Talkin’ Cowboys: Grading the First Wave

Summary

Talkin’ Cowboys: Grading the First Wave

Date: March 17, 2026
Hosts: Kyle Yeomans, Isaiah Stanback, Josh Rodriguez (Patrik Walker out with injury)

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Episode Overview

In this off-season edition of Talkin’ Cowboys, Kyle, Isaiah, and Josh break down the Dallas Cowboys’ first wave of free agency, providing candid grades and analysis on each move. The trio discusses the direction of the team’s roster building under new defensive coordinator Christian Parker, the Cowboys’ needs (particularly at linebacker), and listener phone calls prompt discussions about scheme fits, player upsides, and what could constitute a “Super Bowl caliber” move. Expect detailed position debates, honest evaluations, and their signature mix of film-room insight and locker-room banter.

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Key Discussion Points & Analysis

1. First Wave of Free Agency: General Impressions

[06:30]

• Cowboys have made several serviceable signings without a “splash” so far.
• “I would say serviceable. I would say, compared to the last few years… this is definitely more uptick.” — Josh Rodriguez
• Notable additions: PJ Locke, Sam Howell (QB), Matt Hennessy (OL), Kobe Durant (CB), Princeton Fant (TE), and returning Sam Williams (EDGE).
• Rashan Gary trade remains the highest-impact offseason move.
• “It’s still not that high end move yet.” — Kyle Yeomans
• Linebacker remains an unaddressed priority.

2. Position-by-Position Breakdown

[08:45]–[21:50]

Linebacker

• The hosts call out the lack of progress at linebacker, noting several targets have signed elsewhere.
• “We’re kind of back where you’re used to the Dallas Cowboys being... searching for discount double checks.” — Isaiah Stanback
• Bobby Wagner mentioned as a dream signing, but not much movement.
• Draft now seems likely to address the need: “Counting on a rookie to come in and, you know, take over all of the starts for linebacker, which, you know... I don’t like it.” — Josh Rodriguez [09:28]

Defensive Line & Scheme Fit

• Broad discussion of Christian Parker’s new 3-4 defense and its impact on body types and acquisitions.
• “Your defensive linemen are at least 300 pounds... Your outside linebackers slash defensive ends? They're gonna be 260 plus.” — Isaiah Standback [18:10]
• Otito Ogbonnia viewed as a likely starter at DL: “[Right now,] I think he’s a starter.” — Isaiah Standback [16:32]
• Rashan Gary expected primarily as a stand-up outside linebacker, not as a 3/4 down lineman.

QB Room

[13:55]

• Sam Howell’s acquisition considered “underrated” for backup competition.
• “Sam Howell, who had 17 games of gameplay two years ago and has some experience, to come challenge Joe Milton.” — Kyle Yeomans
• “Sam Howell’s a freaking competitor.” — Isaiah Standback

Secondary & Under-the-Radar Signings

• Kobe Durant seen as a potential “thrift buy”/hidden gem with upside. Front office believes they got a deal.
• Durant compared to ex-Cowboy Jordan Lewis: “As soon as he said ‘Jordan Lewis’ in the type of play... they were spot on board.” — Kyle Yeomans [12:53]
• Jalen Thompson and PJ Locke both praised for their versatility in the secondary.

3. Grading the Cowboys’ Moves: “Points of Reference”

[41:14]–[50:23]

• Hosts rate every major addition/subtraction from 1–10 (10 = Super Bowl-caliber, 1 = worsened the team). Will revisit grades after the season.

Selected Move Grades:

• Javonte Williams, RB (signed): 7–8. “He wants to, you have him as the backbone of your run game.” — Josh Rodriguez [43:04]
• Rashan Gary, EDGE (trade): 7.5–8. “He gives you something better than what you had on defense last year.” — Kyle Yeomans [45:13]
• Jalen Thompson, S (signed): 8–9. “This is my favorite move of the offseason so far… he could be a star here.” — Kyle Yeomans [46:32]
• Sam Howell, QB (trade): 8. “If you lose Dak, you were in a bad spot... He’s not a world-beater, but he’s a dog.” — Isaiah Standback [47:54]
• Kobe Durant, CB (signed): 7.5–7.8.
• Sam Williams, EDGE (re-signed): 6. “I think he’s better in this system.” — Kyle Yeomans [45:44]
• Matt Hennessy, OL (signed): 5–6.
• Overall: Moves described as upgrades, but missing an elite, needle-moving addition.

What would be a “10/10” move?

• Only elite WR or corner trades (like acquiring Jaylen Waddle) or a major linebacker signing would qualify.
• “For me… a beast of a receiver or a beast of a corner.” — Isaiah Standback [50:42]

4. Fan Calls and Listener Questions

Nebby (Silver Springs, MD) [27:32]:

• Asks which returning Cowboy benefits most from Christian Parker’s hire.
• Isaiah: “Sam Williams. His body type and playing style did not fit a four-down scheme… 3-4 fits him perfect.” [31:03]
• Josh: Savion Rebuel could bounce back with a full healthy offseason, citing the new coaching staff.

