Cowboys Mock Draft

[Paul]

First two picks are good, but I doubt Ugoh will be there in the 3rd.

[KILLERSANTA]

First two picks are good, but I doubt Ugoh will be there in the 3rd.

I know, That's why i said dream mock.....I try to make the most realistic dream mock i could..If he's not there, I wouldn't be mad with Doug Free.

[thule]

I'm just gonna throw up a quick mock..might elaborate tomorrow.

1- Levi Brown, OT
with the latest rumors of Staley winning teams over Brown has become the #3 OT in this draft.

2- Sidney Rice, WR
With guys like Jason Hill DJ looking like second round picks...guys like Rice will drop a bit...this might be wishful thinking...but I'm not predicting trades in this mock.

3- Brian Robinson, DE
Robinson could go higher...but his lack of production could land him in the 3rd.

4- Andy Alleman, OG
Some people say he is a first day pick...some people say he is undrafted because of his injuries...I can't see him making the first day with his injuries but 4th round looks about right.

5- Michael Coe, CB
Rumors have it that he is a legit first day guy...IDK if I buy it right now. But one of the following should be available. Tarrel Brown, Fred Bennett, Jonathan Wade, Travarous Bain. Not much separates the bunch.

6- Quinten Echols - DT
Depending on the hype could go in the 5th...but right now I don't see him that high. A guy who would be a nice option.

6- Usama Young, CB
A guy we took a look at....his numbers give us an option...could be gone...but I don't buy it. 4.39 40-yard dash, 43-inch vertical jump, 6.65 three-cone drill,
10-11 broad jump, 15 reps on the bench press

7- Melvin Bullitt, S
Another guy we took a look at. Probably battle it out with Elam. 4.48 40-yard dash, 40½-inch vertical jump, 3.97 short shuttle,
10-5 broad jump

7- Drew Tate
I've talked on him quite a bit...love his passion

7- Cory Anderson, FB
Depth purposes

[Ward]

What's with all the Tate love? I've seen a couple of Cowboys mocks with him in the late rounds. If we're going to take a flyer on a guy who's measurables don't match up to the NFL, why don't we actually get a winner and a film freak like Chris Leak?

[KILLERSANTA]

What's with all the Tate love? I've seen a couple of Cowboys mocks with him in the late rounds. If we're going to take a flyer on a guy who's measurables don't match up to the NFL, why don't we actually get a winner and a film freak like Chris Leak?


Leak won't be there in the 6-7 round....And Tate is the only late round QB i have seen play.......Plus he's a teammate of MIKE JONES!

[thule]

What's with all the Tate love? I've seen a couple of Cowboys mocks with him in the late rounds. If we're going to take a flyer on a guy who's measurables don't match up to the NFL, why don't we actually get a winner and a film freak like Chris Leak?

I've voiced why before. But I'll restate it. Tate is a gamer...really reminds me of a more polished Tony Romo...could spot start in the NFL...it's not about being able to throw over a 6'7 lineman...its about finding the passing lanes :P

[Macarthur]

I would love Ugoh, but I agree with Paul. He may not even be there when we pick in the 2nd.

I think Ugoh is going to be a stud.

[Achilles33]

I love that Thule. I love Levi Brown. I actually think he has the most talent in this draft, but he is bad technision and alittle lazy, but we can fix that. He has the tools to be better than Joe Thomas, and he has the luxury to sit and learn a year and adjust to the NFL behind Flo. I love the pick.

I hope everyone understands, Flo is a UFA after this season, and odds are he is gone. Now I know people are high on McQuiston, but he was a 7th rounder. If Levi Brown is still on the board, I would think it is a no brainer.

[FinChase]

http://www.cowboysplus.com/topstory/stories/040407cpcowdate.32e2d49.html

I didn't see where anyone else had posted this. Supposedly the Cowboys are really in love with Blalock...

[Achilles33]

Yea, he visited us for "Dallas Day" yesterday.

[nrcirc]

1). If Alan Branch or Adam Carriker are available at 22, I will take either one in here, otherwise I will trade 22 to NO for their 1st and 3rd and select one of CB Darrelle Revis, Chris Houston or Aaron Ross
2). Dwayne Jarrett – with combination of average speed, Mike Williams’ factor, and deep WR class, I believe he could fall to us. Or Sidney Rice, Jason Hill
3). Zak DeOssie ILB/OLB, 6’5 250 lbs 4.56 40 and 26-bench. His 4.03 short shuttle number is faster most of WRs, CBs, and SSs in this year draft. Smart, strong and physical, weight room, study films etc, immediately help on ST and LS.
3) Manuel Ramirez – It is time to bring back the 90s running games
4). BAP at DE/OLB / John Wendling / Jay Alford DE
5). Paul Soliai NT (6-4 332 5.02)
6). Allen Barbre OT (6-4 300 4.84)
6). Jacob Ford SOLB
7). Dustin Fry C (6-25/8 314 5.19)
7). Usama Young, CB
7). Melvin Bullitt / Courtney Brown

[fryman]

1- Chris Houston- CB
2- Lamar Woodley- OLB- Carpenter moves back inside
3- Doug Datish- C/G- could fill the depth need of two positions, possible future starting LG
4- Marvin White- S
5- Laurent Robinson- WR- homer pick
6- Quinton Echols- NT
6- Justin Rascati- QB
7- Mario Henderson- OT
7- Germaine Race- RB
7- Cory Anderson- FB

last two picks are probably unlikely

[JJJ888]

Just a quickie--

1. Dwayne Jarrett: Future #1 receiver, contributes immediately as red-zone target and 2nd or 3rd wide receiver in some sets.

2. Eric Wright: CB who can play in the nickel this year and start in a couple

3. Brandon Mebane: Big guy who can clog the middle

4. Antwan Barnes (OLB): A player with fantastic speed who can be the 3-4 rush-specialist we need if Ellis can't return full strength. May not be quite tall enough...

5. Allen Barbre (OT): A division I AA guy who was recently brought in for a workout. Great athlete with solid strength and tough guy attitude.

6. Dedrick Harrington (ILB): A very productive college player with decent speed and athleticism. Could contribute in special teams

6. Brandon Sharp (FS): A great athlete with good speed and questionable instincts. At the very least could play special teams and in nickel or dime packages.

7. Palauni Ma Sun (OG): An interesting prospect with good size and strength...

7. Jake Kuresa (OG): Another flyer on a guard with potential, good size and strength and experience at all 3 positions on the line.

7. Jay Richardson (DE): Yet another developmental guy with good size and potential...kinda reminds me of Ratliff.

[D-Unit]

I'm just gonna throw up a quick mock..might elaborate tomorrow.

1- Levi Brown, OT
with the latest rumors of Staley winning teams over Brown has become the #3 OT in this draft.

2- Sidney Rice, WR
With guys like Jason Hill DJ looking like second round picks...guys like Rice will drop a bit...this might be wishful thinking...but I'm not predicting trades in this mock.

3- Brian Robinson, DE
Robinson could go higher...but his lack of production could land him in the 3rd.

4- Andy Alleman, OG
Some people say he is a first day pick...some people say he is undrafted because of his injuries...I can't see him making the first day with his injuries but 4th round looks about right.

5- Michael Coe, CB
Rumors have it that he is a legit first day guy...IDK if I buy it right now. But one of the following should be available. Tarrel Brown, Fred Bennett, Jonathan Wade, Travarous Bain. Not much separates the bunch.

6- Quinten Echols - DT
Depending on the hype could go in the 5th...but right now I don't see him that high. A guy who would be a nice option.

6- Usama Young, CB
A guy we took a look at....his numbers give us an option...could be gone...but I don't buy it. 4.39 40-yard dash, 43-inch vertical jump, 6.65 three-cone drill,
10-11 broad jump, 15 reps on the bench press

7- Melvin Bullitt, S
Another guy we took a look at. Probably battle it out with Elam. 4.48 40-yard dash, 40½-inch vertical jump, 3.97 short shuttle,
10-5 broad jump

7- Drew Tate
I've talked on him quite a bit...love his passion

7- Cory Anderson, FB
Depth purposes

I'm not buying that Staley has jumped ahead of Brown. We'll see I guess. I would take Brown over Staley with no problem at all.

The rest are interesting picks.

[JJJ888]

I'm not buying that Staley has jumped ahead of Brown. We'll see I guess. I would take Brown over Staley with no problem at all.

The rest are interesting picks.

I agree...the level of competition and Brown's size and strength make him a much better prospect to me. I still do like Staley though.

[Staubach12]

Well, since we resigned Crayton, I'll change my mock.

1. DeMarcus Tyler, NT, NC St
While this is a bit of a reach, behind us there are a few teams who I could see taking him, so I think if we really want him, we'll stick where we are just to be safe. Tyler fills a need at NT, and he can fill in for Jason Fergeson, but eventually fill in to a starting role. Tyler will do well at NT in a 3-4, because he's got the size, strength, power, etc be play that role. He'll be able to demand a double team on the next level, helping our 3-4 be more technically sound.

2. Quenton Moses, OLB, Georgia
Oh, how things change. Moses has really fallen as of late, and I really do think he'll be there when we pick in the 2nd. He kind of fell off as a senior, but if he can play like he did as a junior, we'll have a star on our hands. Drafting Moses will allow us to keep Carpenter inside, where he'll ultimately take Bradie James' spot. Moses also is widely accepted as player who will fit in the 3-4 very well. Moses this year would fill in with Ellis, and soon take over completely. Moses is a stud pass rusher, and that's one of the things we really need on the defense right now.

3. Jason Hill, WR, Washington St
While everyone is pumped about Crayton being signed, there are two facts you have to look at before ruling out taking a WR on day 1. The first is, let's face it, Crayton won't ever be more than a #3 WR. He'll be 29 soon, and he's not going to improve too much. The 2nd is that Crayton signed a 1 year deal. He could be gone by next year. So, to get that future #1 WR, we look to one of the most prolific WRs in college history. Mark my words, Jason Hill will be a star in the NFL. As far as his immediate role on the team, he'd be #4 or #5 this next year. If we don't resign Crayton, he'll be the #3 and then eventually take over as the #1 guy.

4. Jonathan Wade, CB, Tennessee
Our corners are getting old. I'll just say it upfront. We'll need a #3 soon and a #2 soon, as well. Wade has huge potential, and with good coaching, he can become a great CB. He played very well, and his athleticism is on par with the next level. If we can teach him a bit more, than he should be very good in time, His role this next year will be #4, then 3 soon, then 2.

5. Derek Landri, DE, Notre Dame
He projects as a DE in our 3-4 scheme. He's a solid pass rusher, and he'll be a good backup for us in time. He's got a great motor, and he could definately serve as a great rotational player, IMO. He's quite underrated and he was a top recruit coming out of high school. He's a great character guy who loves the game, too.

6. Chris Leak, QB, Florida
Leak definately doesn't project as a starter in the NFL, but he's exactly what you look for in a solid backup. He's smart, and understands the game well. He doesn't take over a game or blow you away with measurables, but he's a good game manager, which is what you want when your golden boy goes down. He'll take over as primary backup once Brad Johnson retires or leaves.

7a. Lyle Sendlein, C, Texas
This guy has one big meen streak. He's the kind of guy you love to have playing for you on the line. He's also got good mechanics, and he's got some upside. I like his potential. Though he's not especially powerful or agile, he could serve as a solid backup for Gurode.

7b. Nick Graham, CB, Tulsa
This guy plays with his heart, but sometimes the lack of the head equation makes me question him. So, why not take a flyer on a guy like that? He's agressive, and he has good instincs, but sometimes, that agressiveness kills him. He bites a bit too much, and he really just needs to be a bit more patient. I like him though. I think with coaching, he might turn out to be alright.

7c. Justin Medlock, K, UCLA
Hey, why not? He's got a good leg, and was productive in college. I think it would be good to bring in a fresh face at kicker to compete. Who knows? He could turn out to be something.

[JJJ888]

Don't love it, but I like it.

[mtmock]

we should draft Dwayne Jarrett, r.1 then trade up in r.2 possibly with cleveland and get blalock.

Dwayne Jarrett is the BPA at 22 according to most mock drafts. his stats vs. top teams

2004:
Notre Dame* 6 rec, 102yds., 2 td's
Oklahoma(national title) 5 rec., 115 yds., 1 td

2005:
Arkansas 4 rec, 79 yds., 2 td's
Oregon 8 rec, 94 yds. 2 td's
Notre Dame 4 rec., 101 yds.
WSU 11 rec. 200 yds.
Texas (Rose Bowl) 10 rec., 121 yds., 1 td

2006:
Nebraska 11 rec., 136 yds., 2 tds.
Oregon 7 rec., 91 yds., 1 td
Cal 5 rec. 66 yds., 1 td
Notre Dame 7 rec., 132 yds., 3 tds.
Michigan (rose bowl) 11 rec. , 205 yds. , 2 tds.

He dominates, the signing of crayton to a 1 year deal changes nothing, he's a FA after this year, and at best he'll be an avg. #2 or a good #3. DJ has #1 guy written all over him.

[HEISMANHERSCHEL]

Well, since we resigned Crayton, I'll change my mock.

1. DeMarcus Tyler, NT, NC St
While this is a bit of a reach, behind us there are a few teams who I could see taking him, so I think if we really want him, we'll stick where we are just to be safe. Tyler fills a need at NT, and he can fill in for Jason Fergeson, but eventually fill in to a starting role. Tyler will do well at NT in a 3-4, because he's got the size, strength, power, etc be play that role. He'll be able to demand a double team on the next level, helping our 3-4 be more technically sound.

2. Quenton Moses, OLB, Georgia
Oh, how things change. Moses has really fallen as of late, and I really do think he'll be there when we pick in the 2nd. He kind of fell off as a senior, but if he can play like he did as a junior, we'll have a star on our hands. Drafting Moses will allow us to keep Carpenter inside, where he'll ultimately take Bradie James' spot. Moses also is widely accepted as player who will fit in the 3-4 very well. Moses this year would fill in with Ellis, and soon take over completely. Moses is a stud pass rusher, and that's one of the things we really need on the defense right now.

3. Jason Hill, WR, Washington St
While everyone is pumped about Crayton being signed, there are two facts you have to look at before ruling out taking a WR on day 1. The first is, let's face it, Crayton won't ever be more than a #3 WR. He'll be 29 soon, and he's not going to improve too much. The 2nd is that Crayton signed a 1 year deal. He could be gone by next year. So, to get that future #1 WR, we look to one of the most prolific WRs in college history. Mark my words, Jason Hill will be a star in the NFL. As far as his immediate role on the team, he'd be #4 or #5 this next year. If we don't resign Crayton, he'll be the #3 and then eventually take over as the #1 guy.

