Upgrade: offensive guard vs defensive tackle

jblaze2004

jblaze2004

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I like Booker and think he will be good but I though Brock Hoffman came and played pretty well. Heck once Martin went down our offensive line actually looked decent providing Rico some room in the running game and in pass protection. I thought tackles (Steele and Guyton) were the big issues on the oline.

From Chatgpt with sources sited:

Brock Hoffman​

In the 2024 NFL season, Brock Hoffman served as a versatile interior lineman for the Dallas Cowboys, stepping in at right guard following Zack Martin's injury and also making appearances at center. Here's a detailed breakdown of his performance and rankings:PFF+1SI+1



PFF Grades and Rankings (2024 Season)​


  • Overall Grade: 66.3 (Ranked 44th out of 136 qualifying guards)
  • Run-Blocking Grade: 68.9 (39th/136)
  • Pass-Blocking Grade: 62.1 (69th/136)PFF+2PFF+2PFF+2

These grades position Hoffman as an average to slightly above-average guard overall, with his run-blocking being a relative strength compared to his pass protection. PFF



Positional Breakdown​


  • Snaps at Right Guard: 387 (18th most among all guards)
  • Snaps at Center: 109
  • Snaps at Left Guard: 19PFF

Hoffman primarily played at right guard, especially after Martin's season-ending injury, but his ability to fill in at center and left guard showcases his versatility on the offensive line. Dallas Cowboys+1SI+1



Performance Highlights​


  • Pass Protection: Allowed only 6 total pressures and 1 sack across 286 pass-blocking snaps, resulting in a pass-blocking efficiency of 98.7, ranking among the top offensive linemen in 2024. M Sports+1PFF+1
  • Thanksgiving Game Performance: In the Cowboys' Thanksgiving game, Hoffman earned a 76.8 overall grade (6th among all offensive linemen that day), with an 87.6 pass-blocking grade (2nd) and allowed zero pressures. PFF+2SI+2Log in or sign up to view+2


Contextual Analysis​


Hoffman's 2024 season marked a significant step forward in his development. Transitioning from a backup role, he demonstrated the ability to handle starting responsibilities, particularly at right guard. His performance in run-blocking situations was solid, and while his pass protection had room for improvement, the low number of pressures and sacks allowed indicates a reliable presence on the line.


His standout performance on Thanksgiving highlighted his potential to excel under pressure, and his versatility in playing multiple interior line positions adds valuable depth to the Cowboys' offensive front.Dallas Cowboys+2SI+2Log in or sign up to view+2



Outlook​


As Hoffman continues to gain experience and refine his technique, particularly in pass protection, he has the potential to solidify a more permanent role on the Cowboys' offensive line. His 2024 season laid a strong foundation, and with continued development, he could become a key contributor in the years ahead.



Mazi Smith​

In the 2024 NFL season, Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Mazi Smith faced significant challenges but showed signs of improvement as the year progressed. Here's a detailed analysis of his performance, including Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades and rankings:



PFF Grades and Rankings (2024 Season)​


  • Overall Grade: 34.8 (Ranked 207th out of 219 qualifying defensive interior players)
  • Pass-Rushing Grade: 49.6 (209th/219)
  • Run Defense Grade: 35.9 (201st/219)PFF

These grades indicate that Smith struggled in both pass-rushing and run defense throughout the season .PFF



Season Statistics​



While Smith's tackle numbers were respectable, his pass-rushing impact was limited, as evidenced by his low pressure count .Reddit



Performance Progression​


Smith's performance showed notable improvement in the second half of the season:


  • Weeks 1–9: Overall Grade: 29.5 (139th out of 139 defensive tackles)
  • Weeks 10–18: Overall Grade: 50.9 PFFBlogging The Boys

This progression suggests that while Smith started the season as the lowest-graded defensive tackle, he managed to elevate his play significantly in the latter half .PFF



Contextual Analysis​


Smith's early-season struggles were attributed to difficulties in both anchoring against the run and generating pass rush. However, as the season progressed, he demonstrated improved technique and confidence, leading to better performance metrics. Coaches noted his increased consistency and effectiveness in executing defensive schemes .



Outlook​


Given his late-season improvement, Smith has the potential to develop into a more consistent contributor on the Cowboys' defensive line. Continued focus on technique refinement and adaptation to the professional level will be crucial for his progression in the upcoming seasons.
 
