NFC East: Marc Colombo
Five things to watch: Cowboys-Dolphins
November, 23, 2011
11/23/11
4:00
PM ET
By
Dan Graziano | ESPN.com
The Dallas Cowboys will host the Miami Dolphins in their annual Thanksgiving Day game on Thursday afternoon. Each team comes in having won three games in a row. The Cowboys edged the division-rival Redskins in overtime on Sunday to claim a share of first place in the NFC East. And the Dolphins have really turned it on after their 0-7 start, outscoring their last three opponents by a combined score of 86-20. Here's a look at some of the things to watch for as the Cowboys try to make it four in a row against one of the hottest teams in the league:
Air it out: The Dolphins' defense is allowing 251.1 passing yards per game this year, which is the eighth-highest average in the league. Now, during their current three-game winning streak, they're only allowing 206 passing yards per game. Their defense is playing better, especially up front. But they can still be exploited in the secondary, and none of the teams they've beaten -- Kansas City, Washington or Buffalo -- came equipped with the kind of downfield weapons the Cowboys and Tony Romo have at their disposal. While the Cowboys have shown, since rookie DeMarco Murray took over as the starting running back, a commitment to the run, I'd look for them to take some deep shots against a weak part of this Miami defense and see if they can build an early lead.
Make Matt Moore uncomfortable: The Dolphins' quarterback has played very well in recent weeks, throwing six touchdown passes and one interception during the win streak. Miami has managed to get big production out of running back Reggie Bush to take some pressure off of Moore, and he's worked tight end Anthony Fasano into the receiving mix to complement the big, physical downfield presence of wide receiver Brandon Marshall. But Moore isn't likely to find the going so smooth if the Cowboys can get into the backfield and disrupt his timing. DeMarcus Ware should be moved around some in this game so he gets to attack the Marc Colombo side of the Dolphins' offensive line as well as the Jake Long side. It's on the Colombo side, Cowboys fans will not be surprised to learn, that they're most vulnerable.
The Fiammetta factor: With fullback Tony Fiammetta sidelined due to illness last week, Murray and the run game weren't as effective as they had been in the previous four games. That's not to say Murray wasn't good. His prior four games were a lot to live up to. But with Fiammetta out, there was a clear difference in Murray's effectiveness when running between the tackles. It looks as though Fiammetta will sit out again, so watch the Dolphins stack up eight-man fronts to try and take away Murray or at least dare him to try and run inside.
Is Sean Lee all the way back?: The Cowboys were the best defense in the league against the run in the early part of this season. Then, starting with the injury to middle linebacker Lee in the loss to the Eagles, they struggled against the run for a few weeks. Was their improvement in this department Sunday because the Redskins' run game is so poor, or because Lee is getting more comfortable playing in spite of his injured wrist? The Dolphins, with Bush and rookie Daniel Thomas leading their run game, will offer a more reliable test.
Home for the holiday: Romo is 4-0 in his career on Thanksgiving Day. He missed last year's game due to injury, but he and the Cowboys are thought to have an advantage here because they play a Thanksgiving game every year and are experienced in how to handle the short week. They're also at home, and playing with extreme confidence. While they can't take the suddenly red-hot Dolphins lightly, they have what they need to establish themselves as the better team early and control the game.
Air it out: The Dolphins' defense is allowing 251.1 passing yards per game this year, which is the eighth-highest average in the league. Now, during their current three-game winning streak, they're only allowing 206 passing yards per game. Their defense is playing better, especially up front. But they can still be exploited in the secondary, and none of the teams they've beaten -- Kansas City, Washington or Buffalo -- came equipped with the kind of downfield weapons the Cowboys and Tony Romo have at their disposal. While the Cowboys have shown, since rookie DeMarco Murray took over as the starting running back, a commitment to the run, I'd look for them to take some deep shots against a weak part of this Miami defense and see if they can build an early lead.
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Steve Mitchell/US PresswireDuring the Dolphins' three-game winning streak, Matt Moore has thrown six touchdown passes and just one interception.
Steve Mitchell/US PresswireDuring the Dolphins' three-game winning streak, Matt Moore has thrown six touchdown passes and just one interception.The Fiammetta factor: With fullback Tony Fiammetta sidelined due to illness last week, Murray and the run game weren't as effective as they had been in the previous four games. That's not to say Murray wasn't good. His prior four games were a lot to live up to. But with Fiammetta out, there was a clear difference in Murray's effectiveness when running between the tackles. It looks as though Fiammetta will sit out again, so watch the Dolphins stack up eight-man fronts to try and take away Murray or at least dare him to try and run inside.
Is Sean Lee all the way back?: The Cowboys were the best defense in the league against the run in the early part of this season. Then, starting with the injury to middle linebacker Lee in the loss to the Eagles, they struggled against the run for a few weeks. Was their improvement in this department Sunday because the Redskins' run game is so poor, or because Lee is getting more comfortable playing in spite of his injured wrist? The Dolphins, with Bush and rookie Daniel Thomas leading their run game, will offer a more reliable test.
Home for the holiday: Romo is 4-0 in his career on Thanksgiving Day. He missed last year's game due to injury, but he and the Cowboys are thought to have an advantage here because they play a Thanksgiving game every year and are experienced in how to handle the short week. They're also at home, and playing with extreme confidence. While they can't take the suddenly red-hot Dolphins lightly, they have what they need to establish themselves as the better team early and control the game.
Every day is different, for everybody and every team. And so, at the end of a crazy day tracking, dissecting and analyzing all the moves being made and not being made in the NFC East, we like to pause and ask each team a simple question: How was your day ...
Dallas Cowboys?
"Fiscally responsible." Yeah, that's not a real exciting answer. And as pretty much every one of their fans will tell you, the Cowboys haven't had a real exciting week. But while Jerry Jones surely would love to be slugging it out for Nnamdi Asomugha and the other top free agents, the fact is the Cowboys had to start this offseason slowly. On Thursday, they added Marc Colombo to the list of cuts that will trim more than $19 million in payroll and help get them under the cap. They agreed to terms with left guard Kyle Kosier one day after bringing back left tackle Doug Free. They signed first-round pick and projected starting right tackle Tyron Smith and then immediately let linebacker DeMarcus Ware go to work on him in his first training-camp practice. But they did nothing to address their holes on defense, and in fact they lost one of their free-agent defensive ends, Stephen Bowen, to the Redskins. But that loss could be a gain. Bowen got a surprisingly huge deal (five years, $27.5 million, $12.5 million guaranteed), and the Cowboys don't believe he was worth that much. That deal actually could help them get the defensive end they want, the Packers' Cullen Jenkins, who had been talking to the Redskins but no longer is. The Cowboys still need two safeties, two defensive ends and maybe another offensive lineman. But they'll get them. Fans just need to be patient. This might not be the most exciting Cowboys offseason ever, but it will surely be more productive than it's been so far. They are crawling before they walk.
New York Giants?
"Newsy." The Giants are still working and waiting on the resolution of their negotiations with Ahmad Bradshaw, Kevin Boss and Steve Smith, but they did knock out a new deal for Mathias Kiwanuka on Thursday. And Bradshaw lost a lot of his leverage when the Dolphins, with whom he and his agent had been playing kissy-face, acquired Reggie Bush, so the Giants should be able to get him at something closer to their price. But this day for the Giants was more about people talking -- John Mara talking about Plaxico Burress and Osi Umenyiora, the team talking to David Diehl about moving from tackle to guard and to Will Beatty about starting at left tackle, Rich Seubert and Shaun O'Hara talking about being cut ... lots of talking. There was even a report that the Giants were talking to Brad Maynard about coming in to replace shaky punter Matt Dodge. The talking -- at least to the free agents -- will soon lead to results one way or the other. But there was no shortage of interesting storylines coming out of Giantsland on Thursday.
Philadelphia Eagles?
"Cathartic." Yeah, they finally got that Kevin Kolb deal done. Felt like it took forever, right? Well, that's only because of that little lockout thing we no longer like to talk about. The end result is that the Eagles have their starting right cornerback in Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a second-round pick next year and will need to go find a veteran backup for Michael Vick, which won't be too hard. They also agreed to terms on a five-year contract with defensive end Jason Babin, who was much better last season with the Titans than he was in his first stint as an Eagle. But he should be OK since he'll be working with former Titans defensive line coach Jim Washburn, who's now in Philly. They still need to address linebacker and backup running back and maybe offensive line, but the actual moves they got to do Thursday will help, and at least they provided some distraction from this very icky DeSean Jackson holdout situation.
Washington Redskins?
"Productive." I'm sorry. I don't think they'll contend in 2011, but I really like what the Redskins are doing. Sure, they overpaid for Bowen. But as someone pointed out to me on my extremely active Twitter day, the Redskins (A) have the money and (B) sort of have to overpay right now to get guys to go there, right? Like cornerback Josh Wilson, Bowen is a guy who is young and still emerging, and the Redskins are making a bet that he'll be better in the short-term future than he is now. They are a future-focused team and should be, and their moves have reflected that. Another example: They cut veteran center Casey Rabach and reportedly agreed to terms with Chris Chester, who can replace Rabach at center or play guard if Will Montgomery or Kory Lichtensteiger does. Still need a right tackle, but the defense starts to look pretty doggone respectable with the additions of Wilson, Bowen and Barry Cofield. Oh, and I almost forget. They dumped Albert Haynesworth on an AFC team before the sun came up. That alone would have made it a decent day for Mike Shanahan no matter what else happened.
