What is needed to fix the offense

plasticman

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First, they need an identity.

Second, they need the players necessary to turn that identity into reality.

Third, they need the type of offensive coaches capable of building the culture that earns that identity.

If they are going to be an old school running team then they need those kind of players. If they are going to be a prolific passing team then they need a different set of players.

The great teams had management with a plan. They stuck to their plan, getting the coaches and players necessary to achieve their goals with that plan.

You don't build a team simply by acquiring as much talent as you can. You have to start with a plan.
 

kskboys

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Scheme the Offense to Dak's strengths, as opposed to fitting Dak into what you want.
 

Creeper

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-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.
Good writeup. I have a few thoughts.

If Tyron is released, Martin is the only OLman with a heft salary. I figure McGovern will get between $8 and $9 million. We know he can play G and C well enough. I thought he did a good job at LG this year. With no one else to turn to, is $9 million really too much? The only reason not to sign him is they want an upgrade. But who? I don't have a problem with a 1st round draft pick on a LG but I'd be happier with McGovern at $8-9 million and a an impact player at CB or DT.

They have to draft some WRs this year, but what we do not know is why Tolbert is in the dog house. If Tolbert has any potential at all, we only need to draft 1 WR. If he is a lost cause they will need to draft 2, 1 high and 1 later.
 

JoeKing

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Winning is needed to fix this offense. Start by getting rid of KM. Let MM do the play calling. Get a new RB coach and QB coach. Hell, get a new O-line coach too! :lmao2:
 

Nexx

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question is.. is it easier to find a true great QB or have a mediocre QB who needs all pro's at every offensive position along with a great coaching staff?
 

Cowboyny

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Good writeup. I have a few thoughts.

If Tyron is released, Martin is the only OLman with a heft salary. I figure McGovern will get between $8 and $9 million. We know he can play G and C well enough. I thought he did a good job at LG this year. With no one else to turn to, is $9 million really too much? The only reason not to sign him is they want an upgrade. But who? I don't have a problem with a 1st round draft pick on a LG but I'd be happier with McGovern at $8-9 million and a an impact player at CB or DT.

They have to draft some WRs this year, but what we do not know is why Tolbert is in the dog house. If Tolbert has any potential at all, we only need to draft 1 WR. If he is a lost cause they will need to draft 2, 1 high and 1 later.
They aren't going to pay McGovern that type of contract, have Forniak who is similar and can play both interior positions. Yes, they need to add another G/T, but if Tyron returns, their plan might be him at LT and Tyler at LG, which will allow development time. Don't have to use a 1st rd pick, especially for an interior player.

With all the struggles the team had at WR, Tolbert couldn't even make it on the active roster, which should tell us that they don't trust him. Really believe they are going to have to add multiple receivers, especially if Shultz leaves. Find a legitimate veteran starter and draft another. Let Tolbert/Semi earn their spots. Brown has priced himself out now and probably won't return.
 

cnuball21

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-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.

OL - I think a healthy Tyron at LT, bumping Tyler to LG and a healthy Steele gets the OL back on track to playing at a very high level next year. That being said I’m not opposed to drafting an OT/G prospect as Tyron has to be close to retirement.

RB - Zeke has to go and Id also let Pollard walk. It's a good FA market so give me a RB under $5 mil and draft a mid rounder.

WR - re kick the tires on a trade for Cooks, Juedy and Hops. If price is way too high like the idea of Mecole Hardman as a FA. Very high in separation metrics (were currently terrible) and finally gives us big time speed. Draft another WR and hopefully you hit OR Tolbert clicks.

TE - let Schultz walk. Confident in Fergy replacing his production and also excellent draft class to add another mid rounder.
 

Big D

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1. Establish your offensive, defensive, and special teams philosophy.
2. Adhere to said philosophy.
 

Cowboyny

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OL - I think a healthy Tyron at LT, bumping Tyler to LG and a healthy Steele gets the OL back on track to playing at a very high level next year. That being said I’m not opposed to drafting an OT/G prospect as Tyron has to be close to retirement.

RB - Zeke has to go and Id also let Pollard walk. It's a good FA market so give me a RB under $5 mil and draft a mid rounder.

