SPORTSDAY

Posted by ct @ 4:40 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

after reading some of gil brandt's player analysis, i'll go ........B.

Posted by Chuck Cypert @ 4:46 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

If Jerry had taken Paul Soliai instead of Isaiah Stanback, I would be tempted to give him an "A"!

Posted by JohnG @ 4:47 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

B-. I don't like Stanback, Folk, Anderson, and Ball picks

Posted by RobS @ 4:48 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

If the Browns do not lose at least 10 games I'd give it a C.

Posted by DougO @ 4:49 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

As far as this draft, I give it a D. But they salvage a C+ if you include the pick they got from Cleveland.

Too many reaches and projects, not many value picks, and not addressing needs enough. Very poor second day.

Posted by Jeff @ 4:51 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

C at best. Although they aligned themselves well for an A next year. That pick does not factor in this year's grade obviously.

However if you look around the division, only the Giants had an average draft. The other two get Ds and Fs.

Posted by George Issaris @ 4:52 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

C-.. No legit receiver, no bulk at dt. Down the road linemen who wont have input this year. We basically came out of this, with only 1 DEFINITE CONTRIBUTOR for 08'. Real sad for a team that was on cusp of big things!

Posted by Flair @ 4:52 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Besides picking up Cleveland's number one for next year, I think this was a terrible draft. They only got one impact player out of it and the others are all raw projects at best. They had needs at FS, DT and WR and really didnt address any of them in a logical way. Jerry "wheel and dealed" this draft from a very positive one on day one to a very negative one on day two. I'd grade it a D- at best.

Posted by William @ 4:53 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Give the Browns a grade and then give the cowboys a letter point higher. Example: Browns B, Cowboys B+. The Browns can't get the higher grade when they obviously think they got their man and he was worth next years #1.

Posted by BiG mIkE @ 4:55 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I am ecstatic about getting the Browns #1 next year! I will be rooting for them to tank this season for sure. I love, love, love the Spencer pick. Also like the two O-linemen picks. As for the rest...we'll have to see. Would have liked to see a true receiver grabbed but other than that, I give it a B+ (mostly for Browns trade).

Posted by Greg @ 4:56 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

" A "--------- Spencer will help Ware. This is a pass rush duo they have needed for a long time. Stanback will be used as a receiver. I really like the pick of Brown. Also, they already have 2 kickers in camp, Gramattica and the kid they signed from the desperados.

Posted by Coop @ 4:56 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I give them a B. The Cleveland deal was a coup. Spencer filled a need and is solid value. My problems came after that. I felt that without moving up with their second pick they missed out on a talent plateau and wind up getting Marten (at a little bit of a reach). Loved the Free pick but I thought the Stanback pick was a big mistake. The rest has some potential but I thought they could've done a better job of filling needs. I would've really disliked the draft but the no. 1 next year is just so huge. Darren McFadden will look good in silver and blue.

Posted by BrittM @ 4:58 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

B-. Great work on Spencer and 2008 1st, several later whiffs. Ditto Chuck Cypert on Paul Soliai--huge opportunity missed. Never got an NT at all.

Posted by Joe @ 4:58 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

1 NFL Player, 7 Practice Squad Members, Grade: D. After round 1, this draft was a complete bust. They only get the D because of the 2008 number 1.

Posted by Cleve Moten @ 5:08 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I think it was a good draft, and I'll rate it an A-, considering the No. 1 pick for 2008 that the Cowboys also picked up. Without it I would probably rate it a B. My grade is also given with full knowledge of the fact that the opinions I have of the players selected is actually based on other sports writers' opinions and not from my own personal observations and evaluations of the players themselves. With that in mind, and without strong disagreements with respect to the selections made, I readily admit that I am largely deferring to the Cowboys, and their expertise which seems reasonable based on the knowledge I've obtained. I'm sure they have more information that I with respect to the players. I'm convinced they've done a great job and I commend them. I'm also assuming that, in time, I'll be better able to understand the reasoning behind a couple of picks that my information does not permit me to be wildly enthusiastic of at this time. I see some of the reasoning, but I doubt that I see it all. Anthony Spencer was, in fact, my preference as the first pick, if Adrian Peterson turned out not to be obtainable. Overall I think it was a great draft. My hat's off the Jerry and his crew!

Posted by L.J. @ 5:08 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

The first round pick, plus the OT's makes the grade a C. However the real accomplishment was landing a number one in 08. As Jones and the coaching staff knows, Roma's developement is the most important element to winning. Better hope the offensive line will allow this to happen.

Posted by existentist @ 5:10 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I'll give the draft a B-.

We didn't necessarily need anyone. It would have been nice to get a WR or a top-level CB.

Instead, we get a guy (Spencer) who the top O-line prospect (Thomas) called the most difficult player he faced. The pressure Spencer and Ware generate should make the secondary look that much better.

You have to give the o-linemen a year or two to develop. This is a sore spot due to recent o-line drafts here.

The Cleveland pick helps.

I don't like the QB or the Kicker, but it will be hard to judge those picks until and unless we see other players whom we could have had turn out to be solid or star players.

Posted by jacko @ 5:13 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

It amazes me how ignorant some can be. The Cowboys went into this thing with no gaping holes to fill. Yet they got a couple of good players, reached on a few players, but hey, sometimes gambles pay off in a big way. Plus they have 2 first round picks next year. A+ Way to go Jerry and Wade

Posted by Michael K @ 5:14 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

They wouldn't have used a pick on a kicker if they didn't think Folk could be better than our current options. Plus, he could punt if needed in a crisis. Stanback could be a nice surprise as WR.
My only doubts concern FB Deon Anderson and CB Alan Ball. I still give them a B+ just for the
extra first rounder in next years draft and the Browns have a tough schedule.

