SB Nation User Blog: kcbrett5

But Wait, There's More - Another Silly Season Rumor

kcbrett5 — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:33:54 -0000

I think the silly season has taken a sharp wide receiver turn with vets like Randy Moss, Javon Walker, DJ Hackett, and Larry Fitzgerald in the batch of NFL Free Agency article lately.

And just to add to that growing list, we have the latest on Fitzgerald's starting partner in crime, yes the other WR-Anquan Boldin.

According to profootballtalk.com, once the Arizona Cardinals completed the process of converting Fitzgerald's old contract into a new deal, it would only be a matter of time before AB wanted his.

Throw in the fact that Boldin is represented by Drew Rosenhaus, and the stage is set for Boldin to start making noise about moving on.

So here's what could happen...

According to Adam Schefter of NFL Network, Anquan Boldin could want more money and/or a trade in the wake of Fitzgerald's $10 million-per-year contract.
Per Schefter, some in the Cardinals organization actually regard Boldin as the better wideout. But Boldin will make far, far less than Fitzgerald over the next three seasons -- he's due to earn base salaries of $2.5 million, $2.75 million, $3 million.

Well, the front burner's starting to simmer right now, but it won't be long before the heat brings this situation to full boil.

Another wide receiver's pride being hurt again... not real news if you think about it. The only difference is it's a WR with a different name. Why da heck are receivers so dang mercurial?!?!

Oh yeah, and of course, the link - www.profootballtalk.com/rumormill.htm - had this as the final line of that lil piece:

Possible destinations are Philly, Dallas, and the Redskins.

Again, the stinkin' mediots gotta include America's Team in da mix. Sheesh.

BTB Bruthas -- What Is The Meaning Of This?

kcbrett5 — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 18:24:44 -0000

As all of us continually exchange opinions and share Dallas Cowboys & football news/info on this site, I occassionally get curious about some things.

And what is it (you might ask)???

How did you come up with your username that you log in under here at bloggingtheboys.com... like for example, I came up with silverblue5 because:

a. My favorite NFL Football Team is the Dallas Cowboys and their colors are silver and blue.

and

b. 5 is the number of Super Bowls our beloved team has won.

I also would like to add, what made you choose the Cowboys as your favorite NFL Football Team... and what was the first game you ever watched them play on TV.

For me, it was one particular Thanksgiving Day where my Dad, Mom, self, sister, and brother went over to another family's house. It was an old high school friend of my Dad's -- and they both were in the Navy together at the time (mid-70s I think).

Well, my Dad's friend was a Redskins fan and my Dad was a Cowboys fan (and still is). This particular game was the one when Roger Staubach got injured and Clint Longley came in and threw that bomb to win the game against the George Allen-Billy Kilmer led Skins.

My Dad is a very quiet, laid back kind of guy who is reserved in public settings... or even settings where there are more than five people.

Surprising to me was when he stood up and cheered after Longley's famous TD pass... and of course, being about 8 or 9 at the time, I got excited, too.

That being said, I'll be eternally grateful to my Dad for indirectly leading me to become a Dallas Cowboys fan.

What's the meaning of your username here on BTB, what was the first Cowboys game you ever watched (on TV and/or live at a stadium), and how did you become a fan of America's Team?

I'm curious.

Tatum Bell a Cowboy?

kcbrett5 — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 20:38:22 -0000

ESPN.com has reported that Dallas native -- and current unrestricted free agent running back -- Tatum Bell has spoken to Cowboys reps regarding possible interest to join the club.

I stumbled across this on Matt Mosley's "Hashmarks" blog.

Here's the "kicker" paragraph:

Colleague Matt Mosley is driving right now and can't type. But he just called me with a tip from one of his Cowboys sources. Dallas suddenly is showing interest in running back Tatum Bell.

For the remainder of the post, click on the link below and read...

http://myespn.go.com/blogs/hashmarks...

