Mickey on Jason Hatcher

Jim Newport, Niagara Falls, Ontario: Overall, I am very pleased with the draft this year for the Cowboys. I'm excited about acquiring another pass rusher opposite DeMarcus Ware. I think Bobby Carpenter can play first and second downs because he does have some ability to drop back and also stop the run. They can turn Greg Ellis, Anthony Spencer and Ware loose on third downs. My concern is where does Jason Hatcher fit in the mix? I really like his pass rushing ability as well.

Mickey: Very interesting note here on Hatcher, thanks to scouting director Jeff Ireland, who pointed out to us on Talkin' Cowboys last week that they will experiment with Hatcher as a backup nose tackle, along with Jay Ratliff. He explained how in this attacking defense, Wade Phillips likes to attack with his nose tackles instead of playing catch, which requires a pretty hefty fellow in there. Look for Hatcher to possibly back up at defensive end and nose, and then since Phillips also utilizes a four-man front on his nickel, work his way onto the nickel as a pass-rushing defensive tackle, which he did some of last year. Keep an eye on this guy. I think the Cowboys have found something here in this developmental third-round pick.