Posted by DougO @ 5:15 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Let's all hope that Wade Phillips has much more control over next year's draft.

Posted by DJM @ 5:18 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

C I thought the first trade was brilliant, I thought the second trade was questionable and think Spencer may have still been available for us at 36. Everything after that is just plain trash IMO. We drafted a QB to play WR when this was one of the deepest drafts in recent history for wideouts.

Posted by Steve D @ 5:19 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

D.

It would have been a B (Spencer was a C, but the Cleveland pick brought the grade up). Drafting the QB, FB and kicker and at the same time losing out on shots at decent WRs and DBs, appear to be the dumbest things I've seen since Al Davis took his idiot kicker. Jones maneuvered one time too many and spent the rest of the draft out of position for the players the team could really use.

Posted by Skip @ 5:22 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Only give the "wheeler/dealer" a D. I thought maybe Phillips and Ireland had taken Jacques Taylor's advice to keep Jerry in check. Instead we end up with a kicker. I do not care who we pick No. 1 next year, because it will be a top 3 pick. Even Jerry cannot mess that up too much.

Posted by ken @ 5:24 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

d+ good first day, awful 2nd day. y a kicker and 2 ot's but no de or dt?

Posted by Chris in Vegas @ 5:24 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

It's virtually impossible to grade a draft the day of. Just like drafting itself, grading the draft is an exercise in subjective judgement. How many top tier 1st rounders from this draft will actually go bust??? How many 7th rounders will join the Hall of Fame??? Ask this same question about this years draft the same time next year. Only then will you get a more accurate answer.

Posted by Scott @ 5:24 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Dallas essentially ended up giving up this year's 2nd rounder for a 1st rounder next year that almost certainly will be in the upper half of the round, should be in the top 10, and might well be in the top 5. Clearly a good deal but it limits how much immediate help this year's picks will make. I like Spencer; Marten and Stanback have potential but I doubt will make much difference this year and who knows about the rest but I'm not thrilled with drafting a kicker.

Posted by Larry @ 5:26 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

THERE IS NO WAY THAT ANYBODY, INCLUDING THE COWBOYS, CAN REALLY PROPERLY EVALUATE THIS DRAFT UNTIL THESE GUYS COME TO CAMP. BUT SPENCER, PLUS TWO PROMISING OFFENSIVE LINEMAN, PLUS CLEVELANDS #1 NEXT YEAR MAKE IT A GOOD DRAFT. IF SOME OF THE OTHER PICKS WORK OUT, IT COULD BE AN EXCELLENT DRAFT. ONLY TIME WILL TELL. ==WE HAVE TO ASSUME THE SCOUTS KNOW MORE THAN WE DO==

Posted by Maverick @ 5:35 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I'd give it the same grade, B-. But, you gotta give Jerry an A+ for wheeling/dealing and getting first round draft choice for next year from Cleveland.

Posted by Gary M @ 5:38 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

don;t understand the fb(unless hoyte is moving again) and the kicker pick...i would give this a b now simply because of spencer and free, those guys will be here a long time

Posted by wskiker @ 5:41 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

this draft sucked big time .........."D" at best

Posted by Pokes @ 5:44 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I think after Parcells, JJ was aching to dive back in and wheel and deal. Take away the 1st round deal with the clowns, and I give it a C+ on this one. Qwinn will tie Carrs sack record next year. We'll have a top 10 in 2008

Posted by Craig @ 5:46 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Given the inherent inaccuracies and ridiculousness of grading a draft that is, technically, still going on: I'll give it a B+.

Unlike a lot of my fellow commentors, I'm not freaking out about not addressing "need." Dallas didn't have a bunch of imperative need this year (for a change), and would have taken one of the top 3 or so WRs if one had been available there at # 22, but since one wasn't, the deal with the Browns was sheer brillance and should net a top 5 of not top 10 pick in '08. The combo of Spencer and Ware coming off the edges should be great, esp if James and Carpenter can secure the middle. I hope one of those late-round CBs pan out, but I'm not going to hold my breath. If you can hit on 2 guys on Day 2, I think you're doing well.

On all the negativity on this draft: well, no one said the Cowboys fan was ever easy to please.

Posted by Ronnie B @ 5:48 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

OK, DOUGO, who would you have gotten. You have basically fried them. Let everyone know what direction you would have went. What glaring needs are there and how would you address them.

Posted by John @ 5:48 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I'd give it a B to B+. 1st round pick was very good, the extra round one next year is excellent work. Many of the other ones look like projects and frankly, I'm not an expert on any of them. I hope it's okay that I'm not an expert if I post here, not sure of the implied qualifications. No one knows what else in the works, so we all lack context around Cowboy management decisions. I'll take one impact player in '07, let's see what happens. I just wonder if Ellis going back to the line...personally, I hope they find a way to put Ellis, Spencer, Ware and Carpenter on the field at one time a lot. One other point, I really like Hurd and Austin at WR, so I don't know what the concern is there. I think either of these guys could mature quickly if forced into action and they're going to get better.

Posted by Gary M @ 5:49 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

someone please remind jerry of walter thomas from utep....enormous dt with some serious athletic skill..could be a great fa pickup

Posted by Zach @ 5:59 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I'll grade it after the 2009 season. Day after grades are so cliche.

GO COWBOYS! GO WHOEVER IS PLAYING THE BROWNS!

Posted by Brian @ 6:00 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

C+

Based on the Stanback reach and the drafting of a kicker instead of using alot of those extra picks to move up to get either a second tier receiver or corner that fell on the second day (i.e. Tanard Jackson).