Speedy Vet to Replace Terry Glenn?

kcbrett5 — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 13:09:58 -0000

Here's a question. Would you all rather stand pat and not add to the current receiving corps. Or if Terry Glenn truly cannot play anymore due to his injured knee, would you rather draft a receiver and add a speedy NFL vet?

If you're answer is the latter, I'd say we draft a WR like Eddie Royal (Va Tech) in round 3 -- or another receiver like Devin Thomas (Michigan State) -- and pick up a deep threat wideout who made a game-winning catch in the Super Bowl.

His name -- Isaac Bruce.

And believe it or not, the St. Louis Rams may cut him due to cap reasons.

Decisions are looming on wide receiver Isaac Bruce and restricted free agents Trevor Johnson (defensive end) and Jerome Carter (safety). Bruce is due a $2 million roster bonus Friday. According to league sources, the Rams have discussed both a pay cut for Bruce or releasing him altogether. If the Rams don't make one-year tender offers to Carter and Johnson, they become unrestricted free agents Friday.

Honestly, I feel that if old Ike is indeed cut, the San Francisco 49ers would snatch him up in a heartbeat, due to Mike Martz recently being hired to turn around their anemic offense from last season.

For the rest of the story, click on the link below:

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/spo...

Poll

Regarding the Dallas Cowboys WR situation, what would you prefer King Jerry and the Son of Bum do about the situation?

Even if Terry Glenn comes back, add a deep threat wideout and select a WR in the upcoming draft.

29 votes

Just add one or two receivers in the April '08 Draft and don't add a veteran wide receiver.

23 votes

Stand pat and don't add any other receiver.

0 votes

If Terry Glenn gets the additional knee surgery and is out for next year (and possibly his career), pick up a speedy vet WR and draft a receiver in the '08 draft.

16 votes

68 votes | Poll has closed

Three Names

kcbrett5 — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 16:29:55 -0000

In my ripe old age of 41, I've grown to become more skeptical of picking up -- as Terry would put it -- "another team's trash."

But sometimes, the primary reason for a team cutting/releasing a player from their roster is merely to make room under the cap... and if that player is relatively young, is fairly healthy, still has the potential to produce, is familiar with our current coach's system, and might possibly sign for an affordable deal, then why not take a look-see.

Well, here are three names that have potential: FS-Marlon McCree (30) released by the San Diego Chargers , CB-Andre Dyson (28) released by the New York Jets , and QB-Brian Griese (32) soon to be released by the Chicago Bears .

McCree used to play in Wade Phillips and Brian Stewart's system when the two were assistants with the Bolts... and MM is a rangy, free-flowing, ball-hawking, hard-hitting, playmaking free safety. If he agreed to a minimum deal and you paired him up with Ham, our starting safety tandem would receive an immediate upgrade. Although Hamlin plays FS, I see him more as a SS. Personally, I believe that both Ham and McCree as guys who can play both FS and SS -- versatile like that. Btw, McCree was released for cap reasons.

Check out this McCree video:

Dyson was originally drafted by Seattle and once returned two picks for TDs in a blowout win against Philly. In New York, he was overpaid, had nagging injuries in '06 and got beat out by rookie Darelle Revis in '07. The Jets are making a run at Pats CB-Asante Samuel, so they cut Dyson, WR-Justin McCareins, and OG-Adrien Clarke in an attempt to make room under the cap. An affordable deal for Dyson would be an immediate upgrade over Reeves. Just throwin it out there.

Griese had moments of productivity last season. He helped lead the Bears to an OT win in Philly and to me, was better than Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton. However, Grossman and Orton are younger and Griese cost too much. At age 32, he'd be a solid upgrade at the backup QB position over weak-armed Brad Johnson. I'd love to have that kind of insurance behind Tony Romo... esp with Free or McQ set to replace Flo in the starting lineup in the '08 season.

