Last season for the Dallas Cowboys was bittersweet. On one hand, they managed to rebound from their poor 2004 season. However, they failed to make the playoffs, despite a 9-7 record, by one game. Their archenemy, Washington, picked up 10 wins and made it in. This season has been filled with movement, and the Cowboys are hoping they have the right mix for the 2006 season.
Key Additions
The single most important addition is wide receiver Terrell Owens. He gives the Cowboys speed and a bona fide playmaker. He might also give them headaches and turmoil. See the Eagles of 2005. Owner Jerry Jones loves to gamble and show his Texas flash. This is a huge gambler for the Cowboys, but if it works out, they can smile big when they play the Eagles.
Quarterbacks
The quarterback position is filled by Drew Bledsoe. He has fourteen years experience. However, this is a good and bad thing. How many more years does he have left in him? He had far too many interceptions last year. Also, there are depth issues with the Cowboys. If Bledsoe fails or gets hurt, the Cowboys will need to rely on backup QB Drew Henson. While he went to NFL Europe for some practice, he's too green to lead a team to the playoffs.
Running Backs
The running back position is another concern for the Cowboys. They will probably go to a dual system and alternate between Julius Jones and Marion Barber. Jones has been pretty solid--when he is healthy. While Barber can pick up the slack, he's not a primetime running back. The Cowboys running game is expected to be slightly above average.
Receivers
The addition of Terrell Owens boosts the receiving core to new levels. If Owens can keep his mouth shut and just play the game, the Cowboys will have a very nice air attack on the field. As mentioned, Jerry Jones took a big gamble, so we will have to wait and see.
Defense & Special Teams
The Cowboys defense is firming up and could be in the top 10 next season. While they won't shut down anyone, they might now have to. On a scale of 1 to 10, the defense is sitting around a 7 or 8 overall. Health will be a main issue. One can only hope that the special teams play better in 2006. The Cowboys were atrocious in field goal kicking. It cost them games. The arrival of Mike Vanderjagt should yield huge improvements.
2006 Prediction
The Dallas Cowboys have made some key improvements to their team. They have just as good of a shot to win the NFC East as any other team in the division. The NY Giants figure to pose the biggest threat. With the NFC being as soft as it is right now, the Cowboys have a very real shot at the playoffs this upcoming season.
