How much did Dallas miss Felix Jones in '08?

Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley

Just ran across this Felix Jones note on AOL Fanhouse. Pretty strong words from Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones regarding the role Felix's injury played in the team's missing the playoffs. Jones [the owner-in-waiting] told the team's beat writer, Mickey Spagnola, that of all the injuries the Cowboys suffered last season, Felix's was the most devastating.

I'm pretty sure you would put Tony Romo's injury ahead of Jones' in terms of impact, but it's true that the rookie was turning heads. But are we sure that offensive coordinator Jason Garrett was going to use him properly? Up until Jones suffered a hamstring injury in Week 6 against the Cardinals, he wasn't receiving enough touches.

I agree that his injury hurt the team, but it also cleared the way for another rookie, Tashard Choice, to emerge as a valuable player down the stretch. It's easy to focus on Romo and Roy Williams right now, but in order for this team to be successful (win a playoff game), Garrett has to utilize the immense talent he has at running back.