4. Jonathan Wade, CB, Tennessee
Our corners are getting old. I'll just say it upfront. We'll need a #3 soon and a #2 soon, as well. Wade has huge potential, and with good coaching, he can become a great CB. He played very well, and his athleticism is on par with the next level. If we can teach him a bit more, than he should be very good in time, His role this next year will be #4, then 3 soon, then 2.

5. Derek Landri, DE, Notre Dame
He projects as a DE in our 3-4 scheme. He's a solid pass rusher, and he'll be a good backup for us in time. He's got a great motor, and he could definately serve as a great rotational player, IMO. He's quite underrated and he was a top recruit coming out of high school. He's a great character guy who loves the game, too.

6. Chris Leak, QB, Florida
Leak definately doesn't project as a starter in the NFL, but he's exactly what you look for in a solid backup. He's smart, and understands the game well. He doesn't take over a game or blow you away with measurables, but he's a good game manager, which is what you want when your golden boy goes down. He'll take over as primary backup once Brad Johnson retires or leaves.

7a. Lyle Sendlein, C, Texas
This guy has one big meen streak. He's the kind of guy you love to have playing for you on the line. He's also got good mechanics, and he's got some upside. I like his potential. Though he's not especially powerful or agile, he could serve as a solid backup for Gurode.

7b. Nick Graham, CB, Tulsa
This guy plays with his heart, but sometimes the lack of the head equation makes me question him. So, why not take a flyer on a guy like that? He's agressive, and he has good instincs, but sometimes, that agressiveness kills him. He bites a bit too much, and he really just needs to be a bit more patient. I like him though. I think with coaching, he might turn out to be alright.

7c. Justin Medlock, K, UCLA
Hey, why not? He's got a good leg, and was productive in college. I think it would be good to bring in a fresh face at kicker to compete. Who knows? He could turn out to be something.

I think this is very solid. I would rather find a way to get Branch, but everyone seems to be sold on Tank.

I would not be unhappy at all with this draft. Solid throughout, and addresses needs.

[Achilles33]

I think Tyler is a big reach, but I still love your mock JJJ888. I love Moses in the 2nd, and Wade in the 4th. I would be happy on draft day if that happened.

[JJJ888]

I think Tyler is a big reach, but I still love your mock JJJ888. I love Moses in the 2nd, and Wade in the 4th. I would be happy on draft day if that happened.

You must mean Staubach's mock...mine had Wright in the 2nd and Barnes in the 4th.

[reigle9]

I'm just gonna throw up a quick mock..might elaborate tomorrow.

1- Levi Brown, OT
with the latest rumors of Staley winning teams over Brown has become the #3 OT in this draft.

2- Sidney Rice, WR
With guys like Jason Hill DJ looking like second round picks...guys like Rice will drop a bit...this might be wishful thinking...but I'm not predicting trades in this mock.

3- Brian Robinson, DE
Robinson could go higher...but his lack of production could land him in the 3rd.

4- Andy Alleman, OG
Some people say he is a first day pick...some people say he is undrafted because of his injuries...I can't see him making the first day with his injuries but 4th round looks about right.

5- Michael Coe, CB
Rumors have it that he is a legit first day guy...IDK if I buy it right now. But one of the following should be available. Tarrel Brown, Fred Bennett, Jonathan Wade, Travarous Bain. Not much separates the bunch.

6- Quinten Echols - DT
Depending on the hype could go in the 5th...but right now I don't see him that high. A guy who would be a nice option.

6- Usama Young, CB
A guy we took a look at....his numbers give us an option...could be gone...but I don't buy it. 4.39 40-yard dash, 43-inch vertical jump, 6.65 three-cone drill,
10-11 broad jump, 15 reps on the bench press

7- Melvin Bullitt, S
Another guy we took a look at. Probably battle it out with Elam. 4.48 40-yard dash, 40½-inch vertical jump, 3.97 short shuttle,
10-5 broad jump

7- Drew Tate
I've talked on him quite a bit...love his passion

7- Cory Anderson, FB
Depth purposes
That 1st round scenario has been in the back of my head since the Combine, but I didn't think it would really happen. I'm glad to see someone else had the same thoughts. I'm a PSU fan and don't think he's an All-World talent, but he's definitely a guy that can be a starting LT in the league.

I'm also thinking your second round prediction is very possible too, I'd be very happy with with your entire first day.

I'm someone that doesn't understand the Drew Tate thing either. I'm from Big 10 country and never have been overly impressed with him. I have a passion for football and the QB position, but that doesn't mean I can play in the NFL.

[Achilles33]

You must mean Staubach's mock...mine had Wright in the 2nd and Barnes in the 4th.

Yea I meant Staubach's, sorry.

[JJJ888]

Gotta give props where it's due.

[yno88]

1. Alan Branch, NT, Michigan
The most talented interior DL in the draft. Would fit inside in Philips' attacking system. If unavailable, gotta get DeMarcus Tyler, perhaps trading down in the process.

2. Aaron Ross, CB, Texas
A young corner is needed in the mix to take over for Anthony Henry, hopefully sooner rather than later. Eric Wright could also be an option here

3. LaMarr Woodley, OLB, Michigan
Another pressure player to throw into the mix with Ware, Ellis and possibly Glymph. I would prefer Quentin Moses but I don't think he'll be around here. Then again, Woodley might not be either.

4. Manuel Ramirez, OG, Texas Tech
This guy is a road grader. I like road graders. This guy might not be here either. Admittedly, a guy who projects at tackle might be a better fit.

5. Leroy Harris, C, NC State
A total bulldog. He'd be a steal here for C/G depth. This guy would fight a bear.

6. Dedrick Harrington, ILB, Missouri
A very productive LB at Missouri, would be of immediate help on special teams and could have a future at ILB.

7a. Jared Zabransky, QB, Boise State
You all saw it. The guy's a winner. A clipboard carrier today, tomorrow who knows.

7b. Legedu Naanee, WR, Boise State
Nice size/speed ratio. Great physical tools.

7c. Le'Ron McClain, FB, Alabama
A thumper. In training camp, line this guy up facing Oliver Hoyte about 10 yards away. Smash them into one another over and over. Whoever survives is our fullback.

I know I've got some stretches, but what the hell. I think NT and CB are the top priorities in either order, 1-2.

[HEISMANHERSCHEL]

I think you have a lot of stretches. But if they do fall, I think you have to draft them.

If only they would fall to us....

[M.O.T.H.]

we should draft Dwayne Jarrett, r.1 then trade up in r.2 possibly with cleveland and get blalock.

Dwayne Jarrett is the BPA at 22 according to most mock drafts. his stats vs. top teams

2004:
Notre Dame* 6 rec, 102yds., 2 td's
Oklahoma(national title) 5 rec., 115 yds., 1 td

2005:
Arkansas 4 rec, 79 yds., 2 td's
Oregon 8 rec, 94 yds. 2 td's
Notre Dame 4 rec., 101 yds.
WSU 11 rec. 200 yds.
Texas (Rose Bowl) 10 rec., 121 yds., 1 td

2006:
Nebraska 11 rec., 136 yds., 2 tds.
Oregon 7 rec., 91 yds., 1 td
Cal 5 rec. 66 yds., 1 td
Notre Dame 7 rec., 132 yds., 3 tds.
Michigan (rose bowl) 11 rec. , 205 yds. , 2 tds.

He dominates, the signing of crayton to a 1 year deal changes nothing, he's a FA after this year, and at best he'll be an avg. #2 or a good #3. DJ has #1 guy written all over him.

Mike Williams dominated top competition as well.

[FinChase]

http://www.star-telegram.com/332/story/66896.html

Here's a partial list of local prospects who will be visiting Valley Ranch today. Sort of surprised to see Tarell Brown on the list after his problems. Hopefully DC.com or someone will post a full list later.

[Modano]

I did a mock draft and I have avaible at #22 Ross, Houston, Meachem, Moss and Jarrett. Joe Staley is gone. Who do you think we should pick? Right now my choice is between Meachem and Ross...

[mtmock]

Mike Williams dominated top competition as well.

mike willams had a wieght problem, and was very lazy, and wasted his talents. jarrett works extremely hard

[mtmock]

New mock 4/14
Tell me what you think
Day 1
Round 1:
DWAYNE JARRETT/WR/6-5 219/USC
*He has an excellent frame, good work ethic, best hands in the draft...someone romo doesnt have to worry about if he catches it , it's when. Very athletic. uses his body to a full advantage and should produce asap. When either glenn gets injured/retires, TO gets injured/retires/annoys jerry. will be a good #3 till then. Jerry will like his talent and respect him as BPA come draft day.

Round 2:
Tanard Jackson/DB/6-0 200/Syracuse
Can play S or CB, has no attitude problems. he fills two back up spots in one pick. a safe pick. he is solid, covers well. ran a 4.52 which means he has avg. speed but is good at what he does.

Round 3:
Doug Free/OT/6-6 324/N. Illinois
A sleeper who is huge and blocked for rb garrett wolfe in college. Has really good feet, Works hard plays through injuries. could even play gaurd.

[Dcboys94]

that looks pretty good

[Dcboys94]

Found a good mock, by the draft specialist for fox sports.com

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/6670816

[M.O.T.H.]

Ha they have us taking Ryan Harris. Did anyone ever see that True Life show on MTV? True Life: I want the Perfect Body.

[JonIH87]

It's quite a lot of work, but here is my Cowboys draft for 2007.
I based it on a 7rnd mock at another website, but I cannot provide the link.
Anyhow, here goes.
*Remember*
I'm just going by who's available according to the mock.

Round 1
Tedd Ginn WR Ohio State
I chose Ginn over Bowe because I think that with a year under Glenn, Owens, and Crayton, he could refine his technique
and become a fantastic player. You just can't teach speed, and Ginn is blazing fast. He can create seperation just with
his nearly impossible acceleration. He's an electric returner, and we could certainly use that. Value is the name of
the game with this pick, and with Mr. Ginn, it's certainly boom or bust.
Round 2
LaMarr Woodely OLB Michigan
Woodely is a fantastic pass rusher. He's got a very quick first step, and was always in the backfield making plays
while at Ann Arbor. He's got good technique, and is a natural pass rusher. I think he could come in in nickle
packages and really get after the passer opposite Ware.
Round 3
Fred Bennett CB South Carolina
Bennett has real solid size and is a very smooth athlete. Quick in and out of his cuts, and just a very fluid corner.
He is great at making plays on the ball, and he was productive at USC. Although he has all the necessary tools to
flourish, he was a bit of an underachiever. Still, though, Bennett has all the tools needed to thrive in the NFL.
Round 4
Anthony Waters ILB Clemson
Waters was excellent as a junior, and was started his senior year off well before an injury sidelined him for the
remainder. He has a lot of experience, and is said to be a hard worker. Great instincts and athleticism.
Round 5
Kyle Young C/G Fresno State
Early in the year Young was regarded as a possible 1st round prospect, but due to injuries and just plain laziness,
he's fallen big time. If properly motivated, Young could be a huge steal, as he's got a big time mean streak. Combine
that with his great strength, and above average athleticism, he's very appealing. Not to mention his versatility.
Round 6
Antwan Barnes OLB Florida International
Barnes blew people away at the combine posting a 4.40/40 and putting up 31 reps. Needless to say, on paper, he's
an electric athlete. His size, however, doesn't seem to translate well to the 3-4, but he's got the necessary
skills to play outside. He played defensive end his senior year, so he might not be as bad a fit as it might
seem.
Round 6
Jeff Rowe QB Nevada Reno
Older prospect but he's got some decent tools to work with. Has a great arm and can make all the throws. He's very
raw, however, and played in a run n' gun offense. He'll need a lot of work, but he could be a decent backup.
Round 7
Walter Thomas DT NWM CC
There's one word to describe Thomas, Freak. At 6'4, 370, he ran his 40 in the low 5's, and threw up 33 reps on bench.
He's super raw, though, but he could be a huge steal in a couple of years, if he takes to coaching.
Round 7
Brandon Miles WR West Virginia
Myles played in a run first offense at WVU, but when given the chance, he made his fair share of plays.
He's a terrific athlete with top notch quick twitch athleticism. He has outstanding body control and makes plays on the
ball when it's in the air. He's a deep threat. He's still raw, and could use some work in the route running department.
He could thrive if developed properly, as he has all the necessary tools.
Round 7
Mario Henderson OT Florida State
Henderson is a good athlete and has good size. He's got the potential to play left tackle in the pros,
but he needs to get stronger. He only started one year,but he's still got a good amount of upside.

Alright, let's hear the boo birds.

[M.O.T.H.]

I dont see Barnes making it out of the 4th round. I've heard some teams are willing to take him in the 3rd... primarily 3-4 teams. Perhaps we'll take him that early (3rd/4th) but, i doubt it.

Anothony Waters... If Parcells was still here, I'd say maybe... he loves those potential steals but, with Wade... meh. I doubt we go for him... there really isn't a need for yet another ILB. I can't see us taking two LBs to be honest.

Jeff Rowe...maybe... Not so sure we take any Qb but, it's plausible.

Walter Thomas... great mesurables but, at this point i doubt he'll get drafted.

Brandon Miles... I've been hearing maybe 6th round now... I dont see why we would need to draft two more WRs. We have some promising youth in Austin and Hurd... I can see us taking one, not two.

Mario Henderon... I dont think he'll be available that late.

Overall... Not too bad... not some of favorite prospects but, not a bad mock.

[22,895]

I think it's alright I wouldn't mind that Draft.

[Joeyjr09]

Your on some really good stuff if you think Henderson makes it past round 5.

[Dcboys94]

i say r.1 bowe and jarrett are better, but 4.3 speed is hard to be mad with...no way world class speed falls to #22

[D-Unit]

I would cry unconsolably.

[nrcirc]

1). Darrelle Revis
2). Dwayne Jarrett
3) Manuel Ramirez
4). Zak DeOssie
5). Paul Soliai
6). C.J. Gaddis
6). Dustin Fry
7). Jacob Ford
7). Michael Allan
7). Joe Anoai

[leroyisgod]

Ha they have us taking Ryan Harris. Did anyone ever see that True Life show on MTV? True Life: I want the Perfect Body.

Is the football player Ryan Harris?

[M.O.T.H.]

Is the football player Ryan Harris?

Yes that was him. Then they had the one not so good looking chick at the beauty pageant and that other dude who was in the body building competition.

[M.O.T.H.]

