6-STEP PLAN
After a tough season and big changes, the Cowboys have their priorities firmly in focus
By CLARENCE E. HILL JR.
Star-Telegram Staff Writer
1.Make wise decisions in free agency.
Owner Jerry Jones said the Cowboys don't really have any major priorities in free agency, which begins Friday. Center Andre Gurode agreed to a contract extension last week, and the Cowboys would like to get something done with right tackle Marc Colombo. They also need to address left guard because of Marco Rivera's uncertainty following back surgery. But the focus will be on finding the best players and best fits for the team rather than breaking the bank to fill a specific need.
2.Get the new coaching staff on the same page.
The Cowboys will not change much on offense from last season, but they have three new coaches, including coordinator Jason Garrett, who will incorporate their own ideas in the system. Defensively, head coach Wade Phillips must teach his version of the 3-4 to the coaches before starting the off-season program. It's one reason it was important to get Brian Stewart on board from San Diego to help with terminology and scheme.
3.Get Terrell Owens ready after surgery.
Jerry Jones has said a number of times that Terrell Owens will be back next season. Until he says something different, then assume that will be the case. The focus for the Cowboys is to make sure Owens is healthy after finger surgery and up to speed on the offense going into training camp. For the Cowboys to be successful, Owens needs to be fully involved starting in training camp.
4.Continue the development of quarterback Tony Romo.
Romo's development was a focal point of the coaching search. He has been a frequent visitor to Wade Phillips' office. He now gets a heavy dose of tutoring from Jason Garrett and quarterbacks coach Wade Wilson. Romo's play declined late in 2006. The Cowboys want to make sure he continues to progress.
5.Get Greg Ellis healthy and prepared.
Wade Phillips' system is predicated on having quality pass rushers. Ellis, one of the team's two best rushers along with DeMarcus Ware, must come back at 100 percent after surgery to repair a torn Achilles' tendon. He is set to play the linebacker position in Phillips' defense that Shawne Merriman played in San Diego. That Merriman notched 27 sacks the past two years should be enough motivation for Ellis' return as soon as possible.
6.Develop a scheme to best utilize safety Roy Williams.
Roy Williams is a four-time Pro Bowler at safety who was a liability on defense at times. He simply gave up too many plays. Blame Williams for not developing his coverage skills. Blame the Cowboys for not allowing him to do what he does best. Phillips plans on playing Williams close to the line of scrimmage where he can make plays and limit his deep coverage responsibility. The key is finding a true free safety to play center field.
By CLARENCE E. HILL JR.
Star-Telegram Staff Writer
1.Make wise decisions in free agency.
Owner Jerry Jones said the Cowboys don't really have any major priorities in free agency, which begins Friday. Center Andre Gurode agreed to a contract extension last week, and the Cowboys would like to get something done with right tackle Marc Colombo. They also need to address left guard because of Marco Rivera's uncertainty following back surgery. But the focus will be on finding the best players and best fits for the team rather than breaking the bank to fill a specific need.
2.Get the new coaching staff on the same page.
The Cowboys will not change much on offense from last season, but they have three new coaches, including coordinator Jason Garrett, who will incorporate their own ideas in the system. Defensively, head coach Wade Phillips must teach his version of the 3-4 to the coaches before starting the off-season program. It's one reason it was important to get Brian Stewart on board from San Diego to help with terminology and scheme.
3.Get Terrell Owens ready after surgery.
Jerry Jones has said a number of times that Terrell Owens will be back next season. Until he says something different, then assume that will be the case. The focus for the Cowboys is to make sure Owens is healthy after finger surgery and up to speed on the offense going into training camp. For the Cowboys to be successful, Owens needs to be fully involved starting in training camp.
4.Continue the development of quarterback Tony Romo.
Romo's development was a focal point of the coaching search. He has been a frequent visitor to Wade Phillips' office. He now gets a heavy dose of tutoring from Jason Garrett and quarterbacks coach Wade Wilson. Romo's play declined late in 2006. The Cowboys want to make sure he continues to progress.
5.Get Greg Ellis healthy and prepared.
Wade Phillips' system is predicated on having quality pass rushers. Ellis, one of the team's two best rushers along with DeMarcus Ware, must come back at 100 percent after surgery to repair a torn Achilles' tendon. He is set to play the linebacker position in Phillips' defense that Shawne Merriman played in San Diego. That Merriman notched 27 sacks the past two years should be enough motivation for Ellis' return as soon as possible.
6.Develop a scheme to best utilize safety Roy Williams.
Roy Williams is a four-time Pro Bowler at safety who was a liability on defense at times. He simply gave up too many plays. Blame Williams for not developing his coverage skills. Blame the Cowboys for not allowing him to do what he does best. Phillips plans on playing Williams close to the line of scrimmage where he can make plays and limit his deep coverage responsibility. The key is finding a true free safety to play center field.
posted by The Gryphon at 11:25 AM
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