Cowboys need starters out of draft class
April, 23, 2013
Apr 23
2:36
PM CT
By
Calvin Watkins | ESPNDallas.com
Missing the playoffs again isn't an acceptable notion around Valley Ranch for the Dallas Cowboys.
There are many questions surrounding this draft class, but the Cowboys can't miss here. The Cowboys have to find a starter or a significant contributor in the first two rounds, regardless if they trade up or down.
"We can say what we want about what we believe in as a coaching staff, but ultimately what we believe in is reflected most by the players we have," coach Jason Garrett said Monday. "In this case, the players we draft. I think we’ve done a good job over the last couple of years bringing the kind of guys in who we think reflect the way we want to play. And we want to continue to do that. You want drafted players to play as quickly as they can play."
The Cowboys found starters in the first round in the last three draft classes, and second-round picks in 2010 (Sean Lee) and 2011 (Bruce Carter) have also become starters.
However, outside of Morris Claiborne in the first round, the Cowboys didn't get much from the rest of the 2012 draft class. Tyrone Crawford (third round) and James Hanna (sixth round) showed some encouraging signs, but Kyle Wilber (fourth rounder) and Matt Johnson (fourth rounder) were disappointments.
"We’ve been fortunate the last couple of years. Mo Claiborne was an instant starter for us and Tyron Smith was an instant starter for us," Garrett said. "We’ve had some guys come in and play early and really be contributors to our team. You want to be able to do that again.
"I think one of the things we feel good about in our organization is we had two really good contributors last year, Claiborne and Tyrone Crawford, but we had some other guys who got banged up early last year and weren’t able to contribute as much as we wanted them to (in) fourth-round picks Wilber and Matt Johnson. James Hanna was a guy who emerged for us towards the end of the year. But we have guys from last year’s draft that we feel like we haven’t even seen yet because of injury, so we expect some things from them in terms of competing with players on our team, competing for roster spots, competing for playing time."
There are many questions surrounding this draft class, but the Cowboys can't miss here. The Cowboys have to find a starter or a significant contributor in the first two rounds, regardless if they trade up or down.
| PODCAST |
|---|
| Todd Archer joins Ian Fitzsimmons for a heated debate about whether the Cowboys should draft a quarterback. Listen  |
The Cowboys found starters in the first round in the last three draft classes, and second-round picks in 2010 (Sean Lee) and 2011 (Bruce Carter) have also become starters.
However, outside of Morris Claiborne in the first round, the Cowboys didn't get much from the rest of the 2012 draft class. Tyrone Crawford (third round) and James Hanna (sixth round) showed some encouraging signs, but Kyle Wilber (fourth rounder) and Matt Johnson (fourth rounder) were disappointments.
"We’ve been fortunate the last couple of years. Mo Claiborne was an instant starter for us and Tyron Smith was an instant starter for us," Garrett said. "We’ve had some guys come in and play early and really be contributors to our team. You want to be able to do that again.
"I think one of the things we feel good about in our organization is we had two really good contributors last year, Claiborne and Tyrone Crawford, but we had some other guys who got banged up early last year and weren’t able to contribute as much as we wanted them to (in) fourth-round picks Wilber and Matt Johnson. James Hanna was a guy who emerged for us towards the end of the year. But we have guys from last year’s draft that we feel like we haven’t even seen yet because of injury, so we expect some things from them in terms of competing with players on our team, competing for roster spots, competing for playing time."
IRVING, Texas – Let me start the post this way: I love Dan Graziano’s work. Somehow he keeps track of four teams in the NFC East and seems to be able upset fans of all four at the same time, so he’s doing something right.
But I think Dan is over the top in the view that the Cowboys must take an offensive lineman with their first-round pick. In today’s #bloggermock, Dan picked Alabama tackle D.J. Fluker with the 18th pick.
Fluker may well be the Cowboys' pick Thursday, but the vibe is they don’t have Fluker that high on their board.
Here’s what the Cowboys should do: take the best player regardless of the position.
If at No. 18 the Cowboys’ draft board has an offensive lineman as the 29th-best player -- and that’s not how they configure their draft board, by the way, but just go with it for now -- don’t reach on that player.
When you reach, you’re taking a lesser player and end up with a lesser roster overall.
In a draft that does not have the “sexy” skill players, I don’t see one of the team’s top line targets making it to No. 18.
The Cowboys have taken one offensive lineman in the first round since 1981 and that was Tyron Smith two years ago. They have found players like Larry Allen, Flozell Adams and Andre Gurode in the second round.
But the Cowboys' problems along the offensive line are not because they haven’t taken enough first-round picks. The problem is they can’t identify offensive lineman in the early and middle rounds where other teams have.
Despite the last year-plus, Doug Free (fourth, 2007) had a decent enough run, but the Cowboys have received nothing or next to nothing from David Arkin (fourth, 2011), Robert Brewster (third, 2009), James Marten (third, 2007), Jacob Rogers (second, 2004) and Stephen Peterman (third, 2004).
For months the Cowboys agonize over their draft board. They try to fit everybody in where they believe they should go. If you just skip that process on draft day, then you have wasted energy, time and money.
There is no doubt that the Cowboys have a need along the offensive line. There’s no doubt they should take an offensive lineman at No. 18 -- if he's the best player.
But “should” and “must” are two different things.
Here’s my must: stick to the board.
| PODCAST |
|---|
| Nate Newton joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss the Cowboys and the upcoming NFL draft. Listen |
Fluker may well be the Cowboys' pick Thursday, but the vibe is they don’t have Fluker that high on their board.
Here’s what the Cowboys should do: take the best player regardless of the position.
If at No. 18 the Cowboys’ draft board has an offensive lineman as the 29th-best player -- and that’s not how they configure their draft board, by the way, but just go with it for now -- don’t reach on that player.
When you reach, you’re taking a lesser player and end up with a lesser roster overall.
In a draft that does not have the “sexy” skill players, I don’t see one of the team’s top line targets making it to No. 18.
The Cowboys have taken one offensive lineman in the first round since 1981 and that was Tyron Smith two years ago. They have found players like Larry Allen, Flozell Adams and Andre Gurode in the second round.
But the Cowboys' problems along the offensive line are not because they haven’t taken enough first-round picks. The problem is they can’t identify offensive lineman in the early and middle rounds where other teams have.
Despite the last year-plus, Doug Free (fourth, 2007) had a decent enough run, but the Cowboys have received nothing or next to nothing from David Arkin (fourth, 2011), Robert Brewster (third, 2009), James Marten (third, 2007), Jacob Rogers (second, 2004) and Stephen Peterman (third, 2004).
