Cowboys’ full squad starting four weeks of on-field work
By CLARENCE E. HILL JR.chill@star-telegram.com
Although the Dallas Cowboys are trying to move past the collapse of their indoor practice facility and get back to the business of football, they do not plan on forgetting those who were injured.
As they begin the first of four weeks of on-field team activities Monday, they will use the tragedy as a bonding experience and a source of motivation for the season.
Despite moving practices from Valley Ranch to Carrollton’s Standridge Stadium because of the ongoing investigation and cleanup after the May 2 collapse, the Cowboys see the move as a positive experience.
"If anything, this will build camaraderie within the team," vice president Stephen Jones said. "Everybody has a passion for what happened."
Five things to look for during the organized team activities (OTAs):
1 Tony Romo in full control Quarterback Tony Romo has not commented on the departure of wide receiver Terrell Owens. After owner-general manager Jerry Jones said the Cowboys wanted to make the locker room more Romo-friendly, there is no doubt that this is his team.
2 Find an identity on offense The release of Terrell Owens means the Cowboys will have to find different ways to move the ball. They need to get Roy Williams comfortable as the No. 1 receiver and find out whether Miles Austin can be a consistent downfield threat.
3 The return of Felix Jones Speedy running back Felix Jones is back after missing 10 games last season with hamstring and toe injuries. One of the most underestimated aspects of last year’s disappointing season was the impact his injury had on the team.
4 Competition at cornerback Mike Jenkins was somewhat of a disappointment as a rookie last season. The first-round pick was outplayed by fifth-rounder Orlando Scandrick. Now the two will battle for the starting job at right cornerback and Jenkins will look to make an early statement.
5 Anthony Spencer replacing Greg Ellis The Cowboys used Anthony Spencer at outside linebacker on first and second downs last season, but they still listed veteran Greg Ellis as the starter. There will be no more games. Spencer is the starter. Can he live up to the responsibility?
Although the Dallas Cowboys are trying to move past the collapse of their indoor practice facility and get back to the business of football, they do not plan on forgetting those who were injured.
As they begin the first of four weeks of on-field team activities Monday, they will use the tragedy as a bonding experience and a source of motivation for the season.
Despite moving practices from Valley Ranch to Carrollton’s Standridge Stadium because of the ongoing investigation and cleanup after the May 2 collapse, the Cowboys see the move as a positive experience.
"If anything, this will build camaraderie within the team," vice president Stephen Jones said. "Everybody has a passion for what happened."
Five things to look for during the organized team activities (OTAs):
1 Tony Romo in full control Quarterback Tony Romo has not commented on the departure of wide receiver Terrell Owens. After owner-general manager Jerry Jones said the Cowboys wanted to make the locker room more Romo-friendly, there is no doubt that this is his team.
2 Find an identity on offense The release of Terrell Owens means the Cowboys will have to find different ways to move the ball. They need to get Roy Williams comfortable as the No. 1 receiver and find out whether Miles Austin can be a consistent downfield threat.
3 The return of Felix Jones Speedy running back Felix Jones is back after missing 10 games last season with hamstring and toe injuries. One of the most underestimated aspects of last year’s disappointing season was the impact his injury had on the team.
4 Competition at cornerback Mike Jenkins was somewhat of a disappointment as a rookie last season. The first-round pick was outplayed by fifth-rounder Orlando Scandrick. Now the two will battle for the starting job at right cornerback and Jenkins will look to make an early statement.
5 Anthony Spencer replacing Greg Ellis The Cowboys used Anthony Spencer at outside linebacker on first and second downs last season, but they still listed veteran Greg Ellis as the starter. There will be no more games. Spencer is the starter. Can he live up to the responsibility?
posted by The Gryphon at 9:21 AM
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