Dallas Cowboys Re-Sign Pro Bowl Center Andre Gurode

The Dallas Cowboys have re-signed center Andre Gurode to a new 6-year deal. Gurode had spent the 2005 season as a backup to center Al Johnson. In 2006 he was the starter all season (as he's bigger and stronger) and was the victim of one of the most disgusting acts of sports aggression I've ever seen. He did a job good enough to get him to the Pro Bowl (once Bears Center Olin Kreutz bowed out due to injury).

**(As an aside, Albert Haynesworth shouldn't have played another down in the 2006 season, at the least)**

He was set to become an unrestricted free-agent but the Cowboys decided they liked him enough to ink him to a multi-year deal. Gurode is young and strong. He can also play as a guard and versatility is always good. But most importantly, this will give the Cowboys some continuity.

Upgrading the O-Line

The Dallas Cowboys signed Marco Rivera to a big deal in the hopes he would anchor the right side of the Offensive line. Instead, he's had two back surgeries (on the same disc) and played "Okay." They let Adams go and replaced him with Kyle Kosier (who did a servicable job) and Flozell was re-signed to a mulit-year deal a couple years back but hasn't played the same the past couple seasons.

This year the Cowboys could improve their O-Line significantly. They must make a decision about Marc Colombo. He's due to become a free-agent and the Cowboys will have to decide if his play is worth a new contract. The rumor mill has been churning with suggestions that tackle Leonard Davis could be brought in (presumably to replace Colombo).

Many mock drafts, including Fox Sport's, suggest the Cowboys will draft Offensive Tackle Justin Blalock (who can also play guard). If that's the case then the Cowboys could let Rivera's massive contract go and insert Blalock in at Guard.

**Potential Lineup 1: Flozell Adams - Kyle Koiser - Andre Gurode - Justin Blalock - Leonard Little.**
**Potential Lineup 2: Leonard Little - Kyle Koiser - Andre Gurode - Marco Rivera - Justin Blalock.**
**Potential Lineup 3: Pat McQuinstan - Kyle Koiser - Andre Gurode - Justin Blalock - Marc Colombo.**
**Potential Lineup 4: Pat McQuinstan - Kyle Koiser - Andre Gurode - Marco Rivera - Justin Blalock.**

Regardless of what the Cowboys ultimately decide to do, they must improve their Offensive Line. While the weakness that it is was somewhat hidden once Romo was inserted it still broke down far too often. I've seen some mock drafts suggesting the Cowboys take a Defensive Back with the 22nd pick but I think if Blalock is on the board then they should take him. Their offensive line isn't going to get better (or younger) on it's own.

Keeping Owens, Dumping Glenn?
I've seen quite a few articles suggesting the Cowboys will have to make a decision on these two. They keep talking about the bonuses they're do and how they're getting older etc. I think it's really a moot point. The Cowboys signed Owens in a cap-friendly way and then re-did Glenn's deal to keep him in Big D for a few more years. They knew what they were doing and I don't think there's any real consideration of cutting Glenn. Owens? Well, with Owens you never know...

Two-Back System Entrenched in Dallas
Julius Jones recorded his first 1,000 yard season this year. He split time with Marion Barber who seemed like the bruiser back while Jones (occasionally) provided some finesse. There were whispers of the Cowboys shopping Julius Jones last year during the draft and I think those rumors will fly again this year.

Even with that 1,000 yard season I don't think the Cowboys are completely sold on Jones. They've got to make a decision soon on the direction they want to go and if Jones is the man to pair with Marion Barber.

If the Cowboys decide to trade Jones there are two free backs that are attractive targets.

First, you have Jamal Lewis. While he's still officially under contract with the Ravens most feel it's only a matter of time before he gets cut. He would be a good addition to the Cowboys and maybe break some of those big runs Jones appers to miss.

Second, there's Super Bowl MVP Dominic Rhodes. It's rare that the player who played the best in the Super Bowl becomes a free agent but these are interesting times in Indianapolis. The Colts have decided to put the tag on Freeney. This may encourage Rhodes to test the market and see what kind of a deal he can score.

If he hits the market then he must command attention from the Cowboys and could be their answer if they decide to move on from Jones.

They could also draft for a running back. They have plenty of picks to tie to Jones and get a nice spot in return. I doubt they'll go this route, however, and all things considered I think they will opt to keep the Jones-Barber tandem. Even if they do trade Jones they'll be looking for another back to pair with Barber and are firmly in the "two-back" camp.