For months the Cowboys agonize over their draft board. They try to fit everybody in where they believe they should go. If you just skip that process on draft day, then you have wasted energy, time and money.
There is no doubt that the Cowboys have a need along the offensive line. There’s no doubt they should take an offensive lineman at No. 18 -- if he's the best player.
But “should” and “must” are two different things.
Here’s my must: stick to the board.
Did Cowboys make right moves in 2011-12?
April, 23, 2013
Apr 23
12:33
PM CT
By
Todd Archer | ESPNDallas.com
IRVING, Texas – Jerry Jones views himself as something of a gambler when it comes to the NFL draft. The Cowboys owner and general manager is willing to take some risks that others may not make.
With their first-round picks the last two seasons, the Cowboys appeared to skip the risky route with Tyron Smith and Morris Claiborne.
Smith was considered the top offensive tackle available in 2011, and Claiborne was the highest-rated defensive player on the Cowboys’ board last spring.
That the Cowboys were able to score both players should be viewed as a positive.
Looking back on those drafts, I wouldn’t have selected either player. It’s not an argument against the player, but an argument against the philosophy. For Smith, the Cowboys left too much on the table. For Claiborne, the Cowboys gave up a lot.
In 2011, I would have made the trade with Jacksonville, giving up the No. 9 pick for picks Nos. 16 and 49. The Cowboys could have had tackle Nate Solder and had an extra second-round pick, in addition to Bruce Carter, whom they took with their own No. 2 selection.
In 2012, I would not have traded with St. Louis to get Claiborne. The Cowboys swapped first-round picks and gave up their second rounder to move up eight spots. Staying at No. 14 would have allowed them to take defensive end Michael Brockers and, so they said, linebacker Bobby Wagner, who excelled as a rookie in Seattle.
If we’ve learned anything from those nonstop AT&T commercials here lately it’s that two is always better than one.
The Cowboys could have had two second-round picks in 2011 instead of one. They could have had first- and second-round picks last year instead of just a first rounder.
It’s not that I don’t believe Smith and Claiborne can develop into top players at their positions. It’s just that they MUST develop into top players at their positions to justify the reasons why the Cowboys went the routes they went the last two years.
Smith has to be better than just solid. He has to be a perennial Pro Bowler, one of those no-doubt top tackles in the NFL. He played well as a rookie at right tackle. He was good last year after moving to left tackle. He needs to be better in 2013.
Because the Cowboys traded up for Claiborne, he has to be better than just solid. He has to be a perennial Pro Bowler, one of those no-doubt top corners in the NFL. He had moments as a rookie, but did he have a signature lock-down play last year? His interception against Carolina was a nice play, but there needs to be more of that. He needs to be better in 2013.
The Cowboys got quality in Smith and Claiborne, but this has been a roster in need of quantity.
| PODCAST |
|---|
| Nate Newton joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss the Cowboys and the upcoming NFL draft. Listen |
Smith was considered the top offensive tackle available in 2011, and Claiborne was the highest-rated defensive player on the Cowboys’ board last spring.
That the Cowboys were able to score both players should be viewed as a positive.
Looking back on those drafts, I wouldn’t have selected either player. It’s not an argument against the player, but an argument against the philosophy. For Smith, the Cowboys left too much on the table. For Claiborne, the Cowboys gave up a lot.
In 2011, I would have made the trade with Jacksonville, giving up the No. 9 pick for picks Nos. 16 and 49. The Cowboys could have had tackle Nate Solder and had an extra second-round pick, in addition to Bruce Carter, whom they took with their own No. 2 selection.
In 2012, I would not have traded with St. Louis to get Claiborne. The Cowboys swapped first-round picks and gave up their second rounder to move up eight spots. Staying at No. 14 would have allowed them to take defensive end Michael Brockers and, so they said, linebacker Bobby Wagner, who excelled as a rookie in Seattle.
If we’ve learned anything from those nonstop AT&T commercials here lately it’s that two is always better than one.
The Cowboys could have had two second-round picks in 2011 instead of one. They could have had first- and second-round picks last year instead of just a first rounder.
It’s not that I don’t believe Smith and Claiborne can develop into top players at their positions. It’s just that they MUST develop into top players at their positions to justify the reasons why the Cowboys went the routes they went the last two years.
Smith has to be better than just solid. He has to be a perennial Pro Bowler, one of those no-doubt top tackles in the NFL. He played well as a rookie at right tackle. He was good last year after moving to left tackle. He needs to be better in 2013.
Because the Cowboys traded up for Claiborne, he has to be better than just solid. He has to be a perennial Pro Bowler, one of those no-doubt top corners in the NFL. He had moments as a rookie, but did he have a signature lock-down play last year? His interception against Carolina was a nice play, but there needs to be more of that. He needs to be better in 2013.
The Cowboys got quality in Smith and Claiborne, but this has been a roster in need of quantity.
Join our ESPN.com NFL experts as they play general manager for their divisions and execute a 2013 first-round mock draft.
Contribute your thoughts and questions beginning at noon ET. You can also participate via Twitter using the hashtag #bloggermock. See you there.
Contribute your thoughts and questions beginning at noon ET. You can also participate via Twitter using the hashtag #bloggermock. See you there.
Jones: 2008 first-rounders were productive
April, 23, 2013
Apr 23
10:53
AM CT
By
Tim MacMahon | ESPNDallas.com
IRVING, Texas – The Cowboys’ pre-draft press conference took a strange turn when the Jones family, unprompted, went off on a tangent trying to justify their first-round picks from five years ago.
The point was made through the prism of wanting to maximize the production of players on their rookie contracts. As far as the top two Cowboys executives are concerned, Felix Jones and Mike Jenkins weren’t disappointments at Valley Ranch despite the fact that no attempt was made to keep them once they hit free agency.
“You’re paying Jenkins whether Jenkins is here or not. You’re paying somebody else,” Jerry Jones said. “The facts are that in the system we are in today, when you draft a [Rashard] Mendenhall or you draft a Felix Jones, you are going to be paying a running back; you just don’t know whether you’re going to be paying the one you drafted or the one you’re going to go get.
“You said while you’ve got him during those four or five years are very important and we’d like to use him to be going to playoffs and competing for the Super Bowl. ... So 48 months from now you’re going to be sitting here deciding whether or not to pay him just like you would be a free agent out here. And so during those early years is when you want to get a lot of mileage relative to players.”
The Cowboys actually got a lot of mileage out of Jones and Jenkins during their second season, when they were significant contributors to a team that won a playoff game. By the standard set at Valley Ranch over the last 16 seasons, that apparently makes them tremendous successes.
