Brown has superior speed in the 40 with 4.38 in the 40 yard dash. If Brown’s or Hawkins heart is really for the game, either one of these players along with Mickens could make the Cowboys the next strongest position at cornerback. Hamlin is coming off a down season, which might have been the byproduct of injuries and constant lineup changes around him. Sensabaugh replaces Roy Williams the safety from Oklahoma who left for Cincinnati. Sensabaugh signed a one-year deal. He's better in coverage and just as good a tackler, which makes him an upgrade. Alot of fans from Jacksonville are saying how that Sensabaugh can really cover and hit too. Plus the fact, Sensabaugh is a very good special teams player too. Fifth-round picks Smith (Cincinnati) and Hamlin (Clemson) will provide depth at safety.
SPECIAL TEAMS: PK P
DALL Long Snapper HGT WGT Speed RATING 0
LADOUCEUR LP 6- 4.2 255 5.16 351.75
DALL Kicker HGT WGT Speed RATING 0
FOLK Nicholas 6- 2.0 190 4.80 390.91
BUEHLER David 6- 2.0 218 4.58 388.34
DALL PUNTER HGT WGT Speed RATING
1 McBRAIR Matt 6- 0.0 210 4.88 394.07 0
PAULESCU Sam 6- 0 .0 195 4.85 374.32
Wade Phillips has finally woken up and made special teams a priority. We all remember the fiasco in the Cardinal game, Ram game and the Pittsburgh game, where the Cowboys were leading against the Steelers and the punter pooched a ball, and steelers got a good return. The Cowboys drafted Buehler to be their kickoff specialist, which should lead to longer distances that opposing offenses won’t have great field position or return a kickoff or punt for a score. With Felix Jones, Austin, Stanback, the Cowboys should have a game breaker to two on kickoff returns.
Crayton is a sure clutch punt returner, but little to be desired. Keep you eye on Willie Reid; REID Willie 5-10.4 189 4.37 427.24 0. Reid was a great punt returner in college.
Finally, with our new special teams coach, and players drafted mainly for special teams like Hodge, Brandon Williams, Beuhler, Jason Williams, our special teams should be a very strong point by mid season. I seriously doubt that the Cowboys will resign Keith Davis, but keep in the back of your mind that no other team signed Keith Davis after he was cut by the Dolphins last year, and the Cowboys signed Davis start of the regular season.
CowboyJoe’s Report on the Dallas Cowboys
CowboyJoe’s Report on the Dallas Cowboys
July 24th, 2009 Team Report
My thoughts on the Cowboys, Needs, Strengths and Weaknesses
We all know as loyal Dallas Cowboys fans that the bulls eye is squarely on Tony Romo now leading into the 2009 season. With the break-up of his ex girlfriend Jessica Simpson, & the release of certain players like T O, PacMan, and Tank Johnson, we could see the Romo friendly atmosphere Jerry was refering to.
There are some doubts now leading into this season with Romo’s lack of winning in December the last 3 years. Tony Romo’s percentage is way down from the start of the season. You can contribute that to the possibility of lack of dedication by Romo to be the true leader, or not staying in shape throughout the season. There were stories during mini-camp that Romo had gained some weight in the rear end. Only time will tell now, if Romo is ready to take over, be more mature and lead this team to Super Bowls.
We all know how you win with chemistry first in the NFL , not win first, then chemistry starts to develop like Jerry Jones has stated several times.
The Cowboys have taken that first big huge step by getting rid of certain players that I mentioned above.
If you have looked at star teams that won multiple superbowls, teams like the Steelers, Patriots, Cowboys in 70’s and 90’s, 49ers and Broncos, those teams had super star QB’s like Bradshaw, Staubach, Aikman, Montana and Elway. I believe in winning with super star QB’s. not just a QB that drives the bus like Parcells mentions. So, comparing those QB’s, especially 2 of the Dallas Cowboys finest in Staubach and Aikman, with super bowl rings on their fingers for their resume, Tony Romo is starting to look like Craig Morton of the Dallas Cowboys or Danny White. Those are both Dallas Cowboys QB’s in the 70’s and 80’s whom couldn’t win the big game when you needed to win just by the QB. Sometimes in a game, the QB has to step up, become that leader and win that must game by himself so to speak like Staubach or Aikman did in their career.