Posted by Buddy @ 6:06 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

C.
Drafting a kicker cancels out the Cleveland trade.

Posted by Rudy @ 6:07 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

As a Cowboys fan from Vegas...we all know that the draft is a crapshoot at best, especially after the first round. So, for those fans whining about a so-called "D/F" draft, I just have one simple question: Have you submitted your resume to the Cowboys for your expertise in drafting 22 year-old future Pro-Bowler's?...Yeah, that's what I thought. Let's see what these kid's can do and if they drop like flies in summer camp, then you can polish up that resume and get to work.

Posted by Charles @ 6:07 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

This Anderson guy must be a high quality person. he seems to do the right thing as a kid learning to be an adult. I read a news article that made him look like the next Bill Bates from a ghetto. The picks are solid, except for the kicker, next year...wow, insurance in case of a Romo bust or maybe the ability to draft Limus Sweed or better. The draft gets a B+.

Posted by Larry @ 6:17 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Dont forget two important things as far as filling what we fans perceive to be the Cowboy's
needs:

1. A number of undrafted players will be signed,
and you can bet at least one QB, probably Matt
Moore, Jared Zabransky, Tyler Palko, or Tony
Korrodi, will be signed as a project QB.

2. NFL veteran free agency will now enter its
2nd season and the boys will fill some of those
needs, like nose tackle, from veteran players.

Have faith. the scouts know a lot more than we do.

Posted by Travis @ 6:19 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

A+!!!!! Spencer was a HUGE pick. You just don't keep a player like him on the bench. Anderson was a great FB pickup, so we can get out of 2 tight ends, The OT's are huge and are versatile AND Cleveland's #1 for next year to aqcuire McFadden in a trade up IF we need to!!! Let's go 08'!!!!!

Posted by Kevin @ 6:25 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I think its pretty average. A C at best. Getting an extra pick next year saves this draft from being an F. Guess we know that Jerry is running things. How soon are we from being 5-11 again? Every player was selected ten to twenty places higher that they were suppose to with the expection of the fourth round tackle and the picks in the sixth and seventh rounds made no sense. I think this draft nets only one good player.

Posted by Scott Mattson @ 6:27 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I can't help thinking back to 1978 (or '79), when we were staring at Joe Montana as the next highest-rated player on our board...and passed because we had Danny White and Glenn Carano behind Roger Staubach. I get this feeling passing on Brady might come back to haunt us. I was split on taking Brady and trading the pick. Having the Browns' first pick next year give us a chance to make amends if Romo can't keep his progress going. I rate this draft a C-.

Posted by Danny B @ 6:30 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Cowboys #1 from Browns next year won't be as high as people think. The Browns are on the rise and have an easy last-place schedule (only four playoff teams on it, I think). A potential franchise QB (top 5 pick on many teams' boards) is worth more. Cowboys get a 'C' at best.

Posted by Boilergeo @ 6:31 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Dallas fans: You'll love Anthony Spencer. He goes hard every play and is a fantastic pass rusher. Nice thing is that he can play the run also.

Posted by Dale Watts @ 6:33 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I give the 'boys a D+ for the talent they got out of the draft, but a B+ for the overall results (the Cleveland trade was pretty darn good).

I was puzzled by the QB, PK, and FB picks. They could have been gotten the PK and FB as free agents after the draft - if not those names, then palyers with the exact same talent. A QB in round one is a reach. If Romo shows this season he doesn't have it, then the two first rounders next year could be parlayed into something.

Posted by John C @ 6:36 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

This doesn't get more than a C+. I ignore the trade for next year as that was a good move but it's now next years pick. Hopefully Cleveland won't win the SB :-). They didn't need to waste 2 picks to move back into the first round for Spencer. Otherwise they drafted for down the road. I've never been a huge fan of that approach. We'll have to see what develops.

Posted by dbk @ 6:46 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I agree with Larry as no one will no for sure how it grades until two to three years from now. That said, I hope Jeff Ireland and the scouting department got to make significant input along with Wade Phillips. Trusting that Jerry listened and weighed his decisions on their input I think it can be a very good draft with a positive upside for next year

Posted by Kevin Hail @ 6:49 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

B+ , If we had been able to nab a safety/corner in the 3rd of 4th round, I'd have been happier. Maybe 2 or 3 of these guys pan out, so we can't grade them yet. But we sure can give big points to Jerry for getting the Browns' pick by stepping back a few spots, brilliant. We may be talking about that for years to come. Obviously, only if we pick up a real star in 2008.

We all know by now (I hope) that the real breakdown last year started with the lack of pass rush and the simpleton approach that Parcells applied to the 3-4. The whole smashmouth, I'm bigger than you and I'm going to overwhelm you with size, completely conflicts with the 3-4 in this day's NFL. Speed, blitzes, stunts, and lots of personnel sub-ing is going to be the Wade Phillips mark on the Cowboys defense and the reason they will be a top 5 defense. Then you can watch and see how well Tony Romo does when he isn't having to gunsling to get us back in the game.

Good to be a Cowboys fan in 2007

Posted by Ron @ 6:50 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Without the #1 pick from Cleveland, this draft would be a solid C-, that is, below average. Since Dallas will get a high pick in next year's draft, the Cowboys get a grade of B-. I am generally disappointed, especially after the way the draft started out for Dallas. Jerry Jones stated before the draft that he hoped the team would draft seven players that would make the roster. I think the best the Cowboys can hope for is four.

1. Purdue DE Anthony Spencer
Good pick. Spencer will help get pressure on opposing quarterbacks. That will greatly benefit the whole defense.
3. Boston College OT James Marten
Solid pick. Marten was highly rated by some, and he should be ready to go next year.
4. Washington QB/WR Isaiah Stanback
Questionable pick. Stanback could be another Patrick Crayton, or he could be another Woody Dantzler. He has potential, but I would have liked a legitmate WR, or FS or CB with this pick.
5. Northern Illinois OT Doug Free
Solid pick. Should help next year.
6. Arizona K Nick Folk
Wasted pick. I am sure fans would like to know how in the world the Cowboys had this guy at the top of their draft board at this point in the draft.
6. Connecticut FB Deon Anderson
Questionable pick. I don't think he will make the team.
7. Cal Poly CB Courtney Brown
Questionable pick. He might make the roster as a special teams player.
7. Illinois CB Alan Ball
Wasted pick. This guy will not make the second cut.

