O.J. Atogwe: 5 Reasons Why He Could Become a Dallas Cowboy
By Trevor Trigg (Contributor) on February 19, 2011
The St. Louis Rams released Oshiomogho Atogwe today to avoid paying him a $6 million roster bonus. Because of the labor uncertainty, he is only one of the few high-caliber players who will definitely be available this offseason.
Several teams in need of secondary help will pursue him. However, I think the Cowboys will make a heavy play for him and will eventually land him.
Here's five reasons why:
5. Jerry Jones' Regret
First and foremost, the Alan Ball experiment has failed conclusively. There was a reason the Cowboys defense gave up historic numbers of yards and points.
All too often, deep balls would sail above a confused Ball's head en route to a touchdown.
Jerry Jones knows that he made a mistake in not acquiring Atogwe last season. He definitely doesn't like to make the same mistake twice.
He will bring Atogwe in and make him an offer he can't refuse.
4. The Money
After a stellar 2007 season, several players on the roster were rewarded with huge contracts. After the 2010 season, it was apparent that some didn't live up to those contracts. Flozell Adams and Ken Hamlin are already gone.
Look for the Cowboys to part ways with more of those players this offseason. That will give Jones plenty of buying power to bring in Atogwe.
After shedding some excess salaries, Jones could stand to give Atogwe a contract similar to Antrel Rolle's $37 million with the Giants.
3. Lack of Safety Talent in the Draft
The Cowboys would love to take a stud free safety with the No. 9 overall pick this year. The only problem with that is that the highest rated safety is Rahim Moore with a second-round projection.
Trading down is always a possibility, but the Cowboys really need to get an impact player with their pick.
With needs like OL and DE that would best be solved through the draft, it makes sense to go the free agency route at FS and get Atogwe.
2. Need To Make a Splash
The 2010 offseason was a rather quiet one for the Cowboys. They didn't seriously pursue any free agents, choosing to keep their roster the same for the most part.
We saw what complacency got them. Look for them to make a huge splash this offseason.
Jones doesn't like to lose. He has also been know to throw money at free agents to try to get back into contention.
It reminds me of the 1994 offseason when Jones went and got Deion Sanders. This is exactly the kind of move Jones loves to make.
1. Culture Change
With Rob Ryan becoming the new defensive coordinator for the Cowboys, the defense will have a major attitude adjustment. He loves players that play with passion and aren't afraid to lay someone out. He also loves to disguise coverages and force turnovers.
Atogwe certainly fits that blueprint.
With 73 tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles and three interceptions last season, he showed that he can be an extremely disruptive force. It seems like a match made in heaven to me.