Jenkins made the Pro Bowl that season, picking off five passes and performing like a legitimate lockdown corner. He had three picks in the rest of his Cowboys tenure, which ended with him serving as the fourth corner after Dallas gave Brandon Carr a five-year, $50 million deal and traded up to draft Morris Claiborne.
The playoff win over the Eagles was the high point of Jones’ career, as he carried 16 times for 148 yards and a touchdown in that victory. He averaged 5.9 yards per carry as a change-of-pace back that season but lost a significant amount of explosiveness as he bulked up in anticipation of a bigger role next season. After flunking the conditioning test of the beginning of training camp last year, Jones stumbled for 3.6 yards per carry as a backup while backs picked behind him (Chris Johnson, Matt Forte, Ray Rice and Jamaal Charles) continued to put up big numbers.
“The point Jerry is making on Felix and Jenkins, they were productive guys for us for four years,” Stephen Jones said. “Felix was our one/two running back and we had him in that role the whole time and Jenkins was a starter for us. We just happened to get Claiborne in the draft and decided that was more of a future, a better future for us, than it was going up and re-upping Jenks for a lot of money.
“But (whether) it was Felix or Jenks, it wouldn’t have saved you any money once they come out of their rookie draft class. You’ve still got to pay them whether it’s yours or your own.”
The production of those 2008 first-round picks didn’t exactly merit a bidding war in the open market. Jenkins settled for a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Oakland Raiders. Jones worked out for the Cincinnati Bengals, but he’s still unsigned.
| PODCAST |
|---|
| Galloway & Company discuss Jerry Jones' comments from the Cowboys' pre-draft news conference. Listen |
“You’re paying Jenkins whether Jenkins is here or not. You’re paying somebody else,” Jerry Jones said. “The facts are that in the system we are in today, when you draft a [Rashard] Mendenhall or you draft a Felix Jones, you are going to be paying a running back; you just don’t know whether you’re going to be paying the one you drafted or the one you’re going to go get.
“You said while you’ve got him during those four or five years are very important and we’d like to use him to be going to playoffs and competing for the Super Bowl. ... So 48 months from now you’re going to be sitting here deciding whether or not to pay him just like you would be a free agent out here. And so during those early years is when you want to get a lot of mileage relative to players.”
The Cowboys actually got a lot of mileage out of Jones and Jenkins during their second season, when they were significant contributors to a team that won a playoff game. By the standard set at Valley Ranch over the last 16 seasons, that apparently makes them tremendous successes.
Jenkins made the Pro Bowl that season, picking off five passes and performing like a legitimate lockdown corner. He had three picks in the rest of his Cowboys tenure, which ended with him serving as the fourth corner after Dallas gave Brandon Carr a five-year, $50 million deal and traded up to draft Morris Claiborne.
The playoff win over the Eagles was the high point of Jones’ career, as he carried 16 times for 148 yards and a touchdown in that victory. He averaged 5.9 yards per carry as a change-of-pace back that season but lost a significant amount of explosiveness as he bulked up in anticipation of a bigger role next season. After flunking the conditioning test of the beginning of training camp last year, Jones stumbled for 3.6 yards per carry as a backup while backs picked behind him (Chris Johnson, Matt Forte, Ray Rice and Jamaal Charles) continued to put up big numbers.
“The point Jerry is making on Felix and Jenkins, they were productive guys for us for four years,” Stephen Jones said. “Felix was our one/two running back and we had him in that role the whole time and Jenkins was a starter for us. We just happened to get Claiborne in the draft and decided that was more of a future, a better future for us, than it was going up and re-upping Jenks for a lot of money.
“But (whether) it was Felix or Jenks, it wouldn’t have saved you any money once they come out of their rookie draft class. You’ve still got to pay them whether it’s yours or your own.”
The production of those 2008 first-round picks didn’t exactly merit a bidding war in the open market. Jenkins settled for a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Oakland Raiders. Jones worked out for the Cincinnati Bengals, but he’s still unsigned.
A new first-round OL name for Cowboys
April, 22, 2013
Apr 22
6:40
PM CT
By
Dan Graziano | ESPNDallas.com
I spoke with Steve Muench of Scouts Inc., about the NFC East teams and the upcoming NFL draft in this Blogger Blitz video. We talked about all four teams -- even the Redskins, who aren't picking until late in the second round. Steve likes tackle Lane Johnson for the Eagles at No. 4 (assuming Eric Fisher and Luke Joeckel are gone in the first three picks), figures on a cornerback for the Giants at No. 19 and expects that the Redskins will have good options at safety at No. 51.
But it's what Steve said about the Dallas Cowboys that really caught my attention. Steve agrees with the mock drafts that have the top six offensive linemen gone by the time Dallas picks, even though six offensive linemen haven't been picked in the first 17 picks since 1966, but there's a seventh offensive linemen Steve thinks would fit well and be a great pick for the Cowboys at No. 18 -- Syracuse's Justin Pugh, who played tackle in college but whose arms measured more like a guard's at the combine. Steve thinks Pugh could step in and play right away at right guard, and surely the Cowboys could use him there.
Jerry Jones said Monday he expects offensive linemen to go early in this draft. Everybody does, because there are no quarterbacks or running backs anyone loves for early in the first round. Jones also said he'd be interested in trading down, which might not be a bad idea for the Cowboys if the top six offensive linemen are gone by 18 and they think they can get Pugh later in the round. But these pre-draft news conferences really don't mean much, because teams aren't really going to reveal anything about their plans in public.
If you've been reading regularly, you guys know I think the Cowboys absolutely need to come out of Thursday night's first round with a new starter at one of the offensive line positions. I think it's such a crying short-term and long-term need that they'd be nuts not to make it happen. We're having our ESPN.com blogger mock draft Tuesday, complete with trades, and I'll be making the Cowboys' pick and get a chance to put my money where my mouth is. I'm interested to see whether one of the top six linemen is there at 18 or if I'll have to try and maneuver down to get in position for Pugh. Even if they can get a starting offensive lineman in the second round as well, I think the Cowboys have to find one in the first.