Posted by Joe (NY) @ 6:50 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Grading drafts immediately after they finish is stupid. Immediately after the 2004 draft, many people thought that the Giants had an A+ because they got Eli Manning. 3 years later, Eli Manning has failed to do anything.

The Cowboys did not have any glaring needs. They got a solid OT in Marten (whom Gaines Adams, the top DE in this draft, called the toughest OT that he went up against), as far as a top DE in Spencer (Whom the top OT Thomas declared the toughest player that he went up against.)

Posted by Joe @ 6:55 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I love the critical fans out there complaining about the lack of "value" picks we got. These are the same people that read a couple mock drafts and took everything they said as gospel truth. Everyone loves DeMarcus right? Well, if you think back to the year we drafted him, without the second 1st round pick, we would never have gotten him--Parcells is on record as saying he would've taken Spears at that spot if he'd only had one shot at it. So, everyone needs to just relax and start figuring out ways to jinx the Browns (as if they need any help being inept)...you'll be loving it this time next year. Especially after a certain gentleman from Arkansas declares for the draft...

Posted by Gary Neill @ 7:03 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Absolutely pitiful. They hopefully got one NFL player that might make an impact this year. The rest were reaches at best. As a fan watching these two days, it just felt like one dumb choice after another. While other teams like the Saints were making smart decisions. Grade: D for dumb

Posted by Mike In Plano @ 7:05 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I like Spencer, especially with Wade Phillips running the show. Parcells would have wasted a season playing him out of position and also playing mind games to let him know who's in charge. I also like getting the Browns 1st rounder next year. After that.....to quote the great Borat..."Not So Much"!!! A high 4th rounder on the spare Stanback? They could have gotten him in the 7th round. Wasting a pick on a FB and kicker?? Drafting the skinniest 6'2" human being on planet earth? The Ball kid must use a cheerio for a hula hoop. It's easy to see that Jerry's running the draft again. One good player, a couple of practice squadders, and a sack of hammers. I give Jerry a C minus, and that's only because he got the Browns '08 first rounder.

Posted by RC @ 7:13 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

If the Browns pick is in the top 10 next year, then the grade is B. If the pick isn't in the top 10, then it drops to a C.

Posted by Jeff L. @ 7:21 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Who knows? Oh, wait, all of the experts on this forum, I forgot.

To expect a team picking at #22 to come away from a draft with a bunch of immediate starters is laughable, unless the team is 1-15 or something. They got another pass rusher, and they got some depth at other spots, which is really all they were after. On top of that, they could potentially end up with the #1 overall pick in next years' draft. Not bad, in my book.

The Cowboys were close last year, and the reason they came up short is not because they're lacking talent compared to other teams, it's because they were running predictable, hard headed schemes that went out of fashion 20 years ago.

Let it play out and see what these guys can do, because right now we don't know.

Posted by kameleon_o @ 7:24 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Right now I'd say a B+. Maybe an A- if you consider the Browns 1st round pick next year. I love the pick of Spencer. He's going to be Wade's Shaun Phillips. A perfect complement to Ware. We've got at least two serious pass rushers now. 3 if you count Ellis coming back. I like the O-line depth and picking CB Courtney Brown. I'm even starting to like the Stanback and the Folk pick. I'm "intrigued" by Stanback. Probably a little early for him though. As for the FB and kicker picks, they might be the best picks of the 2nd day. What other two positions on our team could you get two 2nd day guys who could actually come in and compete for starting jobs right away?? Grammatica, Hoyte, and Polite are not automatics to make the team.

Posted by johndeeree @ 7:25 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

It was ok tell they picked stanback, after that it was all downhill plus i really dont think phillips is going to make much of a difference on defense, players have to perform period, and it just not happening on the front seven plus we didnt get a noseguard which is a big need.Well hopefully the browns will do bad next year and well get a couple good players next year.

Posted by Not So Crazy Ray @ 7:28 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Overall, probably a B to B-. Like everyone else, I'm still scratching my head over the K and FB picks, and wondering why we didn't take a CB higher, or a S or DT at all. Fleecing the Browns for that 1st rounder certainly helps. And, as a west coast guy who watches a lot of Pac 10 football, I think many of you sell Stanback short. He's a good athlete with a good head on his shoulders, a guy who overcame a lot of adversity at UW. I don't see why he can't become a Hines Ward or an Antwaan Randle-El.

Posted by Maverick @ 7:30 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I just reviewed the schedule for the Browns. Looks like they can probably win 4-5 games at the very most. Jerry did a HELL of a job!!

Posted by Rus @ 7:39 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

If these picks are good enough for Gil Brandt then they are good enough for me. He loves Stanback & Free.

Posted by JC @ 7:41 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Nobody can grade this class now. No one has any idea how any of these guys will work out. I can understand the logic behind the picks though. Spencer and the #1 pick from Cleveland next year are no-brainer. As for the O-limemen, just think about playing those late season road games in NY, Philly, and Washington. You are going to need the big guys to pull those close games out for you when you need to control the trenches. A year in an NFL training program will do Marten and Free a world of good.

As for Stanback, he is not going to be a QB. Look at his QB stats and his measurables, it is clear he is a slash-type. As long as his foot checks out, he will add a dimension to this offense that will make it even more dangerous. He is a returner as well. The kicker is competition for Gramatica. The CB's in the seventh round have promise. They could turn out to be players if Todd Bowles and Brian Stewart give them the proper coaching. Afterall, isn't that what coaches are paid to do? Coaching players up?