With a combined 5-10 career record in December and January, including two first-round losses in the playoffs, Romo is starting to get the label of not being able to win the big game. As a loyal Cowboy fan, the Seattle loss and the loss to the Giants in Texas Stadium that the Dallas Cowboys should have won truely hurt.
One of my favorite sayings is, "No More Excuses"! It is now time for Tony Romo to step up.
The Dallas Cowboys or you could say Jerry Jones, has done everything they could in the world to allow for Tony Romo's success. This lead to the team's decision to release controversial receiver Terrell Owens. Who was a problem in the huddle and the locker room, depending on whose opinion is heard. Along with his release was Pacman, Tank Johnson, and Tony Curtis. These moves should give Romo full control of the team, with no more distractions for the Dallas Cowboys and Romo.
Which brings us to another thought of mine, this team must get back to smash mouth football, not glitz and glamour like Jerry Jones possibly likes. Even Jessica Simpson and Tony Romo no longer seeing each other, has positive sides for the Cowboys. It’s like Nate Newton once said; "In pro football, you have no time for girlfriends, or all of the glitz and glamour. Your total energy should be on the Dallas Cowboys during the season, not distractions.
CAMP CALENDAR: Players report to camp in San Antonio July 28. The first practice is July 29. Camp ends Aug. 19. Here is the Cowboys' training camp schedule from the official team site (walkthroughs in bold):
Wednesday, July 29 -- 2:15 p.m.
Thursday, July 30 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Friday, July 31 -- 2:15 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 1 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 2 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 3 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 4 -- 2:15 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 5 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 6 -- 2:15 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 7 -- 2:15 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 8 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 9 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 10 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 11 -- 2:15 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 12 -- 10:45 a.m.
Thursday, Aug. 13 -- No practice (9 p.m. preseason game in Oakland)
Friday, Aug. 14 -- No practice
Saturday, Aug. 15 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 16 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 17 -- 2:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 18 -- 8:50 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 19 -- 10:45 a.m.
Teams Personnel Analysis
QUARTERBACKS: Starter -- DALL Quarterback HGT WGT Speed RATING
Starter 9 ROMO Tony 6- 2.3 232 4.77 599.80
Backup 3 KITNA Jon 6- 1.0 217 4.77=2 0562.44
McGEE Stephen 6- 3.0 217 4.62 397.80
We all know how the Cowboys suffered when Romo went down last year with an injury, and Brad (Too Old) Johnson took over for the Cowboys. So, needing a better backup QB, the Cowboys fixed that need by signing Kitna and drafting McGee for the future. Jerry Jones even said that McGee had some Romo type scrambling ability. Kitna will help Romo by his leadership in the locker room and presence on the field. If you remember also WR Roy Williams whom came from Detroit too, know each other. So, Kitna should be able to show Romo and Jason Garrett, Roy Williams strengths and weaknesses in the passing game.
Stephen McGee could be the quarterback of the future. Reports are that he is very unrefined in the passing game, due to not playing in a pro style offense at Texas A & M. Yet, the Cowboys have liked what they saw of McGee at the combine, and in mini camp.
RUNNING BACKS: Starter
　
DALL Running Back HGT WGT Speed RATING
24 BARBER Marion III 5-11.3 232 4.64 577.07
28 JONES Felix 5-10.2 207 4.44 520.06
23 CHOICE Tashard 5-10.5 214 4.52 449.82
30 COLEMAN Alonzo 5-11.0 208 4.49 399.79
DALL Fullback HGT WGT Speed RATING
34 ANDERSON Deon 5-10.0 243 4.72 459.06 0
CROSSLIN Julius - 5-11.0 244 4.78 398.73
SCHWAPP Asaph 6- 0.0 239 4.64 293.59 -- FB Asaph Schwapp- has a long ways to go to make the team. Lattimore has an outside chance, but doubtful.
The running back position is the first strength of the Dallas Cowboys football team.
