Quick Free Agency Update

I wasn't expecting to have another post just 1 day after my last, since it's the off-season and all, but there's been a few things that either just happened or I forgot to mention.

First, I forgot to say that along with Jacquees Reeves and Jason Ferguson parting ways with Dallas, Fullback Oliver Hoyte also left. He was released and quickly picked up by Kansas City. Hoyte was easily beat out of his Fullback job by Deon Anderson who took over when Hoyte was injured early in the 07 season. Anderson did an excellent job filling Hoyte's shoes and brought a much more balanced blocking and receiving role as Fullback, whereas Hoyte never truly seemed to take advantage of this role.

Secondly, the obvious move happened just yesterday. Running back Julius Jones who entered free agency and was not expected to remain a Cowboy, did in fact leave and is now heading to Seattle. He agreed to a 4 year deal for about $12 million.

Julius Jones had an amazing beginning as a Cowboy, and for the first 3 of his 4 years in Dallas, he led the team in rushing yards. Unfortunately the hunger slowly died. Last year in particular, he failed to make the most of his opportunities. Even though Jones started all but the final, post-season game, he failed to shine when he stepped up to bat.

Marion Barber, who shared the carries with Jones, did make the most of his opportunities and aggressively forged a path to the Pro Bowl. With a devastating stiff-arm, an amazing awareness, a natural instinct to break tackles and a deep hearted passion for the game, Barber won over fans and frightened enemies.

His role of back-up is more than likely going to change, and he should become starter with no problem. He's proven himself with practically every carry, and has a fierce desire to win. Given what he did these last two years and what should hopefully be another tremendous year for Barber, he is likely to be listed amongst the greatest of all time.

I hate to crown him before he truly takes the throne, but I've seen him in 2005 when he first stepped on the field with that Star on his helmet. Even in those early moments when he was merely filling time for an injured Julius Jones, his unique abilities and aggressive behavior shined. This kid was definitely someone to keep an eye on, and damnit, I'm glad I always did.

So in closing, I bid farewell to all the lost Cowboys: Jacquees Reeves, Jason Ferguson, Oliver Hoyte and of course Julius Jones. You shall be missed. But I'm still glad we have Anthony Henry, Jay Ratliff, Deon Anderson and, of course, Marion Barber, to fill the holes. Until next time....g'day!