Paul (Upstate NY) [34:02]:

• Questions Osa Odighizuwa’s fit and the rationale for his trade.
• “It was entirely a business decision… loved Osa, he was a leader in the locker room… but not a perfect fit in a 3-4, and the value [from San Francisco] was there.” — Kyle Yeomans [35:45]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “We’re kind of back where you’re used to the Dallas Cowboys being… searching for discount double checks, really, in late veteran editions. This is familiar territory.” — Isaiah Standback [10:13]
• “I think by most accounts… Kobe Durant probably could have netted probably another three or four [offers], and they got him for five [million]. So, thank you!” — Isaiah Standback [11:47]
• “Sam Howell is a dog. Like, Sam Howell’s a dog… You put him in the game, you got a chance.” — Isaiah Standback [48:12]
• “Jalen Thompson… I think he could be a star here if it all goes well and he stays healthy.” — Kyle Yeomans [46:37]
• “There are no tens out there… Would have to be a beast of a receiver or a beast of a corner for me.” — Isaiah Standback [50:23]

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• 06:30 – General thoughts on the first week of free agency
• 08:45 – Critique of “splash” moves and linebacker need
• 13:55 – Impact of Sam Howell, backup QB discussion
• 16:04 – Otito Ogbonnia and defensive line projection
• 18:10 – How 3-4 scheme changes player body type targets
• 21:26 – Early draft targets and positional value
• 27:13 – Listener calls (“Talking Tuesday” begins)
• 27:32 – Nebby’s call: Who benefits most from Christian Parker?
• 34:02 – Paul’s call: Osa Odighizuwa and 3-4 fits
• 41:14 – “Points of Reference”: Grading each move
• 50:23 – What kind of move would get a “10”?
• 52:09 – Wrap-up and teasers for next week

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Tone & Style

Classic Talkin’ Cowboys: friendly, energetic, knowledgeable, and laced with jabs and barbershop-style humor. The show remains balanced between fan-centric optimism and honest critique, with several playful moments (e.g., St. Patrick’s Day banter, “we love you, Pat!” wishes, and poking fun at “discount” signings).

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Conclusion

In their review of the Cowboys’ first wave of free-agent moves, the hosts agree that the team is improved but has not yet made the type of acquisition that would shift championship odds. They express excitement about new defensive fits under Christian Parker, believe the linebacker position remains unresolved, and see several signings as value upgrades—while knowing big moves (especially at WR or LB) are still desired. Their interactive grading session captures the nuanced optimism of Cowboys Nation as the front office moves methodically through the offseason.

Transcript

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[Kyle Yeomans]

The following is a production of Dallas Cowboys.com and the Dallas Cowboys Football Club. This is Talking Cowboys streaming live from the Dallas Cowboys world headquarters at the Star in Frisco CD Lamb. It's on. Jake Ferguson. Huska keeps it and he bangs it in for the touchdown. And now your hosts, Isaiah, stand back. Patrick Walker, Josh Rodriguez and Kyle Yeomans. It's an off season edition of Talking Cowboys presented by Black Rifle Coffee company live from the Star in Frisco, Texas and the SWBC studios. Welcome in everybody. We've got Josh Rodriguez, Isaiah, stand back. Chris Beam in the back. I'm Kyle Yeomans. Glad you're with us now. No Patrick, no see Walker. Come on day. Unfortunately, our man is dealing with some rehab. I know. He's sitting in bed. Wish he was here.

[Isaiah Standback]

He's on ir.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He is on IR at the moment,

[Isaiah Standback]

not the PUP list.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Oh my gosh, he is IR for sure. Wishing nothing but the best for Patrick, who injured his, his leg last week. And man, too explosive.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Shouts to big bro.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah, too explosive, man.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He was, he was rounding third, about to score the winning run after hitting the inside the park homer. His speed blazing around the base pass in a tie game. Really, it was, it was one of those that, like inside the park homers. I hit the very bottom half of the fence, you know, like it just barely stayed in the yard. He hit it good though, had he had to use his speed to get around the bases and just ruptured his patella tendon. There it goes.

[Josh Rodriguez]

But, but shouts to him and quick recovery, of course. Patrick Nussey Walker.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I hope, I hope I did his story any justice. I don't know if that's actually how it happened, but I just wanted to give him something cool. I believe maybe he was like in an Indy car and he got in a wreck. The driver beside him made a mistake because he didn't make the mistake.

[Josh Rodriguez]

There's no, no, no way.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Driver beside him made a mistake, sent him into the wall. You know, things like that.

[Josh Rodriguez]

But, but shouts to him because that's going to be A long recovery process, obviously, but I know we'll be seeing him here pretty soon.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah, I just. I just text him. He said, surgery soon. I'll be back in the building after that.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I was about to say, I'm honestly shocked he wouldn't be here, but if it's the surgery element, that's what you got to wait for, so. We love you, Pat. Appreciate you. I know he's watching. I know he's probably in the chat as well, so.

[Josh Rodriguez]

So he texted us that, I think, on. On Thursday, and he was like, all right, guys, I won't be in tomorrow. I was like, that's fair.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He like, thanks for letting me know.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah, that's the picture.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Did enough for that one.

[Josh Rodriguez]

That's fair.

[Kyle Yeomans]

But if I were. If I ruptured my patella tended, you wouldn't see me for a year. Be like, on the sideline. See you guys 100%.

[Isaiah Standback]

Oh, man.

[Kyle Yeomans]

How's everybody doing? Y' all doing all right?

[Josh Rodriguez]

Excellent, man. Yeah. Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Anybody get to check out the race?