Posted by Lonnie Franklin @ 7:46 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I give this mess an F-. First, I read Goose's column on why Quinn will succeed at the next level. Then I heard Jerry talking about how they had the opportunity to move within the top 5. Then at 22, Quinn was still there. So we had opportunities to grab a quarterback, running-back or a wide receiver and yet we are still trying to shape-up the defense for how many years in a roll now? We have a starting quarterback and running-back with one year left on their contracts and two starting wide receivers in their mid-thirties. Romo and Jones will be playing for a big contract and are relying on first-time Offensive Coordinator Jason Garrett to put together an offense that will give them the bank once Free Agency starts. I think the odds of this offense being anything good is ridiculous. That is why I give this an F-. We have a hard schedule in 2007 and if Romo isn't what we thought he is then we have very good odds of having two draft picks within the top fifteen in 2008. Heck, with three playoff teams in the NFC East and what the Redskins have done over the offseason, we might end up with a worse record than Cleveland.

Posted by Al @ 7:56 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

After Spencer and Cleveland's 1st rounder next year, Dallas bombed. Too many projects and questionable picks. A kicker? Trading up for a FB? An average QB in Round 4 to convert to WR? Where's the DT, WR, young QB, G/C, or DB who has a chance to compete for a roster spot? Where's the juice, Jerry?

Posted by Ric Martin @ 7:57 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Cowboys got the best pass rusher in the draft and suckered Cleveland and Philly out some pretty good deals. They say Doug Free is player with great upside. Because of that, they gete a B+

Posted by Cory @ 8:02 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I give this draft a d+. I can't count the pick for next year till next year. Anybody who thinks this team didn't have a glaring need hasn't watched the last 2 years. I like the pass rusher and the ot but where are the guard, and db help or wide receiver help for the 2 mid 30 receivers? This is why the Cowboys will never be special with Jerry as the GM. He got outdid by Matt Millen, even in the later rounds.

Posted by Bob Philpot @ 8:12 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

The grade depends whether Jones wanted to get heads or players. I'd give him a "F" for quality.
He could have gotten a much higher rate had Jones
kept his original draft pick numbers and picked for quality. Jones is a miser when it comes to the
draft.

Posted by Barry Switzer @ 8:21 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Shoot!! Y'all need to stop picking on Jerry. This is the best draft since he took Shante Carver while I was eating me a hotdog and shooting off my gun. With any luck, we can get some more high quality boys in here like that Dwayne Goodrich kid. Anyway, keep up the good work Jerry, and you know where I am if you need me to say yes to anything.

Posted by Dave in S.A. @ 8:21 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Beer bash in the War room? That's what it seemed like on Day two. They cracked open a keg, knocked back a few, and then just started chucking darts at the draft board. Can't you picture it? 'burp' Stankback??? At the top of round 4! Hah! What a hoot! Oh well, gotta trust the 'burp' power of the dart!
Oh, then Tony Sparano stuck his head in the room and started screaming that they'd better grab Doug Free or there'd be hell to pay. So they did that to shut him up, locked the door, grabbed another round and went back to chucking darts. "Steven, son, would you tell the boys in catering that we need some pizza to go with this beer. And ask 'em who they'd take in round 6!"
They may prove us all wrong, but I doubt it. Grade D!

Posted by David @ 8:39 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

With all of you freaking experts, I'm surprised that Mel Kiper, et at, still have a job. It's pretty hard to judge a draft when it isnt' even over. Jerry Jones made some bold moves that look pretty good at this point...let's hope they pan out. To all you naysayers...let's wait and see, shall we.

Posted by Sox @ 8:46 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Day 1; A-, Day 2; Two questions? Why no effort to get a good, young, strong nose tackle?
Why wait until so late in the draft to begin looking at the secondary?

Posted by Kevin @ 8:59 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Here we go again. This draft was reminiscent of the fiascos of the past when Jerry Jones outsmarted himself, continued to trade down, and drafted terribly. Other than Spencer (good pick), how has this team helped itself? Even if Cleveland's # 1 is the top pick next year, what makes anybody think the Cowboys will know how to use it? We needed a back-up NT, and we didn't get one. If Ferguson gets injured, this defense is done.

Posted by Melonhead @ 9:20 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I almost fainted when I read that MacMahon gave the draft a B+. How could that be? There's not a single player in that list that hail from Texas! This is an outrage.

My grade? I think right now I would go with a solid C/C+. I like the Spencer pick and obviously gaining the future pick from Cleveland. Also, if one of the two OTs is starting in two years then the grade bumps up.

That said, I felt they should have packaged some of their extra picks to move up and get some real value in the late 2nd or early third round. Those picks of a FB, K, and a QB who can't throw and isn't a WR, could have been packaged to move up to get a future starting NT, safety or WR.

I am real happy with roster right now when you compare it other teams. There is good depth at OL, QB, RB and LB. I am concerned about and major drop if the Cowboys suffered injuries at WR, NT or DB.

Posted by Gary @ 9:35 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I agree with everyone saying that you can tell that it was the Jerry Jones Show again. It was a disaster as far as next year is concerned. NT, WR, and DB were bigger needs that Jones did not meet even in the later rounds where the "War Room" fired a blank. I am beginning to agree that this team may never sniff a Super Bowl again as long as Jones is the owner!!! Graade D-

Posted by Brian @ 9:39 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

A- All of these players were in Gosselin's top ten of each position except Stanback and Ball. Jerry may have tried to get too cute with those picks. I hope we pick up free agents like the Oregon State QB and a wide receiver.

