What is needed to fix the offense

Cowboyny

Well-Known Member
Messages
16,686
Reaction score
19,916
-I know many are down on Dak Prescott, but he was never suppose to be a 40 attempt throw guy that can carry the offense on his throwing shoulder. This year he had issues throwing interceptions, which in his past was one of the better QB's in that area. However, when he came back from injury, the Cowboys averaged over 30 points a game, led the league in 3rd down conversions and were apart of the league leaders inside the redzone. Cut down the attempts, believe we will see a more efficient QB. We also have to upgrade the skilled positions around him, which were average at best after Lamb/Pollard.

-Fixing the run game is the first priority. Zeke's cannot return in any capacity. Think the coaches even know it as Pollard was receiving all the carries in the postseason. What to do with Pollard? Not much trend on the tires, but coming off of major injury. Such an explosive player this year and could even be more dangerous if they truly involve him in the team's passing attack. Great running back class this year, where I think franchising Pollard makes the most sense. The front office is going to have to retool the position via the draft. Better running scheme is also needed.

-As for the OL, the rushing offense just wasn't the same after the loss of Terrence Steele, which shows his worth. Many posters made a strong argument that Tyron should return, especially with the health of Steele, which makes some sense. I still would like to see the team add a power G/T in the draft. McGovern is going to be too costly to retain and isn't good enough. Very shortly, Tyron is going to be gone, going to need someone next to Tyler either at Guard or Tackle. This is another area for the team to use the draft. This doesn't have to be a top 100 pick, either.

-You can make an argument, our receivers were among the worse Dak had since he became a starter, outside of that year we traded for Amari Cooper in season. Noah Brown was never expected to be the team's #2 receiver, believe they rushed back Gallup too soon and none of our younger prospects made any impact at all. The passes down field just were non-existent. Shultz is a good receiving TE, but far from elite, but wants to get paid like one. Fixing this area is priority #2, must get more explosive in the passing game.

-Our receivers, outside of Lamb were among the worst in getting separation. Seems like Gallup was always throwing up his hands, rather then fighting for the football, Brown had too many passes bounce off his hands. We need better route runners, need receivers who will go after the football. Now who can we realistically get?

-Team tried to trade for Juedy, Cooks. If OBJ was healthy, he would of been a Cowboy. Hopkins is available but will cost draft compensation and wants a new contract, when the team has to resign Lamb soon. Fa class is weak, draft class isn't considered deep. OBJ fits, but is he healthy enough? I would acquire 1 off of this list and add a player like Randall Cobb again who can upgrade the backend of the group. Cobb makes a lot of sense, especially if MM brings in the WCO and calls the plays.

-As for TE, think they can match Shultz lost production by committee. I would probably add a veteran to the group as they are so young. Also, the TE class is very good this year, even as high as the first round. Think they can save money and be a better overall unit in the process.

-Fixing the coaching, priority #3. We know our OL coach, Philbin was fired and believe Moore might join him. Speculation is that MM's former OL coach may come available and will reunite with him at Dallas. He should be able to run a better scheme on the ground. If that's the case, MM needs to take over the offense and become the team's playcaller. He has a long, successful record as a playcaller, more so then any who is inside the building or available. Allow him to bring in his own scheme and players who fit it. If this is his last season to produce, allow him to have full control.

Offense has to be retooled this offseason, but doesn't need an overhaul, like many believe. Dak isn't going anywhere this season, but he needs to be reigned in and not be the sole reason why we are successful or not. Make him more of a 25 attempt QB, use his legs and our offense will become more efficient. 1 Offensive lineman, from putting together a elite unit, just have to work on upgrading the skilled positions. Think WR gets addressed in fa or the trade market. The rest are more draft priorities, but with deep classes at RB/TE are very feasible.
 

mahoneybill

Well-Known Member
Messages
6,895
Reaction score
4,509
-I know many are down on Dak Prescott, but he was never suppose to be a 40 attempt throw guy that can carry the offense on his throwing shoulder. This year he had issues throwing interceptions, which in his past was one of the better QB's in that area. However, when he came back from injury, the Cowboys averaged over 30 points a game, led the league in 3rd down conversions and were apart of the league leaders inside the redzone. Cut down the attempts, believe we will see a more efficient QB. We also have to upgrade the skilled positions around him, which were average at best after Lamb/Pollard.

-Fixing the run game is the first priority. Zeke's cannot return in any capacity. Think the coaches even know it as Pollard was receiving all the carries in the postseason. What to do with Pollard? Not much trend on the tires, but coming off of major injury. Such an explosive player this year and could even be more dangerous if they truly involve him in the team's passing attack. Great running back class this year, where I think franchising Pollard makes the most sense. The front office is going to have to retool the position via the draft. Better running scheme is also needed.

-As for the OL, the rushing offense just wasn't the same after the loss of Terrence Steele, which shows his worth. Many posters made a strong argument that Tyron should return, especially with the health of Steele, which makes some sense. I still would like to see the team add a power G/T in the draft. McGovern is going to be too costly to retain and isn't good enough. Very shortly, Tyron is going to be gone, going to need someone next to Tyler either at Guard or Tackle. This is another area for the team to use the draft. This doesn't have to be a top 100 pick, either.