[Josh Rodriguez]

I did not go to the race, but. But I can tell maybe that you might have.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Did I out. Did I make it out?

[Josh Rodriguez]

Did you make it out?

[Kyle Yeomans]

Kyle, get out there.

[Josh Rodriguez]

What's funny is Kyle was giving a tour to the. The IndyCar broadcasters, the guys that were on the Grand Prix Grand Prix of Arlington broadcast, and then also the driver who ended up winning the entire Grand Prix of Arlington. He was in our offices.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah. In this studio.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Like.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Like less than a week ago.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah, it was. It was last. It was either Wednesday or. I think it was Thursday morning. Thursday morning, right before we did the draft show, I had Will Buxton, Townsend Bell and Kyle Kirkwood, and we went on a tour of the star.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Took him around.

[Kyle Yeomans]

They took pictures of the super bowl trophies, and they went to the different elements of the star. Took them to breakfast up at the. Up at the club, and then had one of the equipment managers actually gave them cowboys hats. And I told Kyle, I was like, if you win, it's because of the hat. And he was like, no doubt about it. Completely agree. And sure enough, he. He ended up winning that weekend. And it was really. It was really a great event. Shout outs to the entire Arlington community. They showed out sold out grandstands. You watch any of it?

[Isaiah Standback]

I did not, dude.

[Josh Rodriguez]

How impressive was the setup for them to turn AT&T Stadium in the ballpark into, you know, a speedway?

[Kyle Yeomans]

Basically the word that was used by drivers, not just fans and everybody. It was the perfect street course. They said it's the new standard for IndyCar really. So they thought it was the most well put together firsttime event they've ever experienced. A lot of the drivers said it's their favorite street course they've ever raced on. No matter what, the series goes to the Joneses. So like they, they really did an incredible job. It was an awesome environment. The, the race itself was kind of interesting because it ended up being less chaotic than I think I anticipated because when I took the the track tour on Wednesday I was like, these are, it's thin. It was very narrow straightaways and things like that. I thought there were going to be a lot of wrecks, a lot of like passing zones and there was a lot of passing, not a lot of wrecks. There was one on a restart right at the end of the race and that was really about it. So really cool, really cool stuff. Can't wait to see what happens next year. Everybody's kind of asking the question because there's no contract passed this year. But there apparently there was a report yesterday that there were some talks happening between like the next five years or so. If it, if it looked like that in year one, I can't wait to see what it does down the stretch because it was really, really cool.

[Isaiah Standback]

Vibrations from the car.

[Kyle Yeomans]

You stop it. I know that reference too well. Talladega. Nice, baby. All right, let's get into some Cowboys off season as the free agency period continues to ramp up. We are going to take your calls today. Oh yeah.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Cowboys Nation.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Talk to Cowboys Nation 888-8552.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Fan Tuesday.

[Kyle Yeomans]

It is a talking Tuesday.

[Isaiah Standback]

It is talking.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I should open the show that way. It's a talking Tuesday edition, right?

[Josh Rodriguez]

888 Restart the show.

[Kyle Yeomans]

855-229-TALKING COWBOYS begins at 10.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Oh five baby.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Plenty to talk about since then as well. But really I want to break down each of the moves. We'll do that in the third segment but kind of your general thought. Josh, as we go into some news and notes based on the how the Cowboys have done since last week in terms of their free agent additions.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Well, to be clear, since last week the Cowboys obviously made some moves last week about Rashan Gary. We talked about Jalen Thompson. But if you look at the free agency tracker on Dallas Cowboys,

[Kyle Yeomans]

We didn't get muted there for audio. Listen.

[Josh Rodriguez]

We added a few more. PJ Lock, Sam Howell was an interesting name to see on there. Matt Hennessy, Kobe, Durant prison, Princeton fan is back. You also have who else is back? Sam Williams is returning. So I mean definitely Moves that have been made. I wouldn't say splash moves by any stretch and that was one of the criticisms that we had last week we left the airways is that the splash play isn't quite there yet. And I think I would say serviceable. I would say comparatively to the last few years of free agency that the Cowboys have had, this is definitely more uptick. I wouldn't call this busting the budget in any form or phrase or, or thought. I don't think they're done yet. It was just the first wave like Kyle alluded to, but there's still plenty to go. Linebacker obviously has not been addressed at all and there are quite a few linebackers that I think are still out there still capable of starting on your. On this defense, obviously. But I think that could be reputable contributors to your team. Bobby Wagner, including one. This is a name that you've seen at least Jesse Holly Champion. And I think we were talking about it last week even as a name that we would champion as a guy that would be a coach on the field as well as a great player on the field. So there's still a lot to go. I don't think the splash has been made by any stretch.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah, I think the initial splash was the Gary trade, of course, and what happened with Rashan Gary last week. But now you add some other pieces that can contend for significant snaps. You think about Obi Durant, you think about even Matt Hennessy. Kind of is your, your Brock Hoffman replacement, even though I. Brock Hoffman hasn't signed anywhere.

[Josh Rodriguez]

He's not signed anywhere.

[Kyle Yeomans]

So I mean, he's not necessarily a replacement quite yet, but he's a glass eater type of versatile offensive lineman that can possibly come in in a spot duty sort of situation, but based on what they've done, it's still not that high end move yet.

