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Get Dallas Cowboys news on your cellLet's make a deal for Larry Johnson
1:39 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007 | Permalink
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February 2008
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Movers and Shakers Pre-season Texas Stadium dallasnews.com
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RB Larry Johnson is threatening to hold out if the Chiefs don't give him a new deal that reflects his status as one of the NFL's elite backs. As a result, NFL scribes with nothing better to do before training camps begin are speculating on the possibility of Johnson being traded. Well, I don't have anything better to do, so let's get the Cowboys involved in the conversation. I reckon I ought to mention that the Cowboys turned down a chance to get Johnson cheap in 2004, right after Dick Vermeil publicly accused him of wearing diapers. Johnson certainly won't come cheap after rushing for 3,539 yards and 37 TDs the last two seasons. Prolific e-mailer J.T. suggests offering the Chiefs next season's No. 1 pick and Julius Jones. Sounds great from a Cowboys' perspective, but the Chiefs would want more than the twentysomethingth overall pick and an average back who will be an unrestricted free agent. I called someone who knows much more about the NFL trade market than I do and asked what the price might be for the Cowboys. His answer: Marion Barber and the Browns' first-rounder. That's a bit rich for my blood. The knock on Barber is that he hasn't been a feature back since high school. Sounds like Priest Holmes when he signed with Kansas City, and he managed to rack up 6,566 total yards and 61 touchdowns in his first three seasons with the Chiefs. The Browns' pick will probably be in the top five. Johnson is a horse without too much tread on his tires, but I couldn't give up that much for a guy who you've got to give a huge contract. Here's the deal I suggest Jerry offer the Chiefs: Barber and the Cowboys' first- and third-rounders next year. You folks down with that? |
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Comments
Posted by Ronin @ 2:06 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I'll part with JJ and the 1st (ours) and the third. We may have lightning in a bottle with Marion. Besides, with our retooled o-line any runner should be productive.
Posted by S L @ 2:08 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
uh, no.
Posted by Tommy K. @ 2:08 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Nope. I'd give Julius J. and a 4th rounder or no deal!
Posted by ernest t bass @ 2:19 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
How 'bout Terrell Owens and Julius Jones for Larry Johnson and the Chiefs' 2nd round pick.
Posted by Crash @ 2:20 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
KC has the best O-line in football. That has a LIL bit to do with the production of these backs we're talking about.
Posted by Joe @ 2:23 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Absolutely 100% not. Larry Johnson is a talented running back, but who hasn't been in the Chiefs system? With there offensive line deteriorating due to retirements no wonder he wants a boatload of money and he wants out now before free agency. He is a breakdown waiting to happen after 429 carries last year, and I think even if we got him in free agency that the money would be to much to invest. It's very rare that a running back is worth a 1st rounder, so unless it's the skill set of an LT2, Reggie Bush, or Darren McFadden next year, it's not worth it.
Posted by Jrs2300 @ 2:23 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I like that deal... because it gives the flexibility to still deal Julius Jones and to be able to still be in the running for McFadden if Johnson continues to be a Head Case.. I say DO IT !!! Why Not..
Posted by fatwizeman @ 2:37 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
If you said Jones and the 1st and 3rd. I would not give up Barber.
Posted by scott @ 2:39 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
How about Barber and just a third rounder. Then see how many other teams offer anything at all!
Posted by nardo @ 2:44 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Short answer NO !!
Posted by JR @ 2:46 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
No way. Let's see how he does with a re-tooled OL and guys like Broyle and Huard behind center. You don't trade more than JJ and a 4th rounder and KC will never go for that.
Posted by rodney @ 3:01 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
What makes you all think Larry Johnson is going to be so much better than the running tandem that we have? Johnson has about 3 good years left in the tank, considering the record amount of carries he's had the past two seasons. How about the Cowboys give them NOTHING for Johnson and concentrate on using the two first round picks next year on players who will be Cowboys for the next 10 years or so?
Posted by Buddy @ 3:07 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
JJ, and our 1st and 2nd round pick for Johnson, with conditional picks if we go to the Super Bowl this year or next.
Posted by cisco @ 3:09 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Why would we be trying to get a running back? Our running game was fine last year with Jones starting and Barber coming off the bench. When you combine their numbers we had good production from this position. In the offseason our offensive line has been addressed and I feel improved. Let's see how Jones and Barber do this year with a new coaching staff and improved line play(I hope), if they don't produce, then we should look to make changes for 2008. We should have many options with a top 5 draft choice and who knows who will be available in free agency.