I know we'll be limited in free agency -- and I'm not suggesting that da King sign all three players mentioned above -- but I just thought the prospects of adding one from this trio would be rather intriguing. What do you think?

Gimme your opinions, my BTB Brethren...

D-Mac is da Mack Daddy

kcbrett5 — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 15:38:11 -0000

We all know that Darren McFadden's gonna be one rich NFL player after the April '08 Draft. I know there are many on this site that don't like #5, but as for me, I enjoy watching his many highlight reels.

In just three seasons at the University of Arkansas, the Heisman Trophy finalist racked up monster stats and tore up the SEC and most Razorback opponents throughout the nation. I mean, how many times did he score on college football playing fields?

Segue alert in 3, 2, 1 seconds...

Well, D-Mac is a versatile playa-playa with multiple skills and those talents spill over into another playing field, where to multiple women, he's da Mack Daddy... or shall we just say "Daddy of their children," to be truthfully honest.

Put it this way, there's gonna be some rich women whose children will be set for life once that signing bonus gets in McFadden's hands.

Consider this a pseudo TMZ type of diary and click on the link below to read more about "the man's" productivity - LOL!!!

http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/sha...

Poll

Will Darren McFadden win more career NFL MVP awards than kids fathered?

It'll be a tie.

3 votes

Yes

4 votes

No

26 votes

33 votes | Poll has closed

Could da Tuna Do Our Cowboys a Favor?

kcbrett5 — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 03:30:13 -0000

Of course, this is mere speculation... but foxsports.com's Alex Marvez seems to think that the Dolfia -- Bill Parcells/Jeff Ireland/Tony Sparano -- could sign some current Cowboys to short-term deals as they begin their rebuilding process.

I know you're probably thinking, how in the heck is that trio gonna do us any favors by signing some of our players?

In Marvez' breakdown of AFC East teams and their expected attempts to upgrade their present rosters in the off season, he has this to say about the Miami Dolphins...

Projected cap space -- $21.6 million: Thinking he had more long-term job security, Mueller made personnel decisions last off-season designed to clear cap space for 2008. Still, the Dolphins have so many issues that even the room Mueller created isn't enough to fill every hole. Because of their familiarity with Dallas' personnel, don't be surprised if Miami takes a stab at some of the Cowboys' pending free agents like left tackle Flozell Adams, safety Ken Hamlin, and cornerbacks Jacques Reeves and Nate Jones. Re-signing right guard Rex Hadnot before the signing period begins should be Miami's top priority.

Although I disagree with him on Big Bill signing an older Flozell Adams to a lucrative deal, I could see him adding Jacques Reeves and Nate Jones as vets who are familiar with their way of doing things.

Although it probably won't happen, a man can always hope and pray, can't he?

Oh God in Heaven, please give Ireland and Parcells an overwhelming desire to acquire these two DBs...

For the rest of this analysis, click on the link below:

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/7784864/Jets-will-make-a-strong-push-for-Samuel?CMP=OTC-K9B140813 162&ATT=5

The Wit & Wisdom of Charles Barkley

kcbrett5 — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:17:08 -0000

Anyone hear about Sir Chuck's hilarious quote regarding the Shaq for Matrix & Marcus trade?

For those who didn't, I give you this...

"He has to play well for Phoenix to get past San Antonio, Utah and the Lakers. He can't just be there. As you get older, it doesn't work. That's why they came up with Viagra."

- Charles Barkley, TNT analyst and Suns Ring of Honor member, on Phoenix's acquisition of Shaquille O'Neal

Effin hilarious!!! And one more reason Sir Charles will always be "da Man" in my book!!!

Too bad he couldn't bring our Suns an NBA Championship...

Rating The Cowboys Draft Class of 2006 Now

kcbrett5 — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 04:49:06 -0000

Not gonna get into the whole King Jerry vs Big Tuna vs Ireland debate regarding who gets credit and who gets a thumbs down on drafts they did together.