-You can make an argument, our receivers were among the worse Dak had since he became a starter, outside of that year we traded for Amari Cooper in season. Noah Brown was never expected to be the team's #2 receiver, believe they rushed back Gallup too soon and none of our younger prospects made any impact at all. The passes down field just were non-existent. Shultz is a good receiving TE, but far from elite, but wants to get paid like one. Fixing this area is priority #2, must get more explosive in the passing game.

-Our receivers, outside of Lamb were among the worst in getting separation. Seems like Gallup was always throwing up his hands, rather then fighting for the football, Brown had too many passes bounce off his hands. We need better route runners, need receivers who will go after the football. Now who can we realistically get?

-Team tried to trade for Juedy, Cooks. If OBJ was healthy, he would of been a Cowboy. Hopkins is available but will cost draft compensation and wants a new contract, when the team has to resign Lamb soon. Fa class is weak, draft class isn't considered deep. OBJ fits, but is he healthy enough? I would acquire 1 off of this list and add a player like Randall Cobb again who can upgrade the backend of the group. Cobb makes a lot of sense, especially if MM brings in the WCO and calls the plays.

-As for TE, think they can match Shultz lost production by committee. I would probably add a veteran to the group as they are so young. Also, the TE class is very good this year, even as high as the first round. Think they can save money and be a better overall unit in the process.

-Fixing the coaching, priority #3. We know our OL coach, Philbin was fired and believe Moore might join him. Speculation is that MM's former OL coach may come available and will reunite with him at Dallas. He should be able to run a better scheme on the ground. If that's the case, MM needs to take over the offense and become the team's playcaller. He has a long, successful record as a playcaller, more so then any who is inside the building or available. Allow him to bring in his own scheme and players who fit it. If this is his last season to produce, allow him to have full control.

Offense has to be retooled this offseason, but doesn't need an overhaul, like many believe. Dak isn't going anywhere this season, but he needs to be reigned in and not be the sole reason why we are successful or not. Make him more of a 25 attempt QB, use his legs and our offense will become more efficient. 1 Offensive lineman, from putting together a elite unit, just have to work on upgrading the skilled positions. Think WR gets addressed in fa or the trade market. The rest are more draft priorities, but with deep classes at RB/TE are very feasible.
Nice summary
 

Sydla

Well-Known Member
Messages
61,499
Reaction score
94,776
They need to run the ball more and better. They just do.

Parcells was right. If you want to win with Dak you gotta take the ball out of his hands more.

Here's what I would do:

1 - Figure out what they heck you are going to do with the triumverate of Tyler, Tyron and Terrence. If the future is Steele and Smith at the OTs, you can't have Tyron being a $15 million or whatever his cap hit is back up. You just can't.

2 - Bring in a good, vet C or OG. You need to strengthen the interior OL. I think you can get away with Biadasz if you have Martin and a legit LG next to him. Cowboys would never do this as they firmly believe their starters have to come from the draft. Stupid, but whatever.

3 - Bring Pollard back. Cut Zeke. Bring in a good vet TB. Draft another TB in the middle rounds - McIntosh from UGA, Spears from Tulane, Evans from Ole Miss. A guy like that.

4 - Bring in a vet WR - someone better than James Washington. Then draft another. I am not ready to give up on Gallup. It's not uncommon for a guy coming off major injury to take a year to get his feet under him again. Between Lamb, Gallup, Tolbert (not willing to give up on him either), a really good vet and a draft pick - that should be enough to get a really good Top 3 that should help Dak.
 

visionary

Well-Known Member
Messages
28,365
Reaction score
33,314
The fix obviously should be GM, HC, KC, QB but since these are not possible here is what I would do:

1. Understand that if a new system is installed you are talking about a 2 year process not 1

2. New OC. Can’t replace the main reason so have to go to number 2 reason. I would prefer an innovative up and comer from a team like KC or niners

3. Legitimate competition for Dak. The backup cannot be Rush but someone who can compete with Dak in camp to force him to actually improve

4. Tyron has to come back since Steele will not be 100% until well into the season IMO and that better not be the excuse. Unless someone is willing to give us a rd 1-2 pick for him which I doubt

5. Zeke and Pollard both need to go. With a new system your starting TB cannot be on the bench through TC. Get a vet starter in FA who fits the new system and draft one. If Pollard will be 100% to start TC then I can live with it on a franchise tag . You have to have 2-3 legit RBs if your going to be a run heavy team

6. Vet WR with speed. Likely OBJ if he’s ready

7. Draft LOG in rds 1-3. Have to be able to run when the other team knows you will

That’s a start
 

75boyz

Well-Known Member
Messages
8,686
Reaction score
10,536
They've changed head coaches.
They've changed offensive coordinators.
They've changed wide receivers and tight ends.
They've changed offensive linemen.
They've now changed/added a running back.
They even changed the defense and defensive coordinator to offer help.
BUT...
They both PAID and KEPT the SAME quarterback.