Posted by D-Mac @ 3:14 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
These people on here are rediculous... I guess people dont remember a couple of years ago in Texas Stadium when Larry Johnson ran all over us... Dallas offense is set up for a power running back such as Barber or Johnson... Johnson could be twice the runner Barber is behind the Cowboys new O-Line.. I definitely do the Jones Cowboys 1st and 3rd in a heartbeat... There has been no running back here since #22 and remember his o-line... Lets see Troy Hambrick, we have tried speed with Jones and Tyson Thompson... Def would make most prolific offense in the NFL.. But I do believe that Marber and Clevland #1 would be too much with a player like Mcfadden coming out
Posted by TXRob @ 3:16 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I like how we sit right now at RB. Lets don't start giving away the future for a back will hurt the Cowboys salary cap.
Posted by dave j @ 3:18 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
At most, I give up Julius Jones and a 3rd round pick. And I only do it like a sign and trade - Johnson must agree to the contract extension before the deal is made. Thing is, I'm not willing to give him LT money, so he may not want to come.
Julius is running for his life this year, so he and Barber will perform well.
Posted by Chris @ 3:19 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
He has already gone on record as saying that he understands and plays better for a black head coach...LJ is a village idiot, and I would hate to see him in Dallas. We already have too many.
Posted by ridgerunner @ 3:30 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
There is nothing wrong with julius jones that a new offense won't fix,save those #1's for next seasons draft.
Posted by The King @ 3:39 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Barber and the Cowboys' first- and third-rounders next year? Tim, please put down the crack pipe. We have two good backs this year and control the first round next year. Thanks Cleveland!
Posted by M. Dunn @ 3:46 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
What about the Cowboys #1 next year and Roy Williams?
Posted by Rob @ 3:54 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
No deal...no dice...no deal!!! Larry Johnson is yesterdays news. Last time I checked, our current RB tandem was pretty darn successful last season so why throw a wrench in the spokes. If they fail to produce this year, then with two first rounders next year, the boys should take their chances to see if McFadden falls in their hands. However, don't be suprised if Barber elevates his game and his status to the teams #1 back by the end of this upcoming season. That being said, McFadden could be an afterthought??
Posted by trey w @ 3:56 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Just read Tank Johnson was released from the Bears today; any chance Jones and Co. are interested in aquiring him? After all he has Calvin Hill on staff and is paying him good money to help manage these types. We sure could use his bulk in the middle, and our depth at tackle is lacking. Past legal troubles are a negative, but teamates described him as good guy in a bad crowd.
EDITOR'S NOTE: I would think Jerry and Co. would want to see if Tank can finish his (about-to-be-extended) suspension without going to prison first.
Posted by Paul @ 3:56 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I would have no problem trading Barber and the Browns 1st rounder. You never know what your gonna get with a top-5 pick (David Carr, Tim Couch, Mario williams, etc.) But with Johnson heading into his prime along with Tony Romo and the pieces we have in place now, it would rocket us to the top of Suiper Bowl contenders
Posted by Brandon @ 3:58 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I love the way people think the Cowboys can just throw in a mediocre player like JJ and expect KC to snap it up. Would someone please give me an intellectually honest answer as to why KC would want JJ over Barber? To get an impact player as young as LJ, you've got to give something up.
If KC is silly enough take it, I would give up JJ and the Cowboys 1st and 3rd. Since KC probably is going to balk at that, I would give up Barber and the Cowboys 2nd (they do have a 2nd rounder, don't they?) and 3rd, but be willing to go as high as Barber and the Browns 1st rounder.
McFadden looks great, but remember he still has a year of college left to get hurt or lose some of his value. And let's not forget he hasn't played a down in the NFL yet. It could take a couple years after he is drafted to become a standout. Go with the proven NFL star over potential every single time.
Posted by Rod @ 4:00 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I like it. Get rid of our #2 and future #1 tailbacks for another TO headcase that doesnt understand why you do not give him the ball on every single down.
I love ME some ME.
Posted by L.J. @ 4:13 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Who is to say that Jones is not in Johnson's league with a better lineplay. Can't see moving draft choices because, if Jones does'nt improve production, snatch McFadden next April.
