Dallas Cowboys Team Needs

By: Greg Davis

Cornerback
If the Cowboys complete a trade to get Pacman Jones from Tennessee, they’ll have a strong pair of cornerback talent with Jones and Terence Newman. If they don’t trade for Jones, they’ll need to add help during the draft, and it’s no secret that they could do it early on. Jacques Reeves departure isn’t a considerable loss, but it does affect the depth of the group. Also, Anthony Henry had problems in coverage at times last season, which is why there is interest in Jones, even given his history of finding his way into trouble. A new corner will find his way into the mix one way or the other.

Wide Receiver
On the opposite side of the ball, receivers Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn—who suffered a major knee injury this year—are both moving even closer to the ends of their careers. The depth behind the two veterans is average; Patrick Crayton has shown promise and Sam Hurd is serviceable, but neither seems poised to be a game-breaking target. A receiver will undoubtedly be taken with a first day Dallas draft pick.

Running Back
Losing Julius Jones is a slight setback at the running back position, so the team will also look for help at this spot during the draft. Jones wasn’t an elite talent, but he did provide solid running when called upon, and helped ease Marion Barber’s role as a tough back who had to fight for yards in obvious running situations. Barber’s running style makes him vulnerable to injury as he takes a good deal of punishment (and gives it), so Dallas has to look for a complimentary back who can provide Barber with rest and the offense with a lift when needed.

Defensive Line
Jay Ratliff is the current listed starter and Tank Johnson is the backup, but Ratliff is a better end and Johnson can’t play too many downs. This leaves the Cowboys needing a defensive end tackle as soon as they can afford to spend a draft pick on one or as soon as they can find one on the market. This may not be the team’s most pressing need, but it will have to be addressed at some point soon.