But it's what Steve said about the Dallas Cowboys that really caught my attention. Steve agrees with the mock drafts that have the top six offensive linemen gone by the time Dallas picks, even though six offensive linemen haven't been picked in the first 17 picks since 1966, but there's a seventh offensive linemen Steve thinks would fit well and be a great pick for the Cowboys at No. 18 -- Syracuse's Justin Pugh, who played tackle in college but whose arms measured more like a guard's at the combine. Steve thinks Pugh could step in and play right away at right guard, and surely the Cowboys could use him there.
| PODCAST |
|---|
| Galloway & Company discuss Jerry Jones' comments from the Cowboys' pre-draft news conference. Listen |
If you've been reading regularly, you guys know I think the Cowboys absolutely need to come out of Thursday night's first round with a new starter at one of the offensive line positions. I think it's such a crying short-term and long-term need that they'd be nuts not to make it happen. We're having our ESPN.com blogger mock draft Tuesday, complete with trades, and I'll be making the Cowboys' pick and get a chance to put my money where my mouth is. I'm interested to see whether one of the top six linemen is there at 18 or if I'll have to try and maneuver down to get in position for Pugh. Even if they can get a starting offensive lineman in the second round as well, I think the Cowboys have to find one in the first.
Cowboys need middle class for cap help
April, 22, 2013
Apr 22
3:24
PM CT
By
Todd Archer | ESPNDallas.com
IRVING, Texas – The keeper of all things salary cap when it comes to the Cowboys, executive vice president Stephen Jones understands the importance of the team hitting on draft picks.
The NFL docked the Cowboys $10 million of cap space the last two years and the team added to the cap figures of veterans like Miles Austin, Jason Witten, DeMarcus Ware and Jay Ratliff with restructured deals this offseason. They also signed quarterback Tony Romo to an extension worth $118 million.
With the cap not expected to go up greatly over the next few years, finding a middle class in the draft is a must.
“You can’t continue to go to the well and pay the veteran players the $1 million, the $800,000, the $1.2 million,” Jones said. “We’ve got to do a better job going forward of taking your lumps early, but developing these guys and putting them in your lineup, those $300,000 and $400,000 and $500,000 guys. I think that is the big difference compared to where it was three, four, five years ago when you could get the veteran guys.
"I think obviously, when we start the season, that veteran guy is probably a little more ready to play than the young guy coming out of college. It’s a big jump. But with the cap where it is today, that’s one of the things you’re going to have to focus on is plugging these young guys in regardless of if they’re a third-round pick, a fourth-round pick. We had some injury issues last year that didn’t allow us to do that, but I certainly expect those guys to come along as well as the young guys we’ll pick in the third and fourth and fifth round this year.”
| PODCAST |
|---|
| Nate Newton joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss the Cowboys and the upcoming NFL draft. Listen |
With the cap not expected to go up greatly over the next few years, finding a middle class in the draft is a must.
“You can’t continue to go to the well and pay the veteran players the $1 million, the $800,000, the $1.2 million,” Jones said. “We’ve got to do a better job going forward of taking your lumps early, but developing these guys and putting them in your lineup, those $300,000 and $400,000 and $500,000 guys. I think that is the big difference compared to where it was three, four, five years ago when you could get the veteran guys.
"I think obviously, when we start the season, that veteran guy is probably a little more ready to play than the young guy coming out of college. It’s a big jump. But with the cap where it is today, that’s one of the things you’re going to have to focus on is plugging these young guys in regardless of if they’re a third-round pick, a fourth-round pick. We had some injury issues last year that didn’t allow us to do that, but I certainly expect those guys to come along as well as the young guys we’ll pick in the third and fourth and fifth round this year.”
Jerry Jones: Bases covered on defense
April, 22, 2013
Apr 22
2:52
PM CT
By
Todd Archer | ESPNDallas.com
IRVING, Texas -- With the draft coming up Thursday, believe everything you hear from teams -- including the Cowboys, who held their pre-draft news conference Monday -- at your own peril.
| PODCAST |
|---|
| Galloway & Company discuss Jerry Jones' comments from the Cowboys' pre-draft news conference. Listen |
“The good news is we really are in good shape over on the defensive side of the ball where that scheme is.”
If true, Jones is confident the Cowboys don’t need to upgrade their safety spot, where the four players under contract -- Will Allen, Barry Church, Matt Johnson and Danny McCray -- have a combined 47 starts, with 33 coming from Allen.
Allen, a free-agent pickup this offseason from Pittsburgh, started 16 games in a season just once (2006 with Tampa Bay).
Church is coming off a torn Achilles that limited him to three starts last season. McCray was exposed the more he played. Johnson never got on the field as a rookie last year because of injuries.
Jones said the Cowboys’ move to the 4-3 under coordinator Monte Kiffin has influenced the team’s evaluations, including the kind of safeties the Cowboys need.
With a deeper pool of safeties, the Cowboys might not have to use the 18th pick on a safety, but it remains a must-have and not just a need, right?
Jerry Jones expects offensive linemen to go early
April, 22, 2013
Apr 22
2:31
PM CT
By
Calvin Watkins | ESPNDallas.com
IRVING, Texas -- ESPN NFL draft experts Todd McShay and Mel Kiper Jr. have offensive linemen going early in this week's draft.
McShay has three of the top five picks going to the offensive line and Kiper has seven going in the first round.
Cowboys owner/general manager Jerry Jones agrees.
"But there’s also cap reasons why these offensive linemen are going to be going early in this draft," Jones said during a news conference Monday. "Because they fit in a free agent (spot) that could play to that level. And figure what it might cost you to have one of those guys that are that, relative to what that first-or-second-round pick makes. So you forgo the idea of getting the big skill players early. You forgo that idea to actually go in there and get guys that are going to be doing the blocking for them, which traditionally have been lesser guys relative to where they’re taken in the draft."
The Cowboys normally don't take offensive linemen in the first round.
Tyron Smith was the ninth overall selection in 2011 and the first offensive lineman drafted in the first round since Jones purchased the team in 1989. Before then, the last offensive lineman taken by the Cowboys in the first round was in 1981 when tackle Howard Richards was the 26th overall selection.
| PODCAST |
|---|
| ESPN's Ed Werder joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss the upcoming NFL draft and the best strategy for the Cowboys. Listen |
Cowboys owner/general manager Jerry Jones agrees.
"But there’s also cap reasons why these offensive linemen are going to be going early in this draft," Jones said during a news conference Monday. "Because they fit in a free agent (spot) that could play to that level. And figure what it might cost you to have one of those guys that are that, relative to what that first-or-second-round pick makes. So you forgo the idea of getting the big skill players early. You forgo that idea to actually go in there and get guys that are going to be doing the blocking for them, which traditionally have been lesser guys relative to where they’re taken in the draft."
The Cowboys normally don't take offensive linemen in the first round.
Tyron Smith was the ninth overall selection in 2011 and the first offensive lineman drafted in the first round since Jones purchased the team in 1989. Before then, the last offensive lineman taken by the Cowboys in the first round was in 1981 when tackle Howard Richards was the 26th overall selection.