With the departure of T O, the Cowboys should, and take note that I said should build their offense around the running game. The main key to this will be what Jason Garrett, a former QB for the Cowboys, does towards passing and running. I think we all saw that the 2007 season was largely due to Sparano calling the plays in to Garrett from upstairs in the booth that year. With 2 full years under his belt, Jason Garrett should do a better job of mixing the run and pass, as well as the assistant coaches sending in signals to Garrett from upstairs according to what they see on the field. Now with Barber (the Barbarian), Felix (the slick cat), and Choice a mixture of Barber & Felix together, the Cowboys should have a very good tandem of running backs. Similar to the New York Giants earth, wind and fire combination. So, you should be able to see a more balanced attack with screens, draws, play action and passing to the backs out of the backfield. Felix is the pure game breaker on offense, that can change the game in an instant, like Tony Dorsett used to do with his game breaking speed. Choice can spell Barber some in tough runs, to allow Barber not to be beaten up so much at the end of the year.
TIGHT ENDS:
DALL Tight End HGT WGT Speed RATING
82 WITTEN Jason 6- 5.0 273 4.84 628.65
80 BENNETT Martellus 6- 5.8 259 4.69 461.02
85 PHILLIPS John 6- 5.4 251 4.77 399.79
87 CHANDLER Scott 6- 6.4 267 4.82 392.15
0 HANNAH Rodney 6- 6.0 249 4.78 387.67
The TE position is one of the strengths of the team now, just like the running back position.
Witten is a five-time Pro Bowler and Tony Romo's most trusted pass catcher. He has caught at least 60 passes in each of the last five years and holds almost all of the Cowboys tight end receiving records. Yes, most of all the TE records, and that means beating Jay Novachek and Doug Cosbie. He caught 81 passes last season. The 6-7 Bennett is a big-time target and could be the go-to guy in the red zone. He caught four touchdowns on just 20 receptions last season.
More important, Bennett is more focused than ever and is ready to tap into his enormous potential. He and Witten could be the best tight end tandem in the league. In fact reports were out of mini-camp that Bennett was being used some at WR position in certain offensive packages. Phillips, a rookie, should fill the all-important, do-everything role of the third tight end. Don’t forget Rodney Hannah who has superior speed and size too. Hannah had a broken hand at mini camp, but due to his limited exposure at TE. Mainly due to not playing football till his senior year at college. Hannah has a chance to really blossom under John Garrett the TE’s coach. Adding into the mixture for Rodney is his great leaping ability, due to playing basketball like Bennett.
WIDE RECEIVERS:
DALL Wide Reciever HGT WGT Speed RATING
WILLIAMS Roy 6- 2.4 215 4.44 609.53
84 CRAYTON Patrick - 6- 0.0 207 4.53 604.91
19 AUSTIN Myles 6- 2.0 204 4.42 507.45
17 HURD Sam ., 6- 2.2 195 4.60 459.22 81
WILSON Travis . 6- 2.0 214 4.47 433.23
REID Willie 5-10.4 189 4.37 427.24 0
JEFFERSON Mike 6- 2.4 200 4.55 389.76
OGLETREE Kevin 6- 1.4 198 4.38 373.16 1
JOHNSON Manuel 5-10.3 187 4.45 326.24
HAWKINS Julian 6- 3.0 234 4.65 322.42
86 STANBACK Isaiah 6- 3.0 206 4.55 373.66
Regardless of the philosophy known as "Addition by Subtraction", the team must replace the procuction of Owens -- namely three straight double-digit touchdown seasons. The test for this team will be if the Cowboys can get over the distraction that T O caused in the locker room and move on towards winning as a unified team.
Roy Williams was acquired from Detroit for three draft picks last season, but there are questions about his ability to be the No. 1 receiver. He has worked all off season to get on the same page with Romo, this is a strong plus. Also, reports were that Roy Williams put more time in the weight room more then he ever did in Detroit. The jury will be out on Roy throughout the season, so he must step up as a number one WR.
Crayton became a very capable No. 3 receiver; whether he can be a No. 2 is unknown. They are hoping that the speedy Miles Austin, who has 18 career catches, will have a breakout season. He will be counted on to replace Owens as the downfield big-play threat.