Me? Man. My day was kind of nuts. Did some more TV and a whole lot of Twitter conversating with y'all. Enjoyed every single bit of it and can't wait for tomorrow.
How was your day?
Dallas Cowboys?
"Fiscally responsible." Yeah, that's not a real exciting answer. And as pretty much every one of their fans will tell you, the Cowboys haven't had a real exciting week. But while Jerry Jones surely would love to be slugging it out for Nnamdi Asomugha and the other top free agents, the fact is the Cowboys had to start this offseason slowly. On Thursday, they added Marc Colombo to the list of cuts that will trim more than $19 million in payroll and help get them under the cap. They agreed to terms with left guard Kyle Kosier one day after bringing back left tackle Doug Free. They signed first-round pick and projected starting right tackle Tyron Smith and then immediately let linebacker DeMarcus Ware go to work on him in his first training-camp practice. But they did nothing to address their holes on defense, and in fact they lost one of their free-agent defensive ends, Stephen Bowen, to the Redskins. But that loss could be a gain. Bowen got a surprisingly huge deal (five years, $27.5 million, $12.5 million guaranteed), and the Cowboys don't believe he was worth that much. That deal actually could help them get the defensive end they want, the Packers' Cullen Jenkins, who had been talking to the Redskins but no longer is. The Cowboys still need two safeties, two defensive ends and maybe another offensive lineman. But they'll get them. Fans just need to be patient. This might not be the most exciting Cowboys offseason ever, but it will surely be more productive than it's been so far. They are crawling before they walk.
New York Giants?
"Newsy." The Giants are still working and waiting on the resolution of their negotiations with Ahmad Bradshaw, Kevin Boss and Steve Smith, but they did knock out a new deal for Mathias Kiwanuka on Thursday. And Bradshaw lost a lot of his leverage when the Dolphins, with whom he and his agent had been playing kissy-face, acquired Reggie Bush, so the Giants should be able to get him at something closer to their price. But this day for the Giants was more about people talking -- John Mara talking about Plaxico Burress and Osi Umenyiora, the team talking to David Diehl about moving from tackle to guard and to Will Beatty about starting at left tackle, Rich Seubert and Shaun O'Hara talking about being cut ... lots of talking. There was even a report that the Giants were talking to Brad Maynard about coming in to replace shaky punter Matt Dodge. The talking -- at least to the free agents -- will soon lead to results one way or the other. But there was no shortage of interesting storylines coming out of Giantsland on Thursday.
Philadelphia Eagles?
"Cathartic." Yeah, they finally got that Kevin Kolb deal done. Felt like it took forever, right? Well, that's only because of that little lockout thing we no longer like to talk about. The end result is that the Eagles have their starting right cornerback in Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a second-round pick next year and will need to go find a veteran backup for Michael Vick, which won't be too hard. They also agreed to terms on a five-year contract with defensive end Jason Babin, who was much better last season with the Titans than he was in his first stint as an Eagle. But he should be OK since he'll be working with former Titans defensive line coach Jim Washburn, who's now in Philly. They still need to address linebacker and backup running back and maybe offensive line, but the actual moves they got to do Thursday will help, and at least they provided some distraction from this very icky DeSean Jackson holdout situation.
Washington Redskins?
"Productive." I'm sorry. I don't think they'll contend in 2011, but I really like what the Redskins are doing. Sure, they overpaid for Bowen. But as someone pointed out to me on my extremely active Twitter day, the Redskins (A) have the money and (B) sort of have to overpay right now to get guys to go there, right? Like cornerback Josh Wilson, Bowen is a guy who is young and still emerging, and the Redskins are making a bet that he'll be better in the short-term future than he is now. They are a future-focused team and should be, and their moves have reflected that. Another example: They cut veteran center Casey Rabach and reportedly agreed to terms with Chris Chester, who can replace Rabach at center or play guard if Will Montgomery or Kory Lichtensteiger does. Still need a right tackle, but the defense starts to look pretty doggone respectable with the additions of Wilson, Bowen and Barry Cofield. Oh, and I almost forget. They dumped Albert Haynesworth on an AFC team before the sun came up. That alone would have made it a decent day for Mike Shanahan no matter what else happened.
Me? Man. My day was kind of nuts. Did some more TV and a whole lot of Twitter conversating with y'all. Enjoyed every single bit of it and can't wait for tomorrow.
How was your day?
It's clear by now that this first week or so of post-lockout NFL business is going to be as insane as Eagles fans likely remember Crazy Eddie's prices were. A quick review shows that I did 13 NFC East blog posts and a live chat in a 12-hour stretch Tuesday, and things are just getting revved up. So, because we're doing quick-hit analysis move-by-move and some things are obviously going to slip through the cracks, I'm going to try and do a daily Day-in-Review post that tries to assess what kind of day each team in the division had. I was originally planning to do one per team, but for now we'll try this. Going to try, I said. If it doesn't work... hey, I tried.
So, how was your day...
Dallas Cowboys?
"Efficient." Dallas needed to make some cuts to work on getting under the salary cap, and they trimmed Marion Barber, Leonard Davis, Roy Williams and Kris Brown from their roster. Marc Colombo's status remained up in the air at day's end, and the next order of business was likely the restructuring of some veteran contracts (Romo, Austin, etc.) to keep freeing up room for outside free-agent pursuits. Reports surfaced that they reached out to Abe Elam to talk about one of their openings at safety, and they are talking with guard Kyle Kosier, who along with Doug Free is an important re-sign for them. Knocking $16.6 million off their 2011 payroll represents a good first day for a team that needs to rebuild its defense within the next week.
New York Giants?
"Confusing." When the Giants decided not to make offensive line a priority in the draft, many people assumed it was because they felt they had enough depth at the position. But Tuesday brought news that veterans Shaun O'Hara, Rich Seubert and Shawn Andrews would be cut. Adam Schefter reported that Kevin Boothe would return on a two-year deal, but even if Will Beatty is ready to be the starting left tackle, the Giants will need reinforcements. They also needed to get under the cap, but such a drastic purge at one position suggests a recalibration of free-agent priorities for a team that has work to do to bring back several of its own free agents. Adam also reports that the Giants have been speaking with Plaxico Burress about a reunion, which is confusing in light of what Burress had to say about Tom Coughlin after his release from prison last month. Giants fans tend to trust their team's front office, but if there's a sound plan here, it has yet to reveal itself. The Giants did make a feel-good move in the morning, signing undrafted rookie and cancer survivor Mark Herzlich, who could be part of the solution at linebacker if he can return to the form that made him one of the best defensive players in college football in 2008. Jay Glazer of FoxSports.com reported on Twitter that potential linebacker target Paul Posluszny would sign with the Jaguars, but I still expect the Giants to find another linebacker in free agency. Herzlich has big upside but is no sure thing.
Philadelphia Eagles?
"Unsatisfying." We woke with the idea that the long-expected Kevin Kolb trade could happen as soon as the clock struck 10 am. It did not happen, and in fact the market for Kolb took a hit with the news that the Broncos were trying to trade Kyle Orton (thereby providing the Cardinals with another option) and that the Seahawks were going to sign Tarvaris Jackson (depriving the Eagles of the most viable other trade partner with which they could leverage Arizona). Kolb to Arizona still seems the most likely outcome here, but the longer it goes without the Eagles getting what they need to get in return, the more likely it is that he ends up staying in Philadelphia. Michael Vick hinted that DeSean Jackson could hold out of training camp due to dissatisfaction with his contract situation, which portends trouble on that front. The Philadelphia Inquirer also reported that the Eagles were planning to let go of all of their own free agents, including linebacker Stewart Bradley and backup running back Jerome Harrison -- news that led some (including me) to speculate that they were clearing the financial decks for a big signing such as Nnamdi Asomugha. One of those free agents, safety Quintin Mikell, agreed to a deal with the Rams, according to a report by Schefter. And the team announced the signing of undrafted running back Noel Devine of West Virginia, who could perhaps compete with Dion Lewis for that backup running back spot. Fair amount of business conducted, but none of the big moves we've been expecting from the Eagles ... yet.
Washington Redskins
"Encouraging." There were reports of discussions of a trade of Donovan McNabb to Minnesota, which was a mild surprise. If they can get anything -- even a fifth-round pick -- for McNabb, they'll have to call that a win. Schefter reported that Santana Moss had agreed to return on a three-year, $15 million deal, which is a move each side wanted to make sure happened and will help the Redskins' inexperienced quarterback and receivers. I don't think that move takes them out of the running for Santonio Holmes, but The Star-Ledger reported that the Jets are moving to re-sign Holmes, as was expected. So he remains a long shot, and potential offensive line target Marshal Yanda re-upped with the Ravens, taking him out of Washington's plans. But the re-signing of Moss and the serious McNabb talks have to count as a good first day for a team with a lot to do.