Posted by Brian M., Atlanta @ 10:01 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I give the draft an overall grade of "B". I loved the Spencer pick, with Phillips' style of the 3-4 D this kid should produce immediately and help Ware become an even more dominating force than Merriman proved to be under the same scheme. And, Jerry's ability to acquire the Browns' 2008 first round pick was genius. But, where I feel the draft went close to becoming a "C" was the complete lack of attention on the defensive line, more importantly a nose tackle. We were extremely blessed to not have to dig into the back-up nose tackles last season, but should not count on that to occur again. Unless Phillips has declared the backup NT is on the roster, and that backup is good enough to blossom into a full time starter, they lost momentum in this draft by not addressing the need. I can go along with the Kicker selection, albeit a bit early possibly, but to take a prospect WR who played the QB position his SR yeat in college, in the THIRD round...that's a reach for sure.

Posted by Kevin @ 10:12 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

If you are grading THIS YEAR'S draft then this at best a C-. Spencer is good, but at a position where we already have 4 first round and a third round pick when obviously there were greater needs. Jerry's need to constantly "trade down and hope", failed miserably, as we missed players that would have helped us. Compound it by drafting a slow WR/fast erratic QB in Stanbeck, when Soliai would have been a better choice. Heck, I would have taken Bush in the 3rd and taken either Free or Marten in the 4th also. ( Free is likely their best VALUE pick).

Really a pretty crummy draft, as it appears now. If they get 6 of these picks on the opening roster, I may be wrong, but I see maybe 2 or 3 starters tops.

The worst thing that could happen is Brady Quinn is ROY and Romeo Crennel remembers how to coach and the Browns win 9 games. THAT would be a disaster

Posted by kameleon_o @ 10:26 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

Brian M., Atlanta, I think the problem with not addressing the NT position was how weak the entire D-tackle spot was this year. Horrible talent at that spot this year. I didn't really see much that would help us this year. The only pick I'm not sure about is the Stanback pick in the 4th.

Posted by scott @ 10:30 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

You have to admit at least they didn't beat around the bush and have someone drafting that thinks they can make a diamond out of coal. Jerry saw the player and drafted, I grade it a B, at this point.

Posted by Hot Rod @ 10:44 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I give us D- we should have stand pat on the two 2nd round picks and got a wr and paul from penn st. and the stanback pic was crazy and the folk pick was too, we should have got crosby and smith

Posted by Al @ 11:15 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I can't get over the ignorance some of you are displaying. We got a high 1st next year, a great OLB in Spencer, 2 very solid O-linemen, the highest rated kicker at the combine, and a dynamic athlete, who could develop into a good receiver and kick returner and there are complaints we didn't get a "high profile" receiver or free safety or DE. Where were all those guys coming from? Not this draft. Receivers after the 2nd round are a dime a dozen, and there wasn't a FS or DE worth taking that could be a solid, much less a starter. Wake up! Solid B!

Posted by dewayne @ 11:17 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I think that the Cowboys should offer the Chargers a next years #1's for Michael Turner. Does anybody else feel this. Maybe find someone to give you a third round for JJ

Posted by Don @ 11:59 PM Sun, Apr 29, 2007

I give it a B+. Really only 3 great picks in Spencer, Free, and Brown. Stanbeck is a good pick if used right. The rest of the picks were decent. Add in the Browns potential top 5-10 pick and it was a great draft.

Posted by Bob Weldy @ 12:16 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

We got nothing this year. If we get Darren McFadden next year--then Jerry gets an "A" for this year--but not until. Otherwise--a "D" at best.

Posted by pdiezel @ 12:25 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

1. Spencer may be a starter soon. Ellis is older and comng off of injury, Carpenter is a good backup and special teams player.
3.Marten is a solid and COMPETETIVE player. A good guy ot have as a backup in case Colombo goes down.
4.Stanback is questionable. Great athlete, maybe the Cowboys saw something everyone else missed from their recliners.
4.Free is a solid pick, competition for McQuistan.
6. Folk= goodbye questionable fill in Gramatica. Hello competent young kicker with talent.
6.Anderson could well be a steal in this draft. Highly talented true fullback who slid because of missing a year in college. The kid paid his own way through his senior year and will work hard and will make the tema as a true fullback. We may finally come close to replacing the Moose.
7.Brown is another great pick. He fell because of some injury history and limited time as a DB. He has SIZE, SPEED and has good character and trains hard. Come on this is round 7, GREAT pick for round 7.
7.Ball. ? Scouts probably saw something. He will provide competition for a roster spot.
I would have liked a real NT, but Tank Tyler went to the Chiefs and a couple of interesting prospects are available bvia Rookie Free Agency.
Grade B+

Posted by Dave @ 1:08 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

I can't give the Cowboys better than a C+. Until I see how Spencer, Carpenter, Ellis, and Burnett will be used, I'm upset that the Cowboys are investing so much in their linebackers. At some point, let the guys you have develop.

Jerry said that wideouts can't contribute immediately, so why didn't he draft one to get ready to replace Glenn and Ownes?

Regarding Cleveland, I don' think the Quinn trade is as much a disaster as people think. They get Joe Thomas and Brady Quinn for two 1st round pick and a 2nd PLUS they save about $6 to $7 million dollars per year on Quinn's contract and get him this year. Looking at it that way, I don't think it's such an awful move.

Posted by Jermaine @ 2:55 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

For the ones that gave a grade of a C an D, must don't know anything about the players the Cowboys pick or just don't know the game of football. This draft was a A-.
Both off linemen that the Cowboys pick were ranked in the top 10 OT's. Cal poly corner was a steal..Look for him to start one day. Spencer an awsome player.Stanback(is no skyler!) Very good player probably should have went in the 2nd rd bc of his speed. P.S. don't pay attention to his 40 that most have him running a 4.6 or so, the kid is way faster then that. Remember he is not completly healed. Ball has potential played agains some some tuff receivers! Two #1s next year gives dallas a A-.Please watch college football sometimes my fellow cowboy fans...