However, I'm gonna give ALL THREE OF THEM a vote of disapproval for the '06 NFL Draft up to this point. Of course, some of the underperformers from that class could prove me wrong in the upcoming '08 season, but as of now, I'm less than impressed.

Check out who The King/The Tuna/The Jeffster selected:

Round 1 - Bobby Carpenter/LB: Ohio State

Round 2 - Anthony Fasano/TE: Notre Dame

Round 3 - Jason Hatcher/DE: Grambling

Round 4 - Skyler Green/WR-KR-PR: LSU

Round 5 - Patrick Watkins/FS: Florida State

Round 6 - Montavious Stanley/DT: Louisville

Round 7a - Pat McQuistan/OG: Weber State

Round 7b - EJ Whitley/OT: Texas Tech

Now I know that going into that draft, we were supposedly set at running back (JuJo & MB3), set with starting wide receivers (TNT), and set with our starting corners (T-New & Henry), so I guess those positions were not a priority at the time.

But here's where I subscribe in the best player available(I know I'll get opposition on this one from Deke and others, but gimme a chance here).

In Round 1, after the Cowboys selected Carpenter, look who was left on the board for the remainder of that round: Antonio Cromartie/CB (San Diego)(starter), Laurence Maroney/RB (New England)(starter), DeAngelo Williams/RB (Carolina), Santonio Holmes/WR (Pittsburgh)(starter), Joseph Addai (Indianapolis)(starter). Do you think we could've used Cromartie in the nickel or as a FS? Do you think we could've used Maroney, Williams or Holmes to return kicks (which they've done effectively for their respective NFL teams)? Yes, they weren't a NEED pick at where our Boyz picked, but best player available mentality would've found a way to get that kind of talent on the field. Plus, with the injury factor always prevalent in the NFL, you can never have enough playmaking depth.

In Round 2, did we really need a backup Tight End that high in the draft? Tony Scheffler (late Round 2), Leonard Pope (Round 3), Owen Daniels (Round 4) were all very much available later and Fasano probably would've been on the board later, as well. By the way, Scheffler, Pope, and Daniels are all starting tight ends now for their respective teams. Before I hear how important it was because Parcells wanted to run a two-TE set, logic says that with so much more talent unpicked that early in the draft, a second TE behind Witten can wait. Look at who was selected after Dallas chose Fasano: Devin Hester KR/PR/WR (Chicago)(best return man the past two seasons), Maurice Jones-Drew/RB-KR (Jacksonville), Richard Marshall CB/KR (Carolina)(starter), Darryl Tapp (Seattle)(starter). Think we could've found a way to use Hester and MoJo? Hmmm, Fasano or D-Hester? MJD or Fasano? Yeah, but we might be missing out on the next Mark Bavaro -- even though he'll be backing up our stud startint TE Jason Witten. I'll take stupid for $1,000, Alex.

So while a lot of those guys mentioned -- who were selected after Carpenter and Fasano -- are starting and making major contributions, the Cowboys' top two draft picks in '06 have played mostly as subs... with Carp getting most of his playing time in special teams.

Oh, but it gets worse, Leon Washington/RB-KR wasn't selected 'til Round 4 (NY Jets). Do you think he's produced more than Carp and Fasano? Hell yeah. And "Baby TO" himself, Brandon Marshall/WR (Denver)(starter) was also selected in Round 4. Has he made more of an impact than Bobby Carpenter and Anthony Fasano? Another resounding Hell yeah. Oh and let's rewind and go back to early-to-mid Round 2 where other current starters were drafted after Carp including Daryn Colledge/OT (Green Bay)(starter), Marcus McNeill/OT (San Diego) (starter), and Greg Jennings/WR (Green Bay) (starter).