[Josh Rodriguez]

No, no, I think that's. And that's the criticism that you can have. Obviously we had expectations, obviously very different from what the Cowboys had going in, but we know that they made pushes for certain linebackers that were on the market that didn't quite, you know, go our way for whatever reason that it just didn't come our way, which is unfortunate. You would hope that the Cowboys would make that extra push to secure a guy that they really, really want to add to this defense. But I think now all signs in my opinion are pointed to the draft, which I don't know is the best strategy for that position necessarily. I know there are a lot of really good names, but I mean, you're Counting on a rookie to come in and, you know, take over all of the starts for linebacker, which, you know.

[Isaiah Standback]

You don't like it.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I don't like it.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yep.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I don't like those words. Again, like I'm saying, I. And you'd hope that they still have moves to make in free agency in regards to that position, but what are we waiting on?

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah, I mean, we talked about it last week, right. That there were only so many big time moves that. That could have been associated with the Dallas Cowboys. And a lot of those guys that we were kind of hoping for really got taken off the board. Yep. We're talking about the guys that got taken off early. And then we talk about. There's a second wave of guys that I know we talked about off air in terms of specifically at linebacker that got taken off the board by other teams relatively quickly. We have a little side chat that every time somebody gets taken, we're like,

[Kyle Yeomans]

dang it, dang it.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Oh, Isaiah and I were texting that the entire week. It's like literally every guy that we wanted is off the board.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah.

[Isaiah Standback]

All the linebackers that we really liked were off the board. That's not to say that there aren't guys that are still feasible or guys that. That can contribute, but the guys that we really wanted to set our hat on, those guys are gone. So now you're in a situation where you're kind of back where you're used to the Dallas Cowboys being, which is they're searching for discount double checks, really, in late veteran editions. This is familiar territory. So did they do anything different this season this offseason than they have in past years? You just alluded to it. Yes, they have. I like some of their signings. I like. I definitely like. I pretty much like all their signings that they've made. Um, I like the fact that they brought in Sam Howell. I really like that one. I think that is a very underrated signing in regards to that position. In terms of Dak's health, in terms of what was behind Dak, I think that that creates a lot of competition there and somebody that you can really rest your. Rest your hat on. And I think that's important specifically at that position. Um, I think PJ Lock, obviously, the versatility there, it was huge. Jaylen Thompson is huge. Both of those guys are able to give you versatility, both at the safety position and being able to come in and play a little bit of corner as well. And then Kobe Durant, I think that was. That was definitely a good A thrift buy, you know, so I'll put it that way. He's a good player. And sometimes you go to thrift store, you can find some good stuff, you know. And I think that's exactly what the Dallas Cowboys did. I think by most accounts, people would feel like Kobe Durant probably could have netted probably, probably another three or four or four, and they got him for five. So thank you.

[Josh Rodriguez]

That's five max with incentives. That's four base currently.

[Isaiah Standback]

So I'm not sure what happened there with him, his opportunities, but thank you. Take that all day long.

[Kyle Yeomans]

When we talked to him while he was signing, he. He said that he was. He said he was trying to let his agent kind of handle everything, wanted to, to let the, the process go as it may. And then as soon as the agent called and they said, Dallas wants you, he said, make it happen. So he really wanted to be here. I think that's one element of it. And then I asked a staff member too, from the, from the front office what they thought about him. And I kind of said that I was like, you kind of got him for a deal, huh? And their first thought, he's like, I don't know. I don't know. He said, I hope that we got him for a steal. Right. I hope that we paid the right amount of money for him. But he also said as soon as he heard Jordan Lewis, like, yeah, and saw Jordan Lewis, like, because there was a lot of people that kind of compared him to that. Even though he didn't play a ton in the nickel, he only played like 80 something snaps in the nickel. As soon as he said Jordan Lewis, like, in the type of play they, they were bought on and spot on board.

[Josh Rodriguez]

And that's a name that Jerry Jones has been very regretful of, of. Of losing last offseason.

[Isaiah Standback]

First time.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah. No, he definitely admitted.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And vocal about it.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah, and vocal about it. He's brought his name up quite a few times, which, you know, is surprising, I guess, for that regime to, to. To reference a mistake or, you know, something that they regret.

[Isaiah Standback]

Wasn't there a show that talked about how important.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Absolutely. Absolutely, we did. I was Talking to Danny McRae yesterday about Durant and because he hadn't seen any of his tape before, and I was like, just watch that. This highlight reel with me real quick because I had questions about his ability and him being undersized, how that compares to like some of the corners that we've had in the past. And his immediate reference was with Jordan Lewis, like, Right, right.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Off the bat, they look similar when. The way. In. The way that they play, the physicality, the. The footwork, the speed, I mean, all of that. I think Kobe's not as polished as J. Lou, but honestly, J. Lou wasn't this polished in. In the early parts of his career, too. It took him a little bit of time to get there.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Right.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Durant could be that at some point in time with the right. The right coaching in the right scenario

[Josh Rodriguez]

going into his fifth year, too. I mean, there's still plenty of room.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Very young. Yeah. And he has the right mindset. And so I think that's one of my favorite underrated signings that Dallas has had so far. I'm glad you brought up Sam Howell, too, because it provides competition for Joe Milton. And they did release Will Greer. They waived him this past week. So shout out to Will for everything that he did, kind of battling back and coming back to the organization after he was originally let go a couple seasons ago. But now you get a guy like Sam Howell, who had 17 games of gameplay two years ago and has some experience underneath them, to come challenge Joe Milton. Very different type of quarterback, very different body type of quarterback when you've got Sam Howell. When he walked in the other day, the first thought I had was, wow, he's a lot smaller than I thought he was.