How was my day, you ask? Busy, but lots of fun. Looking forward to another busy/fun one tomorrow. Love that we have actual news to write about, at long last. And I hope you enjoyed your day here on the NFC East blog. Talk to you again in the morning.
So, how was your day...
Dallas Cowboys?
"Efficient." Dallas needed to make some cuts to work on getting under the salary cap, and they trimmed Marion Barber, Leonard Davis, Roy Williams and Kris Brown from their roster. Marc Colombo's status remained up in the air at day's end, and the next order of business was likely the restructuring of some veteran contracts (Romo, Austin, etc.) to keep freeing up room for outside free-agent pursuits. Reports surfaced that they reached out to Abe Elam to talk about one of their openings at safety, and they are talking with guard Kyle Kosier, who along with Doug Free is an important re-sign for them. Knocking $16.6 million off their 2011 payroll represents a good first day for a team that needs to rebuild its defense within the next week.
New York Giants?
"Confusing." When the Giants decided not to make offensive line a priority in the draft, many people assumed it was because they felt they had enough depth at the position. But Tuesday brought news that veterans Shaun O'Hara, Rich Seubert and Shawn Andrews would be cut. Adam Schefter reported that Kevin Boothe would return on a two-year deal, but even if Will Beatty is ready to be the starting left tackle, the Giants will need reinforcements. They also needed to get under the cap, but such a drastic purge at one position suggests a recalibration of free-agent priorities for a team that has work to do to bring back several of its own free agents. Adam also reports that the Giants have been speaking with Plaxico Burress about a reunion, which is confusing in light of what Burress had to say about Tom Coughlin after his release from prison last month. Giants fans tend to trust their team's front office, but if there's a sound plan here, it has yet to reveal itself. The Giants did make a feel-good move in the morning, signing undrafted rookie and cancer survivor Mark Herzlich, who could be part of the solution at linebacker if he can return to the form that made him one of the best defensive players in college football in 2008. Jay Glazer of FoxSports.com reported on Twitter that potential linebacker target Paul Posluszny would sign with the Jaguars, but I still expect the Giants to find another linebacker in free agency. Herzlich has big upside but is no sure thing.
Philadelphia Eagles?
"Unsatisfying." We woke with the idea that the long-expected Kevin Kolb trade could happen as soon as the clock struck 10 am. It did not happen, and in fact the market for Kolb took a hit with the news that the Broncos were trying to trade Kyle Orton (thereby providing the Cardinals with another option) and that the Seahawks were going to sign Tarvaris Jackson (depriving the Eagles of the most viable other trade partner with which they could leverage Arizona). Kolb to Arizona still seems the most likely outcome here, but the longer it goes without the Eagles getting what they need to get in return, the more likely it is that he ends up staying in Philadelphia. Michael Vick hinted that DeSean Jackson could hold out of training camp due to dissatisfaction with his contract situation, which portends trouble on that front. The Philadelphia Inquirer also reported that the Eagles were planning to let go of all of their own free agents, including linebacker Stewart Bradley and backup running back Jerome Harrison -- news that led some (including me) to speculate that they were clearing the financial decks for a big signing such as Nnamdi Asomugha. One of those free agents, safety Quintin Mikell, agreed to a deal with the Rams, according to a report by Schefter. And the team announced the signing of undrafted running back Noel Devine of West Virginia, who could perhaps compete with Dion Lewis for that backup running back spot. Fair amount of business conducted, but none of the big moves we've been expecting from the Eagles ... yet.
Washington Redskins
"Encouraging." There were reports of discussions of a trade of Donovan McNabb to Minnesota, which was a mild surprise. If they can get anything -- even a fifth-round pick -- for McNabb, they'll have to call that a win. Schefter reported that Santana Moss had agreed to return on a three-year, $15 million deal, which is a move each side wanted to make sure happened and will help the Redskins' inexperienced quarterback and receivers. I don't think that move takes them out of the running for Santonio Holmes, but The Star-Ledger reported that the Jets are moving to re-sign Holmes, as was expected. So he remains a long shot, and potential offensive line target Marshal Yanda re-upped with the Ravens, taking him out of Washington's plans. But the re-signing of Moss and the serious McNabb talks have to count as a good first day for a team with a lot to do.
How was my day, you ask? Busy, but lots of fun. Looking forward to another busy/fun one tomorrow. Love that we have actual news to write about, at long last. And I hope you enjoyed your day here on the NFC East blog. Talk to you again in the morning.
Dallas cuts Barber, Davis, Williams, Brown
July, 26, 2011
7/26/11
2:34
PM ET
By
Dan Graziano | ESPN.com
The first thing the Dallas Cowboys had to do once the lockout ended was trim their roster so they could get under the salary cap. They appear to have wasted little time in doing so.
ESPNDallas.com reports that the Cowboys have informed running back Marion Barber, guard Leonard Davis and receiver Roy Williams that they will be cut. After a phone conversation I just had with the one and only Calvin Watkins, I believe the total savings toward the 2011 salary cap represented by those three moves comes out to $15.7 millon -- $6 million for Davis, $5 million for Williams and $4.7 million for Barber.
None of the cuts qualifies as a huge surprise, though there was some thought that Williams might represent too big a cap hit. But as Calvin reported Monday, designating Williams as a June 1 cut makes him a $5 million savings this year instead of a $12.9 million hit as we had previously thought. The question, of course, is who replaces Williams, who's been the object of scorn in Dallas because he's underperformed so drastically after they gave up so much to get him? Regardless of his performance, he did appear to be a pretty good No. 3 receiver behind Miles Austin and Dez Bryant, and they may have to fill that spot in free agency now.
Barber appeared to be a goner once the Cowboys drafted running back DeMarco Murray in April. Murray will take Barber's place in the running back rotation with Felix Jones and Tashard Choice. And if they're not prepared to start Montrae Holland, they will need a guard to replace Davis. They still need to re-sign left guard Kyle Kosier as well.
We're hearing conflicting reports on Marc Colombo, who'd be a $2.4 million savings, so stay tuned on that. And the Cowboys also cut veteran kicker Kris Brown, whose only projected function was to put training-camp pressure on David Buehler.
The Cowboys had been projected to be about $17 million over the cap, so this brings them close to the number. Still some work to be done (most likely in the form of restructuring deals) to make room for them to sign the free-agent safeties and defensive linemen they need. But they're clearly working on it.
Dallas also announced that its preseason game against the Chargers, which had been scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 20, will instead be played Sunday, Aug. 21 at 8 p.m. ET.
ESPNDallas.com reports that the Cowboys have informed running back Marion Barber, guard Leonard Davis and receiver Roy Williams that they will be cut. After a phone conversation I just had with the one and only Calvin Watkins, I believe the total savings toward the 2011 salary cap represented by those three moves comes out to $15.7 millon -- $6 million for Davis, $5 million for Williams and $4.7 million for Barber.
None of the cuts qualifies as a huge surprise, though there was some thought that Williams might represent too big a cap hit. But as Calvin reported Monday, designating Williams as a June 1 cut makes him a $5 million savings this year instead of a $12.9 million hit as we had previously thought. The question, of course, is who replaces Williams, who's been the object of scorn in Dallas because he's underperformed so drastically after they gave up so much to get him? Regardless of his performance, he did appear to be a pretty good No. 3 receiver behind Miles Austin and Dez Bryant, and they may have to fill that spot in free agency now.
Barber appeared to be a goner once the Cowboys drafted running back DeMarco Murray in April. Murray will take Barber's place in the running back rotation with Felix Jones and Tashard Choice. And if they're not prepared to start Montrae Holland, they will need a guard to replace Davis. They still need to re-sign left guard Kyle Kosier as well.
We're hearing conflicting reports on Marc Colombo, who'd be a $2.4 million savings, so stay tuned on that. And the Cowboys also cut veteran kicker Kris Brown, whose only projected function was to put training-camp pressure on David Buehler.
The Cowboys had been projected to be about $17 million over the cap, so this brings them close to the number. Still some work to be done (most likely in the form of restructuring deals) to make room for them to sign the free-agent safeties and defensive linemen they need. But they're clearly working on it.
Dallas also announced that its preseason game against the Chargers, which had been scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 20, will instead be played Sunday, Aug. 21 at 8 p.m. ET.
Some time this season, I hope, I will encounter the guys from Pro Football Focus, and when I do I plan to shake their hands and thank them for helping provide content to link to during these extremely slow lockout days. One of their recent efforts was a ranking of all 32 offensive lines based on 2010 performance, and yeah. We're going to take a look at it here.
They broke it into two parts, and two NFC East teams landed in each half. The reviews on the Cowboys, at No. 9, and the Giants, at No. 13, are found in this portion of the breakdown. The reviews on the Eagles (No. 17) and the Redskins (No. 28) can be found here. Each team review includes a "Best Player" and a "Biggest Concern." Let's check them out, team-by-team, in the order in which they finished in the rankings.