Yes, they connected with Jason Hatcher/DE (Grambling) and so-so with Pat Watkins/FS (Florida State) in Rounds 3 and 5 respectively. But they whiffed on Skyler Green/WR-KR-PR (LSU) in Round 4 and EJ Whitley (Weber State) in Round 7 (well, seventh round is a crap shoot anyway, so we'll give the Front Office a free pass on that one), for both have not been on the active roster for the last two years. And Round 7a selection Pat McQuistan/OG (Weber State) simply provided O-line depth and the jury's still out on him.

So while we're painting a broad brush (and I'm included in this camp) that every draft has been successful under the collective firm of Jones, Parcells and Ireland, let me insert a famous line from BSPN's Lee Corso, "not so fast my friend."

The Dallas Cowboys' 2006 Draft left a plethora of impact players on the board for opportunistic franchises to swoop up and utilize effectively between the hashmarks.

And from what we've seen up to now, The King/The Tuna/The Ireland missed out on a ton of talent... instead wasting draft selections on mostly backups or guys not on the current roster. Thank God for Jason Hatcher and maybe Patrick Watkins (still in wait-and-see mode, although I'll never forget his blocked FG return for a TD against Minnesota last season, which DE-Chris Canty leaped in the air to block)

As of 02/09/08, Silverblue5's Grade of 2006 Cowboys Draft Class: D

Poll

Taking all things into account -- including on-the-field production and players missed out on -- what grade would you give the Cowboys' Class of 2006?

D

22 votes

C-

24 votes

C

16 votes

B-

11 votes

B

1 votes

A-

1 votes

A

0 votes

A+

0 votes

F

18 votes

D-

7 votes

100 votes | Poll has closed

Somebody Hit Me - I Actually Agree With Galloway

kcbrett5 — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:21:30 -0000

Every so often -- like maybe every leap year -- Randy Galloway of the Star-Telegram writes an article that's palatable. In fact, until a few minutes ago, I couldn't remember the last time I agreed with him.

But in his story, "Jerry still sees positives, and Cowboys owner may be right," Galloway convinced me that he truly believes the King's logic and the King's explanation on what's transpired since our Dallas Cowboys' one-and-done playoff results a few weeks ago.

In addressing King Jerry's giving Wade final say in the latest assistant coaching hires, Galloway quoted the King and agreed.

"It is absolutely ridiculous, some of the speculation I've heard and read," said Jones. "I want to say right now, without qualification, that any staff decision that has been made, it all came with Wade [Phillips] having the final call.
"And when we kept Jason here as offensive coordinator, no one was happier about it than Wade."

And the columnist "saw the light" that the Son of Bum's cooperation and support to bring in these replacements would only help him in the 2008-2009 season.

Why? Because good coaches are being hired to replace those who departed.
No matter how or why it happened, the bottom line is the head coach benefits from a strong staff. If Wade had the final say on these hires, as Jerry claims, then congratulations to Phillips.
Retaining Garrett, at a high financial cost, was an absolute necessity for quarterback Tony Romo. With a year of experience as OC, Jason should be better, and let's hope that includes tightening up on Romo, both on the field and off.
When Hudson Houck was hired as offensive line coach, he was a proven commodity. The same goes for Dave Campo returning as secondary coach.
The hire of Todd Grantham, former defensive coordinator at Cleveland, as the defensive line coach was called a "good move" by two NFL coaches I talked to this week.
Next up, maybe, is proven NFL defensive coach Dom Capers, who Jones said was "recruited" by Phillips. A decision from Capers is expected by today.

Look, I normally don't give a rat's you know what about what the rat-looking Randy has to say or write. But after reading his column, not only did the King and the Son of Bum convince me that these moves do truly benefit Phillips... but Galloway's believing them contributed to me buying into it, as well.

I don't know. Maybe I'm getting a little more gullible since I hit my early 40s.

Then again, all I care about is the Cowboys winning Super Bowls in the near and distant future -- no matter what it takes!!!

To read the rest of the piece, please click here...
http://www.star-telegram.com/332/sto...