Editor's Note: Throughout the offseason, DallasCowboys.com staff writers will take a closer look at the roster, analyzing each player's impact last season and how he fits into the team's 2012 plans. Today's Roster Rundown entry features tight end John Phillips.)
Name: John Phillips
Position: Tight End
Height/Weight: 6-5 / 261
Experience: 3 seasons
College: Virginia
Key stat: Phillips' 12 solo tackles on special teams tied him for first place on the team with two others – Danny McCray and Alex Albright.
Contract Status: Signed through 2012.
2011 Impact: While Phillips never officially unseated Martellus Bennett from the No. 2 tight end spot, you could argue he was more valuable for the offense at times. There were games in which Phillips started as the second tight end and often as the fullback when Tony Fiammetta went down. Phillips was the primary fullback for five games last year, and held his own as the lead blocker. He caught 15 passes for 101 yards and one touchdown, very comparable to Bennett's 17-144 with no touchdowns. Phillips was also a regular on special teams, finishing the season second on the squad with 16 total tackles and a forced fumble.
Where He Fits: This question would be answered better after the draft and free agency. That's when we will figure out how the tight end position looks in the next few months. Assuming Bennett doesn't return, the Cowboys will have just Jason Witten and Phillips on the roster. Obviously this team will add some depth either through free agency or the draft, but it's clear the Cowboys like Phillips' versatility. His ability to play fullback, block on the edge and catch passes in the flat make him a valuable part of the offense. There's a chance he'll be a solid No. 2 tight end behind Witten.
Writers' Analysis:
Rob Phillips: Phillips had another solid season as the third tight end, this time coming off knee surgery in 2010. Once again, he maximized his opportunities in the passing game (15 catches, one TD). The addition of a true fullback in Fiammetta reduced Phillips' role in the backfield, but he's a solid blocker with potential for more looks if Bennett isn't re-signed.
Nick Eatman: There probably won't be a big drop-off if the Cowboys decide to use Phillips as the backup tight end to Witten, replacing Bennett, who is expected to depart via free agency. Phillips might be a step down in the blocking area, particularly at the line of scrimmage against defensive linemen, but his ability to make plays in the passing game has been proven. It's safe to say Phillips might be a better all-around player than Bennett. Then again, this is Phillips' final year of his contract, so the Cowboys might be inclined to add some depth. If they draft for the position in the earlier rounds, it could potentially keep Phillips as the No. 3 tight end.
Name: John Phillips
Position: Tight End
Height/Weight: 6-5 / 261
Experience: 3 seasons
College: Virginia
Key stat: Phillips' 12 solo tackles on special teams tied him for first place on the team with two others – Danny McCray and Alex Albright.
Contract Status: Signed through 2012.
2011 Impact: While Phillips never officially unseated Martellus Bennett from the No. 2 tight end spot, you could argue he was more valuable for the offense at times. There were games in which Phillips started as the second tight end and often as the fullback when Tony Fiammetta went down. Phillips was the primary fullback for five games last year, and held his own as the lead blocker. He caught 15 passes for 101 yards and one touchdown, very comparable to Bennett's 17-144 with no touchdowns. Phillips was also a regular on special teams, finishing the season second on the squad with 16 total tackles and a forced fumble.
Where He Fits: This question would be answered better after the draft and free agency. That's when we will figure out how the tight end position looks in the next few months. Assuming Bennett doesn't return, the Cowboys will have just Jason Witten and Phillips on the roster. Obviously this team will add some depth either through free agency or the draft, but it's clear the Cowboys like Phillips' versatility. His ability to play fullback, block on the edge and catch passes in the flat make him a valuable part of the offense. There's a chance he'll be a solid No. 2 tight end behind Witten.
Writers' Analysis:
Rob Phillips: Phillips had another solid season as the third tight end, this time coming off knee surgery in 2010. Once again, he maximized his opportunities in the passing game (15 catches, one TD). The addition of a true fullback in Fiammetta reduced Phillips' role in the backfield, but he's a solid blocker with potential for more looks if Bennett isn't re-signed.
Nick Eatman: There probably won't be a big drop-off if the Cowboys decide to use Phillips as the backup tight end to Witten, replacing Bennett, who is expected to depart via free agency. Phillips might be a step down in the blocking area, particularly at the line of scrimmage against defensive linemen, but his ability to make plays in the passing game has been proven. It's safe to say Phillips might be a better all-around player than Bennett. Then again, this is Phillips' final year of his contract, so the Cowboys might be inclined to add some depth. If they draft for the position in the earlier rounds, it could potentially keep Phillips as the No. 3 tight end.