1). Darrelle Revis
2). Dwayne Jarrett
3) Manuel Ramirez
4). Zak DeOssie
5). Paul Soliai
6). C.J. Gaddis
6). Dustin Fry
7). Jacob Ford
7). Michael Allan
7). Joe Anoai

Revis will be gone and no way we get Jarrett in the 2nd, some teams have been talking about him as a mid-late 1st rounder. At the worst a very very very early 2nd.

[nrcirc]

Revis will be gone and no way we get Jarrett in the 2nd, some teams have been talking about him as a mid-late 1st rounder. At the worst a very very very early 2nd.

I believe it 50/50 that Revis should be there. Because of the school (USC - Mike Williams and Lendale White) plus no reason that he did not run on combine etc. I do believe he should be available at 53.

[Paul]

I believe it 50/50 that Revis should be there. Because of the school (USC - Mike Williams and Lendale White) plus no reason that he did not run on combine etc. I do believe he should be available at 53.

That may be worst reason I've ever heard on why someone would slip down the board. The School? Really? He ran a 4.6's which is exactly what scouts and GM's were expecting. He is not a burner, he a red zone target, a possession receiver, so a average 40-time is not going hurt his stock that drastically.

[M.O.T.H.]

I believe it 50/50 that Revis should be there. Because of the school (USC - Mike Williams and Lendale White) plus no reason that he did not run on combine etc. I do believe he should be available at 53.

I dont see it... everything I've heard and read is that Revis stock is sky high since his pro day and Jarrett's stock is still rising. I know he's not the best all the time but, Kiper has Jarrett going to us at #22 in his latest mock and I believe Mayock's latest has him in the first as well.

[Steel Curtain XL]

I believe it 50/50 that Revis should be there. Because of the school (USC - Mike Williams and Lendale White) plus no reason that he did not run on combine etc. I do believe he should be available at 53.

Revis went to Pitt. He was injured during the combine. Hell never make it past Cincy at #18.

[Modano]

We have a ton of draft pick and we're looking to adding depth. Which is the position you want more to add depth?
At ILB we have Ayodele and James, with maybe Burnett seeing some action inside. I think we need another guy for sure.
At OLB we have Ware, Carpenter and Ellis. I would take another DE/OLB tweener maybe on early second day. Do you think there is any Mark Anderson in this year's draft?
How many LBs do you think we will carry on the final roster? I think 8, 4 inside and 4 outside (so we need other two guys).
On the secondary, we have already five guys at safety. Imo Elam could replace Davis on ST so I hope we can trade him maybe for a 6th rounder. Then we need a CB. I'm not sold on Reeves or Jones, they're nothing more than ST players. Both Glenn and Henry are getting old, Glenn is gonna retire next year and Henry has had too many problems with injuries so far. As I've said before I'm all for drafting a CB in round 1, but anyway we should draft a CB in the first day, someone with starting potential.
On the DL we must take another NT, but the end spots are set.
On offense we are fine. On the OL we should take a C/G and an OT. I'm very high on the idea of drafting an OT early in the draft, because we need a replacement for Flozell.
RBs and TEs are fine, but we should take a WR. We have good guys in Crayton, Austin and Miles but we lack a future replacemente for Glenn and Owens.
So, these are our position of needs:

OL: 2 players - OG/C, OT
QB: 0/1 player - Maybe a young guy to develope into our future backup
WR: 1 player - Future starter
TE: 0 player - Witten, Fasano, we can find a 3rd TE out of the street
FB: 0/1 player - Are we sold on Hoyte?
RB: 0 players - Barber, Jones, Thompson
K: 0/1 playes - I would take Crosby in round 4
P: 0 player - McBriar, 'nuff said

DE: 0 players - Only if Carriker fall to us we should take a DE
NT: 1 player - We have only Ferguson, this is a huge need
OLB: 1 player- DE/OLB tweener, someone who can play the stand up position and put his hands on the ground in the nickel
ILB: 2 players - As I've said, right now we have only two pure ILB
CB: 1 player - Future starter, good punt returner
S: 0 player - We have already 5 guys on roster

[robert_in_bigd]

My Mock using some "reasonable" expectations of who is available.

1) Meachem (WR)
2) Tyler (NT)
3) DeOssie (LB)
4) Satele (C)
5) Gutierrez, Palmer or Zabransky (QB)
6) Ford (OLB), Breaston (WR/KR)
7) Smardjia (WR), Bushrod (OT), Heyer (OT)

[robert_in_bigd]

I dont see it... everything I've heard and read is that Revis stock is sky high since his pro day and Jarrett's stock is still rising. I know he's not the best all the time but, Kiper has Jarrett going to us at #22 in his latest mock and I believe Mayock's latest has him in the first as well.


While I think a tall 6'5 receiver would be of tremendous value int he red zone, using a 1 on a slow receiver is not my idea of a good pick. Just resign Keyshawn for that. Henning was fired and I am sure he would just as soon play for a contender.

[Macarthur]

I would not take Ginn over Bowe, Meacham or Jarrett.

Other than that, I like rest of your picks, especially Walter Thomas & Kyle Young.

[NJ_J_Witt_fan]

1). Dwayne Bowe WR, LSU- Big reciever w/ decent speed for his size (6'2 220 4.5 forty) Caught the ball much better after having Lasik surgery. Amazing serniorbowl both practice and the game. I doubt Jarrett will fall this far but if he does it could be a debate.

2). Charles Johnson DE/OLB, Georgia- Came in for a visit earlier in the month and could potentially play on the opposite side of D-Ware. ( I Still dont wanna give up on Bobby Carpenter playing OLB) Depth is still needed and there are never enough pass rushers in a 3-4.

3). Doug Free OT/OG, Northern Illinois- Good size (6'6 320) alright athleticism, good pull blocker adds much needed depth at both the tackle positions and possibly gaurd.

4). Tarrell Brown CB, Texas- On the Dallas D-day roster for visits, prototypical size and speed. Good open field tackler and will come up to support the run. Could develop into a "healthy" Anthony Henry type of player. Shady past is the reason he falls not his skill set

5). Walter Thomas NT, NW Mississippi CC- (6'5 375) enough said !! I actually debated putting him as my 4th round selection because he could pontential be scooped up by this point. Granted he is probably 30lbs over weight but considering he ran a 5.19 forty wich was .14 seconds faster than "Tank" Tyler who just happens to be 70lbs lighter is saying something. In Coach Phillips system the NT takes alot of hits due to the slanting of the line, someone with alot of size is desirable. With the right conditioning could be the boys' version of Jammal Williams. ***** Pick of the draft*****

6). Andy Allenman OG Akron- Very good athlete who is new to the position but looked successful making the transition from DE to OG. Is still raw and is a bit developmental just like McQuisten was last year

6). Kyle Young C, Fresno State- Excellent size (6-5 354) could actually stand to loose some weight in an attempt to increase his athleticism. Solid backup to Gurode.

7). Ola Dagunduro DE/DT Nebraska- Very Raw but has the size and strength to hold his point as a 3-4 DE. Not very techincal and plays without leverage but is relentless and gives 110%

7). Dedrick Harrington ILB Missouri- Good size and timed speed, plays smarts and could learn either of the ILB positions with ease. Great depth pick.

7). Toby Korrodi QB Central Missouri- Huge Sleeper because he was only a Div II player but has a rocket arm and good accuracy. Jerry Jones side the team may look to add a late round project and Korrodi may fit the bill.

[Dcboys94]

the difference between resigning a keyshawn and drafting DJ is that keyshawn is goingon 35...DJ is 20...he has huge potential...kiper thinks he is the real deal

[M.O.T.H.]

the difference between resigning a keyshawn and drafting DJ is that keyshawn is goingon 35...DJ is 20...he has huge potential...kiper thinks he is the real deal

I like Kiper but, he thought Williams was the real deal. Jarrett really does scare me... he has slow timed speed and without a doubt plays slower than that. If you watch any tape on him... his speed or lack their of really stands out. People have compared him to Boldin because, of the slow timed speeds... simply ridiculous... Boldin has excellent game speed. I'm not sure if Jarrett can cut it on the outside... you put him in the slot... he should play well but, not spectacular...i dont know if he'll ever be a star. I'd much rather have a Bowe or Meachem if we went WR.

[M.O.T.H.]

This is my current mock for our little competition. :)

1. WR, Robert Meachem
2. NT, Tank Tyler
3. CB, Usama Young
4. DE/OLB, Dan Bazuin
5. FB, Corey Anderson
6. K, Justin Medlock ***
6. C/G, Enoka Lucas
7. Qb, Toby Korrodi
7. G, Robert Turner

***=trade up

Dallas trades 6th rd. (195 overall) and 7th rd. (212 overall) for Tennessee 6th rd. (188 overall)

Subject to change.

[thule]

Usama Young in the third...whoa...but I like it.

Only minor complaint I have is Medlock...I just feel his leg won't translate into a NFL KOS..which is something we need our kicker to be able to do.

[D-Unit]

In all honesty, I'm completely lost on how our first round will turn out. It could be Bowe, Spencer, Jarrett... even Reggie Nelson!

[thule]

In all honesty, I'm completely lost on how our first round will turn out. It could be Bowe, Spencer, Jarrett... even Reggie Nelson!

I'm putting my money on Meachem if he is available at our pick. I will be the first to admit I'm not a fan, but I have a sneaking hunch it will happen.

[thule]

There continue to be rumblings that a few teams have inquired about the availability of Dallas starter Julius Jones, who has rushed for 2,896 yards in three seasons and is coming off a 2006 campaign in which he posted a career-best 1,084 yards. It's not the first time such rumors have surrounded Jones, with talk before last year's draft that he might be swapped to the New York Jets. Jones is a tough, pinball-style runner, but there are concerns about his long-term durability. And while backup Marion Barber III hasn't yet carried more than 150 times in a season, the suspicion is that some Dallas officials feel he is ready to take over the No. 1 role.

from Len Pascerlli or w/e his name is

[thule]

Steve D. in Jackson, Miss. with the obligatory Cowboys question: Matt, have you confirmed with Jerry Jones who the Cowboys will select at No. 22? And how much say will Wade Phillips have?

Mosley: Steve, Jerry usually waits until the Friday before the draft to fill me in, but I do have a general idea of what he's planning to do. Unless someone falls into their laps, the Cowboys will attempt to trade out of the first round and secure another pick in the second. There's a feeling across the league that the talent in the first round starts to fall dramatically about halfway through, and that's why Jones will probably be looking for a trading partner.

In recent weeks, the club has zeroed in on Miami safety Brandon Meriweather and Purdue defensive end/linebacker Anthony Spencer. Several former Big 10 offensive linemen have told the Cowboys that Spencer was the toughest player they had to block. The reason he might be available early in the second round is that he didn't have much production until his senior season, when he had 10½ sacks.

DeMarcus Ware and an aging Greg Ellis are the Cowboys' only consistent pass-rushers, so Phillips could use Spencer. And don't rule out Florida defensive end Jarvis Moss, who could be converted to linebacker. Jones loves signing local kids, and Moss played at nearby Denton Ryan High School.

Interesting statement by Mosley...this is about the tenth trade down source I have scene.

[Paul]

I think a first day of Anthony Spencer and Demarcus Tyler will really bolster our front 7 and the pass rush. If the first 2 rounds go like that, I will be happy. Not to fond of Merriweather in the 1st though.

[D-Unit]

Well, that's interesting news. Can't say that I don't like the rumors, but I don't know if I love them either.

[jdnoyes]

Whatever Jerry does, lets just hope he doesn't get too cute with the trading down stuff as he's done in other years. Extra picks are great and all, but if Jerry trades down and misses out on quality players i'll be pissed. Personally I believe if you like a guy take him at 22 and don't look back. People can call it a reach if they want to. I'd be happy with Meriweather or Spencer at 22. I think both those guys are going to be darn good players.

Its funny how every so called "expert" or "insider" has the boys taking something different at 22. But like i've said 100 times no reciever in the 1st please, especially Ginn or Meachem.

[duckseason]

Considering the small number of actual holes on our team, I think it might be a better idea to move up into that top 15 range if you really feel there's such a dramatic drop off in talent. This team is ready to win now and could use an elite talent more than it could use a surplus of players that won't even make the roster. I guess it ultimately depends on how the draft unfolds and who is willing to deal. Normally I would be more in favor of moving down, but I just feel different about it this year. How many of us would rather have Steven Jackson than Julius right now?

[jdnoyes]

Considering the small number of actual holes on our team, I think it might be a better idea to move up into that top 15 range if you really feel there's such a dramatic drop off in talent. This team is ready to win now and could use an elite talent more than it could use a surplus of players that won't even make the roster. I guess it ultimately depends on how the draft unfolds and who is willing to deal. Normally I would be more in favor of moving down, but I just feel different about it this year. How many of us would rather have Steven Jackson than Julius right now?

I tend to agree with you in theory, but this year I just don't see a player in the 15-20 range that just wows me and who could make an impact on the team like you're talking about. We don't really have the ammo to trade up any higher than the 15 range, and even that would be costly. This is why I say this year sit tight and take the BPA at 22, nothing cute. I'm all for trying to use some of our multiple 6ths and 7ths and 2nd day 2008 picks to move in the 4th and 5th rounds for a targeted player, but I just don't favor anything crazy early on.

[duckseason]

I tend to agree with you in theory, but this year I just don't see a player in the 15-20 range that just wows me and who could make an impact on the team like you're talking about. We don't really have the ammo to trade up any higher than the 15 range, and even that would be costly. This is why I say this year sit tight and take the BPA at 22, nothing cute. I'm all for trying to use some of our multiple 6ths and 7ths and 2nd day 2008 picks to move in the 4th and 5th rounds for a targeted player, but I just don't favor anything crazy early on.
Yeah, I think I'm in favor of staying put as well. I'm just saying that if we really think the drop off is really that drastic, then I would rather move up than down. I personally believe there will be a few gems available at 22, and if we get too pretty, we could end up missing out. I guess it really depends on who we're seriously looking at, and how far of a drop we're talking about. And of course, how the draft unfolds.

[LSUALUM99]

Well, in reality you can't just say 'how many of us would rather have Steven Jackson instead of JJ' because it's JJ and Marcus Spears instead of Steven Jackson.

To be honest, I'd rather have JJ and Spears instead of Steven. I think our RB situation is better than most teams in the league. Between JJ and MBIII we got over 2076 yards from scrimmage, 20 TD's and averaged 4.5 yards per carry. I'll take those stats ANY year.

RB was not a problem, it was a strength. Add to that, the versatility of multiple backs instead of one feature back AND to get a starting DE in the process.

I don't look back at all on that trade as a failure.

[duckseason]

Well, in reality you can't just say 'how many of us would rather have Steven Jackson instead of JJ' because it's JJ and Marcus Spears instead of Steven Jackson.