[Isaiah Standback]

Where?

[Josh Rodriguez]

The first time.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah. And then the first time I saw Joe Milton was like, holy cow, he's way bigger than I thought.

[Isaiah Standback]

He was somehow a freaking competitor. Yeah, he is. That's one thing. I think we talked about it a couple years ago when. When Washington had failed, you know, he was in a position to start for Washington, I was like, hey, man, like, watch out. Put some respect on this dude's name. When I was watching this film, because I like him. I like him a lot.

[Josh Rodriguez]

North Carolina, right?

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah. Joe Milton, better strap him up, buddy.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah.

[Josh Rodriguez]

No, I think that's going to be fun, but obviously that's a competition that you only want to see in the preseason. You know, it's like you absolutely. You only want to see it there, but at least there is competition for Joe Milton as opposed to, like, you know, last year was kind of a chew in, like, I think maybe halfway through camp, you're thinking like, well, I don't know if the show Milton guys really got it, but now it's like he's. His feet are against the fire.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Now some other. The other signings. Otito O Bonya, the UCLA you got to talk to. He was awesome. He was really cool. From Houston he was born and raised in Houston, was a track and field guy down there, too, along with playing football. He said he's always been a Cowboys fan. He's excited to play for the organization in. Not everybody always says that. They always say, hey, I'm excited to play for the organization, but not everybody says. I grew up cheering for the team that I'm now currently playing for. And a Bonya gets to do that. He. He's a. He's going to be a depth piece.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Somebody that rotates in and I think it's. It's quality depth.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Why a depth piece? Who's in front of him?

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah. You know, like Kenny Clark and Quinn and Williams. Oh, okay. Okay. Yeah.

[Josh Rodriguez]

So no more.

[Kyle Yeomans]

No more osa. No more Solomon Thomas.

[Josh Rodriguez]

But that's still a Perry on Winfrey.

[Kyle Yeomans]

No more Perry on Winfrey. But that's a crowded room, too, and you need a big body, strong dude. And one of the first things that I noticed when talking to him was he's got a strong handshake, man. Well, he almost crushed our hands.

[Isaiah Standback]

He's a rotational guy for you right now. I think he's a starter.

[Kyle Yeomans]

You think so? I. I don't.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I disagree.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I think I disagree a little bit.

[Isaiah Standback]

Who's your three down?

[Kyle Yeomans]

Three down right now. I mean, Kenny and then I. Rashawn. Gary. Are you throwing him? You're standing him up?

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

See, I think he's gonna play a lot of that four eye spot.

[Isaiah Standback]

No.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Oh, I think so.

[Josh Rodriguez]

And why not? Your draft pick showed some. Some things last year.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I'm forgetting Donovan as a rocku.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Are you talking about. No, no.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Jay to. Yeah, yeah. No, no. Otito over toy.

[Isaiah Standback]

Tito's your starter right now. As of right now.

[Kyle Yeomans]

You. You don't think Gary's going to play down?

[Isaiah Standback]

No. 9 to 3, 4.

[Kyle Yeomans]

No.

[Isaiah Standback]

Heck no.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Oh, man.

[Isaiah Standback]

Heck no.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Okay.

[Isaiah Standback]

No, that's.

[Josh Rodriguez]

So come back to this.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Look at the.

[Isaiah Standback]

Look at the body types, right, that are being acquired. Okay. Look at Gary. Okay. What's Gary size? He is 652-643-75. Okay. Right. So he's. He's a big standup outside linebacker. Right. When I talked about it before, that's the type of body.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Type of edge rusher you need.

[Isaiah Standback]

60. 260 to 275. 280. Right. Those are the guys that you want. They've gotten rid of their quote unquote undersized defensive lineman. Y.

[Josh Rodriguez]

The writing was on the wall before that happened because they signed Abunia before the trade with osa.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yes, but I want people to see the, the, the trend lines here in terms of defensive linemen versus outside linebackers. Your defensive linemen are at least 300 pounds. Yeah. Your true three, four defensive linemen are 300 plus.

[Josh Rodriguez]

And that's a change in these parts.

[Isaiah Standback]

Usually you're going to have multiple one or zero techniques. They're going to be 330, right? 320, 330. They're the big fellas, right. The big nasties. Those guys are going to be right on the center. Okay. Then you're going to have the more agile 300 pounders. They're going to be playing like your, your three and your four and five techniques. Okay then so those are your down guys. Your guys. Those are guys that have their hands in the ground. Okay. So you're going to see a trend line there and you talk about Tito Big fella, Clark, big fella, Quinn Williams, big fell. All those guys are down lineman in the 3, 4.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah.

[Isaiah Standback]

Your outside linebackers AK slash defensive ends. They're going to be 260 plus. 260 to 280 usually. So look at the guys that you have slotted at outside linebacker. Gary, 275, right?

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah.

[Isaiah Standback]

Okay. 64275.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Right on kind of the cusp there.

