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Posted by nickeatman at 4/11/2011 5:20 PM CDT on truebluefanclub.com
When it comes to the majority opinion about the Cowboys’ safety needs, I’m right there with the consensus. When it comes to Alan Ball, I think the Cowboys saw all they needed to last year and should move on – trying their hand in free agency, along with a pick (or two) in the draft.
But that doesn’t mean Alan Ball should be shown the door by any means. This guy still has plenty of value. Whatever his contract ends up being next season – likely in the neighborhood of $1.2 million – it’s still a relative bargain considering his flexibility.
While you don’t want this guy to start at free safety, or even cornerback, taking him to the games as a seventh defensive back isn’t a bad situation. You’ve got three corners – let’s say Newman, Jenkins and Scandrick – and three safeties (not even going to try to attempt that one), but Ball would probably be the fourth safety as well. That’s strong versatility right there, knowing you’ve got a guy who can play two spots. Let’s not forget in 2009 he was one of the team’s best special teams players.
No, the Cowboys shouldn’t go into this season counting on Ball to start. But I would bet there’s a good chance he’s there at least competing for it. If he comes back better than everyone, then fine, he should get the job. But nobody is holding their breath on that one.
Still, his value shouldn’t be overlooked. He may not start, but Ball should have a significant role next year.
When it comes to the majority opinion about the Cowboys’ safety needs, I’m right there with the consensus. When it comes to Alan Ball, I think the Cowboys saw all they needed to last year and should move on – trying their hand in free agency, along with a pick (or two) in the draft.
But that doesn’t mean Alan Ball should be shown the door by any means. This guy still has plenty of value. Whatever his contract ends up being next season – likely in the neighborhood of $1.2 million – it’s still a relative bargain considering his flexibility.
While you don’t want this guy to start at free safety, or even cornerback, taking him to the games as a seventh defensive back isn’t a bad situation. You’ve got three corners – let’s say Newman, Jenkins and Scandrick – and three safeties (not even going to try to attempt that one), but Ball would probably be the fourth safety as well. That’s strong versatility right there, knowing you’ve got a guy who can play two spots. Let’s not forget in 2009 he was one of the team’s best special teams players.
No, the Cowboys shouldn’t go into this season counting on Ball to start. But I would bet there’s a good chance he’s there at least competing for it. If he comes back better than everyone, then fine, he should get the job. But nobody is holding their breath on that one.
Still, his value shouldn’t be overlooked. He may not start, but Ball should have a significant role next year.