The Cowboys' best offensive lineman, PFF says, was left tackle Doug Free, who graded out as their best run-blocking tackle in the league and "more than held his own against tough pass-rushers" in his first year as the starter on the left side. As for concerns, PFF doesn't have many, even with the expected departure of Marc Colombo. "So the biggest concern has to be age and injuries catching up with both guards, and Tyron Smith not panning out. Good situation."
The Giants came in 13th in the league in a year that saw age and injury impact several starters. PFF's best Giants offensive lineman was right tackle Kareem McKenzie, whom they love. And the biggest concern is left tackle David Diehl, who the site points out was initially a guard and isn't equipped to deal with the likes of DeMarcus Ware. I think the Giants are hoping they can start Will Beatty at that left tackle spot soon. But if he's not ready, it could be rough in the early going.
The Eagles just missed the top half of the rankings, coming in 17th. And PFF seems to give them a bit of a pass because of how difficult it must be to block for Michael Vick when you're never sure where he's going to go on a given play. Best player: left tackle Jason Peters, though PFF says it thinks he should be protecting someone's blind side instead of playing on the left side in front of the left-handed Vick. And the biggest concern is whether first-round draft pick Danny Watkins can be an effective starter at right guard right away. But overall, "if they can keep most of their guys healthier than they have, the talent is there."
As for the Redskins, we've discussed their line as a work-in-progress. PFF says tackles Trent Williams and Jammal Brown both played poorly, that Kory Lichtensteiger was the only Redskins lineman to grade out positively in run blocking and that only Will Montgomery earned a positive pass-protection grade. PFF gives Montgomery the Best Player designation, though it makes it clear it's by default. And the biggest concern is Williams and the 11 sacks he gave up. Surely, the Redskins (and others) believe Williams has the talent to do better than that. But PFF is right that he's got to show it for the Redskins to have any hope of improvement here.
They broke it into two parts, and two NFC East teams landed in each half. The reviews on the Cowboys, at No. 9, and the Giants, at No. 13, are found in this portion of the breakdown. The reviews on the Eagles (No. 17) and the Redskins (No. 28) can be found here. Each team review includes a "Best Player" and a "Biggest Concern." Let's check them out, team-by-team, in the order in which they finished in the rankings.
The Cowboys' best offensive lineman, PFF says, was left tackle Doug Free, who graded out as their best run-blocking tackle in the league and "more than held his own against tough pass-rushers" in his first year as the starter on the left side. As for concerns, PFF doesn't have many, even with the expected departure of Marc Colombo. "So the biggest concern has to be age and injuries catching up with both guards, and Tyron Smith not panning out. Good situation."
The Giants came in 13th in the league in a year that saw age and injury impact several starters. PFF's best Giants offensive lineman was right tackle Kareem McKenzie, whom they love. And the biggest concern is left tackle David Diehl, who the site points out was initially a guard and isn't equipped to deal with the likes of DeMarcus Ware. I think the Giants are hoping they can start Will Beatty at that left tackle spot soon. But if he's not ready, it could be rough in the early going.
The Eagles just missed the top half of the rankings, coming in 17th. And PFF seems to give them a bit of a pass because of how difficult it must be to block for Michael Vick when you're never sure where he's going to go on a given play. Best player: left tackle Jason Peters, though PFF says it thinks he should be protecting someone's blind side instead of playing on the left side in front of the left-handed Vick. And the biggest concern is whether first-round draft pick Danny Watkins can be an effective starter at right guard right away. But overall, "if they can keep most of their guys healthier than they have, the talent is there."
As for the Redskins, we've discussed their line as a work-in-progress. PFF says tackles Trent Williams and Jammal Brown both played poorly, that Kory Lichtensteiger was the only Redskins lineman to grade out positively in run blocking and that only Will Montgomery earned a positive pass-protection grade. PFF gives Montgomery the Best Player designation, though it makes it clear it's by default. And the biggest concern is Williams and the 11 sacks he gave up. Surely, the Redskins (and others) believe Williams has the talent to do better than that. But PFF is right that he's got to show it for the Redskins to have any hope of improvement here.
Nearly done now with our position-by-position look at potential four-year unrestricted free agency and the NFC East. I asked yesterday if you guys wanted me to do kickers and punters, and you seemed to say yes, so those will roll out this afternoon to wrap the series. For now, though, we go with the big fellas -- the offensive tackles.
NFC East teams in need
Redskins: With 2010 first-rounder Trent Williams on the left side, they feel like they're okay there now and for the long-term. Not so much on the right side, where Jammal Brown is a free agent and Stephon Heyer not likely a sufficient replacement. A veteran who could help develop Williams and the other young players on Washington's rebuilding line might be a good move.
Cowboys: They drafted Tyron Smith with the ninth pick in April, and their hope was to play him on the right side and emerging star Doug Free on the left. But if the new rules allow free agency after four years of service, Free becomes a free agent and a top priority for Dallas to re-sign. Should he go elsewhere, the Cowboys will need a tackle, be it right or left, since they're likely to part ways with Marc Colombo.
Eagles: Jason Peters is a star on the left, but Michael Vick's "blind side" is the right side, where Winston Justice and King Dunlap remain big question marks. Having addressed the line in the draft, the Eagles could be planning to roll the dice with those guys and fill defensive needs in free agency, but it wouldn't be crazy for them to look for a tackle.
Giants: This is a well-traveled topic and a matter of opinion. Mine is that the Giants' offensive line is a ticking injury time bomb, and that David Diehl has lost a few steps. The Giants and their fans would say the injuries on the line didn't hurt them last year, and that they actually showed the depth the team has at various line positions. I still think it's worth staying ahead of the curve, and while I know the Giants have a lot of needs, I think they need to at least look and see if they can add a tackle for depth, even if it means moving Diehl inside or into a backup role.
Top five potential unrestricted free-agent tackles
1. Free. Still young and still developing, but his first year as a starter on the left side was a rousing success, and the Cowboys are hoping he can last there for a while -- as long as he stays in town. It'll be interesting to see what kind of market he draws, since it was just the one year on the left and he'd surely prefer to stay on that side than go somewhere else and play on the right. He might be more valuable to the Cowboys than he would to anyone else.
2. Willie Colon. He missed the 2010 season with an injury, but his track record as a premier right tackle won't be lost on teams that need line help. His agent recently said he didn't think the Steelers were interested in retaining Colon.
3. Tyson Clabo. A perfect fit at right tackle for the Falcons, Clabo is coming off a Pro Bowl appearance and could draw interest from run-heavy teams looking for someone to seal off that right side.
4. Matt Light. A great veteran who may be past his prime but likely still has something to offer on the field and in the locker room. Might have to settle for a shorter-term deal, given his age relative to the rest of this field.
5. Brown. The Redskins' best plan may be to bring back Brown, who performed better at right tackle for them as the season went along and his hip got healthier. It'll be interesting to see if he draws interest as a left tackle from teams in need of help on that side.
Predictions that mean nothing: Cowboys re-sign Free. Redskins re-sign Brown. Eagles look a little further down the list, maybe at a guy like Marshal Yanda, who can play tackle or guard and really shore up their situation on the right side. Giants do nothing.
NFC East teams in need
Redskins: With 2010 first-rounder Trent Williams on the left side, they feel like they're okay there now and for the long-term. Not so much on the right side, where Jammal Brown is a free agent and Stephon Heyer not likely a sufficient replacement. A veteran who could help develop Williams and the other young players on Washington's rebuilding line might be a good move.
Cowboys: They drafted Tyron Smith with the ninth pick in April, and their hope was to play him on the right side and emerging star Doug Free on the left. But if the new rules allow free agency after four years of service, Free becomes a free agent and a top priority for Dallas to re-sign. Should he go elsewhere, the Cowboys will need a tackle, be it right or left, since they're likely to part ways with Marc Colombo.
Eagles: Jason Peters is a star on the left, but Michael Vick's "blind side" is the right side, where Winston Justice and King Dunlap remain big question marks. Having addressed the line in the draft, the Eagles could be planning to roll the dice with those guys and fill defensive needs in free agency, but it wouldn't be crazy for them to look for a tackle.
Giants: This is a well-traveled topic and a matter of opinion. Mine is that the Giants' offensive line is a ticking injury time bomb, and that David Diehl has lost a few steps. The Giants and their fans would say the injuries on the line didn't hurt them last year, and that they actually showed the depth the team has at various line positions. I still think it's worth staying ahead of the curve, and while I know the Giants have a lot of needs, I think they need to at least look and see if they can add a tackle for depth, even if it means moving Diehl inside or into a backup role.
Top five potential unrestricted free-agent tackles
1. Free. Still young and still developing, but his first year as a starter on the left side was a rousing success, and the Cowboys are hoping he can last there for a while -- as long as he stays in town. It'll be interesting to see what kind of market he draws, since it was just the one year on the left and he'd surely prefer to stay on that side than go somewhere else and play on the right. He might be more valuable to the Cowboys than he would to anyone else.