[Isaiah Standback]

Right on the cusp there. Right. So he's.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And they have said that he will play both.

[Isaiah Standback]

I'm sure he will. He's going to play primarily. He'll be a stand up which I, I agree.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And that's where you should have him. I'm not saying stand up side.

[Isaiah Standback]

I'm not saying that these gu guys can never put their hand.

[Kyle Yeomans]

But right now are you going to sacrifice having Rashan Gary playing at least down a little bit in that spot in his talent level just to have Otito Bona? Is he good enough? I play that spot consistently as a starter.

[Isaiah Standback]

I believe that Gary's the greatest benefit that he could provide to your team is him standing up. I'm not saying that he can't play with his hand down. I'm saying that he's more beneficial to you standing up.

[Kyle Yeomans]

So I just don't think they have a guy right now that is the solidified star there.

[Isaiah Standback]

So right now if it's me, I'm. I can move those three. Otito, Kenny Clark, Quinn Williams, I can rotate those guys along that three down any way I want to. Right some.

[Kyle Yeomans]

It doesn't really matter who makes a match wherever.

[Isaiah Standback]

They're all about the matches.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Right size wise for the scheme. Exactly.

[Isaiah Standback]

For that scheme right there. Okay. So. But then I'm going Gary on one end. Okay. I got wheat, who's 260, 265. You got Sam Williams. 260. Probably gonna be 265. Donovan was 252, you know, 248. Somewhere around there.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He'll have an donut or too.

[Isaiah Standback]

He'll have. Yeah, he'll be 260 by the time he hits camp. Right. So 260 pounds, that's what I want people to start getting. Those are going to be your standup outside linebackers that can go out and set the edge. Funnel everything in. They can pass rush and they can go ahead and set the edge. That is going to be the body type that you're looking for. So when I know you're Mr. Draft, when you start looking at this draft stuff, those are going to be the guys that this, this organization is looking for to fill those positional needs. They're either going to be a really big fella, they can put his hand in the ground or they're going to be still a big guy but not necessarily a down lineman as you would. As you would think about it in this particular scheme.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Kind of another Rashawn Gary.

[Isaiah Standback]

Exactly.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah. So Mr. Draft, excuse me, are those guys going to be in the third round?

[Kyle Yeomans]

That, that's going to be the question because can you find your linebackers in your corners enough to wear in your safeties? Really? I think you've. Maybe you feel good about your safety

[Josh Rodriguez]

now or you're in a better place than you were.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Better, better place now. But the value lines up with linebacker and safety later in the draft than it does defensive tackle, slash end guys. You know, the edge rusher guys are going to go early. TJ Parker's the name that keeps coming to mind for me because he's a big bodied edge rusher out of Clemson. He's kind of that outside guy that maybe can play both a little bit.

[Isaiah Standback]

National flex.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Exactly. And everybody also has to remember that it's not going to be 90% of the time.

[Isaiah Standback]

Three, four.

[Kyle Yeomans]

No, it's going to be a lot of four down linemen and even man fronts too.

[Isaiah Standback]

Bring up those sizes because we've heard Christian Parker talk about the. They're going to be multiple. Yes. So if you're going to be multiple, I need guys that. Around that 2 between 260 to.

[Kyle Yeomans]

To 280.

[Isaiah Standback]

2. 290. Yeah, 2 and 290 that could play down. And I feel confident about them being able to hold the. Hold their own but also they need to be quick enough and explosive enough where I stand them up. And I still feel like they can get to the quarterback. So I'm saying like that body type around there, that 260 to 290, that's what I'm looking at them most likely acquiring in addition to getting one more really big fella up front.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Can I give you a draft watch for me?

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Just for those reasons. Keldrick Falk out of Auburn kind of fits that mold. 66280 right around there.

[Josh Rodriguez]

And Tommy wrote about him on Dallas

[Kyle Yeomans]

Cowboys.com and then I mentioned TJ Parker. He's more 642-70ish. I can't. I don't have the draft numbers in front of me. But just off the, the top, I like this. He's right around there.

[Isaiah Standback]

I like 6466. The reason why it's passing lanes. Yeah, right. Being able to knock the ball down. When you're going three, four, especially those guys getting down, they're going to kind of pinch down. The quarterback's going to want to get the ball out of their hands. You got six, six long arms. You're reaching up 10ft in the air. Right.

[Josh Rodriguez]

If you're not getting past that lineman, at least you have the length to interrupt the play.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Another guy like that denied. Dennis Sutton out of Penn State, 6 foot 5, 270. He may be a guy that's not necessarily 12 or 20, but maybe he slips a little bit. I've got a second round grade on him. Maybe he slips into the third. We'll see. But those are three guys that I think fit that bill early in the draft that you can kind of maneuver back and forth and kind of mix and match. All right, when we come back, we're going to take your phone calls. 888-855-2297. What are your thoughts on the Cowboys free agency period so far? More talking Cowboys right after this.

[Commercial Announcer]

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[Kyle Yeomans]

We're United Cowboys fans. We've got big news. Black Rifle Energy is now available at Texas Seven Eleven stores and for a limited time you can score two cans for just $6 at participating locations. These cans pack a serious punch, 200 milligrams of caffeine, veteran crafted flavor and the clean energy you need to power through those long days. So the next time you roll into your neighborhood, 711 here in Texas, grab that two for six dollar black rifle energy deal and fuel up the American way. Black Rifle Coffee America's coffee.