WR - re kick the tires on a trade for Cooks, Juedy and Hops. If price is way too high like the idea of Mecole Hardman as a FA. Very high in separation metrics (were currently terrible) and finally gives us big time speed. Draft another WR and hopefully you hit OR Tolbert clicks.

TE - let Schultz walk. Confident in Fergy replacing his production and also excellent draft class to add another mid rounder.
I agree, losing Pollard makes me worry, depends who you sign. It’s definitely a draft need this season.
 

xwalker

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-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.
Good thing we don't have to print on paper...

What the 2022 offense needed:

Better run blocking scheme...
- See 49ers.
OK
Better route running & route combinations.

The 2021 version of OBJ (savvy veteran WR that is still near-elite).

Mid-tier receiving TE that is an excellent blocker (Schultz type receiving TE that can block).
- Ferguson will be that guy in 2023.
- Already a better blocker than Schultz).

Legit best offense in the league:
All of the above plus Draft TE Michael Mayer.
 

Coogiguy03

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-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.

NEEDS TO MAKE 40 THROWS to pay for the 40 million given to him
 

cowboyec

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reign in the gunsling'n will help.
i think with mccarthy having freedom with this offense as the play-caller will see more committment to the run.
and considering since his arrival,we saw olineman used as a full-back...i'm curious to see what other wrinkles he'll have.
dak is a good qb that we can win with.
this is a good young team with a bright future.
and come draft night...i'd love to see notre dame te michael mayer in ☆.
i'd love to see this offense with a guy whose a match-up problem.
 

Whiskey Cowboy

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-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.
- A QB making $40m APY needs to be able to be that 40 throw guy when needed. Otherwise, his cap figure can cripple a team

- We need to figure out at least a ballpark on how much it will cost to retain the guys we want to keep. $10m is pretty steep for a guy that has never been a full-time starter, but if it makes sense financially, I'd love to see Pollard back. Otherwise, I'm in the draft Robinson crowd. Fills a huge need for 5 years and gives the team ~$15m to work with by cutting Zeke and not retaining Pollard.

- Tyron is a strange case. Health is the only reason you let him walk. $17m for an elite tackle is a bargain, but he can't be trusted to stay on the field. Best case scenario; he takes a pay cut, saves the team $7-8m in cap space, remains healthy, and we see him at LT, Tyler at LG, which solves the problems with the interior line. Worst case, we're paying a ton for a guy on the bench, and either paying a free agent guard or drafting one high while Tyler mans LT. The smart move would be to let him go and sign an interior lineman with his cap savings, but the high end potential of keeping him is something to consider. Will be interesting to see what they do.

-We NEED Gallup to return to form. It would be wise to sign a #2 receiver, and if Gallup is back to himself, much of the issues we saw in the passing game will work themselves out. We don't need a $20m receiver. Lamb is that guy and will only get better. We need reliable 2nd. 3rd, and 4th options that can get open and catch the ball. I like the idea of Cobb. Sterling Shepherd is an interesting option. Coming off of an ACL early in the season and has had a rough go at it with injuries through his career. Pretty good candidate for a prove-it deal. If Marvin Mims falls to the third, take him. Kid has superstar potential with the right coaching.

- Let Schultz walk. He did well for us, but there are guys on the roster that can match his production, and have much higher ceilings.

- Allow Mike to bring in his guys and run his offense. He's a great offensive mind and his track record speaks for itself. Letting Moore go is a bold move, and time will how it plays out, but it tells me that Mike is being given more authority over how his team is operated. Giving more authority to the HC is promising, esp coming from the Jones crew.

I expect more consistency from the offense. Plug a couple of holes and rely on the run, bring in a couple of targets that are better than Noah Brown and we're looking pretty good. Nice assessment. Not much I disagree with.
 

lukin2006

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Here is what I’d like, I’d like the toughest, meanest and most physical offensive line, 2 solid, speedy and shifty running backs to run behind that line, a legit number 2, turn Dak into a game manager only…we have to accept he is the quarterback for 2 more years. He does not have to be the focal point.
 

baltcowboy

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question is.. is it easier to find a true great QB or have a mediocre QB who needs all pro's at every offensive position along with a great coaching staff?
If the playoffs have told us anything this season there is only one elite quarterback. San Francisco and Philadelphia have the best rosters. I think it is easier to build a roster but you can’t pay the quarterback. The Eagles will learn that lesson real soon.
 
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