Posted by Rafe Hollister @ 4:20 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Please, lets dont jump into someone else's problem.
Lets see how Jones, Barber, Thompson, and rookies Jackie Battle and Alonzo Coleman do this year. Save those draft choices so the boys can control the first round next year. They can get their franchise running back then if they still think they need one.
Posted by dave @ 4:27 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Ah naw, I'd say give 'em JJ and our 1st and 4th.
Couldn't stand to see MB III go. That guy is a truck; I love his running attitude.
Posted by chris motta @ 4:36 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Why give up anything? Check the stats. Jones/Barber had nearly identical stats to LJ.
Posted by rs691919 @ 4:50 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
The most important fact is that RBs are not really a scarce commmodity. No way do you give up that 1st round pick for a 28 y/o running back who has had great success running behind the most dominant O-line in football.
Posted by colorado kool aid @ 5:00 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
No deal -- not at that price. Don't go after a back via a trade at that kind of price, wait for next year's draft. Otherwise you end up giving up too much for him. Do NOT trade the Brown's 1st round pick.
Posted by Brad @ 5:31 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I don't make the trade either. The wear and tear on his body makes him an "older" player besides the current combo was close enough. What strikes me is everyones sense of a new retooled OL. There is only 1 change in that lineup. Least yea forget two of those free agent signings were on that below average line last year.
Posted by Greg in LA @ 5:38 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Why should the Cowboys pay for the mileage he's wracked up in KC? Look at the stats - after a back has a certain amount of carries, esp. a 400+ carry season, their production will really taper off. And it's not like Johnson does the Franco Harris run-out -of-bounds thing. He's a head-on runner. He's already peaked.
Someone will pay for him, but there's not going to be much tread left on those tires.
Posted by Chester @ 5:48 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I kinda like chris motta's take:
Assuming that
JJ + MB3 = LJ,
which is true stat-wise,
then you already have half
the injury impact.
I'd stand pat and play these.
Posted by chris @ 6:16 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I'd wait and see if we can get Darren McFadden in next year's draft. McFadden will be great long after LJ has faded. NEVER sign a free agent running back!
Posted by Ken @ 6:34 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
As a Chiefs fan who was sent this link by a Cowboys fan, let me just clarify a few things about LJ. He is not a baby, or a headcase. Matter of fact, he is the opposite of T.O. He doesn't want or need media attention and would prefer to avoid it at all costs.
Also, he is not "worn down" by a 400+ carry season last year. Keep in mind that LJ only started one full season when in Penn State and has only been a starter for a season and a half in the NFL. That frame still has a lot more damage to dish out to opposing LBs. But not just truckin either. If you saw the Thanksgiving Day game against Denver, LJ flashed some pretty good stop-and-go and juke moves. He has talent that is not just restricted to the power running game, but he can give you both.
Finally, LJ has not been running behind the best O-Line since he's been in KC. Priest Holmes had that good fortune. But Willie Roaf retired before the start of last year and the Cheifs line went to down because of that.
Posted by Eugene @ 7:25 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
No deal at all, try to get Darren McFadden in all ways possible in next years draft. Must keep Barber, not caring so much for JJ whose weaknesses seem to outweigh his strengths.
Posted by pdiezel @ 8:33 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
the Chiefs may not be in the position to ask for too much with a holdout player. I say JJ and pur first and third next year, but we have to get a fifth in 09. Sounds good to me anyway.
Posted by Derrick @ 9:03 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I would say to, go with what we have, and address a running back in the draft, or re-sign Julius, because I bet you, he will have a breakout Year, we need to hold on to all draft picks,we have'nt even started the 2007 season yet,the unknown has to have achance first.
Posted by Luna Yates @ 9:31 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
I don't think so. How about Julius Jones and a 2nd round draft choice for Larry Johnson? If not how about Cowboys draft Darren McFadden?
Posted by Maverick @ 9:49 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
No, we'll trade Julius, Miles Austin, Parcells's old jock, half the blogging journalist from this site, Jerry's old face, Keyshawn's attitude (it's still lingering), and Barry Switzer's address for Johnson. I would throw Maureen into it, but she's too precious to give away.
Posted by Chester @ 10:25 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
My, my, Maverick...aren't we the cheeky monkey?