[Isaiah Standback]

How's it going? You see that Cowboys game?

[Kyle Yeomans]

Oh, I watched. Been seeing some good things.

[Isaiah Standback]

Totally. They have some talent. Yup.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Some great talent.

[Isaiah Standback]

And they got some fight.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Hoping this is the year.

[Isaiah Standback]

Me too. Oh, I'm Cody by the way.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I'm Travis.

[Isaiah Standback]

Nice to meet you Travis. Go Cowboys. Go Cowboys.

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[Kyle Yeomans]

Bank of America the official bank of the Dallas Cowboys Copyright 2025 bank of America Corporation.

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[Kyle Yeomans]

Back to talking cowboys. Back here on Talking Cowboys presented by Black Rifle Coffee Company, the official coffee of the Dallas Cowboys. This segment is brought to you by Invisalign. The official smile of the Dallas Cowboys with Josh Rodriguez Isaiah, stand back. Chris Beam in the back. And Kyle Yeomans. It's for the first time this off season. Time for some.

[Commercial Announcer]

Time.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Call us now.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Let's unwind. It's time for some talking Tuesday. And no better way to start it off.

[Isaiah Standback]

Thank you.

[Kyle Yeomans]

A little Nebby nose ball from Silver Springs, Maryland. What's going on, Nebby?

[Caller Nebby]

Hi, guys. Thank you so much for taking my call. Happy St. Patrick's Day.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Happy St. Patrick's Day to you.

[Caller Nebby]

All right.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Thanks,

[Caller Nebby]

guys. First of all, I want to say. I absolutely. I absolutely love the fact that we hired Christian Parker to be our new defensive coordinator. Please excuse me, because I know it's too early to tell, but I for one believe he's going to do a great. A job for us. Just out of curiosity, who do you believe? Which player do you believe will benefit most from Christian Parker's. Hiring? And before I go, I just want to say. Let's do what the 2017 Philadelphia Eagles did, and let's go from 7 and 9 to Super bowl champions because it's time for us to win a Super Bowl. Go Cowboys. Take care. Thanks for being patient with me. Have a great week. And one more. One more thing. I love you guys. Bye.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Appreciate it. We love you, too. That's awesome. Thanks, Nebby, for the call. As always and always knows ball.

[Josh Rodriguez]

You know, for a long time, I really thought Nevi knew ball, but he just brought up the Philadelphia Eagles winning the super bowl on Cowboys. The heck, man?

[Isaiah Standback]

You just want to make you angry.

[Josh Rodriguez]

What are you doing?

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah, that's what he's trying to do.

[Isaiah Standback]

He's trying to.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He's trying to light a fire a little bit.

[Isaiah Standback]

We did get one of our coaches.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Got me mad, man.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He's trying to say, hey, seven and nine to. To super bowl is possible.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And we can't.

[Isaiah Standback]

We can't avoid the fact that we do have one of their coaches if

[Kyle Yeomans]

we did take one of those guys.

[Josh Rodriguez]

He's a cowboy now.

[Isaiah Standback]

All right?

[Josh Rodriguez]

That's all. Whatever he did before this could care less.

[Isaiah Standback]

You're etching. Sketching his history.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I don't even care.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He wears the right colors now.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Amen, brother.

[Kyle Yeomans]

All right, let's answer his question.

[Isaiah Standback]

Where's your green?

[Kyle Yeomans]

I don't have it.

[Isaiah Standback]

Wow.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He already pinched.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I got an olive of. It's on, if you will.

[Kyle Yeomans]

You can pinch the back of my

[Isaiah Standback]

hand if you want. There you go.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Thanks, dude. The. Yeah. When it comes to Christian Parker's hire, who does it benefit the most? He. That was his question. Initially, y' all ain't gonna like my answer.

[Isaiah Standback]

Y' all gonna think I'm crazy.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I, I already think you're crazy, but

[Josh Rodriguez]

so the question was which current like three free agency? Okay, got it.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah. Like which returning cowboys are going to benefit the most?

[Josh Rodriguez]

Got it. Good.

[Isaiah Standback]

Sam Williams.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I agree with you actually. So I don't think you're that crazy.

[Isaiah Standback]

I got like my answer. I know, I know. Sam Williams has not been what people have wanted him to be. He has not been consistent contributor on defense. He has hurt the team with penalties. He's been a reliable special teamer. We can't dispute that whatsoever. But Sam Williams body type and playing style did not fit a four down scheme. It just did, it just never did.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And they tried to bolt him into that and it never really worked out.

[Isaiah Standback]

He's not explosive enough to be a true defensive end. He's not big enough to be, you know, saying to be your, your down lineman per se. So three four fits him perfect. He is a downhill, headbutt you in the face type of guy. And he has long arms, he can set the edge, he can run, stop like that's, that's his style. He wants to go downhill. He doesn't want to have to think and try to, you know, run around like let him go. And I think that Sam Williams, Tyrus Wheat, those, those guys, that body style, their playing type, those guys are going to benefit a lot. So I know they're not the big names that everybody is looking for right now, but in terms of what they do well and what fits them best, this is the best situation that they could possibly be in and I think they're going to be the benefactors of this Christian Parker 34 based defense.