DT absolutely needs addressed still, but we need to stop overrating Brock Hoffman. Solid player, but a limited player. He had a couple great game, but started to fall off as more tape got out on him. Carolina, Tampa, and Philly games to end the year had a ton of red flags on the guy. Excellent depth, but you want to upgrade the position if you can which the Cowboys have clearly prioritized this offseason both via the draft and FA.
 
thunderpimp91 said:
DT absolutely needs addressed still, but we need to stop overrating Brock Hoffman. Solid player, but a limited player. He had a couple great game, but started to fall off as more tape got out on him. Carolina, Tampa, and Philly games to end the year had a ton of red flags on the guy. Excellent depth, but you want to upgrade the position if you can which the Cowboys have clearly prioritized this offseason both via the draft and FA.
Click to expand...
+1
 
To me, the highest upside at #12 would of been a DT. They could of had their choice with Nolen, but he fell, Harmon or Grant.

Smith has struggled, and it's not like Osa plays 100% of the snaps.

Dallas could of gone into TC with Bass, Hoffman, Richard, day 2/3 guard to compete at RG.
Would of they had the same upside as Booker? Probably not.
But, is that upside worth a better prospect at DT? To be determined.

I'm fine with passing on RB/WR/DE etc...
But DT is in a bad position. Just cause they gave Osa 20mil and Smith is entering his 3rd year there's no guarantee there's going to be growth from either one.
 
John813 said:
To me, the highest upside at #12 would of been a DT. They could of had their choice with Nolen, but he fell, Harmon or Grant.

Smith has struggled, and it's not like Osa plays 100% of the snaps.

Dallas could of gone into TC with Bass, Hoffman, Richard, day 2/3 guard to compete at RG.
Would of they had the same upside as Booker? Probably not.
But, is that upside worth a better prospect at DT? To be determined.

I'm fine with passing on RB/WR/DE etc...
But DT is in a bad position. Just cause they gave Osa 20mil and Smith is entering his 3rd year there's going to be growth from either one.
Click to expand...
Amen
 
big dog cowboy said:
There is a reason the Cowboys got Booker. He walks in the 2nd best OG on the team.
Click to expand...
Absolutely. 2 year starter for a major program/conference that is the prototypical NFL guard size. Its about as safe a pick as youll see for a plug and play starter.
 
thunderpimp91 said:
DT absolutely needs addressed still, but we need to stop overrating Brock Hoffman. Solid player, but a limited player. He had a couple great game, but started to fall off as more tape got out on him. Carolina, Tampa, and Philly games to end the year had a ton of red flags on the guy. Excellent depth, but you want to upgrade the position if you can which the Cowboys have clearly prioritized this offseason both via the draft and FA.
Click to expand...
Yup.

Hoffman is UFA after the season.

He’s on a 1Y 1M contract.

He’s gone after the season.
 
jblaze2004 said:
I like Booker and think he will be good but I though Brock Hoffman came and played pretty well. Heck once Martin went down our offensive line actually looked decent providing Rico some room in the running game and in pass protection. I thought tackles (Steele and Guyton) were the big issues on the oline.

From Chatgpt with sources sited:

Brock Hoffman​

In the 2024 NFL season, Brock Hoffman served as a versatile interior lineman for the Dallas Cowboys, stepping in at right guard following Zack Martin's injury and also making appearances at center. Here's a detailed breakdown of his performance and rankings:PFF+1SI+1



PFF Grades and Rankings (2024 Season)​


  • Overall Grade: 66.3 (Ranked 44th out of 136 qualifying guards)
  • Run-Blocking Grade: 68.9 (39th/136)
  • Pass-Blocking Grade: 62.1 (69th/136)PFF+2PFF+2PFF+2

These grades position Hoffman as an average to slightly above-average guard overall, with his run-blocking being a relative strength compared to his pass protection. PFF



Positional Breakdown​


  • Snaps at Right Guard: 387 (18th most among all guards)
  • Snaps at Center: 109
  • Snaps at Left Guard: 19PFF

Hoffman primarily played at right guard, especially after Martin's season-ending injury, but his ability to fill in at center and left guard showcases his versatility on the offensive line. Dallas Cowboys+1SI+1



Performance Highlights​


  • Pass Protection: Allowed only 6 total pressures and 1 sack across 286 pass-blocking snaps, resulting in a pass-blocking efficiency of 98.7, ranking among the top offensive linemen in 2024. M Sports+1PFF+1
  • Thanksgiving Game Performance: In the Cowboys' Thanksgiving game, Hoffman earned a 76.8 overall grade (6th among all offensive linemen that day), with an 87.6 pass-blocking grade (2nd) and allowed zero pressures. PFF+2SI+2Log in or sign up to view+2


Contextual Analysis​


Hoffman's 2024 season marked a significant step forward in his development. Transitioning from a backup role, he demonstrated the ability to handle starting responsibilities, particularly at right guard. His performance in run-blocking situations was solid, and while his pass protection had room for improvement, the low number of pressures and sacks allowed indicates a reliable presence on the line.