To be honest, I'd rather have JJ and Spears instead of Steven. I think our RB situation is better than most teams in the league. Between JJ and MBIII we got over 2076 yards from scrimmage, 20 TD's and averaged 4.5 yards per carry. I'll take those stats ANY year.

RB was not a problem, it was a strength. Add to that, the versatility of multiple backs instead of one feature back AND to get a starting DE in the process.

I don't look back at all on that trade as a failure.
Great point which for some reason I seem to have overlooked. Just an off hand comment at the end of the post. I agree that our RB situation is one to be envied. And I am certainly not a fan of investing too heavily in one guy at the position. Bad example on my part. However, the point I was trying to make is that I would prefer to bring in an elite talent right now as opposed to accumulating unneeded quantity. This team is young, and ready to win now. Generally I would rather move down than trade up, but I don't feel the need to do that this year. But like I said, I guess it all depends on who is willing to deal, who we are targeting, and how the draft unfolds. I guess I'll reserve judgment on the whole idea until I actually see it happen.

[jdnoyes]

Great point which for some reason I seem to have overlooked. Just an off hand comment at the end of the post. I agree that our RB situation is one to be envied. And I am certainly not a fan of investing too heavily in one guy at the position. Bad example on my part. However, the point I was trying to make is that I would prefer to bring in an elite talent right now as opposed to accumulating unneeded quantity. This team is young, and ready to win now. Generally I would rather move down than trade up, but I don't feel the need to do that this year. But like I said, I guess it all depends on who is willing to deal, who we are targeting, and how the draft unfolds. I guess I'll reserve judgment on the whole idea until I actually see it happen.


just a thought but had we not made the trade I belive we'd have Steven Jackson+ Spears instead of JJ+Ware+Spears. Its a known fact that BP wanted Spears first, but he was talked into waiting till the 2nd first rounder. Had we only had the 1 pick, I believe BP would've gotten his man at 11 (Spears)

[D-Unit]

just a thought but had we not made the trade I belive we'd have Steven Jackson+ Spears instead of JJ+Ware+Spears. Its a known fact that BP wanted Spears first, but he was talked into waiting till the 2nd first rounder. Had we only had the 1 pick, I believe BP would've gotten his man at 11 (Spears)
Is there an actual source to this "known fact"? I'm serious. Unless there is substantial evidence of a remark like that I will refuse to take as anything more than pure crap. DeMarcus Ware in Dallas is Parcells' doing. Lets not try to take that away from him.

So much assumption... you only assume we would've taken Steven Jackson... it could've been someone totally different.

[FinChase]

Is there an actual source to this "known fact"? I'm serious. Unless there is substantial evidence of a remark like that I will refuse to take as anything more than pure crap. DeMarcus Ware in Dallas is Parcells' doing. Lets not try to take that away from him.

So much assumption... you only assume we would've taken Steven Jackson... it could've been someone totally different.

Yeah, I've read a couple of times in different newspapers that Dallas would have taken Kevin Jones instead, and even considered trading back into the first round to take him.

[M.O.T.H.]

Yeah, I've read a couple of times in different newspapers that Dallas would have taken Kevin Jones instead, and even considered trading back into the first round to take him.

Going back to that draft... I was the happiest person in the world when Steven Jackson fell to us... there was no guarantee that he or Kevin Jones would be there but, they both were and I was just so happy that my favorite prospect (Jackson) was about to become a Cowboy. Then we traded the pick and I became very, very sad. ha.

In all honesty I was very pissed off. :)

[jdnoyes]

Is there an actual source to this "known fact"? I'm serious. Unless there is substantial evidence of a remark like that I will refuse to take as anything more than pure crap. DeMarcus Ware in Dallas is Parcells' doing. Lets not try to take that away from him.

So much assumption... you only assume we would've taken Steven Jackson... it could've been someone totally different.

First of all I never assumed we would've taken Jackson at 22, it was Duckseason who brought up Jackson, and I was just responding to the old we should've taken Jackson at 22 sentiment, by providing reasons why the deal we did was better for the franchise despite the fact that Jackson has become a franchise type runner. Apparently Jackson wasn't the top running back on the Cowboys board anyways and wouldn't have been the choice.

Second of all, I could never provide you definitive proof of what actually happened in that draft room, as I wasn't there, but there were plenty of reports that Bill pouted over not getting Spears first.

For Instance:
http://www.cowboysplus.com/columnists/jtaylor/stories/040407cptaylor.25d4b31.html

I'd pull up more stories about it, but don't want to waste the time, I can't prove to you it is a fact you are right, because its all second hand info. I say Demarcus Ware in Dallas is Jerry/Ireland's doing, but no I don't have video tape to prove it. While we were lucky and spears made it to 20, I would bet a lot Ware never would have.

[M.O.T.H.]

According to BP after the draft... JJ was top on their list because, he thought he was the 2nd coming of Curtis Martin. As for #2 on the list... Jaguars Fb, Greg Jones.

You dont have to take what he said to heart but, if they were stupid enough to pass up on the only legit blue chip RB in the draft, Jackson... I buy it. They must have had Julius in the plans all along.

[D-Unit]

First of all I never assumed we would've taken Jackson at 22, it was Duckseason who brought up Jackson, and I was just responding to the old we should've taken Jackson at 22 sentiment, by providing reasons why the deal we did was better for the franchise despite the fact that Jackson has become a franchise type runner. Apparently Jackson wasn't the top running back on the Cowboys board anyways and wouldn't have been the choice.

Second of all, I could never provide you definitive proof of what actually happened in that draft room, as I wasn't there, but there were plenty of reports that Bill pouted over not getting Spears first.

For Instance:
http://www.cowboysplus.com/columnists/jtaylor/stories/040407cptaylor.25d4b31.html

I'd pull up more stories about it, but don't want to waste the time, I can't prove to you it is a fact you are right, because its all second hand info. I say Demarcus Ware in Dallas is Jerry/Ireland's doing, but no I don't have video tape to prove it. While we were lucky and spears made it to 20, I would bet a lot Ware never would have.
Oh yeah, I forgot that there is no Anti-Parcells sentiment in Dallas. My bad.

That journalist's creditability should be shot down and he should be fired for acting like he has a clue about what he's talking about.

[jdnoyes]

Speaking of Marcus Spears don't know if you guys caught the little gem from the FWST

y Newy Scruggs
Special to the Star-Telegram

Cowboys defensive end Marcus Spears is very glad Bill Parcells is no longer his head coach.

The former first-round draft pick has been a disappointment after two years and only 2 1/2 sacks on his NFL career résumé.

Spears believes he was misused by the Tuna.

"It's definitely been a humbling experience for me because I came in expecting to play well and be able to do what I do and play the game the way I played it in college," he said. "I thought that's what I was drafted for... to get here and be doing something different with a whole different mind-set."

The 6-foot-3 defensive end unloaded 20 minutes of his frustration and disenchantment about his career. Spears is bothered by the potential of being labeled a bust.

His game is using his quickness and causing disruption in the backfield, but Parcells never wanted his 3-4 defensive ends to just cut loose and go get the quarterback. That left Spears close to asking for a trade out of Dallas.

"It's a double-edged sword when you get into a word to word with your head coach about the way he's doing things and the way you want to do things," he said. "Now we have the opportunity to make plays."

To some it might sound as if Spears is an underachiever who is whining and hasn't earned the right to criticize Parcells. This off-season, I've spoken to numerous players who are glad the Tuna didn't return for a fifth season.

The Louisiana native insists there is a whole new attitude at Valley Ranch since Parcells' sometimes dour personality left the building and returned to the East Coast and the laid-back Wade Phillips took over as head coach.

"Just sit back and watch," Spears said. "You're going to see a totally different atmosphere. Totally different sideline. From the equipment room, to the training room, to the locker room."

Spears thrived under Nick Saban at LSU, another tough coach with a healthy ego and stubborn mentality.

The Cowboys are wondering when the player who dominated Oklahoma in the 2003 BCS championship game will make those impact plays for them.

"It's almost like a new career for me," Spears said. "This is only going to be my third year, but it's been tough, man. There's no other way to say it."

Now, Spears believes Phillips' 3-4 scheme will allow him to get more than the single sack he registered in 2006.

"If guys aren't able to thrive in what we are doing now, they aren't football players," he said.

Spears better be ready to back up that statement this fall.


In my opinion he needs to shut the hell up and do his job, and prove what he can do on the field, instead of blaming his coaches. I remember shortly after he was drafted he said, that he'd be glad to be a 3-4 DE and eat up blockers so the LB's could make plays. He even said something to the effect of "if they want me to take out the garbage i'll do it". Bottom line is he hasn't done what he was asked to do, and he is looking for somebody to blame for it. Hope he produces this year cause his mouth is writing checks that the bust label won't cash.

[jdnoyes]

Oh yeah, I forgot that there is no Anti-Parcells sentiment in Dallas. My bad.

That journalist's creditability should be shot down and he should be fired for acting like he has a clue about what he's talking about.

He's not the only journalist that picked up the story D, like I said none of us nor any of the journalists were in the room, its all second hand information, and you are right I can't prove it as fact. I agree that there is a ton of anti-Parcells sentiment in Dallas and on this board. Myself i'm not an anti-Parcells guy, so I don't want to come across that way. However that story isn't new I first read it shortly after the 2005 draft when Parcells still had pretty good standing in Dallas.

In any case we could argue about it all night, but what I will say is we got D-Ware, Spears, Burnett, MB III and Canty out of that draft, which is a hell of a haul, and the overall draft had BP's fingerprints all over it and that can't be disputed. I for one am glad we made the 04 trade with Buffalo.

[M.O.T.H.]

I'm telling you Spears is gonna break out... may seem like he's whining but, he's got a fire in his belly and should really benefit from Phillips scheme and knowledge. I think he'll post better numbers than that of Luis Castillo did this past season in a similar role.

[jdnoyes]

I'm telling you Spears is gonna break out... may seem like he's whining but, he's got a fire in his belly and should really benefit from Phillips scheme and knowledge. I think he'll post better numbers than that of Luis Castillo did this past season in a similar role.

I really hope you are right, it'd mean a lot to this defense if he could.

[thule]

I really hope you are right, it'd mean a lot to this defense if he could.

The 1-Gap scheme should help everyone on our DL...Spears/Hatcher and Stanley are the players I see advancing the most skillwise.

[jdnoyes]

The 1-Gap scheme should help everyone on our DL...Spears/Hatcher and Stanley are the players I see advancing the most skillwise.

You know everyone seems to think Wade's defense is going to be some kind of magic pill for all our players. Do any of you guys think that maybe our talent just isn't as good as we think it is on D. I mean sure we'll put more pressure on the passer next season, but I just don't see this defense going from average to dominant because of the scheme. Is it going to be fun to watch, sure, but I personally think its going to be painful at times too. I think talented players succeed regardless of scheme. Its definately going to be interested and the excuses for guys like spears are about to cease.

[M.O.T.H.]

You know everyone seems to think Wade's defense is going to be some kind of magic pill for all our players. Do any of you guys think that maybe our talent just isn't as good as we think it is on D. I mean sure we'll put more pressure on the passer next season, but I just don't see this defense going from average to dominant because of the scheme. Is it going to be fun to watch, sure, but I personally think its going to be painful at times too. Personally I think talented players succeed regardless of scheme. Its definately going to be interested and the excuses for guys like spears are about to cease.

I do not have a doubt in my mind that our defense will be much, much better. I feel like Mike Zimmer was the problem not the player personel. Zimmer was trying to learn and teach the 3-4 defense simultaneously and there was no way that was going to work. Last season was just embarrassing at times with the mass confusion before the snap. Our boys didnt know their assignments and that I blame on Zimmer. On paper we have a tremendously talented bunch... near the top of the league...even more than Wade's former team... So, you bring in a Wade Phillips, a knowledgeable 3-4 coach with loads of experience and success, and our defense should be up their with the greats... just like the Chargers.

[Paul]

There was nothing wrong with what Spears said. He was unhappy with his inability to make plays, because of a scheme that prohibited him from letting loose. If feels he could thrive under a Wade's defense, where there's a little more movement and more emphasis on pressure and penetration, then let him feel that way. It was no secret that the Zimmer/Parcells 3-4 lacked creativity and didn't produce, and spears just seems excited to work under a new regime.

I myself have been critical of Spears also. Calling for Ratliff or hatcher to replace him many times. But he does have talent, he showed sparks of it his rookie year and at LSU. So give him a year under Wade and let's see. But you really can't blame the guy for letting loose his frustration because of his performance, it just shows he wants to get better. I'd be more worried if he was content with it.

[jdnoyes]

I do not have a doubt in my mind that our defense will be much, much better. I feel like Mike Zimmer was the problem not the player personel. Zimmer was trying to learn and teach the 3-4 defense simultaneously and there was no way that was going to work. Last season was just embarrassing at times with the mass confusion before the snap. Our boys didnt know their assignments and that I blame on Zimmer. On paper we have a tremendously talented bunch... near the top of the league...even more than Wade's former team... So, you bring in a Wade Phillips, a knowledgeable 3-4 coach with loads of experience and success, and our defense should be up their with the greats... just like the Chargers.

I agree that the Defense will be improved, what i'm not buying is that this Defense will be the 2nd coming of the Doomsday like everyone seems to think, that certain average players are suddenly going to become HoFers. And as for Zimmer, I won't rehash something thats been discussed over and over again, but Parcells called the shots imo, and I tend to believe Parcells was a pretty good defensive coach in his day.

[Paul]

Whoa nobody said doomsday now, Ed Jones and Randy white are not gonna pop out. But the defense has the potential to be a top 5 defense IMO. Add that with an efficient offense and theres reason to be excited.

[jdnoyes]

There was nothing wrong with what Spears said. He was unhappy with his inability to make plays, because of a scheme that prohibited him from letting loose. If feels he could thrive under a Wade's defense, where there's a little more movement and more emphasis on pressure and penetration, then let him feel that way. It was no secret that the Zimmer/Parcells 3-4 lacked creativity and didn't produce, and spears just seems excited to work under a new regime.

I myself have been critical of Spears also. Calling for Ratliff or hatcher to replace him many times. But he does have talent, he showed sparks of it his rookie year and at LSU. So give him a year under Wade and let's see. But you really can't blame the guy for letting loose his frustration because of his performance, it just shows he wants to get better. I'd be more worried if he was content with it.

I disagree, instead of placing blame on his coaches, he needs to say I didn't perform up to my standard, and i'm going to bust my ass to play better this year. Its human nature to blame everyone and everything but yourself when things aren't going your way. Be a man and let your actions speak for themselves instead of blaming a coach that is no longer around to defend himself.

