OK, before you start shooting, lesson to what I have. First, look at the secondary and the new faces; Second, all the DL players out for the first games; third, Zeke out for the first 6 games; and finally the state of the OL with 2 lesser players on the OL. I have us at 10-6 for highest record for season but if the first 6 are losses we would have to win out for the other games. Most experts have the Cowboys at no more than a 9-7 season and I am beginning to believe they are right.
How many of the first 6 games do you think we can win?
RT was upgraded, not downgraded.
CB Brown started many games last season. He should be even better now. Scandrick is much better health-wise now. Carroll is a veteran that has looked good in training camp. Heath has been here several years and played a lot last season. Jones in 2nd year as starter at FS. Awuzie is 4th CB and has looked decent in camp. Lewis is a bonus if he plays.
DE Moore was a longshot to make the roster when signed. Taco and Tapper are new options. DLaw healthier now.
DT Collins was terrific last season after missing camp with foot injury. He will only improve Paea has better history of staying healthy than departed DT McClain.
That being the suspension concerns to Zeke and Irving.
The DL is built for depth more than top tier talent. If DLaw stays healthy while Irving out then that about break even as compared to last season when DLaw could barely function.
Zeke is a big loss because he's a Super Star; however, in terms of need, RB was not a huge need position before Zeke arrived. The OL has 3 All-Pros. McFadden has shown in the preseason to still be one of the fastest guys on the field. Give him good blocking and he's good. He just can't perform without good blocking like some other RBs might because he needs space to get going. Morris is quality Zone RB, he just can't block or catch. RB Smith has been a Star of the bottom of the roster players this preseason/camp.
My only real worry is Tyron's back. Cleary has struggled to block 3rd string players this preseason. Chaz Green has terrific ability but can't stay healthy.