Love it!
Posted by ernest t bass @ 10:41 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Never was a fan of "Crown & Coke" but if it produces classics like "Jerry's Old Face" and "Switzer's Address" I guess I could learn to appreciate it!
Posted by MIKE @ 10:52 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Give up JJ. and our first round draft pick. M.B III is an ok runner, but so was Troy Hmbrick when he was BEHIND Emmitt. As a feature back...don't know about that one.Plus L.J, T.O & ROMEO..super bowl bound baby.
Posted by MBIII = the hammer @ 10:58 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Larry Johnson's success is undoubtedly a product of playing behind one of the best offensive lines in football the past few seasons. Without all those great lineman, who have retired, he won't be nearly as productive this year. Also, LJ has taken an absolute pounding the past few years... way too many carries. To give up a 1st rounder AND an above average RB (either JJ or MBIII) for LJ is just stupid. Combined, JJ and Barber ran for more than 1,700 yards last season... now we have the best OL since the mid 90s... unless LJ plays free safety or nose tackle, this is asinine.
Posted by JC @ 11:21 PM Mon, Jun 25, 2007
Larry Johnson seems to be the TO of running backs. How many of you wanting LJ wanted TO?
He complains about his coach and now complains about money. The only difference being that TO didn't have the benefit of running behind the best OLine in football during his best seasons.
Posted by Hanker @ 2:08 AM Tue, Jun 26, 2007
Jc, I disagree with you. Larry Johnson is mild compared to T.O. However, I would rather stick with JJ and MB3, along with the Browns #1. We're going to be just fine with our running back tandem. Stick with the status quo!
Posted by Joe @ 9:10 AM Tue, Jun 26, 2007
Won't happen. Jerry learned his lesson on trading high draft picks for players with the Joey Galloway deal. Or did he?
Posted by Derek @ 9:31 AM Tue, Jun 26, 2007
As long as we hold onto the Browns 1st, I'm fine with any trade combination. And I bet the Cowboys feel the same way.
Posted by Calhoun @ 2:24 PM Tue, Jun 26, 2007
Maverick, must you bring up Maureens' name in every other post? Please get over her. You are single-handidly keeping her legacy alive.
Posted by Squire @ 11:24 PM Tue, Jun 26, 2007
ARE YOU KIDDING ME - I mush rather spend my money on a 20 - 22 year old D MAC than give an old broken down LJ any money
Posted by TeamStrike @ 7:04 PM Wed, Jun 27, 2007
Boy, nothing like stiring up controversy in the absence of real news. I bet as you typed the possible trade scenarios you sit back and had a big old laugh. And as you guessed you got the faithul all excited about absolutely nothing. I too can't wait until 24 July 07, I live hear in San Antonio next to Sea World, I will be at each and every training camp. Look forward to meeting you. Maybe we can do lunch, email and let me know.
Posted by steve @ 10:50 AM Sun, Jul 01, 2007
JJ MAYBE BARBER HELL NO!!! BARBER IS THE FUTURE
Posted by Joe Isbell @ 5:38 PM Fri, Jul 06, 2007
Hard to keep this under 30 words with so many horrible comments on here.
LJ is neck and neck with LT for the two best rb's in the league. And to one guys comments... KC has the best line in the NFL??? HAD maybe the best line a few years ago when Priest was there. And btw... when they had a good O line and Priest went down. LJ in 8 starts put up the best numbers in 8 games in the history of the NFL!
Posted by Joe Isbell @ 5:41 PM Fri, Jul 06, 2007
Just had to say something about the comment of Cowboys re-tooled line and any rb shuld be productive. Are you kidding me??? to quote Bon Jovi... Its all the same, only the names have changed. The End!
Posted by David Hale @ 1:01 AM Tue, Jul 10, 2007
The Rams got Marshall Faulk for a third round pick and he was in his prime. You want to pay too much.
Posted by Mark Ray @ 5:26 AM Wed, Jul 11, 2007
Wow! I can't believe everyone is ready to turn their backs on Julius. Julius was on a leash with Parcells, excluding his first 6 games as a starter. Those games showcased the talent this back possesses. Now that Big D has a better OL and a new coaching staff, perhaps they will turn him loose a bit and see what he can do! I believe he has the potential to break a big one each play. LT can stay in Kansas City! Dalls has their backs of the future!