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN: Starters --
DALL Center HGT WGT Speed RATING
65 GURODE Andre 6- 3.6 318 5.28 721.00 0
GIBBONS Ryan -- 6- 5.2 318 5.02 379.84
DALL Right Guard HGT WGT Speed RATING
75 DAVIS Leonard 6- 6.0 363 5.57 623.02
70 HOLLAND Montrae 6- 1.6 326 5.19 520.
77 BRIGHT Travis 6- 5.0 304 5.19 354.01
DALL Left Guard HGT WGT Speed RATING
63 KOSIER Kyle 6- 4.7 293 5.06 640.54
71 PROCTOR Cory . 6- 4.6 305 5.25 461.
58 ISDANER Greg 6- 3.6 324 5.27 363.53
DALL Right Tackle HGT WGT Speed RATING
75 COLUMBO Marc 6- 7.8 318 5.39 627.16 0
McQUISTAN Pat 6- 6.2 314 5.10 396.89
BREWSTER Robert 6- 5.0 324 5.32 367.29
DALL Left Tackle HGT WGT Speed RATING
76 ADAMS Flozell 6- 7.0 328 5.39 585.97 0 FREE Doug 6- 6.2 318 5.22 435.15 TURKOVICH Mike 6- 6.0 305 5.36 292.34
This is the make or break it position for the Dallas With 2 pro bowlers in Gurode and Davis, with back to back Pro Bowl seasons, they must anchor the draw and runs up the middle.
The glue to the whole offensive line is Kosier. The Cowboys must have him back healthy. A lot of people don’t know that Kosier helped call plays at the line of scrimmage, somewhat helping Gurode out. At the same time, yelling and telling Flozell Adams the plays when they walked up to the line of scrimmage.
Having Holland to anchor in at backup OG and Center will truly help the Cowboys. Frankly folks, Proctor just can’t cut it as a OC or OG. Too many times you would see Proctor get shoved back in the QB’s face or just stand there looking down field at the line of scrimmage while the defensive linemen would go around Proctor and sack the QB.
Marco Columbo is someone that the Cowboys definitely need on the offensive line. He has a nasty nature to him. Need I remind you of the game against Tampa Bay last year where Columbo mixed it up against a linebacker. That’s what this team needs some nastiness on the offensive line.
Flozell Adams was hurt somewhat last year, due to an injured finger and his shoulder that he couldn’t raise up above his head in 3 critical games last year. Which brings my biggest concern for the team, backups at OT. Granted Robert Brewster is a rookie, but he must show something, while getting on the field here and there to get a feel for the game. It’s like the first year Erik Williams was with the Cowboys. The great Reggie White beat him on his alley oop move, and Erik responded, that will never happen again next year. Which it didn’t because of one main thing, Erik Williams got that taste his first year, didn’t sit on the bench like several of our offensive linemen did last year. Why in the world wasn’t Doug Free in some to play for Flozell when he was injured. Or why wasn’t your main backup linemen that the Cowboys had at OG and OT, Joe Berger. Berger never played a down last year on the offensive line. For instance after the Cowboys had gotten blown out in the Ram game and the Eagle game, why was Flozell Adams still playing and not Doug Free or Berger.
This is one of the weakness of Head Coach Wade Phillips. If you remember last year, Wade said I don’t trust Felix on kickoff returns, but when Miles Austin got hurt, Wade had to play Felix. You saw the results, and the same thing happened with Choice. Wade said, I don’t trust Tasard Choice in the running game, but when Barber got hurt, you sw the results. Now this leads me to thinking that either the offensive line coach, and offensive coaches aren’t doing their jobs by coaching up these players. It’s their jobs to coach them up and get them ready for the game. To many times, we heard Wade Phillips say that the Cowboys got out played on offense, defense and special teams, as well as coaching. Sounds like to me, some serious coaching wasn’t being done last year. Let’s hope that the Camp Cupcake issue is to be no more, that players will be made to hit in practice and practice hard. Not be given days off, after they lose a ball game like they did after the Cardinal game.