His standout performance on Thanksgiving highlighted his potential to excel under pressure, and his versatility in playing multiple interior line positions adds valuable depth to the Cowboys' offensive front.Dallas Cowboys+2SI+2Log in or sign up to view+2



Outlook​


As Hoffman continues to gain experience and refine his technique, particularly in pass protection, he has the potential to solidify a more permanent role on the Cowboys' offensive line. His 2024 season laid a strong foundation, and with continued development, he could become a key contributor in the years ahead.



Mazi Smith​

In the 2024 NFL season, Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Mazi Smith faced significant challenges but showed signs of improvement as the year progressed. Here's a detailed analysis of his performance, including Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades and rankings:



PFF Grades and Rankings (2024 Season)​


  • Overall Grade: 34.8 (Ranked 207th out of 219 qualifying defensive interior players)
  • Pass-Rushing Grade: 49.6 (209th/219)
  • Run Defense Grade: 35.9 (201st/219)PFF

These grades indicate that Smith struggled in both pass-rushing and run defense throughout the season .PFF



Season Statistics​



While Smith's tackle numbers were respectable, his pass-rushing impact was limited, as evidenced by his low pressure count .Reddit



Performance Progression​


Smith's performance showed notable improvement in the second half of the season:


  • Weeks 1–9: Overall Grade: 29.5 (139th out of 139 defensive tackles)
  • Weeks 10–18: Overall Grade: 50.9 PFFBlogging The Boys

This progression suggests that while Smith started the season as the lowest-graded defensive tackle, he managed to elevate his play significantly in the latter half .PFF



Contextual Analysis​


Smith's early-season struggles were attributed to difficulties in both anchoring against the run and generating pass rush. However, as the season progressed, he demonstrated improved technique and confidence, leading to better performance metrics. Coaches noted his increased consistency and effectiveness in executing defensive schemes .



Outlook​


Given his late-season improvement, Smith has the potential to develop into a more consistent contributor on the Cowboys' defensive line. Continued focus on technique refinement and adaptation to the professional level will be crucial for his progression in the upcoming seasons.
Click to expand...
this is the perfect example of how statistics are not everything

Hoffman is good and solid and that is all

Mazi is a bust at this point.
 
Nolen would've been the guy at DT. Great player, excellent resume against SEC talent. More of a 3T and we have Osa locked in. Mazi was brought in because his physical traits set him apart from traditional 1Ts. Obviously he hasn't lived up to the hype, but the thing about 1Ts is you can find good ones later in the draft, and we have a bunch of picks in the back half. Find a guy later to compete with Mazi and if both fail, use some of that cap space to bring someone in.

I think what it came down to was do we want to spend 12 for a rotational player to compete with the freshly signed, highly paid 3T in place, or do we fill the void left by Martin and bring in a full time starter. Personally I wanted Warren, but I can see what they were thinking here. Time will tell whether Booker was the right choice, but on paper, the OL is looking really good for years to come.
 
Last edited:
John813 said:
To me, the highest upside at #12 would of been a DT. They could of had their choice with Nolen, but he fell, Harmon or Grant.

Smith has struggled, and it's not like Osa plays 100% of the snaps.

Dallas could of gone into TC with Bass, Hoffman, Richard, day 2/3 guard to compete at RG.
Would of they had the same upside as Booker? Probably not.
But, is that upside worth a better prospect at DT? To be determined.

I'm fine with passing on RB/WR/DE etc...
But DT is in a bad position. Just cause they gave Osa 20mil and Smith is entering his 3rd year there's no guarantee there's going to be growth from either one.
Click to expand...
Mazi has a GTD contract.

Two more seasons.
 
If we are playing more of a Marinelli 'get upfield first' style defense then I think people's hope for a Mazi replacement is going to lead to disappointment. I think this is why we paid Osi, because he can play that way. There are some DTs out there that can shoot the gaps that may be there in the 2nd or 3rd.
 
It doesnt matter with whatever analytics you choose to follow.
The bottom line is this team's most desperate need is to stop the run. Period.

When they're getting gashed up the gut because of a failed project Mazi and Odiggys not so great run stopping skill just maybe some of y'all will remember the draft and the opportunity that presented itself.

Tyler Booker ain't stopping the run.
 
pansophy said:
If we are playing more of a Marinelli 'get upfield first' style defense then I think people's hope for a Mazi replacement is going to lead to disappointment. I think this is why we paid Osi, because he can play that way. There are some DTs out there that can shoot the gaps that may be there in the 2nd or 3rd.
Click to expand...
Thought I would never see Marinelli and Defense mentioned again.
 
thunderpimp91 said:
DT absolutely needs addressed still, but we need to stop overrating Brock Hoffman. Solid player, but a limited player. He had a couple great game, but started to fall off as more tape got out on him. Carolina, Tampa, and Philly games to end the year had a ton of red flags on the guy. Excellent depth, but you want to upgrade the position if you can which the Cowboys have clearly prioritized this offseason both via the draft and FA.
Click to expand...
Thank you
 
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