Will Wade's scheme help Spears be the player he has the potential to be, quite possibly it will, but only time will tell. Instead of talking about it make it happen.

[D-Unit]

I disagree, instead of placing blame on his coaches, he needs to say I didn't perform up to my standard, and i'm going to bust my ass to play better this year. Its human nature to blame everyone and everything but yourself when things aren't going your way. Be a man and let your actions speak for themselves instead of blaming a coach that is no longer around to defend himself.

Will Wade's scheme help Spears be the player he has the potential to be, quite possibly it will, but only time will tell. Instead of talking about it make it happen.
I agree... Spears totally sounded immature trying to find fault with Parcells' scheme. Richard Seymour seems to be thriving as a DE in the same system. I hope Spears put his money where his mouth is this year. ...and hopefully, he can stay healthy for once.

[M.O.T.H.]

In all honesty, I'm completely lost on how our first round will turn out. It could be Bowe, Spencer, Jarrett... even Reggie Nelson!

It was so much easier last year, pretty much Carp or Lawson. It could be like 10 guys at this point...ha.

Seems like we all have our own sides this year, when it comes to the pick.

[D-Unit]

It was so much easier last year, pretty much Carp or Lawson. It could be like 10 guys at this point...ha.

Seems like we all have our own sides this year, when it comes to the pick.
This is my latest shot at it.

Day 1
Rnd 1: WR Dwayne Bowe
Rnd 2: OLB Victor Abiramiri or Tim Crowder
Rnd 3: NT Paul Soliai

Day 2
Rnd 4: ILB Anthony Waters
Rnd 5: OT Brandon Frye
Rnd 6: CB DeAndre Jackson
Rnd 6: OG Kasey Studdard
Rnd 7: C Dan Mozes
Rnd 7: QB Tobi Korrodi
Rnd 7: FB Deon Anderson

[thule]

You know everyone seems to think Wade's defense is going to be some kind of magic pill for all our players. Do any of you guys think that maybe our talent just isn't as good as we think it is on D. I mean sure we'll put more pressure on the passer next season, but I just don't see this defense going from average to dominant because of the scheme. Is it going to be fun to watch, sure, but I personally think its going to be painful at times too. I think talented players succeed regardless of scheme. Its definately going to be interested and the excuses for guys like spears are about to cease.

I don't think it's a magic pill. However...If you noticed the guys I meantioned were all sucessful at the college level because they were playing in one-gap schemes. Canty has always played in a 2-gap scheme to the best of my knowledge...which is why he seemed to outperform Spears since he's been here. Spears/Hatcher/Stanley all played in one-gap schemes in college and put up great numbers. Now I'm not ready to call them all-pro's the phillips 34 will put them in position to do what they did all through college.

I'm not ready to say Ware is gonna break out because...really the WOLB in Wade's crossfire 4-6 defense doesn't get a anymore rushes at the QB then Ware got in Parcells system. However....our safeties...our ILB's and our SOLB will be getting after the QB more. Whoever is going to be our SOLB this year is going to put up double digit sacks. That quote by Wade saying he didn't think Ellis rushed enough should be a statement on what to expect from Ellis this year.

I think that is why we are targetting another rush backer for day 1. It makes sense...Carp can get after the QB...but I don't think it's something you want him doing every play because that's really taking away from what he does best. Ware has developed into such a great all around LB it almost seems like a waste to have him rush every play...when he is argueably our best coverage backer. I would also like to say that noone on our team can stack up a OL and shed them as good as he can. He isn't the best run stuffer...that goes to Bradie...but Bradie can't do what Ware does.

I'm really excited to see what happens in the draft. The more rumors come out about us trading down the better I feel....all those Meachem/Jarrett reports were scaring me. If we can land spencer early in the 2nd round or late first I'll be whistling dixy. Spencer is exactly what we want coming from the strong side. All these quotes coming from big 10 OL really are starting to get to me. Plus if you've ever seen spencer you know that the kid loves the game...anyone who can rock a mo-hawk is welcome on my team. He really plays with a good deal of passion and effort.

[D-Unit]

Whistlin' dixy, huh? hahaha. nice one!

I dunno... Spencer is a nice thought, but I'm not quite in love with him as I am in Charles Johnson or Jarvis Moss.

I saw Spencer play Hawaii at Aloha Stadium and he didn't stand out. I know he had a great year statistically though. He's got a nice highlight reel.

I really like Johnson's ability to rush, ability to take on blockers and ability to stop the run. I just dunno about his ability to cover... but that goes for all the converted DEs.

[thule]

Whistlin' dixy, huh? hahaha. nice one!

I dunno... Spencer is a nice thought, but I'm not quite in love with him as I am in Charles Johnson or Jarvis Moss.

I saw Spencer play Hawaii at Aloha Stadium and he didn't stand out. I know he had a great year statistically though. He's got a nice highlight reel.

I really like Johnson's ability to rush, ability to take on blockers and ability to stop the run. I just dunno about his ability to cover... but that goes for all the converted DEs.

I would like to say I like Moss better as a rush backer..but just don't see him being around at 22. Johnson is a bit of a outcast to me. I watched a little film on him...but I never saw him have to beat a double team. Seemed like he only had to beat the OT to get to the QB...IDK if he was isolated because of Moses...but Johnson wasn't quite explosive enough for me to buy into the transition. I agree with everything you said about him though...he can get after the qb...and is above average for a DE against the run...and who knows about coverage like you said. The one thing that I think spencer has over him is the explosive first step. I've never seen that from Johnson.

[jdnoyes]

Not sure how we managed to turn our mock draft thread into one of the better discussions we've had on this board in a while, but hey i'm glad we got some of our better posters talking again.

As to the Moss vs Johnson vs Spencer discussion I prefer Spencer to both of em.

Johnson is a nice player, who actually reminds me of Ellis. He just doesn't have that explosive first step that Moss and Spencer do. He is pretty stout against the run and very strong (34 reps). I went back and watched the DE's again at the combine several times the other day when I was looking at Spencer, and Johnson seemed the least comfortable of the 3 in terms of LB drills, he also posted the slowest 40 times of the 3 and the slowest 3 cone and shuttle. I really think he's better suited for a strong side DE in the pros because he can hold up against the run and has the ability to beat slower less athletic RT's to the QB. NFL Draft scout did report the cowboys interviewed him at the combine and talked to him about filling a Greg Ellis role, so thats intersting.

Moss was the guy I really liked at first until I really started digging. You realize this guy only had 5 1/2 sacks coming into the game with Ohio St. Sure he picked a great time to have the game of his life, but I dunno his production is suspect. He never started till his Sr. year and almost quit the team due to the infection in his hip that he is still recovering from. He reminds me of Lawson from last year, tall lanky guy who could really stand to add weight. He is weak, and does not hold up well at the point at all. He looked ok in LB drills at the combine but not as good as Spencer imo. He does have a very good first step and that nice body lean you look for coming off the corner. Just like Lawson last year I think he'd have to play WOLB and Ware would go strong.

Finally the guy I like Spencer. He was right there with Moss in all combine drills, except bench where he knocked out 30 reps to Moss's 16. He had more sacks, more tackles, more TFL, more FF than both Moss and Johnson in 06. You cant knock his level of competition, he played against the top two LT's in the draft, and while he didnt get a sack on either, they both said he was the toughest assignment they had during their college careers. He shows an explosive first step, good pursuit, and is actually fairly stout against the run. What I really liked about him was the way he used his hands in all the highlight film I watched. He showed pretty well in LB drills, and said he was asked to drop into coverage at Purdue during his Jr. year so feels like he could step right in as a 3-4 OLB. On top of all that NFL.com compares him to Shawn Phillips, also from Purdue, but says he has more talent coming out. We all know who coached Shawn Phillips opposite Merriman at SD.

[thule]

I really think if we draft Spencer...he plays the Strong Side like Meriman did. So it's funny that he is compared to Phillips.

[jdnoyes]

Yeah I think he plays the strong side too, but I also think Ware gets flip flopped over there quite a bit as well. I don't think you can say that Spencer would step right into the Merriman role, and Ware would step right into the Phillips role. Wade will use his people to maximize their talents, we can't think of it in terms of the Merriman role or the Phillips role as they were used in SD.

[Burns336]

If we are going to trade out of 22 Charles Johnson in the second would be awesome. He really came on strong this year and outplayed Quinten Moses, who was more highly touted coming into the season. I really think this guy could adapt well at OLB, i've watched alot of him and hes super athletic for being 270.

[mat33]

This is my mock draft, assuming that there are no trades, which I find highly unlikely:

1.#22 Justin Blalock OG, Texas
Dallas has drastically improved it’s O-line, but the addition of a true road grading OG would really solidify the interior, and put Kozier in his ideal position, as a super-sub. Blalock is not only a road grader, but he is also very mobile and would fit right in the Dallas system.

2.#53 Victor Abiamiri OLB, Notre Dame
While I still think that Bobby Carpenter will be a good player, I think that his future is inside. The Cowboys should look to Abiamiri in the 2nd, a tremendous athlete with good pass rushing skills should compete immediately with Greg Ellis for the starting spot and provide a perfect bookend to Ware.

3.#87 Zak DeOssi ILB, Brown
A terrific athlete with good size. He would provide much needed depth at the ILB position. Plays with a non-stop motor and if nothing else he will be a great special teamer.

4.#122 Walter Thomas NT, NW Mississippi C.C.
The Definition of a freak, at 6’5, 375lbs and a 5.19 40. A classic boom or bust type pick. He has the size and athletic ability to handle double and triple teams. The down side is that he has little football experience, and may not be all that smart. However, at NT he may be better suited being less intelligent, and he did start for Oklahoma St. as a true freshman before being dismissed for academic eligibility.

5.#159 Yamon Figurs PR/KR, Kansas State
Devin Hester type ability as a return man. Really made a name for himself against Texas this year, and running a tremendous 40 at the combine.

6.A)#195 Jordan Palmer QB, UTEP
A camp arm that will compete for the back up spot but most likely be the 3rd QB. Comes from a great football family being the brother of Carson Palmer. He also has tremendous size.

6.B)#200 Brandon Frye OT, Virginia Tech
A good athlete that could provide depth at the OT position. He lacks experience but was a productive player and has upside.

7.A)#212 Jeff Samardzija WR, Notre Dame
1st round talent, but will fall due to Baseball commitment. He may realize down the road that football is his sport.

7.B)#234 CJ Ah You DE, Oklahoma
He has the size to play in a 3-4 and has good pass-rushing ability. Has a good motor and could be an acceptable risk late in the 7th round.

7.C)#237 Chinedum Ndukwe S, Notre Dame
A terrific athlete with superstar special teamer written all over him.

[SweatThePipe]

Trade #22 to SD for #30 & #93

Rd 1 #30 - Sidney Rice WR South Carolina

Rd 2 #53 - Marcus McCauley CB Fresno St

Rd 3 #87 - Quentin Moses DE/OLB Georgia

Rd 3 #93 - Walter Thomas DT NW Miss CC

Rd 4 #122 - Courtney Brown CB Cal Poly

Rd 5 - Anthony Waters LB Clemson

Rd 6 - Chase Johnson OT Wyoming

Rd 6 - Uche Nwaneri OG Purdue

Rd 7 - Stanley Doughty DT South Carolina

Rd 7 - Jordan Palmer QB UTEP

Rd 7 - Kyle Young C Fresno St or Dustin Fry C Clemson

[D-Unit]

I think that Spencer's stock is higher amongst the general consensus, but I think that Dallas considers 22 too high to draft him. I think a trade down is the only situation where Anthony or Johnson for that matter gets selected.

I don't know that Johnson lacks a quick first step either...

Against tough SEC competition he put up 19 TFL, 9.5 Sacks, 10 Blocked Passes, 30 QBHs and 3 FF... that's major production. As a junior he put up 8.5 TFL, 4 Sacks, 2 PBUs, 28 QBHs, 2 FR, and 1 FF. Needless to say, he's been playing at a high level and you don't put up those kind of numbers without having the ability to beat your defender... whether it is by a quick first step or overpowering force or superior technique or sheer passion/motor or combination of factors...

At the combine, every eye sees something different... According to scout.com, here are the reports on the DL workouts of Spencer, Moss and Johnson.

Charles Johnson/Georgia: Johnson ran relatively well then showed a lot of athleticism in the drills. Quick footed, Johnson moved well in every area of the field and practiced fast. He was smooth in reverse showing a backpedal and the ability to open his hips.

Charles Johnson of Georgia looked good and practiced faster than he timed.

Jarvis Moss/Florida: Moss improved his stock today. After running well he showed a lot of athleticism in the practice session. Moss also stood out during linebacker drills.

Jarvis Moss of Florida stood out in most of the defensive line and linebacker drills.

Anthony Spencer/Purdue: Spencer's day was average. He ran some disappointing times in the forty and was rather ordinary during linebacker drills.

Also some on Tim Crowder...

Tim Crowder/Texas: Crowder was fantastic from start to finish. He's a fluid athlete with good movement skills. And while he needs to work on his backpedal, for the most part Crowder did a good job in the linebacker drills.

Tim Crowder of Texas was another who looked fluid on the field and also did well during linebacker drills.

Victor Abiamiri/Notre Dame: Looked athletic during the linemen drills displaying a quick change of direction and good lateral speed. He struggled moving in reverse during linebacker drills and dropped several easy "interceptions".

While I wouldn't base all my judgements on one man's opinion, it does provide some insight.

I would much rather have Johnson in Round 2 than Spencer in Round 1. But Johnson won't last to us in round 2, so we'd have to make some move to get him.

[D-Unit]

Trade #22 to SD for #30 & #93

Rd 1 #30 - Sidney Rice WR South Carolina

Rd 2 #53 - Marcus McCauley CB Fresno St

Rd 3 #87 - Quentin Moses DE/OLB Georgia

Rd 3 #93 - Walter Thomas DT NW Miss CC

Rd 4 #122 - Courtney Brown CB Cal Poly

Rd 5 - Anthony Waters LB Clemson

Rd 6 - Chase Johnson OT Wyoming

Rd 6 - Uche Nwaneri OG Purdue

Rd 7 - Stanley Doughty DT South Carolina

Rd 7 - Jordan Palmer QB UTEP

Rd 7 - Kyle Young C Fresno St or Dustin Fry C Clemson
Is it me, or did every single one of those players have disappointing seasons last year? That's a terrible mock. Thomas in the 3rd is probably the biggest reach I've ever heard.

[D-Unit]

Here's my crazy Draft Day Trades Scenario! Enjoy!


Trade Scenario - I hate predicting trades because they are 100% fascination, so I just tried to have fun with it.

