DMN Blog: Jay Ratliff is proof that everything isn't going wrong at Valley Ranch

[WoodysGirl]

Jay Ratliff is proof that everything isn't going wrong at Valley Ranch

2:53 PM Sun, Feb 08, 2009 | Permalink | Yahoo! Buzz
Tim MacMahon E-mail News tips

At the end of a radio appearance this week, I was asked if I could point to anything positive about the Cowboys right now.

The first name that popped to my mind: NT Jay Ratliff.

Here's a guy who came to Valley Ranch as a seventh-round pick, fought for a roster spot and earned a significant role. During his first season as a starter, the Cowboys identified him as a core player and signed him to a five-year, $20.5 million extension that looks like a bargain now with him in the Pro Bowl.

If every Cowboy took Ratliff's hard-working, high-motor, humble approach, this team might have lived up to its lofty expectations.

The closest Ratliff has come to controversy came during training camp, when he was hesitant about the experiment with him at defensive end, his original pro position. He quickly decided to just shut up and play whatever position he was told.

In Calvin "Lucky" Watkins' story today, Ratliff made it clear that he's prepared to play end if asked, a strong possibility with his good buddy Chris Canty's probable departure in free agency.

"Just give me the pads," Ratliff said, "and I'll do my best."

P.S. If you're bored enough to watch the Pro Bowl, feel free to discuss the game in the comments.


Comments (3) Leave comment | E-mail entry

 

[Big Dakota]

The scouting staff is really doing their job in recent years and to Jerry's credit he's allowed them more input since Tuna left and it shows.

 

[Arch Stanton]

I wish Rat would stand up and become leader of the defense.

 

[Dave_in-NC]

Jay Ratliff is proof that everything isn't going wrong at Valley Ranch

2:53 PM Sun, Feb 08, 2009 | Permalink | Yahoo! Buzz
Tim MacMahon E-mail News tips

At the end of a radio appearance this week, I was asked if I could point to anything positive about the Cowboys right now.

The first name that popped to my mind: NT Jay Ratliff.

Here's a guy who came to Valley Ranch as a seventh-round pick, fought for a roster spot and earned a significant role. During his first season as a starter, the Cowboys identified him as a core player and signed him to a five-year, $20.5 million extension that looks like a bargain now with him in the Pro Bowl.

If every Cowboy took Ratliff's hard-working, high-motor, humble approach, this team might have lived up to its lofty expectations.
The closest Ratliff has come to controversy came during training camp, when he was hesitant about the experiment with him at defensive end, his original pro position. He quickly decided to just shut up and play whatever position he was told.

In Calvin "Lucky" Watkins' story today, Ratliff made it clear that he's prepared to play end if asked, a strong possibility with his good buddy Chris Canty's probable departure in free agency.

"Just give me the pads," Ratliff said, "and I'll do my best."

P.S. If you're bored enough to watch the Pro Bowl, feel free to discuss the game in the comments.


Comments (3) Leave comment | E-mail entry

Exactly