Which brings us to the issue about accountability, players and coaches must be held accountable. The Dallas Cowboys players and coaches were held accountable by Wade this year. Example this year in the mini camp was when Robert Brewster went in when Columbo had a false start in mini camp. Marco Columbo showed the rookie aside and told him to get back off of the field. That’s one of the big keys to this whole year, players and coaches being made accountable. For one instance, Wade Phillips hollered across the field at Jason Garrett for not doing something right on the field. Exactly what the Head Coach is suppose to do, if Jason Garrett didn’t like it, then do your job right Jason. No more excuses, do your job. The big questions are on the left side where Adams is in full decline and Kosier is coming off a foot fracture that sidelined him last season. Maligned in the past, the Cowboys and fans didn't realize Kosier's true value until he was gone. Now they hope he can return to form. And even still that might not be enough because Holland has held the position throughout the off-season and has the body the prefer at the position. Adams, 34, gave up 7.25 sacks and was flagged for 12 penalties last season. Yet ,Flozell Adams is one of the biggest offensive linemen that the Cowboys have, and Adams is the biggest mauler that the Cowboys have too. Bigg Leonard Davis must step up to, and help the Cowboys become one of the elite offensive lines in the league.
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN: Starters
DALL Right Dee End HGT WGT Speed RATING
OLSHANSKY Igor 6- 5.2 315 4.99 682.56
72 BOWEN Stephen 6- 5.0 306 4.99 455.41 0
ROBINSON Derrick 6- 4.2 289 5.01 392.67
WILLIAMS Brandon ,, 6- 2.5 254 4.81 383.75 0
DIXON Marcus 6- 4.0 295 5.25 333.11
DALL Left Dee End HGT WGT Speed RATING
96 SPEARS Marcus 6- 4.0 304 4.96 602.48
97 HATCHER Jason 6- 5.7 289 4.88 449.95
BUTLER Victor 6- 2.4 241 4.63 381.27 0
DALL Nose Guard HGT WGT Speed RATING
90 RATLIFF Jay 6- 3.6 293 4.91 727.
67 0 ANDERSON Tim 6- 3.2 317 5.12 436.25 0
SIAVIL Junior 6- 4.4 344 5.11 418.36
SEAWRIGHT Jonas 6- 6.0 334 5.42 408.11
The best defender that the Dallas Cowboys have on the defensive line is Jay Ratliff.
Ratliff is the bell cow on the defensive line. The former seventh-round pick notched 7.5 sacks and made the Pro Bowl last season. The Cowboys and mainly Wade Phillips as Head Coach and defensive coordinator are expecting even more this season from Ratliff, as well as Ratliff. What most of you are not probably aware of, Jay Ratliff was one of the main Cowboys a week after the Pro Bowl, Ratliff was seen back at valley ranch working out, getting tougher and stronger. Now, that’s the type of leader this team needs on defense. I can tell you because I have listened to Jay on numerous occasions on some sports shows, and Jay is fired up, really ticked off by the way the season ended. Jay’s motto now is Shut up and Play! Biggest question, and could be a weakness of the Cowboys is no true backup at NT. With the release of Tank Johnson in free agency, Junior Siavii will get a crack at the backup NT job. Wade Phillips was real high on this kid. Another player to keep your eye on is Jonas Seawright. Jonas was formerly with the Giants, and the Giants are great=2 0at developing defensive linemen. Seawright is a huge defensive linemen at 6-6 334, something that the Cowboys need a big body in the middle of the line to spell Ratliff. So, Jay Ratliff doesn’t wear down at the end of the year, because the NT specially in big running plays should be a big huge NT to clog up the middle of the line, so the linebackers can make the plays. That’s how the 3-4 defense works.