Trade #1: Trade 1st Rnd Pick to Atlanta for the first of their 2nd Rnd Picks and their 3rd Rnd Pick.

- Landry will be selected before Atlanta has a chance. Washington is my guess. Nelson or Griffin will be the target of Atlanta with our pick.

Trade #2:
Julius Jones and a combination of pick(s) to Cleveland OR Arizona for their 2nd Rnd Pick.

- Cleveland will draft JaMarcus Russell instead of Adrian Peterson in Rnd 1.
- Arizona's Mo Carthon knows Julius Jones and Edge is no longer a full time starting RB.

Day 1
Rnd 2 (via ATL): DE/OLB Charles Johnson or Anthony Spencer
Rnd 2 (via CLE): OG Ben Grubbs or Justin Blalock
Rnd 2: RB Antonio Pittman
Rnd 3 (via ATL): OT Doug Free
Rnd 3: K Mason Crosby

Day 2
Rnd 4: CB Usama Young
Rnd 5: LB Anthony Waters or LB Desmond Bishop
Rnd 6: NT Walter Thomas
Rnd 6: C Dan Mozes
Rnd 7: RB/WR Ramonce Taylor
Rnd 7: FB Deon Anderson
Rnd 7: QB Tyler Thigpen

[jdnoyes]

Well different eyes see players differently, and while i'm no expert I stand by what I saw as far as LB drills. Odd how they say Spencer's 40 was a dissapointment when he was just as fast as moss and faster than Johnson. I'd be happy with Johnson though, I just think he's very similar to Ellis which can be a good thing I suppose. I rank them Spencer, Moss then Johnson.

You make some great points about getting the players though. Moss will have to be the first pick trade down or not, with Johnson I think there is a chance we could take another player with the first pick by trading down and then Johnson by trading back up in the 2nd. Of course, we know Jerry likes to wheel and deal, but like i've said before the risk is you get too cute and you get nobody that you wanted in the first place.

[mat33]

I think that Abiamiri is very similar to Spencer, therefore I would rather take Abiamiri in the 2nd and take a guy like Blalock at 22.

[jdnoyes]

I think that Abiamiri is very similar to Spencer, therefore I would rather take Abiamiri in the 2nd and take a guy like Blalock at 22.

I like Blalock, but I don't think he carries value at 22, to me thats a bit of a reach. Maybe after a trade down. The real problem with Blalock is why spend your first for a guy who won't see the field. In fact I bet he'd spend the majority of his first season on the inactive list. You generally want a first rounder that can give you something in year one, special teams something. A pass rusher, defensive back, or even WR can at least rotate in and play special teams. Don't get me wrong I think this team will address the OL, and maybe even the first day, I just don't think it'll be in the first two rounds.

Abiamiri is a nice prospect, that could be available at 53, but he's another guy who I am not sure about making the transition to standing up. I think he's better suited to putting on some more weight and playing DE in a 4-3. He can definately get after the passer though, and if he could stand up i'd be all for him in the second.

[mat33]

I do think that Blalock could start from the get-go. Kozier is a nice player, but nothing that Blalock couldn't handle

[jdnoyes]

I do think that Blalock could start from the get-go. Kozier is a nice player, but nothing that Blalock couldn't handle

Very rarely do linemen step into the starting role in the NFL from the start unless they are forced to by injury, or are a blue chip type prospect going to a team devoid of talent at their position. Its a very tough position to transition from the college game to the pros. I agree that Kozier is average at best, but he does have the experience and technique that are keys to playing this position. Heck I don't think he would even beat out Procter early in the season. Barring injury I just don't see Blalock hitting the field at all in 07. Now assuming we hadn't signed Davis or resigned Columbo, i'd be all for Blalock, but I just don't see it as it stands now.

[arockii]

I changed the name of my draft

[Paul]

http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2162

You must not have seen where it said, "Cowboys Mock Draft".

[D-Unit]

http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2162

You must not have seen where it said, "Cowboys Mock Draft".
Maybe he feels special enough to make his own since his is the only "realistic" one.

[leroyisgod]

Less than week to the draft, can't wait. I have a feeling we'll trade out of the first round for more picks. This isn't a bad thing, but it'll suck because we'll have to wait that much longer to see who our first pick is.

[Paul]

Less than week to the draft, can't wait. I have a feeling we'll trade out of the first round for more picks. This isn't a bad thing, but it'll suck because we'll have to wait that much longer to see who our first pick is.

LOL yeah, I was so ready for Kevin Jones or Stephen Jackson a few years back, then they announced we traded down. I was worried about losing on Jones and jackson, but also I was pissed i had wait another hour to for our first pick.

[arockii]

1.)Anthony Spencer OLB/DE 6'2 261lbs Purdue
Wade Phillips doesn't want to be in the same place the tuna was last year if Ellis goes down,the offensive line slided their protection to Ware's side.Carpenter came on towards the end but looks more like a inside linebacker in the 3-4.Spencer who's a better prospect than Shaun Phillips would come in and add depth to the outside rush linebacker spot.He would eventually be the successer to Greg Ellis on the strongside.He would be the Banks to Ware's Taylor or the Phillips to Ware's Merriman.Don't forget Spencer would be in a similar situation to Phillips who backed up Foley for the first couple years of his career.Spencer has a terrific motor and is a good at stoping the run.He would be money in the Phillip's 3-4.

2.)Eric Wright CB 5'10 192lbs UNLV
The cowboys gamble on Wright's talent.He could come in and learn behind Aaron Glenn.He as top 10 potential but is stock fell because of character issues,and you know Jerry Jones loves to take risks just look at T.O.Wright can be a return specialist also.So they could get extra value with this pick.

3.)Jacoby Jones WR 6'2 210lbs Lane
I'm not a real big fan of us going WR on the first day but the writing is on the wall.T.O. is gonna be 34 and Glenn is gonna be 33.And you can't bet on them being there for you very week because of there injury history.Keep in mind we have some good young Prospects like Crayton,Hurd and Austin who could be in the plans for our future as well.

4.)Walter Thomas NT 6'4 374lbs NW Mississipi C.C.
Who?????This guy is quietly pushing to be a first day pick.He could come in and gives depth behind Jason Ferguson,and eventually be the future starter.Phillips always stresses the importance of the nose tackle in the 3-4.And Thomas more than fit's the mold.He may be the strongest guy in the draft,though he will have to drop a couple of pounds.This pick is sort of like the Jason Hatcher pick from last year.

5.)Jacob Bender OT 6'6 316lbs Nicholls St.
Another small school prospect with alot of talent.The media over reacts to the cowboys offensive line.We have some young talent that Parcells left us like Proctor and Mquisten.But Bender could come in a shake some things up.

6a.)Jay Alford DE/DT 6'3 304lbs Penn State
We need to replace Kenyon Coleman who bolted for more money with the jet's.Alford could be a late round steal if he's in the right scheme.

6b.)Jeff Rowe QB 6'5 226lbs Nevada
The cowboys need to get a good young QB to progess into a backup behind Tony Romo.Rowe as nice size and could compete down the line.

7a.)Kyle Young C 6'5 354lbs Fresno State
We need to get a back up for Gurode becasue Johnson left for FA.

7b.)Jessie Daniels S 5'10 216lbs L.S.U.
May be we can find a cover saftey to back up the ones we have

7c.)Daniel Coats TE/HB 6'2 257lbs B.Y.U.
Maybe he could get a look at fullback

[Paul]

Scott's New Mock
1. Robert Meachem
2. Quentin Moses
3. Mason Crosby

[jdnoyes]

Scott's New Mock
1. Robert Meachem
2. Quentin Moses
3. Mason Crosby

I hate it, don't want a reciever in round 1, and don't want Moses in round 2. And when will Scott listen about Jerry not drafting a kicker.

[M.O.T.H.]

Edit... wrong thread.

[ftbl88]

Why do they still have the Cowboys taking Mason Crosby in the 3rd round. Because they resigned Gramatica so I don't see them doing it I'd love it if they do though.

[M.O.T.H.]

Why do they still have the Cowboys taking Mason Crosby in the 3rd round. Because they resigned Gramatica so I don't see them doing it I'd love it if they do though.

Well, it's not like we have a lot invested in Martin...it is a plausible but, i dont want to see it happen.

[LSUALUM99]

Mason Crosby isn't even the consensus #1 Kicker. According to Rick Gosselin he's the THIRD rated kicker. That means 6th round at best. I don't think he'll go before that.

[M.O.T.H.]

Mason Crosby isn't even the consensus #1 Kicker. According to Rick Gosselin he's the THIRD rated kicker. That means 6th round at best. I don't think he'll go before that.

I saw that too...i just think those are bad rankings. His leg strength will get him selected as the 1st kicker... probably 4th round... 5th the very worst.

[D-Unit]

I have a hard time buying Rich Gosselin this year. I give him credit for being good in the past, but no one can be consistently right year after year. I think he's been lucky. Nothing more.

Predicting the draft is like filling out an NCAA Tournament Bracket.

[Staubach12]

Well, I had an idea today. Anyway, new mock. The trade is kind of off the wall, and I will mess with it later, I just threw this one together.

TRADE: Pat Crayton, #86 to Vikes for #39

1. Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU

We need a #1 and soon. Owens and Glenn aren't spring chickens, and Crayton will never be more than a 3 (and I traded him anyway). Bowe can come in and immediately serve as a 3, and then soon become a 1. He fits in the mold of an Owens-type WR. Bug, fast, physical, and can make plays after the catch. He exactly what we need.

2. DeMarcus Tyler, NT, NC St.

Tyler fills a need at NT, and he can fill in for Jason Fergeson, but eventually fill in to a starting role. Tyler will do well at NT in a 3-4, because he's got the size, strength, power, etc be play that role. He'll be able to demand a double team on the next level, helping our 3-4 be more technically sound.

2. Quenton Moses, DE/OLB, Georgia

Oh, how things change. Moses has really fallen as of late, and I really do think he'll be there when we pick in the 2nd. He kind of fell off as a senior, but if he can play like he did as a junior, we'll have a star on our hands. Drafting Moses will allow us to keep Carpenter inside, where he'll ultimately take Bradie James' spot. Moses also is widely accepted as player who will fit in the 3-4 very well. Moses this year would fill in with Ellis, and soon take over completely. Moses is a stud pass rusher, and that's one of the things we really need on the defense right now.

4. Jonathan Wade, CB, Tennessee

Our corners are getting old. I'll just say it upfront. We'll need a #3 soon and a #2 soon, as well. Wade has huge potential, and with good coaching, he can become a great CB. He played very well, and his athleticism is on par with the next level. If we can teach him a bit more, than he should be very good in time, His role this next year will be #4, then 3 soon, then 2.

5. Derek Landri, DE, Notre Dame

He projects as a DE in our 3-4 scheme. He's a solid pass rusher, and he'll be a good backup for us in time. He's got a great motor, and he could definately serve as a great rotational player, IMO. He's quite underrated and he was a top recruit coming out of high school. He's a great character guy who loves the game, too.

6. Chris Leak, QB, Florida

Leak definately doesn't project as a starter in the NFL, but he's exactly what you look for in a solid backup. He's smart, and understands the game well. He doesn't take over a game or blow you away with measurables, but he's a good game manager, which is what you want when your golden boy goes down. He'll take over as primary backup once Brad Johnson retires or leaves.

7. Lyle Sendlein, C, Texas

This guy has one big meen streak. He's the kind of guy you love to have playing for you on the line. He's also got good mechanics, and he's got some upside. I like his potential. Though he's not especially powerful or agile, he could serve as a solid backup for Gurode.

7. Nick Graham, CB, Tulsa

This guy plays with his heart, but sometimes the lack of the head equation makes me question him. So, why not take a flyer on a guy like that? He's agressive, and he has good instincs, but sometimes, that agressiveness kills him. He bites a bit too much, and he really just needs to be a bit more patient. I like him though. I think with coaching, he might turn out to be alright.

7. Justin Medlock, K, UCLA

Hey, why not? He's got a good leg, and was productive in college. I think it would be good to bring in a fresh face at kicker to compete. Who knows? He could turn out to be something.

[fryman]

1) Chris Houston- CB- I would prefer Revis, but he should be off the board when we pick.

2) Quentin Moses- OLB- Will see plenty of time backing up OLB this year, and could possibly take over Ellis’ position next year, depending on what happens with Carpenter. Would allow Carpenter to move inside permanently to utilize all of his talent and provide more of a rush up the middle.

3) Doug Datish- C/G- Probably a little bit of a reach, but we could trade down a little at this pick and move up our 5th round pick for a better shot at Walter Thomas. Can fill the need for backup at guard and center. Satele is another option, but he should be off the board.

4) Laurent Robinson- WR- Little bit of a homer pick. Compares well to Robert Meachem, probably even a better route runner and better hands. Great deep ball threat.

5) Walter Thomas- NT- Has perfect numbers to become a top NT, probably will need to move up to have a shot at him though.

6) James Pinkney- QB- Has all the ability to turn into a solid #2 QB

7) Jermon Bushrod- OT- haven’t seen any film of him, but hey it’s a 7th rounder and he looks great on paper as a LT prospect. He may be off the board in the 6th depending on how willing teams are to take the risk. If somebody doesn’t show the ability to start at LT after this year we can target a top LT in next years draft.

7) Cory Anderson- FB- great blocking FB that can lead the way for Jones and Barber



A 6th and 7th round pick is left out to move around and pick up the players we want.

[Ward]

I have a hard time buying Rich Gosselin this year. I give him credit for being good in the past, but no one can be consistently right year after year. I think he's been lucky. Nothing more.

Predicting the draft is like filling out an NCAA Tournament Bracket.

Luck, or he has great contacts inside the organization. I think him not really having a solid pick means even the organization doesn't know. I'm putting it all on defensive back (S or CB) unless we trade down.

[dc4life]

Luck, or he has great contacts inside the organization. I think him not really having a solid pick means even the organization doesn't know. I'm putting it all on defensive back (S or CB) unless we trade down.

He's got great contacts. I've heard him going as far as to calling every GM and asking them who they'll pick. lol :D

[LSUALUM99]

Exactly. Gosselin doesn't make his own judgements. He's not Kiper or Mayock. He doesn't review tape or 'break down' the prospects.

His information is a compilation of the 32 GM's and other personell guys from around the league. He has great inside information. He's extremely well thought of and is credited with almost singlehandedly getting Bob Hayes into the HOF with his contacts and lobbying.

I would say that Gosselin is the SINGLE best source of information regarding the NFL draft. The problem is that his information (since it's compiled by him through his NFL contacts) is done so close to the draft that he doesn't get the coverage of a Kiper or Mayock. His TOP 100 has shown to be 85% correct throughout the last 10 years!!!!.