Posted by Dallus1 @ 6:28 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

I give them a D! And that includes Cleveland's 1st pick next year. NT position was ignored and the CB was not addressed until Rd 7...Give me a break. The Stanback pick was a complete JOKE! Soliai was right there a back up NT what we need desperately. If it wasn't for the Spencer pick it would be an easy F. Two years in a row D grade from me. Please bring Jimmy Johnson back to do the draft.

Posted by Brian M., Atlanta @ 6:43 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

Almost as soon as I hit the 'post' button I realized I messed up and said they used a third on Stanback, but still using a fourth on him is far too high. But maybe he and the scouting department will prove us wrong.

kameleon_o, very good point about the weak d-line crop in this draft, it just would seem as though they could've used that 4th round of one of the 7th round picks on a potential d-line prospect, one big enough to plug the NT gap. But again, maybe just maybe Phillips has taken a look at the practice film and feels he has a player on the roster who can step in if/when needed.

Posted by Chris Metcalf @ 6:53 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

Some of you guys need to look at the "big" picture. The Cowboys DB's were NOT bad last year, the lack of pressure and weak play from the safety position made them look bad at times. Spencer will probably be the nickel guy this year and if they double up on Ware, he'll wreak havoc in the backfield.

They added a pretty decent coverage safety in F/A and the improved pass rush will make the secondary look so much better. Hatcher was turning into a real force on the DL until he got hurt and I think he'll be even better this year.

No WR drafted? Who says they needed one? Miles and Austin beat out Copper and he did pretty good playing for the Saints last season and don't forget Rector who had a GREAT pre-season last year.

A couple of solid OL for the future drafted and a potential top 10 pick for next year and I call this draft a B+.

Posted by Jeff L. @ 8:12 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

Kiper just finished an interview saying that Philly made a very questionable move by dropping back and letting Dallas grab one of the best pass rushers on the board in Spencer.

He went on to say that Philly, Washington AND the NY Giants all had questionable drafts.

I don't get all the crying over WR and NT. After Calvin Johnson, the drop off was huge, and they have several young recievers on the roster. NT? You're better off waiting till the June cuts.

And to those of you upset after reading Jerry passed up on a chance to move into the top 5, you must have missed the part that said the team wanted Demarcus Ware as part of the deal. No thanks.

Posted by CoachGreg @ 8:35 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

For a team with no glaring needs at any position I thought this was an excellent draft. The secondary, in my opinion, was addressed with Ken Hamlin. I don't think we will see a lot of cover 2 shell like last year instead I believe we will see either or both safeties coming up to the LOS showing pressure and playing cover 1 or cover 3. Wade Phillips plays a aggressive one gap 34 so the pressure at the LOS will make the secondary a lot better.

1. Purdue DE Anthony Spencer - will be the bookend rusher on the other side of Demarcus Ware and will give them three legit pass rusher is Greg Ellis is back to form.
3. Boston College OT James Marten - a nice pick that will take a season to develop but with some added bulk and strength he can be a starter.
4. Washington QB/WR Isaiah Stanback - one of the best athletes in the draft and considering that none of the WR at the point has his speed, smarts, size, and athletic ability this could be a real steal. Can cover as an emergency QB as well.
5. Northern Illinois OT Doug Free - could be a starter this year but will have time to develop behind a pretty solid line.
6. Arizona K Nick Folk - has the ability to make 70 yard kick offs and 50 + yard field goals. Was a nice pick to add to our special teams and could make the Defense's job easier by reducing field position.
6. Connecticut FB Deon Anderson - a special teams stand out and that is always a need for any team. Team MVP two years in a row and an absolute monster. Has some character issues will need some support.
7. Cal Poly CB Courtney Brown - speed, size, aggressiveness, and athletic ability. Was a shut corner that plays press and man coverage well. Does not support the run and is overly aggressive. Like this pick because it can all be fixed..might be an injury concern but it is a 7th round pick. Really liked this pick.
7. Illinois CB Alan Ball - light in the paints but good height and has gotten better every year. Is a legit DB and will need to add bulk and strength. A good 7th round DB pick...you can never have to many DB's.

Over all I give the draft a B but with the added 1st round pick which will probably be a mid round pick I give it a B+.

Nice job!

Posted by bc5458 @ 8:45 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

I thought is was a good draft. I give them a solid B. This team didn't have any major needs. Taking a receiver or a FS early wouldn't not have made since. A recevier in the first or second would have been a fourth string player with Crayton resigned. A FS would have been third string maybe second with Hamlin signed. They addressed needs on the OL. Riveria has probably played is last game. This is also Flozell Admas last season. They got the pass rusher they need on the other side of Ware. This defense will be better because of this pick. Also none of these draft picks will cost us big money. remember cowboys still have people that need to be given long term contract and having two #1's next year will cost some money. No major money has been spent, but next year Jerry will have to break the bank

Posted by John @ 9:14 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

I had them rated at a B+ after Saturday. It would have been an A if they took a better player than Marten. Not that i'm that upset with the pick but I just thought there were better players left on the board.

By the end of Sunday, I was down to a C-. I think Jerry screwed up big time. To draft a kicker and a fullback was a horrible decision. These are positions you look for after the draft.