A McShay mock to kick off the big week
April, 22, 2013
Apr 22
11:00
AM CT
By
Dan Graziano | ESPNDallas.com
Our man Todd McShay has re-worked his latest mock draft 
to reflect Sunday's Darrelle Revis trade, and there are changes throughout. This is a first-round-only update, so sorry, Redskins fans. We'll catch up with you a little bit later in the day. As for the fans of the other three NFC East teams, here are Todd's latest picks and my thoughts. Which I know is why you're here, after all. Right? Right????
4. Philadelphia Eagles: Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma.
In this mock, the top two tackles (Luke Joeckel and Eric Fisher) go to Kansas City and Jacksonville with the first two picks and the Raiders take defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd at No. 4. So Todd gives the Eagles Johnson, who seems to be a fast riser and has been identified by draft analysts as a good fit with Chip Kelly's offense due to his athleticism. (Never gets old, right?) And while I have no issue with the Eagles going offensive tackle at No. 4, this feels high for Johnson with defensive guys like Dion Jordan and Star Lotulelei still on the board. If Fisher or Joeckel is there, I think they'll bite. But if those guys are gone, I'm thinking defense for the Eagles at No. 4.
18. Dallas Cowboys: Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri.
Look. Basically, I've decided I'm not going to believe in this historic first-round run on offensive linemen until I see it. Todd has six offensive linemen being taken in the top 15, which has not happened since 1966. And while I acknowledge that this is a somewhat unique draft devoid of Andrew Luck/Robert Griffin III/Trent Richardson-type skill position talent at the top, I still feel like somebody's going to draft a quarterback or two earlier than we think they should. Three days before the 2011 NFL draft, you couldn't find a mock that had Jake Locker, Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder all going in the top 12, and yet there they all went.
Some of the teams drafting in the first half of the first round are doing so every year, and you don't become one of those teams by making good decisions on draft day. The Cowboys need an offensive lineman badly in the first round, and while I respect the heck out of Todd's work and Mel Kiper's work, I'm leaning on history for my belief that one of the top six offensive linemen will be there for Dallas to take at 18. If not, absolutely a three-technique defensive lineman is a great pick here as long as they're going to grab a guard in Round 2. I just don't think it comes to that.
19. New York Giants: D.J. Hayden, CB, Houston.
Well, here's a new name for the Giants. I like what Todd's doing here, applying a big pile of history that tells us the Giants don't like to take linebackers and offensive linemen in the first round and identifying a position they do, historically, consider worthy of a first-round pick. In this mock, Hayden is the third defensive back off the board, following Alabama corner Dee Milliner (to Tennessee at 10) and Texas safety Kenny Vaccaro (to St. Louis at 16). I don't know how the Giants have him rated vis-a-vis guys like Desmond Trufant and Xavier Rhodes, but in no way should anyone be surprised if they take a cornerback here.
to reflect Sunday's Darrelle Revis trade, and there are changes throughout. This is a first-round-only update, so sorry, Redskins fans. We'll catch up with you a little bit later in the day. As for the fans of the other three NFC East teams, here are Todd's latest picks and my thoughts. Which I know is why you're here, after all. Right? Right????
4. Philadelphia Eagles: Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma.
In this mock, the top two tackles (Luke Joeckel and Eric Fisher) go to Kansas City and Jacksonville with the first two picks and the Raiders take defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd at No. 4. So Todd gives the Eagles Johnson, who seems to be a fast riser and has been identified by draft analysts as a good fit with Chip Kelly's offense due to his athleticism. (Never gets old, right?) And while I have no issue with the Eagles going offensive tackle at No. 4, this feels high for Johnson with defensive guys like Dion Jordan and Star Lotulelei still on the board. If Fisher or Joeckel is there, I think they'll bite. But if those guys are gone, I'm thinking defense for the Eagles at No. 4.
18. Dallas Cowboys: Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri.
Look. Basically, I've decided I'm not going to believe in this historic first-round run on offensive linemen until I see it. Todd has six offensive linemen being taken in the top 15, which has not happened since 1966. And while I acknowledge that this is a somewhat unique draft devoid of Andrew Luck/Robert Griffin III/Trent Richardson-type skill position talent at the top, I still feel like somebody's going to draft a quarterback or two earlier than we think they should. Three days before the 2011 NFL draft, you couldn't find a mock that had Jake Locker, Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder all going in the top 12, and yet there they all went.
Some of the teams drafting in the first half of the first round are doing so every year, and you don't become one of those teams by making good decisions on draft day. The Cowboys need an offensive lineman badly in the first round, and while I respect the heck out of Todd's work and Mel Kiper's work, I'm leaning on history for my belief that one of the top six offensive linemen will be there for Dallas to take at 18. If not, absolutely a three-technique defensive lineman is a great pick here as long as they're going to grab a guard in Round 2. I just don't think it comes to that.
19. New York Giants: D.J. Hayden, CB, Houston.
Well, here's a new name for the Giants. I like what Todd's doing here, applying a big pile of history that tells us the Giants don't like to take linebackers and offensive linemen in the first round and identifying a position they do, historically, consider worthy of a first-round pick. In this mock, Hayden is the third defensive back off the board, following Alabama corner Dee Milliner (to Tennessee at 10) and Texas safety Kenny Vaccaro (to St. Louis at 16). I don't know how the Giants have him rated vis-a-vis guys like Desmond Trufant and Xavier Rhodes, but in no way should anyone be surprised if they take a cornerback here.
DeMarcus Ware, Jason Hatcher host charity event
April, 22, 2013
Apr 22
9:10
AM CT
By
Calvin Watkins | ESPNDallas.com
GRAPEVINE, Texas -- Several current and former Dallas Cowboys players gathered Sunday night at the Gaylord Texas to support the Taste of the NFL: The Ultimate Cowboys Tailgate Party.
But this wasn't any normal party. Proceeds from the event went to the North Texas Food Bank. The Cowboys have raised more than $1 million and more than four million meals for needy families in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
The event was hosted by DeMarcus Ware and Jason Hatcher.
"This means a lot," Hatcher said. "I've heard about this event in the eight years since I’ve been in the league. It’s one of those things I can relate to. I was one of those kids who would leave school in the summer and say, 'Man, I can’t get two meals.' That’s why I’m here today. I’ll put any time and effort I got into a situation like this I can relate to."
Among the current and former Cowboys in attendance: Nate Livings, Caleb McSurdy, Brandon Carr, Rob Callaway, Tony Casillas, Nate Newton, Preston Pearson and Daryl Johnston.