I think his Mock Drafts are ok, but his TOP 100 and his player rankings by position are top notch.

For that reason, since he has Crosby as the 3rd best kicker, I'll put MONEY on the fact Crosby isn't drafted before the 5th round.

[thule]

I'm so tempted to make that crosby bet...but I can't bring myself to do it.

[LSUALUM99]

I have a hard time buying Rich Gosselin this year. I give him credit for being good in the past, but no one can be consistently right year after year. I think he's been lucky. Nothing more.

Predicting the draft is like filling out an NCAA Tournament Bracket.

P.S. He has been consistenly right for the last decade. It's not luck, and it's not his own 'genius' either. It's just compiling information from credible sources and aggregating the opinions of all of them instead of making his own opinions.

He's not an anyalyst, he's a researcher.

[LSUALUM99]

Thule, my daughter loved the Flash sig you had before. Can you send me the link so that I can put it in my sig? She used to read over my shoulder (well, she's 4 so read is a bit of a stretch) but she used to ask for 'Flash'.

[thule]

Thule, my daughter loved the Flash sig you had before. Can you send me the link so that I can put it in my sig? She used to read over my shoulder (well, she's 4 so read is a bit of a stretch) but she used to ask for 'Flash'.

lol...almost makes me wanna change back.
http://gra.midco.net/airplaneparts/flash.png

[thule]

wrong thread

[robert_in_bigd]

Strategy Question more so than names ......

What do folks think of us going WR/DB/OT in the first three and possibly looking for an OLB/Pass Rusher like a Bazuin or Hikman in the 4th/5th?

OT: Thule, that picture is disturbing.

[M.O.T.H.]

We dont even need a WR or an OT... so that wouldnt be ideal for me but, i could see it happening.

[robert_in_bigd]

We dont even need a WR or an OT... so that wouldnt be ideal for me but, i could see it happening.

Not to be difficult, but WR and OT is exactly what we need given the age and "injury history" of ALL FOUR starters.

Not sure what you call "need" if not those spots. Maybe NT but .... at least Fergie has never been hurt.

[fryman]

Strategy Question more so than names ......

What do folks think of us going WR/DB/OT in the first three and possibly looking for an OLB/Pass Rusher like a Bazuin or Hikman in the 4th/5th?

OT: Thule, that picture is disturbing.

I like Barnes in the 5th, not sure about the WR/DB/OT though. If we don't go WR round 1 I think we should wait until the 4th round. OT I would be fine with in the 3rd, but no sooner.

[M.O.T.H.]

Not to be difficult, but WR and OT is exactly what we need given the age and "injury history" of ALL FOUR starters.

Not sure what you call "need" if not those spots. Maybe NT but .... at least Fergie has never been hurt.

Honestly... I dont want to touch WR... I want to see Hurd and Austin continue to develop without bringing in another WR to complicate things...As for T, I see guard as more of a need... Davis could slide back over to LT next season, the position he wants to play and we could continue to develop and groom, Mcquistan. I think our biggest needs are NT, CB, and G.

[LSUALUM99]

I would love for us to go CB, WR, DL/OLB in the first three picks

Second day picks, I don't really care as long as we do not take a Kicker. I'd love for us to trade up in the 4th with some of our second day picks. I'd be very happy if we could get an additional 3rd or 4th rounder this year.

[LSUALUM99]

lol...almost makes me wanna change back.
http://gra.midco.net/airplaneparts/flash.png


As long as you keep using the sig then I won't. I just need to be able to find it. She's quite the Flash fan.

[Achilles33]

Whoever wants a kicker in the first day should be shot. Tell Scott to take Crosby off his mock, especially from us. If he doesn't, shoot him. :)

[thule]

I'm gonna start this out with Wade Phillips self-proclaimed draft strategy.


1- Marcus McCauley, CB, Fresno State
Reach right? I'm buying into drafting on measurables now. Someone might say but he didn't even play good this year..and was consistantly beat deep. I would say ya but most of those things are coachable. The first round to me is to find yourself a freak...something that you can't find outside of round one. McCauley owned the field last year...you know he has the ability...now for w/e reason his production falled off...maybe it was pressure by the DL...maybe it was the loss of Marshall..either way we've seen this kid perform at a high level. And t 6-foot-1, 198 pounds and running in the high 4.3s, McCauley has uncoachable tools. He makes it look easy at times. He is also durable...hasn't missed a single game in his collegiate career. He has the ability to run stride for stride with anyone in the league...it's the technique that was hindering him this year. Hell his main problem was running with the wr...rather then getting his head turned around. That is coachable. McCauley does have good zone awareness...he excels playing on the line of scrimmage redirecting the WR. You also have to love his effortless hip swivel...he can break on the ball when it is there...and has the long arms/jumping ability to make up for a mistake. He is also a great open field tackler...which is good...since it shows he's not afraid to make the hit. Okay I think that I have made my point on why...so now you ask where does he play? Well looks to me like a Dime Back year one...unless he exceeds expectations. But McCauley can play on all special teams units...he is a former HS running back and returner...he might not have top lateral quickness...but he is shifty enough to be a returner. This is something that I didn't know about him before...that I recently just turned up.
2- Doug Free, OT, Northern Illinois
What is one thing I look for when drafting a player outside of the first round? Smarts, Free is exceptional in that area. He was a semifinalist for the National Football Foundation's Draddy Award, honoring combined academic success, football performance and exemplary community service, and received "Halfway All-American" recognition by CBS SportsLine.com at the season's midpoint. He also held a 3.24gpa as an Industrial Technology major...which is something you don't normally see for a player of this caliber. Once again....some people may say reach...but you can quote me in saying...he won't be around for us when our 3rd round pick comes. Sure some will once again say...but he didn't play well this year...but the thing is he struggled to stay healthy all year. He was bothered by a groin pull in fall camp, and then suffered a right foot stress fracture when his leg was stepped on in the season opener vs. Ohio State. He played in the next two games before telling trainers of the injury, and the fracture was then treated. I'm gonna end this pick by quoting his head coach.
Joe Novak - "No question, Doug has the talent to play on Sundays. Knock on wood, I believe he's going to be a first-round draft pick. Doug Free's a lot better athlete than Ryan Diem. (Free) can run! You just don't see many offensive linemen that can run at that size like he can. What's impressive is he'll sit back in pass protection and then we'll throw the ball down the field and he'll run down field and block a safety. I mean, get downfield! You just don't see kids who can do that. He's special. Our kids call him 'Doug Freak' because he runs so well."
3- Dan Bazuin, DE/OLB, Western Michigan GONE Rd 2 (62nd overall)
Like I said earlier...I love a player with smarts...so why not draft another academic all american. He was a marketing major with a 3.39 grade-point average, Bazuin was the only student-athlete from the Mid-American Conference to be named to the 2006 Academic All-America football team. Just like Free he was also a national semifinalist for the Draddy Trophy. Now lets get onto the on-the-field production. Bazuin holds the school career records for tackles for loss (60) and sacks (33) and single-season records for tackles for loss (26 1/2) and sacks (16). His 16 sacks in 2005 tied what was then a MAC single-season record. He ranks eighth in MAC history in tackles for loss and fourth in sacks. In high school he was a three sport athlete in football, basketball, and track. So we know he is athletic. Bazuin started every game he played in (47) at Central Michigan, including 38 consecutive at one point. He recorded 261 tackles (132 solos) as he set school career-records with 35 1/2 sacks for minus-268 yards, 63 1/2 stops for losses of 354 yards and 10 forced fumbles. He added seven quarterback pressures with six fumble recoveries, including one that he returned for a touchdown. He deflected nine passes and blocked four kicks.
4- Antonio Johnson, NT, Mississippi State
This is a pick a absolutely love. Johnson really hasn't played much football. He has been around it...but it seems to have taken him awhile to really take it to the next level. In 22 games at Mississippi State, Johnson started five times. He recorded 36 tackles (16 solos) with 2.5 sacks for minus-10 yards, seven stops for losses totaling 20 yards and one quarterback pressure. He recovered two fumbles and blocked a kick. Some people maybe worried about his weight since he is only at about 307 but he has a frame that can carry at least another 15 pounds with no loss in quickness. I could go on and on about him and what he brings to the table. But I'll just say he is a relentless player who has good hands but just needs to be coached up a bit and add some bulk to his frame.
5- Brandon Myles, WR, West Virginia
Unfortunately I don't have a huge background on this guy. But I'll just say that I fell in love with him at the combine. He has great quickness in and out of his breaks. He can beat the jam off the line of scrimmage. Is a natural hands catcher...very rarely will you see the ball get into his body. He is one of the top snubs not to go to the combine...had he been there I have a feeling he could have been a day one pick...but luckily for us he is around later. He has above average lateral quickness...and would be another addition in the return game. I really like this kid as a future replacement for Terry Glenn.
6- Nathan Bennett, OG, Clemson
Decent size and somewhat of a raw prospect...developmental guy at this point.
6- Jay Richardson, DE, Ohio State
About the right size for a 3-4 DE...don't have much on him...but might be better suited for a 3-4 rather then the 4-3 he was forced to play at OSU.
7- Drew Tate, QB, Iowa
This might just be the pick of the draft. This guy is a player. Great improviser, great smarts, played at a high level all his collegiate career. I honestly think he would be a great backup to Tony Romo for many years. They have similar playing styles...so you don't have to worry about your offense adjusting to a new QB...if for some reason Romo did go down. His main knock is size...but like many people know...it's not all about the size...it's about finding the throwing lanes. I really love this pick and no one will tell me otherwise :P

So there you have it....my draft. Well some might say I reached...but that is honestly how I would draft at this point. Get myself a freak early...smart players throughout the draft...get myself some projects on day 2...and address depth in a couple positions.

Looking back on my draft we would have only missed on Buzuin...could have went another direction. Could have even done the same deal and still landed McCauley. Hell we could have traded at 3 and picked up Stanback.

Granted I missed on a couple but thought it would be fun to revisit after week 1.

[thule]

Jumping around again....came across this.

Page 4...guess who's mock draft projection?
3. OT Doug Free, Northern Illinois - The Future at LT. Two-time All-Mid-Am pick (2004-05). Heads into senior campaign with an active string of 36 consecutive starts (34 at LT and two at TE) and 156 knockdown blocks in 2,287 career snaps (2003-05). Serious 2007 National Football League draft material. All-America candidate with unique combination of athleticism, quick feet, and work ethic. Nicknamed by Northern Illinois teammates as "Doug Freak" for athleticism (:05.0 speed, 29-inch vertical jump, and 565-pound squat lift. Coach Joe Novak says Free could play TE in the NFL. Anchored rock-solid Northern Illinois O-line that blocked for nation's No. 16 major-college rushing attack (206.7 yards-per-game average) and total offense (441.1 ypg.) last season and paved the way for 1,000-yard rushers such as All-America tailbacks Michael "The Burner" Turner and Garrett Wolfe.

Flozell being in the last year of his contract makes this pick an important one. We may even have to reach in Round 2 for him and find a WR in Round 3. Free is one of the more underrated prospects in this draft, but he has all the tools to make a successful NFL career.

http://niuhuskies.cstv.com/sports/m-...ee_doug00.html

Other Hopefuls: James Marten, Dan Bazuin, Steve Smith, Fred Bennett, Desmond Bishop

[LonghornsLegend]

Honestly... I dont want to touch WR... I want to see Hurd and Austin continue to develop without bringing in another WR to complicate things...As for T, I see guard as more of a need... Davis could slide back over to LT next season, the position he wants to play and we could continue to develop and groom, Mcquistan. I think our biggest needs are NT, CB, and G.

well you didnt want a wr last year or this year, I guess your just waiting for the day Hurd and Austin are our outside receivers eh? Development is fine, but some guys are only going to get so good, when TO got hurt at the end of the year, where were those guys stepping up? We should of taken a wr last year if the value was good, this year its a must...

[D-Unit]

Jumping around again....came across this.

Page 4...guess who's mock draft projection?
Oh damn. That's ME! :D

I told you, I was really bummed when we passed on him in Roudn 3 and 4 and then got totally excited when we ended up getting him with our 2nd 4th rounder. The point where I really gave up on him and probably premature... was when he sustained his MCL injury. It was just the same story of injury all over again. Flashes of Jacob Rogers raced before my eyes. Maybe my disappointment in Free is all because of Rogers. I hope Free is the answer. I mean why wouldn't I? Saves us a draft pick. My thoughts are that if he is the answer, then don't overpay for Flozell. It's really that simple.

I'm pleased to see that I mentioned Marten as an alternate for that 3rd round pick! :D

Also, hit the nail on the head with the Deon Anderson pick. Woot! That was how early before the draft??? Oh yeah! :)

[D-Unit]

I'm telling you Spears is gonna break out... may seem like he's whining but, he's got a fire in his belly and should really benefit from Phillips scheme and knowledge. I think he'll post better numbers than that of Luis Castillo did this past season in a similar role.
Oh MOTH, this was a great prediction. :D

[Achilles33]

D-Unit, can you get threw your head that it was just an MCL sprain and he was back on the field in 2 weeks?!?!?

OMG your making it out like he blew out his knee. It is really pissing me off, lol.

[M.O.T.H.]

Oh MOTH, this was a great prediction. :D

Yall are in the wrong threads...I got a lot more right that I got wrong. :)

I was reading all this stuff yesterday for like an hour. Fun to look back.

[M.O.T.H.]

well you didnt want a wr last year or this year, I guess your just waiting for the day Hurd and Austin are our outside receivers eh? Development is fine, but some guys are only going to get so good, when TO got hurt at the end of the year, where were those guys stepping up? We should of taken a wr last year if the value was good, this year its a must...

You have to give them time to develop...three years should be sufficient. To see what you actually have. It's way too early to give up on either of them. As for their perfomances when T.O. went down...Hurd was open quite a lot. Miles on the other hand, was nervous as could be in that game and he obviously didnt know the offense all that well. You have to remember that these guys were undrafted and still unexperienced. You need to give these things time. We have two talented guys here...you have to get them some real PT to see what you have and adding another guy to the mix is pretty much, giving up on them. We are not in dyer need of a WR.

[LonghornsLegend]

You have to give them time to develop...three years should be sufficient. To see what you actually have. It's way too early to give up on either of them. As for their perfomances when T.O. went down...Hurd was open quite a lot. Miles on the other hand, was nervous as could be in that game and he obviously didnt know the offense all that well. You have to remember that these guys were undrafted and still unexperienced. You need to give these things time. We have two talented guys here...you have to get them some real PT to see what you have and adding another guy to the mix is pretty much, giving up on them. We are not in dyer need of a WR.