2. Willie Colon. He missed the 2010 season with an injury, but his track record as a premier right tackle won't be lost on teams that need line help. His agent recently said he didn't think the Steelers were interested in retaining Colon.
3. Tyson Clabo. A perfect fit at right tackle for the Falcons, Clabo is coming off a Pro Bowl appearance and could draw interest from run-heavy teams looking for someone to seal off that right side.
4. Matt Light. A great veteran who may be past his prime but likely still has something to offer on the field and in the locker room. Might have to settle for a shorter-term deal, given his age relative to the rest of this field.
5. Brown. The Redskins' best plan may be to bring back Brown, who performed better at right tackle for them as the season went along and his hip got healthier. It'll be interesting to see if he draws interest as a left tackle from teams in need of help on that side.
Predictions that mean nothing: Cowboys re-sign Free. Redskins re-sign Brown. Eagles look a little further down the list, maybe at a guy like Marshal Yanda, who can play tackle or guard and really shore up their situation on the right side. Giants do nothing.
New cap rules could help Redskins, Eagles
June, 24, 2011
6/24/11
5:02
PM ET
By
Dan Graziano | ESPN.com
I send you into your weekend with a link to John Clayton's latest, in which he examines the ways in which the proposed "salary floor" in the next collective bargaining agreement would affect certain teams. In case you missed it, one of the concessions players are seeking (and owners are considering) is a requirement that teams spend close to 100 percent of their salary cap budget. If this happens, John says, the Redskins and Eagles would be among the teams most likely to benefit, while the Cowboys would be one of the teams hurt the most.
John ranks the Redskins first on his list of teams that could benefit the most:
With increased freedom to spend, Washington might be able to get the defensive line help it needs as it transitions into its second year of a 3-4 defense, as well as a cornerback and/or a wide receiver. The question, of course, is how much the rebuilding Redskins want to commit to long-term deals for veterans when they have young guys at certain positions at whom they want to take a look.
The Eagles rank fifth on John's list of teams that could benefit the most under the suggested new rules:
We've seen many reports about how aggressive the Eagles plan to be in free agency. They'll be one of the most closely watched teams once it finally does open. You do start to wonder, though, how much of this is smokescreen by an organization that likes to be unpredictable and how many of these big names are realistic for them. I still think Shanahan would trade Haynesworth to an AFC team for a pair of socks before he'd release him and let the Eagles get a crack at him.
As for the Cowboys, they rank fourth on John's list of teams that could be hurt the most by the new salary cap rules:
That last is because Free would be an unrestricted free agent, rather than a restricted one, under the proposed new deal. Considering the Cowboys' needs in the defensive secondary and the work they still may do on the offensive line, the first story of their free agency period could be which players have to go in order to make room.
Enjoy the weekend, everybody.
John ranks the Redskins first on his list of teams that could benefit the most:
Snyder and Mike Shanahan will have to be creative in how they structure contracts, because the $120 million cap would give them only around $10 million of cap room. On the positive side, the Redskins' current payroll is $75.7 million, meaning Snyder would have to spend close to $45 million in cash to meet the potential minimum floor requirements. Imagine a system that forces Snyder to spend.
With increased freedom to spend, Washington might be able to get the defensive line help it needs as it transitions into its second year of a 3-4 defense, as well as a cornerback and/or a wide receiver. The question, of course, is how much the rebuilding Redskins want to commit to long-term deals for veterans when they have young guys at certain positions at whom they want to take a look.
The Eagles rank fifth on John's list of teams that could benefit the most under the suggested new rules:
They have $13 million of cap room, and their payroll is a modest $95 million. They could try to bring in defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, wide receiver Plaxico Burress and maybe running back Reggie Bush if the price were right. They would have enough cap flexibility to even go for Nnamdi Asomugha or a top cornerback, if they like.
We've seen many reports about how aggressive the Eagles plan to be in free agency. They'll be one of the most closely watched teams once it finally does open. You do start to wonder, though, how much of this is smokescreen by an organization that likes to be unpredictable and how many of these big names are realistic for them. I still think Shanahan would trade Haynesworth to an AFC team for a pair of socks before he'd release him and let the Eagles get a crack at him.
As for the Cowboys, they rank fourth on John's list of teams that could be hurt the most by the new salary cap rules:
Owner Jerry Jones made sure his team wouldn't be ripped apart during tough labor times. He's always aggressive in re-signing his top players. But the Cowboys are currently a minimum of $18.9 million over the salary cap, which could spell doom for right tackle Marc Colombo, wide receiver Roy Williams and others. Jones also has to come up with some room to re-sign left tackle Doug Free and others.
That last is because Free would be an unrestricted free agent, rather than a restricted one, under the proposed new deal. Considering the Cowboys' needs in the defensive secondary and the work they still may do on the offensive line, the first story of their free agency period could be which players have to go in order to make room.
Enjoy the weekend, everybody.
Happy Flag Day, everyone. No matter what we do these days, we have offensive lines on the brain. Fired-up Friday was about left tackles. Last Thursday's column was about offensive lines. Power Rankings, which come out today, rank the best left tackles in the league. And lo and behold, this morning we find a Pro Football Focus ranking of left and right tackles based on a stat it has called "pass-blocking efficiency." The stat purports to measure the amount of pressure each lineman gives up and is calculated by "Sacks added to three quarters of Hits and Hurries, divided by the amount of snaps in pass protection multiplied by a 100, or: ((Sacks + (0.75 * Hits) + (0.75 * Hurries)) / Pass Pro Snaps) * 100"
You know, for those of you who like a little complex math first thing in the morning.
Anyway, the left tackle at the top of the list is Miami's Jake Long, which makes me feel better because I ranked him first in the league in the left tackle Power Rankings. The NFC East representation on the list doesn't make me look as good. Dallas' Doug Free ranked as the fifth-best left tackle in the league in pass-blocking efficiency last season according to the formula, two spots ahead of Philadelphia's Jason Peters. And Washington's Trent Williams, whom I ranked ahead of Free in Friday's debate post, ranked as the ninth worst. The Giants' David Diehl ranked third worst, incidentally, which I think helps explain Eli Manning's interception numbers a bit.
They also do right tackles here, with New York's Kareem McKenzie faring quite well and Dallas' Marc Colombo ... not so much. It's an interesting breakdown of one critical aspect of tackle play and provides a little data for our ongoing debate. As you chew on that, I'm hitting the links:
Dallas Cowboys
Because I know how you Cowboys fans love your Tony Romo golf updates, here he is qualifying for the Wisconsin State Golf Association Match Play Championship. Hey, gotta do something, right? I salute him. I remember guilt-free golf as a newly married guy before the kids came. Enjoy it now, Tony!
Oh, and in case you missed it, Jason Witten came in at No. 36 on this much-discussed NFL Network list of top 100 players as voted on by other players. One more Cowboy to go on this list, and it's DeMarcus Ware, who's ranked ... somewhere up higher. They're only telling us a little bit at a time, you know. And you say we're stretching for content during the lockout.
New York Giants
Tom Coughlin and Jerry Reese said they wouldn't rule out a return of Plaxico Burress to the Giants. This was, presumably, before they read this.
Ralph Vacchiano says Eli Manning expressed "tempered enthusiasm" for the player workouts he and the other Giants had last week at Bergen Catholic High School. Personally, I've never known Eli Manning to express any other kind of enthusiasm.
Philadelphia Eagles
Jonathan Tamari wonders if Andy Reid has a Dirk Nowitzki-like, career-capping moment in his future -- a title celebration that would erase the only remaining criticism of his coaching career in Philadelphia. I mean, it'd be nice. The whole "He hasn't won a Super Bowl. Enough said" argument sure does seem to be getting old and overused.
Tony Dungy directly addressed a question about Burress potentially landing in Philadelphia along with Michael Vick, another player with whom Dungy worked as a mentor during and after his stay in prison. "I don't know that that would be the case," Dungy said.
Washington Redskins
Looks as if the Redskins are at least considering the possibility of moving their team headquarters from Virginia to Maryland. The current facility in Ashburn, Va., is not up to current NFL standards and needs an upgrade. Surely, if Daniel Snyder can get Prince George's County to help him pay for a new one, that would pique his interest.
The 2010 Redskins may not have won a lot of games, but they sure did make a lot of people mad. Santana Moss is the latest from the team to be sued, as he now stands accused of defaulting on a lease for a dry-cleaning business his family ran in Miami. Reason No. 8,437 the lockout needs to end soon.
Hey, make sure you have a good breakfast. Big day today. We're chatting at noon.
You know, for those of you who like a little complex math first thing in the morning.
Anyway, the left tackle at the top of the list is Miami's Jake Long, which makes me feel better because I ranked him first in the league in the left tackle Power Rankings. The NFC East representation on the list doesn't make me look as good. Dallas' Doug Free ranked as the fifth-best left tackle in the league in pass-blocking efficiency last season according to the formula, two spots ahead of Philadelphia's Jason Peters. And Washington's Trent Williams, whom I ranked ahead of Free in Friday's debate post, ranked as the ninth worst. The Giants' David Diehl ranked third worst, incidentally, which I think helps explain Eli Manning's interception numbers a bit.