Cowboys defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin, defensive line coach Rod Marinelli and secondary coach Jerome Henderson also supported the event.
But this wasn't any normal party. Proceeds from the event went to the North Texas Food Bank. The Cowboys have raised more than $1 million and more than four million meals for needy families in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
The event was hosted by DeMarcus Ware and Jason Hatcher.
"This means a lot," Hatcher said. "I've heard about this event in the eight years since I’ve been in the league. It’s one of those things I can relate to. I was one of those kids who would leave school in the summer and say, 'Man, I can’t get two meals.' That’s why I’m here today. I’ll put any time and effort I got into a situation like this I can relate to."
Among the current and former Cowboys in attendance: Nate Livings, Caleb McSurdy, Brandon Carr, Rob Callaway, Tony Casillas, Nate Newton, Preston Pearson and Daryl Johnston.
Cowboys defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin, defensive line coach Rod Marinelli and secondary coach Jerome Henderson also supported the event.
DeMarcus Ware is getting healthy
April, 22, 2013
Apr 22
8:13
AM CT
By
Calvin Watkins | ESPNDallas.com
GRAPEVINE, Texas -- Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Ware said his surgically repaired right shoulder is almost fully healed to the point where he has full range of motion and is lifting weights.
Ware is participating in some portions of the Cowboys' voluntary offseason program and hopes to do more when the team's organized team activities begin in May.
"It feels really good right now," Ware said Sunday night at the annual Taste of the NFL: The Ultimate Cowboys Tailgate Party from the Gaylord Texan. "But I hadn’t had any impact yet. That’s the whole deal of how much impact can you take? You don’t want to take it too early and have a setback."
Ware played with one arm for the last month of the season. He hyperextended his right elbow in early December and dealt with a torn posterior labrum late in the season. Ware needed an elbow and a shoulder brace for the final month of the season, and if the Cowboys' regular season finale didn't mean anything against the Washington Redskins he most likely wouldn't have played.
There was a possibility Ware might also need elbow surgery, but rest allowed that injury to heal.
"If you’re playing out there with a cast on, an elbow brace and shoulder brace on and you have one arm and you’re going against a guy who’s 350 pounds, it’s a little bit different," he said. "But I feel like if you get out there and give it all you got and what you got, some people would have been sitting on the sideline, and I wasn’t. So it’s getting out there and doing what you can do to help the team."
Ware is participating in some portions of the Cowboys' voluntary offseason program and hopes to do more when the team's organized team activities begin in May.
"It feels really good right now," Ware said Sunday night at the annual Taste of the NFL: The Ultimate Cowboys Tailgate Party from the Gaylord Texan. "But I hadn’t had any impact yet. That’s the whole deal of how much impact can you take? You don’t want to take it too early and have a setback."
Ware played with one arm for the last month of the season. He hyperextended his right elbow in early December and dealt with a torn posterior labrum late in the season. Ware needed an elbow and a shoulder brace for the final month of the season, and if the Cowboys' regular season finale didn't mean anything against the Washington Redskins he most likely wouldn't have played.
There was a possibility Ware might also need elbow surgery, but rest allowed that injury to heal.
"If you’re playing out there with a cast on, an elbow brace and shoulder brace on and you have one arm and you’re going against a guy who’s 350 pounds, it’s a little bit different," he said. "But I feel like if you get out there and give it all you got and what you got, some people would have been sitting on the sideline, and I wasn’t. So it’s getting out there and doing what you can do to help the team."
Weekend mailbag: Replace Jason Witten?
April, 21, 2013
Apr 21
2:00
PM CT
By
Calvin Watkins | ESPNDallas.com
This is our last weekend mailbag before the NFL draft kicks off next Thursday.
Let's get to it.
Q: I know we need offensive line help, but what about at tight end? Jason Witten is getting a little long in the tooth even though he still plays at a high level, I just think we should start looking at the future at this position, what are your thoughts on this? Bobby Henry (Lemoore, Calif).
A: Replace Jason Witten? Really!?!?!? I don't see a decline in play from Witten. Last year he struggled at the start and that was due to his recovery from a lacerated spleen. When the season ended, Witten led the team in catches (110) tied for first downs earned (54) and had 1,039 receiving yards. If you want to pick on Witten about anything, maybe his blocking. The Cowboys could use a blocking tight end in this draft, if one is available. The team has six picks and unless they make a trade to get an extra second or third rounder I'm not sure using a draft pick on a tight end is worth it.
Q: Is Stephen Jones the worst contract negotiator in the League? Howard Stevens (Allentown, Pa.)
A: I understand the question. You could question the deals given to Miles Austin, Doug Free, Tony Romo and the renegotiated deal of Jay Ratliff, but Sean Lissemore, Barry Church and at that time Gerald Sensabaugh, signed team-friendly contracts. The Cowboys' $50.1 million deal with cornerback Brandon Carr last offseason was the going-rate for a cornerback in free agency at that time. The next three big contracts: Sean Lee, Bruce Carter and Dez Bryant, will be worth looking at for the future. Lee enters the final year of his deal and the Cowboys saw what the Green Bay Packers signed linebacker Clay Matthews for at $65 million for five seasons. Carter and Bryant are a year away from new deals.
Q: What do you think of picking up Collin Klein from Kansas State as our project quarterback getting drafted in the middle rounds? John (Chandler, Ariz.)
A: I have no problem with drafting a quarterback in the middle rounds, especially Klein. The issue for me and with most people who follow the team on a daily basis is: With so many holes is drafting a quarterback worth it? I would say yes because the shelf life of Tony Romo is three years, based on the structure of his contract from a financial standpoint. So, why not get a quarterback? Kyle Orton is a solid backup but at some point in the next year or so you want a younger player at that position.
Q: Are there any salary cap implications around the potential Doug Free paycut? Would the Cowboys carry over less dead money into 2014 if Free agrees to a restructured deal rather than getting released outright? Martin (Washington, D.C.)
A: If the Cowboys make Free a post June 1 cut, the team saves $7 million in 2013, but it won't get the savings, as is the case with the $2 million for Marcus Spears' release, until June. Cutting Free carries $7 million in dead money for 2014. Now the Cowboys won't have any more salary cap restrictions, they lost $5 million this year because they violated an unwritten NFL rule regarding contracts in the uncapped year, so they might be in good shape going forward in regards to cap space.
Q: I watch every game. FYI DeMarcus Ware disappears late in games. He gets three out of every 10 sacks in the fourth quarter. I personally watched him pass up a forced fumble on a QB to get a sack. He needs to shut his mouth about Romo. As Sapp said, "he couldn't lead ants to a picnic in his own back yard." John Ward (Hampton, Va.)