Not sure if some of you are aware or not, but I was a big homer on Chris Canty. I think we will miss him more then the Cowboys can release, but hopefully I am wrong. In Canty’s place the Cowboys signed Igor Olshansky, now this guy is huge, and really strong, but his quickness and moves to get away from offensive linemen is lacking. I am hoping that Marcus Spears can teach him some of the things that the Great Randy White showed Marcus at his big mans camp. Also, Randy White is going to training camp, hopefully Randy can give Igor some tips at camp on martial arts and hand technique. I talked to another great defensive linemen Bob Lily, who told me that to him, the Cowboys were in great physical shape weight room wise, but they needed to be in hitting shape. Bob went on to say to him, the Cowboys needed to be hitting more and get used to being hit more in training camp, while also saying that the Cowboys defenders obviously needed some technique work for the defensive line. Next, we have Marcus Spears who went to the Randy White big man’s camp for martial arts in using hand technique to keep offensive linemen off of the defensive linemen. I expect great things from Marcus this year, because Marcus is also motivated to play well this year. Due to being in the last year of his contract. Players generally play better the last year of their contract, so they can make that money the following year in free agency. Another area that will help the Cowboys tremendously is having Wade Phillips as head coach and defensive coordinator. Reports have been even from Bradie James that Wade is more focused in meetings and teaching aspects. Then, on top of that, this is the 3rd year under Wade’s defense so the players should be more focused in knowing their assignments and playing better. As you probably know Igor Olshansky is familar with Phillip’s defense when Wade was defensive coordinator with the Chargers. Yes, camp has been more intense this year in mini camp and OTA’s. I will cover that more in the next segment in the linebacker section with what Bradie James said about Wade being too soft. Finally, another kid to keep your eye on is Marcus Dixon, the head trainer really talked about how Dixon is stronger, and more ready to play this year after working out in the off-season hard. So, expect great things from this kid too.
LINEBACKERS: Starters --
DALL Weak Backer HGT WGT Speed RATING
94 WARE Demarcus . 6- 4.0 259 4.62 824.09 0
STEWART Matt . 6- 3.0 236 4.74 446.72 50
ROGERS Justin . 6- 3.2 252 4.76 409.63 0
WILLIAMS Jason 6- 0.8 238 4.49 398.89
DALL Strong Backer HGT WGT Speed RATING
BROOKINS Keith 6- 2.0 246 4.68 661.83
93 SPENCER Anthony 6- 2.8 261 4.64 530.98 0
OCTAVIEN Steve 6- 0.0 252 4.67 371.99
DALL Strong Middle Backer HGT WGT Speed RATING
56 JAMES Brady 6- 1.3 248 4.63 591.65
54 CARPENTER Bobby 6- 3.0 252 4.62 470.49
If there is any question mark, it's at the strong-side outside linebacker position where Spencer will finally take over for the departed Greg Ellis. Spencer, a first-round pick in 2007, has double-digit sack potential but he has yet to put it all together. The key will be if when Spencer does get banged up some if he can play through that pain, and Wade push him. Butler and Williams, rookies who both make the transition from college defensive end, are the primary backups. I am real high on Brandon Williams, keep your eye on this player, he has a great first step. Williams reminds me of a young Tony Tolbert, but able to play outside linebacker and DE if need be.
I think we all agree that Demarcus Ware is the league's most feared pass rusher and is a perennial defensive player of the year candidate. I don’t think Demarcus will get as many sacks this year like last year, but he will still be a force. He has led the team in tackles in each of the last four years, including 206 last season Brooking was signed to replace Zach Thomas alongside James at inside linebacker. He is aging but comfortable in the Phillips 3-4. Brooking played his first 11 seasons in Atlanta, including 2002-03 when Phillips was the Atlanta Falcons' defensive coordinator. Now, this is the key to the defense and the linebackers this year. Bradie James said the other day that if the media hadn’t focused on Wade being soft, or having a camp cupcake, that the players would have gotten the last day of mini camp off from working out in the heat in Dallas this year. Yet, that didn’t happen, because Wade got tougher, woke up and realized that you need to push these players and make them accountable. That the ideal of them being professionals, keeping in shape, studying film etc., didn’t work, but you have to work on the players sorta like Jimmy Johnson and Parcells did. That’s a real good sign from what I heard about mini camp.