They also do right tackles here, with New York's Kareem McKenzie faring quite well and Dallas' Marc Colombo ... not so much. It's an interesting breakdown of one critical aspect of tackle play and provides a little data for our ongoing debate. As you chew on that, I'm hitting the links:
Dallas Cowboys
Because I know how you Cowboys fans love your Tony Romo golf updates, here he is qualifying for the Wisconsin State Golf Association Match Play Championship. Hey, gotta do something, right? I salute him. I remember guilt-free golf as a newly married guy before the kids came. Enjoy it now, Tony!
Oh, and in case you missed it, Jason Witten came in at No. 36 on this much-discussed NFL Network list of top 100 players as voted on by other players. One more Cowboy to go on this list, and it's DeMarcus Ware, who's ranked ... somewhere up higher. They're only telling us a little bit at a time, you know. And you say we're stretching for content during the lockout.
New York Giants
Tom Coughlin and Jerry Reese said they wouldn't rule out a return of Plaxico Burress to the Giants. This was, presumably, before they read this.
Ralph Vacchiano says Eli Manning expressed "tempered enthusiasm" for the player workouts he and the other Giants had last week at Bergen Catholic High School. Personally, I've never known Eli Manning to express any other kind of enthusiasm.
Philadelphia Eagles
Jonathan Tamari wonders if Andy Reid has a Dirk Nowitzki-like, career-capping moment in his future -- a title celebration that would erase the only remaining criticism of his coaching career in Philadelphia. I mean, it'd be nice. The whole "He hasn't won a Super Bowl. Enough said" argument sure does seem to be getting old and overused.
Tony Dungy directly addressed a question about Burress potentially landing in Philadelphia along with Michael Vick, another player with whom Dungy worked as a mentor during and after his stay in prison. "I don't know that that would be the case," Dungy said.
Washington Redskins
Looks as if the Redskins are at least considering the possibility of moving their team headquarters from Virginia to Maryland. The current facility in Ashburn, Va., is not up to current NFL standards and needs an upgrade. Surely, if Daniel Snyder can get Prince George's County to help him pay for a new one, that would pique his interest.
The 2010 Redskins may not have won a lot of games, but they sure did make a lot of people mad. Santana Moss is the latest from the team to be sued, as he now stands accused of defaulting on a lease for a dry-cleaning business his family ran in Miami. Reason No. 8,437 the lockout needs to end soon.
Hey, make sure you have a good breakfast. Big day today. We're chatting at noon.
Dallas Cowboys
Does the drafting of Tyron Smith signal the end to the Marc Colombo era in Dallas?
DeMarco Murray says it's a "dream come true" to become a member of the Cowboys.
New York Giants
Fans can win a chance to have their picture appear on tickets for a Giants home game this season.
Giants coach Tom Coughlin, whose son survived the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, reflects on the death of Osama bin Laden.
Philadelphia Eagles
Offensive line coach Howard Mudd knows he has his work cut out for him in Philadelphia.
Jeff McLane grades the Eagles' draft and gives the team a C+.
Washington Redskins
John Keim of The Examiner shares five post-draft thoughts on the Redskins.
Washington tapped into the Nebraska pipeline during last week's NFL draft.
Does the drafting of Tyron Smith signal the end to the Marc Colombo era in Dallas?
DeMarco Murray says it's a "dream come true" to become a member of the Cowboys.
New York Giants
Fans can win a chance to have their picture appear on tickets for a Giants home game this season.
Giants coach Tom Coughlin, whose son survived the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, reflects on the death of Osama bin Laden.
Philadelphia Eagles
Offensive line coach Howard Mudd knows he has his work cut out for him in Philadelphia.
Jeff McLane grades the Eagles' draft and gives the team a C+.
Washington Redskins
John Keim of The Examiner shares five post-draft thoughts on the Redskins.
Washington tapped into the Nebraska pipeline during last week's NFL draft.
Dez Bryant doesn't show up at Valley Ranch
April, 29, 2011
4/29/11
6:42
PM ET
By
Calvin Watkins | ESPN.com
IRVING -- Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant didn't show up at Valley Ranch on Friday despite telling team owner Jerry Jones he would do so.
In a brief conversation before walking into the Cowboys' War Room, Jones confirmed he didn't speak with Bryant. The Cowboys were hoping to visit with Bryant to discuss some of his off-the-field issues and to check on his surgically repaired ankle, which he broke on Dec. 5.
Several Cowboys players arrived at Valley Ranch on Friday and worked out which included tackle Marc Colombo who might get released when the 2011-12 league year starts.
The Cowboys drafted Tyron Smith, a tackle from USC, and he's being projected as a right tackle.
"He just does his work," line coach Hudson Houck said. "It never came up, but it's a business."
In a brief conversation before walking into the Cowboys' War Room, Jones confirmed he didn't speak with Bryant. The Cowboys were hoping to visit with Bryant to discuss some of his off-the-field issues and to check on his surgically repaired ankle, which he broke on Dec. 5.
Several Cowboys players arrived at Valley Ranch on Friday and worked out which included tackle Marc Colombo who might get released when the 2011-12 league year starts.
The Cowboys drafted Tyron Smith, a tackle from USC, and he's being projected as a right tackle.
"He just does his work," line coach Hudson Houck said. "It never came up, but it's a business."
NFC East links: Will Colombo be back?
April, 12, 2011
4/12/11
10:12
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Dallas Cowboys
ESPNDallas.com's Calvin Watkins compiled a list of 10 Cowboys players who might not return in 2011. Topping the list: offensive tackle Marc Colombo.
In a recent interview with KESN-FM, linebacker Keith Brooking said, "fans can be assured that we’re going to be prepared as we can possibly be, considering, and we’ll be ready for the start of the season."
New York Giants
ESPNNewYork.com's Ohm Youngmisuk looks at where the Giants stand with their defensive line and which D-linemen the team could target in the draft.
Shaun O’Hara, Ahmad Bradshaw and Zak DeOssie will participate in the NFLPA's draft events that will celebrate past, present and future football players during draft weekend.
Philadelphia Eagles
Philly.com's Sheil Kapadia evaluates the Eagles' 10 first-round picks during the Andy Reid era.
Phillip Hunt, a defensive end the Eagles signed in February after two productive seasons in the Canadian Football League, could be a diamond in the rough.
Washington Redskins
Heisman Trophy-winning running back Mark Ingram will visit the Redskins and Bucs this week.
Linebacker Quan Sturdivant and defensive lineman Ryan Kerrigan will visit the Redskins Tuesday.
ESPNDallas.com's Calvin Watkins compiled a list of 10 Cowboys players who might not return in 2011. Topping the list: offensive tackle Marc Colombo.
In a recent interview with KESN-FM, linebacker Keith Brooking said, "fans can be assured that we’re going to be prepared as we can possibly be, considering, and we’ll be ready for the start of the season."
New York Giants
ESPNNewYork.com's Ohm Youngmisuk looks at where the Giants stand with their defensive line and which D-linemen the team could target in the draft.
Shaun O’Hara, Ahmad Bradshaw and Zak DeOssie will participate in the NFLPA's draft events that will celebrate past, present and future football players during draft weekend.
Philadelphia Eagles
Philly.com's Sheil Kapadia evaluates the Eagles' 10 first-round picks during the Andy Reid era.
Phillip Hunt, a defensive end the Eagles signed in February after two productive seasons in the Canadian Football League, could be a diamond in the rough.
Washington Redskins
Heisman Trophy-winning running back Mark Ingram will visit the Redskins and Bucs this week.
Linebacker Quan Sturdivant and defensive lineman Ryan Kerrigan will visit the Redskins Tuesday.
» NFC Final Word: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 15
The Giants feel really good about their game plan for Michael Vick. A lot of teams fear Vick, but the Giants seem to relish the opportunity to play against him. Vick didn't account for a passing touchdown the last time they played, and the Giants battered him and caused him to fumble twice, losing one. Giants defensive coordinator Perry Fewell learned from that experience and he's added some new wrinkles to his approach. Look for safety Deon Grant to play a large role in Fewell's blitz packages. The Giants have the ability to generate pressure without the blitz, but Fewell will bring a safety or a cornerback at times. The Giants have been excellent against the run (see Adrian Peterson), so I think LeSean McCoy will have most of his success in the passing game. He has 70 receptions and the Eagles love the screen game.
Will the Cowboys be able to slow down Rex Grossman? The stunning news came down Friday morning that a healthy Donovan McNabb would once again be benched. The Cowboys have prepared for McNabb, but I don't think the prospect of facing Grossman is all that intimidating. At this point, it almost seems like the Shanahans get a kick out of shaking things up. I believe that Redskins offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan has always been more comfortable with Grossman than McNabb. There have been reports that Kyle wanted to make this move about 13 weeks ago. Now his father will finally give him the chance. So much for that lucrative contract extension for McNabb. At this rate, it's hard to imagine his starting for the Redskins again. And while the Eagles respect McNabb too much to laugh about this, they certainly have to feel good about their decision. I sat down and watched a few plays from that loss to the Bucs. McNabb did have some awful throws that short-hopped receivers. He can normally play through those bad stretches, but the Shanahans are tired of waiting for him.