I mean...
It's prolly just me.
LOL
 

Fla Cowpoke

Well-Known Member
Messages
12,017
Reaction score
12,037
They need to run the ball more and better. They just do.

Parcells was right. If you want to win with Dak you gotta take the ball out of his hands more.

Here's what I would do:

1 - Figure out what they heck you are going to do with the triumverate of Tyler, Tyron and Terrence. If the future is Steele and Smith at the OTs, you can't have Tyron being a $15 million or whatever his cap hit is back up. You just can't.

2 - Bring in a good, vet C or OG. You need to strengthen the interior OL. I think you can get away with Biadasz if you have Martin and a legit LG next to him. Cowboys would never do this as they firmly believe their starters have to come from the draft. Stupid, but whatever.

3 - Bring Pollard back. Cut Zeke. Bring in a good vet TB. Draft another TB in the middle rounds - McIntosh from UGA, Spears from Tulane, Evans from Ole Miss. A guy like that.

4 - Bring in a vet WR - someone better than James Washington. Then draft another. I am not ready to give up on Gallup. It's not uncommon for a guy coming off major injury to take a year to get his feet under him again. Between Lamb, Gallup, Tolbert (not willing to give up on him either), a really good vet and a draft pick - that should be enough to get a really good Top 3 that should help Dak.
Pretty much agree with you on everything here.

1 - As far as Tyron, I think you have to bring him back because Steele is not a lock to be ready to start the season. He can be restructured to save 6m on the cap this year. Cutting him now saves 10m. For a 4m difference, it is worth bringing him back.

2 - I think Biadasz played pretty well, McGovern is still the biggest weak link. Farniok can replace McGovern, so unless McGovern takes a cheap deal there is no point keeping him. I would like to see us draft another G/C that can compete to start. Aviante Collins and Waletzko should be back as well.

3 - Pollard should be back, and yes, Zeke is a goner. The only debate is pre June or post June. I liked what Davis brought to the table when he played and we should draft a mid rounder at TB.

4 - Wide receiver is the biggest concern. As you said, no one else really gets open besides Lamb. Gallup is basically just a jump ball guy. I would let TY Hilton be the vet addition....he is more than Washington ever was. Hopefully Tolbert was just lost last year. The scouts all felt he was a good pick so he deserves some time. Brown is what he is. A 4th WR. I think we need to go after a stud in the draft.

5 - You didn't mention TE. Schultz is not the guy to pay huge dollars to. Let someone else do it. I think Ferguson, Hendershot and McKeon can provide what Schultz does and we could always supplement that in the draft.

As far as Dak goes, he isn't going anywhere. People need to come to grips with that, so what we have to do is to continue to improve what is around him. Dak is gonna get restructured saving 22m on the cap. We have to use that to bring in some help.
 

Fla Cowpoke

Well-Known Member
Messages
12,017
Reaction score
12,037
They've changed head coaches.
They've changed offensive coordinators.
They've changed wide receivers and tight ends.
They've changed offensive linemen.
They've now changed/added a running back.
BUT...
They both PAID and KEPT the SAME quarterback.

I mean...
It's prolly just me.
LOL
The problem is that they realistically can't get rid of the QB for another year or 2 without drastically affecting their ability to improve the roster.
 

Acceptablename

Well-Known Member
Messages
2,341
Reaction score
1,567
I always appreciate a well written thoughtful piece here on zone. Since we must start accepting that DEK isn’t going anywhere I’ll start there. We’d like one more piece on the offensive line for me that’s the left guard which could be fixed in the first two rounds of the draft. There’s just too much cap spent on two few players. Some have to go. I draft two running backs one early. It’s a week WR clash what can we do in free agency. Doubtful go after a FA Wr. The one question are we a tough team?
 

Sydla

Well-Known Member
Messages
61,499
Reaction score
94,776
I would tag Pollard but not give him a new deal with that injury.

We can’t get stuck in another bad RB contract.
Not sure he's going to be getting a ton of big offers coming off the injury he has.

Cowboys might be able to lock him up for a couple years at a reasonable(ish) rate.
 

CATCH17

1st Round Pick
Messages
67,589
Reaction score
86,037
Not sure he's going to be getting a ton of big offers coming off the injury he has.

Cowboys might be able to lock him up for a couple years at a reasonable(ish) rate.
Yeah I’d be fine with 2 years.

Even if he loses some speed his vision is incredible.

I’d draft Achane too. He’s going to be a lot like Pollard.
 

Sydla

Well-Known Member
Messages
61,499
Reaction score
94,776
Yeah I’d be fine with 2 years.

Even if he loses some speed his vision is incredible.

I’d draft Achane too. He’s going to be a lot like Pollard.
Achane is another guy I would look at. The kid from UCLA as well but I suspect he's going to go in the first couple of rounds. My sweet spot for TBs is in that 3rd to 5th round range. I am not on the Robinson/Gibbs in the first round train.
 
Top