JJ does not want to be too aggressive in FA, but

[Woods]

I think he's going to have to pick up at least 1 starter during the FA process.

Specifically, IF we decide not to re-sign Canty, Burnett, and Z Thomas, and we decide to cut R Williams, I don't think we can fill 3 potential starting positions with this draft class alone.

In fact, an argument can be made that even filling 1 starting spot with a rookie would be a job well done (assuming we got a quality starter in the draft, of course) - esp as we don't have our Round 1 pick.

My guess is that JJ will hold on to Roy Williams until after the Draft, and he will then make a decision whether or not to cut him.

However, I think JJ will have to either pick up a capable NT or DE in FA and/or a reasonably priced ILB.

Again, neither guy has to be a stud, but just a solid, blue collar worker.

I don't think JJ can go into the Draft with potentially 3 holes on defense - and all potentially starting positions.

Opinions?

 

[Texan_Eph89]

I agree. If anything, I think we'll draft a big NT, mover Ratt to DE, get an ILB through the draft/or sign a FA, and draft a FS. Backup QB is also a thought since both out backups are good as gone. Prob. one through FA and a 3rd through the draft.

We'll see.

 

[jday]

I think he's going to have to pick up at least 1 starter during the FA process.

Specifically, IF we decide not to re-sign Canty, Burnett, and Z Thomas, and we decide to cut R Williams, I don't think we can fill 3 potential starting positions with this draft class alone.

In fact, an argument can be made that even filling 1 starting spot with a rookie would be a job well done (assuming we got a quality starter in the draft, of course) - esp as we don't have our Round 1 pick.

My guess is that JJ will hold on to Roy Williams until after the Draft, and he will then make a decision whether or not to cut him.

However, I think JJ will have to either pick up a capable NT or DE in FA and/or a reasonably priced ILB.

Again, neither guy has to be a stud, but just a solid, blue collar worker.

I don't think JJ can go into the Draft with potentially 3 holes on defense - and all potentially starting positions.

Opinions?

I agree. If it comes to losing Burnett, Z. Thomas, Canty, Tank Johnson (who likely also will be gone), and the possible release of Roy Williams, the draft is not going to be the place to go for these positions. Beside that, conventional drafting wisdom provides that drafting for need over talent is a huge mistake. The draft last year just happened to be deep in positions the Cowboys had a need.

On the other hand, I personally hope the Cowboys resign these players, because the free agency is going to most likely cost the Cowboys more than player retention will, as far as those positions go.

 

[Woods]

I agree. If it comes to losing Burnett, Z. Thomas, Canty, Tank Johnson (who likely also will be gone), and the possible release of Roy Williams, the draft is not going to be the place to go for these positions. Beside that, conventional drafting wisdom provides that drafting for need over talent is a huge mistake. The draft last year just happened to be deep in positions the Cowboys had a need.

On the other hand, I personally hope the Cowboys resign these players, because the free agency is going to most likely cost the Cowboys more than player retention will, as far as those positions go.

I don't see the Cowboys re-signing Canty or Burnett. I think they will fare well in FA.

I hope I'm wrong though.

As for Z Thomas, I don't know. Maybe he wants to stick around 1 more year, but that said, I'm not sure if he's really the best suited for our 34. Even he had some reservations. I guess the coaches will decide.

I think it's quite possible all 3 of those guys could be gone for one reason or another, however.

And as for R Williams, I would be surprised if JJ pays that type of salary for a 2-down player. I guess RW stays if he restructures "enough", and if JJ can't get someone decent in the draft.

 

[SLATEmosphere]

I still think Jerry goes for Ray Lewis WHEN Burnett and Zach both go. There will be a gigantic hole at the ILB. It just makes so much sense that Jerry splurges just ONE big FA this year..whether it be Ray,Andra Davis,Bart Scott or Dansby. I also see some minor signings in the secondary.