A: John, it's clear you don't like Ware. Last season, a season where he played with numerous injuries, including with one arm in the final two weeks of the season, he picked up four fourth-quarter sacks, tied for ninth in the NFL. Ware also finished with 11.5 sacks. He's an elite player and his toughness shouldn't be questioned. I'm surprised you're ripping Ware. I don't think Ware was taking about Romo when he said put up or shutup. His statement was about the entire team needing to put up or shutup. Not Romo.
Let's get to it.
| PODCAST |
|---|
| Ian Fitzsimmons and Richard Durrett examine the recently-released NFL schedule and agree that the Cowboys don't have any reason to complain. Listen |
A: Replace Jason Witten? Really!?!?!? I don't see a decline in play from Witten. Last year he struggled at the start and that was due to his recovery from a lacerated spleen. When the season ended, Witten led the team in catches (110) tied for first downs earned (54) and had 1,039 receiving yards. If you want to pick on Witten about anything, maybe his blocking. The Cowboys could use a blocking tight end in this draft, if one is available. The team has six picks and unless they make a trade to get an extra second or third rounder I'm not sure using a draft pick on a tight end is worth it.
Q: Is Stephen Jones the worst contract negotiator in the League? Howard Stevens (Allentown, Pa.)
A: I understand the question. You could question the deals given to Miles Austin, Doug Free, Tony Romo and the renegotiated deal of Jay Ratliff, but Sean Lissemore, Barry Church and at that time Gerald Sensabaugh, signed team-friendly contracts. The Cowboys' $50.1 million deal with cornerback Brandon Carr last offseason was the going-rate for a cornerback in free agency at that time. The next three big contracts: Sean Lee, Bruce Carter and Dez Bryant, will be worth looking at for the future. Lee enters the final year of his deal and the Cowboys saw what the Green Bay Packers signed linebacker Clay Matthews for at $65 million for five seasons. Carter and Bryant are a year away from new deals.
Q: What do you think of picking up Collin Klein from Kansas State as our project quarterback getting drafted in the middle rounds? John (Chandler, Ariz.)
A: I have no problem with drafting a quarterback in the middle rounds, especially Klein. The issue for me and with most people who follow the team on a daily basis is: With so many holes is drafting a quarterback worth it? I would say yes because the shelf life of Tony Romo is three years, based on the structure of his contract from a financial standpoint. So, why not get a quarterback? Kyle Orton is a solid backup but at some point in the next year or so you want a younger player at that position.
Q: Are there any salary cap implications around the potential Doug Free paycut? Would the Cowboys carry over less dead money into 2014 if Free agrees to a restructured deal rather than getting released outright? Martin (Washington, D.C.)
A: If the Cowboys make Free a post June 1 cut, the team saves $7 million in 2013, but it won't get the savings, as is the case with the $2 million for Marcus Spears' release, until June. Cutting Free carries $7 million in dead money for 2014. Now the Cowboys won't have any more salary cap restrictions, they lost $5 million this year because they violated an unwritten NFL rule regarding contracts in the uncapped year, so they might be in good shape going forward in regards to cap space.
Q: I watch every game. FYI DeMarcus Ware disappears late in games. He gets three out of every 10 sacks in the fourth quarter. I personally watched him pass up a forced fumble on a QB to get a sack. He needs to shut his mouth about Romo. As Sapp said, "he couldn't lead ants to a picnic in his own back yard." John Ward (Hampton, Va.)
A: John, it's clear you don't like Ware. Last season, a season where he played with numerous injuries, including with one arm in the final two weeks of the season, he picked up four fourth-quarter sacks, tied for ninth in the NFL. Ware also finished with 11.5 sacks. He's an elite player and his toughness shouldn't be questioned. I'm surprised you're ripping Ware. I don't think Ware was taking about Romo when he said put up or shutup. His statement was about the entire team needing to put up or shutup. Not Romo.
Another look at the Cowboys schedule
April, 21, 2013
Apr 21
10:30
AM CT
By
Calvin Watkins | ESPNDallas.com
ESPNDallas poked and prodded the Cowboys schedule was released on Thursday.
Now, I've decided to take another look at it.
Positive September: The Cowboys have a chance to finish 3-1 or 4-0 in September. The toughest game of this early season stretch is the opener against the New York Giants, who are 4-0 at Cowboys Stadium. The last time the Cowboys finished September perfect (4-0) was 2007. Over the last two seasons, the Cowboys are 4-2 in September, a solid mark. However, that Week 2 loss at Seattle was a painful one last season. In 2011, the Cowboys lost the season opener against the New York Jets, but rallied to win an emotional game at San Francisco, 27-24, where Tony Romo suffered a broken rib and a punctured lung. Miles Austin (hamstrings) was also hurt in that game. If the Cowboys can finish September on a positive heading into the Week 5 game against Denver, then maybe, just maybe, this team might be headed to big things in 2013.
Tony Romo vs.: Coach Jason Garrett says quarterbacks get to much of the blame and or credit when it comes to wins and losses. He's right in some ways, but last year, Romo was outplayed by opposing quarterbacks, Russell Wilson, Jay Cutler, Robert Griffin III and Drew Brees, too many times last season. Outside of taking on the NFC East again, Romo, who already has two wins over Peyton Manning, has to make sure he performs well early in the season or the criticism he heard from signing a new contract will extend into the regular season. The Week 4 matchup against Philip Rivers and the San Diego Chargers proves to be interesting. You can almost compare Romo's career to Rivers'. Romo takes on Matthew Stafford, Aaron Rodgers, Brees and Cutler this season. I would like to know if Romo will face Matt Flynn or Terrelle Pryor on Thanksgiving Day when the Oakland Raiders visit Cowboys Stadium.
Why the Raiders on Thanksgiving Day: It seemed like a natural to have Peyton Manning face Romo and the Cowboys on Thanksgiving Day. Instead, we have the Raiders take on the Cowboys for the second time in five seasons. Maybe the Raiders were given the date as a favor to the Davis Family to showcase the Raiders in front of a national audience. The Raiders were on of the worst teams in the NFL last season and while every team gets a prime time date, thanks to the Monday and Thursday night schedules, the Raiders didn't seem fit for a Thanksgiving Day appearance again.