DEFENSIVE BACKS: CB S
DALL Right Corner HGT WGT Speed RATING
41 NEWMAN Terrence 5-10.4 188 4.27 651.34
0 HAWKINS Mike 6- 1.5 191 4.41 438.55
0 SCANDRICK Orlando 5-10.0 192 4.33 413.41
SMITH DeAngelo 5-10.7 191 4.52 358.78
DALL Left Corner HGT WGT Speed RATING
31 JENKINS Mike 5-10.2 197 4.38 509.61
20 BALL Alan 6- 1.0 183 4.52 447.74
MICKENS Mike 5-11.5 186 4.53 369.49
DALL Free Safety HGT WGT Speed RATING
26 HAMLIN Ken 6- 2.4 207 4.54 580.73
27 BROWN Courtney , 6- 1.4 200 4.38 412.45
0 CARTER Jerome 5-11.5 219 4.63 410.72
DALL Strong Safety HGT WGT Speed RATING
SENSABAUGH Gerald 6- 0.4 214 4.57 504.37
25 WATKINS Pat 6- 4.6 211 4.48 436.27
HODGE Stephen 5-11.6 234 4.54 385.30
25 HAMLIN Michael 6- 2.4 207 4.58 366.74
Newman is healthy again and primed for a big season. There will be a little war between the other 2 top flight CB’s in Jenkins and Stanback. Nevertheless, even if Stanback who has star elite CB written all over himself, stays at covering the slot WR that isn’t a bad thing. If you remember, Newman on obvious key passing downs would move to cover the inside slot wide receiver, but now Stanback can do that. Jenkins seems to have finally understood what being a number one pick means, gotten stronger, quicker in off-season. Only time will tell, but keep your eye on Jenkins too. Another young cornerback to keep your eye on is Mike Mickens, a very good cover cornerback, who has elite speed and coverage ability to he had a knee injury his senior year. Mickens reminds me of a young safety like Ed Reed but able to play cornerback. Another player to keep your eyes on is Hawkins, a cornerback from Oklahoma, ( who was drafted by the Packers in the 3rd round I believe and was having a great camp till he got hurt) who has great speed and coverage ability. Finally, which I think was a great move, the Cowboys moved Courtney Brown back to corner, after his try at safety last year didn’t pan out. Brown has superior speed in the 40 with 4.38 in the 40 yard dash. If Brown’s or Hawkins heart is really for the game, either one of these players along with Mickens could make the Cowboys the next strongest position at cornerback. Hamlin is coming off a down season, which might have been the byproduct of injuries and constant lineup changes around him. Sensabaugh replaces Roy Williams the safety from Oklahoma who left for Cincinnati. Sensabaugh signed a one-year deal. He's better in coverage and just as good a tackler, which makes him an upgrade. Alot of fans from Jacksonville are saying how that Sensabaugh can really cover and hit too. Plus the fact, Sensabaugh is a very good special teams player too. Fifth-round picks Smith (Cincinnati) and Hamlin (Clemson) will provide depth at safety.
SPECIAL TEAMS: PK P
DALL Long Snapper HGT WGT Speed RATING 0
LADOUCEUR LP 6- 4.2 255 5.16 351.75
DALL Kicker HGT WGT Speed RATING 0
FOLK Nicholas 6- 2.0 190 4.80 390.91
BUEHLER David 6- 2.0 218 4.58 388.34
DALL PUNTER HGT WGT Speed RATING
1 McBRAIR Matt 6- 0.0 210 4.88 394.07 0
PAULESCU Sam 6- 0 .0 195 4.85 374.32
Wade Phillips has finally woken up and made special teams a priority. We all remember the fiasco in the Cardinal game, Ram game and the Pittsburgh game, where the Cowboys were leading against the Steelers and the punter pooched a ball, and steelers got a good return. The Cowboys drafted Buehler to be their kickoff specialist, which should lead to longer distances that opposing offenses won’t have great field position or return a kickoff or punt for a score. With Felix Jones, Austin, Stanback, the Cowboys should have a game breaker to two on kickoff returns.
Crayton is a sure clutch punt returner, but little to be desired. Keep you eye on Willie Reid; REID Willie 5-10.4 189 4.37 427.24 0. Reid was a great punt returner in college.
Finally, with our new special teams coach, and players drafted mainly for special teams like Hodge, Brandon Williams, Beuhler, Jason Williams, our special teams should be a very strong point by mid season. I seriously doubt that the Cowboys will resign Keith Davis, but keep in the back of your mind that no other team signed Keith Davis after he was cut by the Dolphins last year, and the Cowboys signed Davis start of the regular season.