No were not in dyer need yet, but do you want to wait until we are to draft one? Our starters are mid 30's, its time to draft a wr when that happens, Austin is just a depth filler, what does he give us that Devery Henderson or Troy Williamson cant? Those guys are doing what they will be doing, they will develop, but you cant expect everybody to turn into starting caliber wrs...


They have gotten a chance to prove themselves, practice, pre season, reg season, you honestly cant believe that you can just plug them into the starting lineup one year and hope it works, and if not, well thats a wasted year...


Nobody on our roster is every going to be a great #1 or #2, Crayton is a great 3 and a solid/decent 2, Hurd is a solid 3 with room to grow, Stanback is the guy were waiting on which is fine, but you cant believe this wr core is enough to bypass taking a wr again, thats just plain silly...You have to be ready in case of injuries, and ive already stated if TO gets hurt again were looking at Crayton and Hurd as our outside wrs #1 and #2, does that sound like an offense that scares anyone?


I mean come on MOTH, im not saying we dont have guys that still dont have room to grow, but if we go into the season set at wr without picking up a fresh body, we have to hope that TO at his age plays every single game


The only guys we are going to wait on are Hurd and Stanback, Austin is the first guy gone when we draft somebody, and when we sign a FA wr thats going to be glenns spot when he cant go.

[M.O.T.H.]

No were not in dyer need yet, but do you want to wait until we are to draft one? Our starters are mid 30's, its time to draft a wr when that happens, Austin is just a depth filler, what does he give us that Devery Henderson or Troy Williamson cant? Those guys are doing what they will be doing, they will develop, but you cant expect everybody to turn into starting caliber wrs...


They have gotten a chance to prove themselves, practice, pre season, reg season, you honestly cant believe that you can just plug them into the starting lineup one year and hope it works, and if not, well thats a wasted year...


Nobody on our roster is every going to be a great #1 or #2, Crayton is a great 3 and a solid/decent 2, Hurd is a solid 3 with room to grow, Stanback is the guy were waiting on which is fine, but you cant believe this wr core is enough to bypass taking a wr again, thats just plain silly...You have to be ready in case of injuries, and ive already stated if TO gets hurt again were looking at Crayton and Hurd as our outside wrs #1 and #2, does that sound like an offense that scares anyone?


I mean come on MOTH, im not saying we dont have guys that still dont have room to grow, but if we go into the season set at wr without picking up a fresh body, we have to hope that TO at his age plays every single game


The only guys we are going to wait on are Hurd and Stanback, Austin is the first guy gone when we draft somebody, and when we sign a FA wr thats going to be glenns spot when he cant go.

We're having the same conversation in two threads...this is what i said in the other one...

Glenn is not a starter....Crayton is the starter and last season was his first season doing so...before the year began, he didnt even know he would be starting. We have 6 guys already...you need to know what you have in Stanbeck, Hurd, and Austin. You have to be patient...you have no idea if one of these guys can become a starter...and you're not going to find out by adding yet again another young WR. You act as though these guys arent going to get better. A lot of people thought the same about Welker when he played for the Chargers...you have to be patient...especially when dealing w/ players that went undrafted. It's not like T.O. is retiring any time soon...if these guys dont satisfy you by the end of this season...you draft a WR in 09, in what is a better year for WRs.

edit...you're jumping the gun a bit here...proclaiming Hurd, Crayton, and Austin this in that. Crayton was not only in his 1st year of starting but, was also banged up for a portion of the season....and Hurd and Austin were only beginning to see some actual PT.

[Modano]

We're having the same conversation in two threads...this is what i said in the other one...

Glenn is not a starter....Crayton is the starter and last season was his first season doing so...before the year began, he didnt even know he would be starting. We have 6 guys already...you need to know what you have in Stanbeck, Hurd, and Austin. You have to be patient...you have no idea if one of these guys can become a starter...and you're not going to find out by adding yet again another young WR. You act as though these guys arent going to get better. A lot of people thought the same about Welker when he played for the Chargers...you have to be patient...especially when dealing w/ players that went undrafted. It's not like T.O. is retiring any time soon...if these guys dont satisfy you by the end of this season...you draft a WR in 09, in what is a better year for WRs.

edit...you're jumping the gun a bit here...proclaiming Hurd, Crayton, and Austin this in that. Crayton was not only in his 1st year of starting but, was also banged up for a portion of the season....and Hurd and Austin were only beginning to see some actual PT.

I don't know, moth... I'm with LL on this one...
I think Glenn is done, not only as a cowboys but probably as an nfl player too.. He's old, he's coming back froma big injury and he was able to stay healthy only one time in his career. So I expect him to be cut...
So our starting group will be Owens, Crayton and Hurd. You think that Crayton will be fine in his second season as a starter, but I don't think so. He's best suited for the slot, he's the guy who can recognize a blitz and find the soft zone. That's what he does best, he's a great slot receveir.
We need a number 2 and a future replacement for TO.
As LL said, if TO goes down again, we'll have Crayton and Hurd as our starters... And TO is a guy who is often injured...
Hurd is a good guy, but I really don't see him as a starter in this league. He's a great special teamer, he got great work ethic, and can contribute occasionally. But he doesn't have great skills. His speed is average, is size too, and he drops some balls. I see him as an "average Joe", I think that every team in this league has a guy like Hurd, but we, as fans, think higher of our team's players. Just like we were excited about Tyson Thompson being a good change of pace back, or Petitti maturing and becoming a good RT.
It's true that you have to wait and see how your players develope, but I don't see Hurd and Austin becoming more than average slot receivers. I think they're on this team because of their contribution on ST and not to be our future WR's.

[M.O.T.H.]

Everyone thinks Glenn will get cut...this is not a given at all. What if he doesnt retire or get cut? You still want another receiver? We already have 6 and we dont even know what we even have yet in three of those guys.

As for Hurd...I do so see him as a starter type. His route running has greatly improved in two years, he's our best blocking WR, his hands are underrated...he goes up and catches the ball at it's highest point w/ regularity. His hands shouldnt be in question at all. I see a bright future...he wants to be the best, he has excellent work ethic and he has become T.O.'s protege. I wouldnt be surprised to see Hurd looking bigger and stonger this upcoming season, after working out w/ T.O. for an entire off-season. If Hurd has another year similar to this one...he'll be getting looks from other teams to potentially start or to have a larger role. He is a FA next year. As unbiased as can be...I love what I see from Hurd.

As for Crayton...way too much hate going on w/ him. He is a capable #2 who could have been in for a big pay day if he had hit the open market. He may have been the Dolphins #1 receiver if we let him walk. Considering how much Tony looks upon T.O. and Witten...Crayton had a great year in an injury riddled season. The only real complaint I have is his mouth. He needs to shut it and stay focused...he is a fine #2 receiver...who still has room to get better.

Lets say Glenn is out...I still find it unlikely we draft a receiver...it would most likely be a veteran ala Javon Walker or not addressed at all. There is no guarantee that Walker would even be the starter either...they may opt to start Crayton still.

Adding to this...If T.O. goes down...you shouldnt have much of a problem w/ the remaining receivers, Dual Rbs, and two good TE's. You can get very creative...but, that's on Garrett. I wouldnt be too quick to judge these guys in one Owensless half and a rainy game where our QB had to wear gloves.

[LonghornsLegend]

Everyone thinks Glenn will get cut...this is not a given at all. What if he doesnt retire or get cut? You still want another receiver? We already have 6 and we dont even know what we even have yet in three of those guys.

As for Hurd...I do so see him as a starter type. His route running has greatly improved in two years, he's our best blocking WR, his hands are underrated...he goes up and catches the ball at it's highest point w/ regularity. His hands shouldnt be in question at all. I see a bright future...he wants to be the best, he has excellent work ethic and he has become T.O.'s protege. I wouldnt be surprised to see Hurd looking bigger and stonger this upcoming season, after working out w/ T.O. for an entire off-season. If Hurd has another year similar to this one...he'll be getting looks from other teams to potentially start or to have a larger role. He is a FA next year. As unbiased as can be...I love what I see from Hurd.

As for Crayton...way too much hate going on w/ him. He is a capable #2 who could have been in for a big pay day if he had hit the open market. He may have been the Dolphins #1 receiver if we let him walk. Considering how much Tony looks upon T.O. and Witten...Crayton had a great year in an injury riddled season. The only real complaint I have is his mouth. He needs to shut it and stay focused...he is a fine #2 receiver...who still has room to get better.

Lets say Glenn is out...I still find it unlikely we draft a receiver...it would most likely be a veteran ala Javon Walker or not addressed at all. There is no guarantee that Walker would even be the starter either...they may opt to start Crayton still.

Adding to this...If T.O. goes down...you shouldnt have much of a problem w/ the remaining receivers, Dual Rbs, and two good TE's. You can get very creative...but, that's on Garrett. I wouldnt be too quick to judge these guys in one Owensless half and a rainy game where our QB had to wear gloves.


TO went down last year and we DID have trouble, the offense couldnt move, Crayton couldnt stretch the field, Austin cant catch, we had no one to step up...and you really expect to rely on Glenn to play all season? Its just not smart to go into the season with two starting wrs in their mid 30's and expect young guys to step up if they have to...

Im not saying we have to get rid of everybody, but im not sure what your attachment is to Austin, just because he's young doesnt mean he has the potential to be a gamebreaker, and one day he's just going to wake up with it...He does one thing well, and ive yet to see him show me anything else that he can do...Ive seen Hurd come into real games and make plays, cant say the same for Austin, this is the NFL, you cant expect for him to keep his job and keep saying potential...you said the same things last year about him, and in all that time he didnt make the most of his opportunities this year, sometimes thats all you get to show people and he didnt improve any...

[JJJ888]

I have to admit that I am excited about Hurd, although that enthusiasm was tempered somewhat during the season this year. I too really like his work ethic, but I'm unsure whether he can really be anything more than a slot guy.

I'd also like to give Stanback a chance to show what he can do. Obviously there are a lot of people that think highly of him: the coaching staff, the ownership, and the scouting department. He definitely is a veritable athlete. With all of these young guys waiting in the wings, I have to believe that unless we get a really good value on someone in the first round, we won't be selecting a wide receiver until at least the second and probably the third.

[M.O.T.H.]

TO went down last year and we DID have trouble, the offense couldnt move, Crayton couldnt stretch the field, Austin cant catch, we had no one to step up...and you really expect to rely on Glenn to play all season? Its just not smart to go into the season with two starting wrs in their mid 30's and expect young guys to step up if they have to...

Im not saying we have to get rid of everybody, but im not sure what your attachment is to Austin, just because he's young doesnt mean he has the potential to be a gamebreaker, and one day he's just going to wake up with it...He does one thing well, and ive yet to see him show me anything else that he can do...Ive seen Hurd come into real games and make plays, cant say the same for Austin, this is the NFL, you cant expect for him to keep his job and keep saying potential...you said the same things last year about him, and in all that time he didnt make the most of his opportunities this year, sometimes thats all you get to show people and he didnt improve any...

We dont have two starters in their mid-thirties...I keep saying this, Crayton is the starter, not Glenn.

As for Austin...this is probably it for him. This is a HUGE off-season and camp for him. He has excellent raw skills but, he is still very green. There is some great potential there. Coming from Monmouth you would expect this...will he pan out? Who knows but, this isnt a guy you just let get away. The coaches obviously like this guy...he had a rough pre season but, still managed to make the team as a 6th WR...and Garrett tried to utilize him a lot at the end of the year...especially on the deep ball, where he looked a step ahead of every player that covered him. He was getting pass interference calls, which is just as good as a reception. He even played more than Hurd did in the playoff game...they were trying to get the ball to him deep...it was a little too obvious though. I think Miles will get one more year to prove himself...like i said, there is some great potential there...and he has to be given time.

I apologize if this seems a little rushed or oddly put together...I was kind of in a hurry. haha. :)

[thule]

I think all this talk just really brings up the answer of how nice would it be to have a RB to split out wide...look at how the eagles use Westbrook...

[M.O.T.H.]

I think all this talk just really brings up the answer of how nice would it be to have a RB to split out wide...look at how the eagles use Westbrook...

Very true. That would be another huge weapon if T.O. were to go down as well.

The obvious choice here, would be Chris Johnson. I have to admit though, that I'm not completely sold on him yet.

edit...Mcfadden could be called upon to do this as well. :D

[thule]

Very true. That would be another huge weapon if T.O. were to go down as well.

The obvious choice here, would be Chris Johnson. I have to admit though, that I'm not completely sold on him yet.

edit...Mcfadden could be called upon to do this as well. :D

I think that Stanback and McFadden on the field on the same time could be similiar to the circus....Romo out wide....can't say it would be advised...but it would be fun to watch.

Another guy who hasn't been talked about a lot is Steve Slaton..he fits this mold a lot.

[M.O.T.H.]

Thule, did you see that there is a new poster from Grand Forks on here? Friend of yours?

[LonghornsLegend]

I really think Garrett could get creative with DeSean Jackson in our offense opposite TO, he wont have the attention of the secondary and his play making ability could be big....Im really hoping that he falls to us, thats the ONLY wr I want in the first, and I wouldnt hate Hawkins or Avery being picked, but desean has the potential to be a #1 santana moss type wr, and he wouldnt be asked to do so until at least his 3rd year...Of course thats if we dont sign a wr at all.

[Staubach12]

I think all this talk just really brings up the answer of how nice would it be to have a RB to split out wide...look at how the eagles use Westbrook...

That's a very good point. It makes Chris Johnson all the more desirable.

[UTPATS]

I have seen Jamaal Charles often the last few years, he could line up out wide and work similar to Westbrook. Garrett could take a page out of Sean Payton's book from Bush's rookie year when he lined up in the slot with Duece in the backfield.

[thule]

I have seen Jamaal Charles often the last few years, he could line up out wide and work similar to Westbrook. Garrett could take a page out of Sean Payton's book from Bush's rookie year when he lined up in the slot with Duece in the backfield.

Point is he didn't do it in college...and while he "may" be able to do it...he's never done it and there would be a bigger learning curve involved than with a Johnson/Slaton who have done it a lot through their college careers.

[UTPATS]

He did it quite often his freshman year. The point is he has the hands for it. He could do the simple routes Westbrook and Bush run. They really aren't that difficult to learn.

Don't get me wrong, I like Slaton as well, but I don't know if JJ is patient enough to wait around for a RB again. I think we will end up taking one within the first two rounds.

[MetSox17]

Please no Slaton.. Please no Slaton....

[UTPATS]

We won't wait around to take a RB where Slaton is projected to go.