Now, I've decided to take another look at it.
| PODCAST |
|---|
| Ian Fitzsimmons and Richard Durrett examine the recently-released NFL schedule and agree that the Cowboys don't have any reason to complain. Listen |
Tony Romo vs.: Coach Jason Garrett says quarterbacks get to much of the blame and or credit when it comes to wins and losses. He's right in some ways, but last year, Romo was outplayed by opposing quarterbacks, Russell Wilson, Jay Cutler, Robert Griffin III and Drew Brees, too many times last season. Outside of taking on the NFC East again, Romo, who already has two wins over Peyton Manning, has to make sure he performs well early in the season or the criticism he heard from signing a new contract will extend into the regular season. The Week 4 matchup against Philip Rivers and the San Diego Chargers proves to be interesting. You can almost compare Romo's career to Rivers'. Romo takes on Matthew Stafford, Aaron Rodgers, Brees and Cutler this season. I would like to know if Romo will face Matt Flynn or Terrelle Pryor on Thanksgiving Day when the Oakland Raiders visit Cowboys Stadium.
Why the Raiders on Thanksgiving Day: It seemed like a natural to have Peyton Manning face Romo and the Cowboys on Thanksgiving Day. Instead, we have the Raiders take on the Cowboys for the second time in five seasons. Maybe the Raiders were given the date as a favor to the Davis Family to showcase the Raiders in front of a national audience. The Raiders were on of the worst teams in the NFL last season and while every team gets a prime time date, thanks to the Monday and Thursday night schedules, the Raiders didn't seem fit for a Thanksgiving Day appearance again.
Eight in the Box: Ideal first rounds
April, 19, 2013
Apr 19
11:46
AM CT
By
Dan Graziano | ESPNDallas.com
» NFC Eight in the Box: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
What would be the ideal first-round scenario for the Cowboys in next week's NFL draft?
Dallas Cowboys
Because of the perceived lack of top-level skill-position talent in this year's draft, a lot of the mock drafts and projections have the top offensive linemen going off the board early. Mel Kiper Jr.'s latest mock 
, for example, has six offensive linemen going in the top 12 picks, which means well before the Cowboys pick at 18 and probably too early for them to make a sensible trade-up to grab someone like Alabama guard Chance Warmack or North Carolina guard Jonathan Cooper. This would be unfortunate and far from ideal for the Cowboys, but history offers hope. The last time six of the first 17 picks in the draft were offensive linemen was 1966, when there were only 15 teams in the league. Only three times since then -- 1977, 1985 and 2008 -- have as many as five offensive linemen been picked in the top 17. The Cowboys probably can't expect any of the top three tackles to fall to them, but their ideal first-round situation would be for Warmack, Cooper or even Alabama tackle D.J. Fluker to fall to 18 and allow them to shore up their most significant area of short-term and long-term need. If only one of those guys is still available by 14, the Cowboys should look into trading up to get him.
To see the ideal first-round scenario for the other NFC East teams, click here.
What would be the ideal first-round scenario for the Cowboys in next week's NFL draft?
Dallas Cowboys
| PODCAST |
|---|
| Arlington and Texas A&M product Luke Joeckel, the potential No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft, joins Ian Fitzsimmons and Richard Durrett to discuss the draft, coaches and advice from his dad. Listen |
, for example, has six offensive linemen going in the top 12 picks, which means well before the Cowboys pick at 18 and probably too early for them to make a sensible trade-up to grab someone like Alabama guard Chance Warmack or North Carolina guard Jonathan Cooper. This would be unfortunate and far from ideal for the Cowboys, but history offers hope. The last time six of the first 17 picks in the draft were offensive linemen was 1966, when there were only 15 teams in the league. Only three times since then -- 1977, 1985 and 2008 -- have as many as five offensive linemen been picked in the top 17. The Cowboys probably can't expect any of the top three tackles to fall to them, but their ideal first-round situation would be for Warmack, Cooper or even Alabama tackle D.J. Fluker to fall to 18 and allow them to shore up their most significant area of short-term and long-term need. If only one of those guys is still available by 14, the Cowboys should look into trading up to get him.
To see the ideal first-round scenario for the other NFC East teams, click here.
TEAM RESOURCES
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Calvin Watkins
Calvin Watkins joined ESPNDallas.com in September 2009. He's covered the Cowboys since 2006 and also has covered colleges, boxing and high school sports.
Todd Archer
Todd Archer joined ESPNDallas.com in November 2010. He's covered the NFL since 1997 and the Cowboys since 2003. He covered the Bengals and Dolphins before arriving in Dallas. A Massachusetts native, Archer lives in the Dallas area with his wife and two children.
Tim MacMahon
Tim MacMahon joined ESPNDallas.com in September 2009. Tim covers the Cowboys and Mavericks. He has covered the local sports scene from high schools to colleges to pros during his six-year tenure at The Dallas Morning News. MacMahon is a graduate of UNT.
Jean-Jacques Taylor
Jean-Jacques Taylor joined ESPNDallas.com in August 2011. A native of Dallas, Taylor spent the past 20 years writing for The Dallas Morning News, where he covered high schools sports, the Texas Rangers and spent 11 seasons covering the Dallas Cowboys before becoming a general columnist in 2006.
103.3 FM ESPN PODCASTS
Fitzsimmons & Durrett: John Clayton
Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Nate Newton
Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Art Briles
Galloway & Company: Cowboys' draft picks
Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Jerry on Romo
Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Gavin Escobar
Galloway & Company: NFL draft talk
Fitzsimmons & Durrett: Nate Newton
Play Podcast ESPN NFL expert John Clayton joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to talk about Jerry Jones' conference call, the Cowboys' draft picks and much more.
Play Podcast On his conference call, Jerry Jones talked about leadership. Nate Newton joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss the leadership experience he had with the Cowboys.
Play Podcast Baylor head coach Art Briles joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss what kind of player the Cowboys are getting in Terrance Williams.
Play Podcast Chuck Cooperstein, Matt Mosley and Glenn "Stretch" Smith discuss the Cowboys' draft picks and who was influencing Jerry Jones' decisions.
Play Podcast Did Jerry Jones call out Tony Romo? Fitzsimmons & Durrett react to exclusive audio of Jones talking about the quarterback's increased role, who will be calling plays for the Cowboys and the Peyton Manning-like time he anticipates Romo putting in.
Play Podcast Cowboys second-round draft pick Gavin Escobar joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss his strengths as a tight end, the stress of the draft process and the thrill of working with Jason Witten and Tony Romo.
Play Podcast Galloway & Company react to the Cowboys trading down in the NFL draft and their first-round pick Travis Frederick. They also discuss Jerry Jones' comments on why the Cowboys did not select Sharrif Floyd.
Play Podcast Nate Newton joins Fitzsimmons & Durrett to discuss the first round of the NFL draft.