Posted by Cleve Moten @ 9:30 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

Yesterday I hastily gave the Cowboys' draft a grade of A-, including the 1st round pick they got from Cleveland. And, after looking deeper into the evaluations of the players picked, I'm sticking with that grade. This draft is much better than it appears on the surface. Both OTs will definitely make this team. In fact, I think all of the picks will make the team, although I hedge on the last corner back picked -- Ball. He might be a better free safety prospect. The most interesting pick is Stanback, which virtually everyone seems to think is a wide receiver prospect. He is, of course, as "slash" player, but his quarterbacking skills are really very good. He completed .62 percent of his passes against UCLA, and he has .78 percent completion against No. 1 USC. He has a strong arm and can throw every kind of pass there is. His projected speed of 5.6 is a misnomer. He apparently does have sub-4.4 speed. Plus, he has great character, and his intangibles and determination to work and improve his skills would make him an ideal project who can contribute as a wide receiver while being polished as a quarterback. Consider also the fact that he was, in fact, drafted, and in the 4th round. Romo was not drafted at all, and look what the Cowboys have done in developing him. The fact that they didn't draft a projected franchise quarterback Saturday says that they feel he has developed into a franchise quarterback. Here's one of the articles I ran across: http://ncaafootball.aolsportsblog.com/2007/04/17/
college-eye-for-the-nfl-guy-isaiah-stanback/. You might have already seen it, but I thought it was pretty interesting.

Posted by PHILLIP @ 9:54 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

NOW THAT THE DRAFT IS OVER WILL THE COWBOYS GIVE SOME TEXAS PLAYERS A LOOK? LIKE TEXAS SELVIN YOUNG AND LYLE SENDLEIN OR HOUSTONS' JACKIE BATTLE.

Posted by Joey in PA @ 10:09 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

Ok - Overall Grade B

Getting a 1st round pick next year was brilliant!

Spencer would not have lasted much longer, he is an excellent player who will complement Ware for the next 10 years.

That was the good..

The bad however is the fact that they went in needing a nose guard to backup Ferguson and a free safety. They got neither! What they did get was another baseball player, depth at the o-line, another kicker and projects at corner.

They should have packaged something to move up
and grab either Meriweather or Nelson.

Posted by Brad @ 10:15 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

C-

Like the O-linemen and Spencer. Glad they grabbed some secondary help at the tail end. But the Stanback, Folk and Anderson picks were horrible.

Posted by Kelly @ 10:20 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

The only 2 picks I thought were just weird were the kicker and the QB. Other than that I thought we picked up players that we could use. Some that could have an immediate impact. I do wonder why we traded out of the 2nd and 5th rounds though. A lot of talent taken there. I give a us a B-.

Posted by Kelly @ 10:27 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

I too was disappointed we did not pick up a wide receiver. Last year we ran into trouble in this area with injury and lack of production. Another player in this area would not have hurt us. One of other side note of interest. Did any of you notice that ESPN coverage of the draft was talking to all these teams about their draft moves except us. I think they talked to Ed Werder what like twice in the 2 days. Every time they looked for comments from a team on their draft picks, they went to the head coach I noticed for the most part, some owners. Not us. We're too busy making bad picks. Ha!!

Posted by DM Goldberg @ 10:43 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

In my opinion, they got the 2nd best pass rusher of the draft, and an additional number 1 draft for next. And since the browns will only win 3 to 4 games next year, Mr. old Jerry Jones got himself a top 5 draft in 2008. Got to give that old cowboy an A+ for that.

Yet, not getting Old Quinn from N.D., I call that simply stupid.

So, I give old Jerry boy a C- on the draft.

Posted by larry doudt @ 11:03 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

In my view you will not be able to ascertain how a team did in the draft until several years down the road. The grading is done on potential and not facts.

Wonder what the score is on teams that pick up players on the free agency market?

Posted by Tom F @ 11:34 AM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

I'm no expert I admit it unlike the people on this blog. Lets wait 2 years before we grade it. No way to judge until then!

Posted by Dave @ 1:44 PM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

As a Cleveland fan, I think you (all) miss the point. You have a quarterback with 6 good games, and you passed on BQ. What if Romo flops now that the league has seen his tape? What if he gets hurt? Then you've got zip. You should have taken Quinn!

Posted by Wilson @ 2:49 PM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

I'd give it a B+.
I love the Spencer pick. Like the two tackles, the fullback and the kicker. The Stanback pick was a real surprise, I'd have thought there was a good chance he'd be there in the 6th or 7th. I'd have liked to have used that pick on the CB that went a couple of picks later, Tanard Jackson I think. Obviously the first from Cleveland does factor into this draft. I'd have gone with an A but I think there were just a couple of risky picks.

Posted by Ray @ 2:59 PM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

Gotta go with a C. All are projects beyond Spencer though Marten and Free apparently should get there. As much as I like the 2 #1's next year, I think they should have taken Quinn. Odds are Quinn will be better than Romo ever will be. If Romo is good enough, deal Quinn later for picks/players. Meanwhile, he's not "thrown to the wolves." Hate to use a #1 next year on a QB not as good as Quinn. No DT!!!

Posted by Mark @ 9:46 PM Mon, Apr 30, 2007

UConn grad here, just wanted to say you're getting a real stand-up player in Deon Anderson. Someone mentioned character issues - nothing could be further from the truth. He is a very personable, very intelligent person, who made the mistake of concentrating TOO MUCH on football and not on academics. He left the team for a season solely for academic reasons, and actually went as far as to get a job, sleep on a couch for a semester, and pay his way as a walk-on on the team. He's a beast of a fullback too. He's a true blocking fullback who seeks contact, but he did have some a couple catches and couple rushes per game. He also started on special teams all four years - he asked to do so - and will likely do the same in the NFL. He's a FB, so it's not like he's a first day pick, but if the Cowboys are planning on using a true fullback (as opposed to Brian Leonard), I firmly believe he'll be a very nice fit - a Lorenzo Neal or Mack Strong.

Posted by Tyler @ 3:46 PM Sat, May 05, 2007

comming from a guy who plays high school football with Anthony's brother, ive had the privalege of hearing and seeing Anthony on the field...i wouldnt suspect nething less from Spencer when he come onto the field for the first time...Congrats Anthony from all of us at Bishop Luers High School in Fort Wayne