Eli Manning has to find someone he trusts on third down. Manning has been really bad on third down this season, and a lot of that has to do with Steve Smith's being out with injuries. Since Smith's now been placed on injured reserve, Manning has to figure something out. Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham will need to concentrate more than ever because Manning can't afford any more deflections. (He's making enough mistakes on his own). This would be a good time for Derek Hagan to become a reliable third-down receiver. He's shown signs of being that player, but he's no Steve Smith. To me, Smith and the Eagles' Jason Avant are two of the best third-down receivers in the league.
Brian Orakpo loves playing against the Cowboys. The Washington Redskins' outside linebacker and former University of Texas star grew up in Houston hating the Cowboys. He's the player who drew the infamous holding penalty on the Cowboys' Alex Barron in the season opener. As former NFL scout Bryan Broaddus points out on ESPNDallas.com, Orakpo does a really nice job of not allowing much of a hitting surface to offensive tackles. The Skins had the good sense to move Orakpo to the left side to face Barron last time. There's a good chance they'll do the same thing against right tackle Marc Colombo. Orakpo draws a lot of holding calls, and the Redskins basically count those as sacks. He causes offensive tackles to panic, and that's about the highest compliment you can pay a pass-rusher.
The Giants will try to exploit Eagles rookie middle linebacker Jamar Chaney. With Stewart Bradley out for the rest of the regular season with a dislocated elbow, Chaney becomes the starter. He's a talented player, but you know that Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride will try to work him over.
You'll be able to tell early in this game how Chaney's going to play. It's a matchup the Giants will be looking at all afternoon. And if the Eagles' linebackers don't stay in their lanes against Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw, they'll be in for a long day.
Update: Wow, thanks for all the comments regarding Chaney. I went off the rails for a minute. Appreciate the feedback.
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 15
The Giants feel really good about their game plan for Michael Vick. A lot of teams fear Vick, but the Giants seem to relish the opportunity to play against him. Vick didn't account for a passing touchdown the last time they played, and the Giants battered him and caused him to fumble twice, losing one. Giants defensive coordinator Perry Fewell learned from that experience and he's added some new wrinkles to his approach. Look for safety Deon Grant to play a large role in Fewell's blitz packages. The Giants have the ability to generate pressure without the blitz, but Fewell will bring a safety or a cornerback at times. The Giants have been excellent against the run (see Adrian Peterson), so I think LeSean McCoy will have most of his success in the passing game. He has 70 receptions and the Eagles love the screen game.
[+] Enlarge
Rob Grabowski/US PresswireRedskins quarterback Donovan McNabb (left) has been benched in favor of Rex Grossman for Sunday's game against the Cowboys.
Rob Grabowski/US PresswireRedskins quarterback Donovan McNabb (left) has been benched in favor of Rex Grossman for Sunday's game against the Cowboys.Eli Manning has to find someone he trusts on third down. Manning has been really bad on third down this season, and a lot of that has to do with Steve Smith's being out with injuries. Since Smith's now been placed on injured reserve, Manning has to figure something out. Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham will need to concentrate more than ever because Manning can't afford any more deflections. (He's making enough mistakes on his own). This would be a good time for Derek Hagan to become a reliable third-down receiver. He's shown signs of being that player, but he's no Steve Smith. To me, Smith and the Eagles' Jason Avant are two of the best third-down receivers in the league.
Brian Orakpo loves playing against the Cowboys. The Washington Redskins' outside linebacker and former University of Texas star grew up in Houston hating the Cowboys. He's the player who drew the infamous holding penalty on the Cowboys' Alex Barron in the season opener. As former NFL scout Bryan Broaddus points out on ESPNDallas.com, Orakpo does a really nice job of not allowing much of a hitting surface to offensive tackles. The Skins had the good sense to move Orakpo to the left side to face Barron last time. There's a good chance they'll do the same thing against right tackle Marc Colombo. Orakpo draws a lot of holding calls, and the Redskins basically count those as sacks. He causes offensive tackles to panic, and that's about the highest compliment you can pay a pass-rusher.
The Giants will try to exploit Eagles rookie middle linebacker Jamar Chaney. With Stewart Bradley out for the rest of the regular season with a dislocated elbow, Chaney becomes the starter. He's a talented player, but you know that Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride will try to work him over.
You'll be able to tell early in this game how Chaney's going to play. It's a matchup the Giants will be looking at all afternoon. And if the Eagles' linebackers don't stay in their lanes against Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw, they'll be in for a long day.
Update: Wow, thanks for all the comments regarding Chaney. I went off the rails for a minute. Appreciate the feedback.
The Cowboys prompted Eagles' changes
December, 9, 2010
12/09/10
2:30
PM ET
By Matt Mosley | ESPN.com
Jamie Squire/Getty ImagesMichael Vick played sparingly in last season's playoff loss to the Cowboys. He figures to have a much greater role when the two teams meet Sunday night.Coach Andy Reid tried to downplay the three losses to the Cowboys last season, but all it takes is one look at this Eagles defense to see the impact the defeats had on the organization. When I made a trip to Philadelphia this past offseason, I stopped by new general manager Howie Roseman's office and saw just how obsessed this team was with closing the gap with the Cowboys. Like most general managers, Roseman had his team's two-deep chart in a prominent spot on the wall. But next to it was the Cowboys' depth chart.
I certainly didn't see the Giants' and Redskins' charts anywhere in the office, so it was obvious what was happening. Reid and Roseman made their biggest move when they traded quarterback Donovan McNabb to the Redskins on Easter, but that was only the tip of the iceberg. The Eagles have released or traded 21 players from last year's playoff roster. They addressed a ridiculous situation at safety by spending the second-round pick they acquired for McNabb on the University of South Florida's Nate Allen. He has responded by locking down a starting role and placing himself in the conversation for defensive rookie of the year.
Reid won't admit it publicly, but the Eagles were humiliated by the way the Cowboys dominated them at the line of scrimmage in those last two games. Then-Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett hadn't been known for his balanced game plans, but the Cowboys rushed for 377 yards in those games and Tony Romo threw for 523. Even without starting right tackle Marc Colombo, the Cowboys' offensive line manhandled the Eagles' defensive line and neutralized the pass rush. When Roseman started moving all over the draft board to acquire more picks, it was with the Cowboys in mind. On Wednesday, Reid was asked whether those back-to-back losses to the Cowboys crystallized his decision to overhaul the roster.
"I wouldn’t say that. I would be slamming the guys that were here and I wouldn’t do that," Reid said. "I will tell you, though, we were blessed to have that many picks. Whether those guys were here or weren’t here. Then we created some trades, but we had this good nucleus of picks that, if we did it right, we felt like we could bring in some young guys to add to the roster. I thought we needed that. Howie thought we needed that, and that’s kind of the direction that we went there."
Owner Jeff Lurie joked with me this past offseason that it was basically the same roster that had finished the 2008 season by beating the Cowboys 44-6, but he knew the changes needed to be made. Eagles fans view the Cowboys in much the same way the Red Sox view the Yankees, which is to say there's some hatred involved. The fact that Philadelphia entered the last regular-season game of 2009 with an 11-4 record meant nothing two weeks later.
Now the Eagles will encounter a team in a far different situation. The Cowboys have rallied under Garrett, but they still have a 4-8 record and are in the unfamiliar spoiler role. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones still thinks he has the makings of a playoff contender, but it obviously won't happen this season. But the Cowboys could gain a measure of redemption if they were to beat the Eagles in front of a national television audience Sunday night.
Safety Gerald Sensabaugh told me Wednesday that the players are motivated to try to secure the jobs of Garrett and interim defensive coordinator Paul Pasqualoni. And he also tried to put his finger on why the Cowboys were superior to the Eagles at the end of last season.
"I think there's something to be said for knowing your opponent really well," Sensabaugh said. "We had a good idea of when they were going to take shots in certain areas. And it probably helped us that those receivers are a little undersized. But with Michael Vick back there, it's a different situation."
And more than any of the moves made on draft day, it is Vick who has given the Eagles their identity. When he's on the field, there's a belief among the players and coaches that no one can stop them. And unfortunately for the Cowboys, Vick has a pretty good memory of what happened at Cowboys Stadium last season.
"If you can't get motivated by that, then I don’t know what will motivate you," Vick told reporters during a conference call Wednesday. "I wasn’t even on the field playing and it hurt me deeply, so I can imagine what the guys who were out there are feeling now. You know it’s not a get-back game, it's a game we've just got to come back out and win."
When you spend an entire offseason trying to catch up with one of your rivals, I think it's more than a "get-back" game. The Eagles are looking for validation Sunday night in Dallas. And with Vick at the helm, I like their chances.
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Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 13.
Cowboys left tackle Doug Free needs to have his best game of the season. Most left tackles need some help against Colts All-Pro defensive end Dwight Freeney, but I don't think Free will have that luxury. Right tackle Marc Colombo will need a lot of help against Robert Mathis on the other side. I actually think Free's up to the task. He'll have to get out of his stance quickly and get an immediate punch with his arms to force Freeney to re-start. As most of you know, Freeney will try to get to the outside and turn the corner on Free. He's been the Cowboys' best offensive lineman this season and I think he'll have a strong performance against Freeney. Is that a stone-cold lock of a prediction? Absolutely not.
It's time for the Giants to actually do something with their opening possession. Offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride spent a lot of time this week talking about how he likes to get a feel for defenses on the first series of games. The Giants finally scored on their first possession against the Jaguars, but it was only a field goal. The Eagles scored on their first three possessions against the Texans, but the Giants almost always wait until the second half to get going. They've been dominated in the second quarter. The defense has given up 82 points, and the offense hasn't always responded in the first half. With a beat-up team like the Redskins, you can't let them hang around. Just look at what almost happened to the Eagles on Thursday night. Gilbride needs to spend less time setting things up and more time dictating the action. I realize it's tough without Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith in the lineup, but the Giants have enough weapons to get things done, as they showed in the fourth quarter against the Jaguars. Maybe they can get Kevin Boss going a little bit earlier in this game.
The Redskins have to unleash the pass-rush on Eli Manning early in this game. If Washington can bring some pressure up the middle and get in Manning's face, it will cause problems. Mario Manningham's really the only wide receiver he has faith in, and I think DeAngelo Hall has a chance to lock him down. But if Manningham gets the ball on a quick screen, the Redskins have to run everyone to the ball. Manningham has deceptive speed and he's good at making defenders miss. This is also a game where the Skins have to get back to creating takeaways. They were on a torrid pace early in the season, but things have tailed off. Outside linebacker Brian Orakpo has to be thinking about the strip because Manning has some ball-security issues at times.
The Cowboys' safeties will be under a lot of pressure against the Colts. Peyton Manning looks for Pierre Garcon on a lot of vertical routes, but Reggie Wayne will look to get loose across the middle. It's important for Alan Ball and Gerald Sensabaugh to be more disciplined than ever. The Colts are looking for a safety to take one false step. If that happens, they're ready to pounce. And I had a chance to watch tight end Jacob Tamme in person against the Eagles. He doesn't have the speed of Dallas Clark, but he's a sure-handed receiver who can break tackles if the Cowboys aren't careful. Manning's like most quarterbacks in that he hates having anyone in his face. If nose tackle Jay Ratliff and defensive end Stephen Bowen can collapse the pocket in the pass rush, I think they can cause some mistakes. Manning took way too many hits against the San Diego Chargers. In Sunday's game, the Cowboys need to use a similar approach. If you allow Manning to find a rhythm, it could be a long day. But without any semblance of a running game, it makes him a little bit easier to defend.
Can McNabb continue his dominance of the Giants? McNabb is 11-7 lifetime against the Giants, but he was wearing a different uniform all those years. He's won four consecutive games over the Giants while throwing to quality receivers such as DeSean Jackson, Jason Avant and Jeremy Maclin (in '09). I think McNabb has a comfort level against the Giants' personnel, but defensive coordinator Perry Fewell has changed things up. I think he'll throw a lot of different looks at McNabb, and I'd look for him to send Deon Grant and Antrel Rolle on some safety blitzes early in this game. If the Skins can block it up, McNabb will have a chance to make plays downfield. He needs Santana Moss to come up big for him, but I think Terrell Thomas will be ready for the challenge at cornerback. Without a running game, McNabb's a sitting duck. Maybe "sitting" isn't fair because of his mobility, but you get the picture. The Giants will try to make the Skins one-dimensional early in this game.
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 13.
[+] Enlarge
Matthew Emmons/US PresswireDoug Free will have his hands full with Colts DE Dwight Freeney.
Matthew Emmons/US PresswireDoug Free will have his hands full with Colts DE Dwight Freeney.It's time for the Giants to actually do something with their opening possession. Offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride spent a lot of time this week talking about how he likes to get a feel for defenses on the first series of games. The Giants finally scored on their first possession against the Jaguars, but it was only a field goal. The Eagles scored on their first three possessions against the Texans, but the Giants almost always wait until the second half to get going. They've been dominated in the second quarter. The defense has given up 82 points, and the offense hasn't always responded in the first half. With a beat-up team like the Redskins, you can't let them hang around. Just look at what almost happened to the Eagles on Thursday night. Gilbride needs to spend less time setting things up and more time dictating the action. I realize it's tough without Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith in the lineup, but the Giants have enough weapons to get things done, as they showed in the fourth quarter against the Jaguars. Maybe they can get Kevin Boss going a little bit earlier in this game.
The Redskins have to unleash the pass-rush on Eli Manning early in this game. If Washington can bring some pressure up the middle and get in Manning's face, it will cause problems. Mario Manningham's really the only wide receiver he has faith in, and I think DeAngelo Hall has a chance to lock him down. But if Manningham gets the ball on a quick screen, the Redskins have to run everyone to the ball. Manningham has deceptive speed and he's good at making defenders miss. This is also a game where the Skins have to get back to creating takeaways. They were on a torrid pace early in the season, but things have tailed off. Outside linebacker Brian Orakpo has to be thinking about the strip because Manning has some ball-security issues at times.
The Cowboys' safeties will be under a lot of pressure against the Colts. Peyton Manning looks for Pierre Garcon on a lot of vertical routes, but Reggie Wayne will look to get loose across the middle. It's important for Alan Ball and Gerald Sensabaugh to be more disciplined than ever. The Colts are looking for a safety to take one false step. If that happens, they're ready to pounce. And I had a chance to watch tight end Jacob Tamme in person against the Eagles. He doesn't have the speed of Dallas Clark, but he's a sure-handed receiver who can break tackles if the Cowboys aren't careful. Manning's like most quarterbacks in that he hates having anyone in his face. If nose tackle Jay Ratliff and defensive end Stephen Bowen can collapse the pocket in the pass rush, I think they can cause some mistakes. Manning took way too many hits against the San Diego Chargers. In Sunday's game, the Cowboys need to use a similar approach. If you allow Manning to find a rhythm, it could be a long day. But without any semblance of a running game, it makes him a little bit easier to defend.
Can McNabb continue his dominance of the Giants? McNabb is 11-7 lifetime against the Giants, but he was wearing a different uniform all those years. He's won four consecutive games over the Giants while throwing to quality receivers such as DeSean Jackson, Jason Avant and Jeremy Maclin (in '09). I think McNabb has a comfort level against the Giants' personnel, but defensive coordinator Perry Fewell has changed things up. I think he'll throw a lot of different looks at McNabb, and I'd look for him to send Deon Grant and Antrel Rolle on some safety blitzes early in this game. If the Skins can block it up, McNabb will have a chance to make plays downfield. He needs Santana Moss to come up big for him, but I think Terrell Thomas will be ready for the challenge at cornerback. Without a running game, McNabb's a sitting duck. Maybe "sitting" isn't fair because of his mobility, but you get the picture. The Giants will try to make the Skins one-dimensional early in this game.
Four Cowboys starters return to practice
November, 4, 2010
11/04/10
4:15
PM ET
By Matt Mosley | ESPN.com
Felix Jones (ankle, forearm), Marc Colombo (back), Terence Newman (rib muscle strain) and Bradie James (knee) returned to practice for the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday, according to ESPNDallas.com's Tim MacMahon. I would expect all four of them to play in Green Bay on Sunday, although Newman's injury will be monitored closely and the Cowboys will have some recourse in rookie Bryan McCann if he's not ready to go.
The Cowboys don't really have a great Plan B for Colombo right now, as evidenced by Alex Barron's performance earlier this season. I fully expect running back Tashard Choice to get some more carries against the Packers, but then, I've had that feeling before and it didn't end up happening.
The Packers shut out the Jets this past Sunday, so it's likely the Cowboys defense will have to have a good game against Aaron Rodgers. I'm not sure I like the chances of that happening right now; not with the way DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer have struggled getting to the passer.
The Cowboys don't really have a great Plan B for Colombo right now, as evidenced by Alex Barron's performance earlier this season. I fully expect running back Tashard Choice to get some more carries against the Packers, but then, I've had that feeling before and it didn't end up happening.
The Packers shut out the Jets this past Sunday, so it's likely the Cowboys defense will have to have a good game against Aaron Rodgers. I'm not sure I like the chances of that happening right now; not with the way DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer have struggled getting to the passer.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Dan Graziano
Graziano joined ESPN.com in 2011 after two years as a Senior NFL Writer for AOL FanHouse. He covered Major League Baseball, the Olympics and various other sports during his time at the Star-Ledger and the Palm Beach Post. A New Jersey native and author of two published novels, he now lives in Ridgewood, N.J., with his wife and two sons.