[Kyle Yeomans]

We didn't even talk about the Tyrus we signing after he spent last year with Detroit. That's your guy.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah, I'm happy to see him. Obviously we talked about Witness 34 when Christian Parker was coming over, him switching over to a 3 4. What does that do to your roster? And I mentioned multiple times your roster has to change in terms of your personnel, your personnel, body types. You're going to start seeing a lot of more 260, 270 pound guys on this roster defensively and your special teams will benefit from it as well. And I think Wheat and Sam Williams are, those are both going to be huge contributors for you on special teams. But also they're guys that you feel comfortable being able to say, hey, go out there, stand up and any tight end that tries to block you Run them into the lap of the quarterback. Right. Any tackle that tries to come at you, just hold them in place. So I feel good about those guys and what they bring to this team. They're relentless guys that you don't have to be questioning about their effort. They're guys that you can give one task to and say, hey, go strong arm this dude and just push him back. And you feel comfortable about that and you're okay with that just being their contributions in this defensive scheme.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I'm going to cheat a little bit because this guy was given a disservice last year. I don't think he played very healthy. I think he had a rough go at it. But obviously, you know, any improvement over that will be good for him. Savone Rebel, I think obviously going from last year to this year, he's going to have a full off season under his belt. I think the fact, oh, TVs went off. That's all right. We're moving along. Savone Rebel under Christian Parker, under new Ryan cornerbacks coach Ryan Smith secondary coach rather. I think that's going to be a huge improvement for him and anything above his production last year will be better. Obviously for him, like I said, it's sort of a cheat code, but. But I think he's going to be considerably better than he was last year.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I like it. Paul in New York City. You are on New York Cowboys. What's going on?

[Caller Paul]

Paul not quitting New York City. Up close to the Syracuse for drum area.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Oh, okay. So I just got Paul in New York on my phone line, so I just assume that's on me, not upstate. My bad.

[Caller Paul]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, you're good. Sad not to see Patrick. No see Walker, but. Hey, guys. How are you guys doing?

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah, you doing all right?

[Caller Paul]

Yeah, I'm doing good. So we got Rashawn Gary, which I'm excited about, but he's what, 277, we were saying. So I have a question about a guy that we traded was OSA because you've talked about in the 290 range as the high end. Do they not think he could stand up on the outside? Kind of like Gary? He's not much different on the build other than being a tackle. Was that something that they were looking at? Also with Parker, I think the best is going to be the secondary is going to get the biggest benefit. Bland might get back to what he's doing. I think it will help revel. That's all I got today. Just wanted to say hi, everyone.

[Isaiah Standback]

Thanks, man.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Appreciate You, Paul, appreciate the call from up there in the Syracuse area.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I think it would be silly to think that Oso couldn't contribute in this defense even under Christian Parker. I think the thing that really hampered him was the money, the fact that he's that hit that he was going to have this year. I think it was too much for the Cowboys blood to account for this year while also trying to improve several aspects of your defense. I think they got what they thought was the most they could get out of him as far in terms of a trade which helped them and has has them currently under the cap. So I think that's mainly it. I think it was a business decision, which is unfortunate because you want a guy like OSA on your team.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah, it was entirely a business decision because, you know, they, they really had a tough time moving on, I think from osa, just in having conversations around the building. They loved osa. He was a leader in the locker room, somebody that was willing to do whatever he was asked. Right?

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Whenever it came to making this team successful.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Ultimate character guy.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Was he a perfect fit in a three, four? No, but you're going to play multiple. He would have had places to be successful even if it was in a two down scenario and even if it was in spare time.

[Josh Rodriguez]

But for that cap hit for a rotational defensive lineman, it just didn't cap hit number two.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And it makes sense for 27 and 28.

[Isaiah Standback]

That's.

[Kyle Yeomans]

That's really where the money helps because you actually kind of take a borderline.

[Josh Rodriguez]

That's a six year.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah, I think it's like plus four of what it would have been and like plus 12 over the term of the contract. But you get that all up front. And then the 27 and 28 seasons, you're off the books entirely. And so that helps you a ton over the next two years when you're trying to continue this window and build into the future. But then also osa, it was the contract, it was the scheme fit and the body type and just kind of where he was. But. Oh, and the value. The value was the third element there of where San Francisco comes in and says, we're going to give you a top 100 pick. That's.

[Josh Rodriguez]

It's hard when you didn't have a day two pick at all.

[Kyle Yeomans]

No, that's a lot of value there. Did you think OSA could have fit in the system? Yeah, I think so.

[Isaiah Standback]

It could fit in any system. Him, that's the thing about osa, outside of the fact that he's a great human, great leader. Drinks a lot of water, too. I'm gonna miss seeing that big water jug, you know, walking out the locker room. Just always was willing to do stuff with the media. But I mean, he's just, he was a great dude.

[Josh Rodriguez]

But I hate, I hate to see

[Isaiah Standback]

him, I hate to see him leave, man. But I, I understand it from the business perspective, but in terms of what he could do, also could play in any system, whatever you ask osa, he's going to contribute. He's strong, he's physical, he's explosive. All the things. There's not a box that he doesn't really ch. So good luck to him and his contributions that he'll make to San Francisco. But he was just too expensive for what they were going to be asking him to do here in Dallas this year and what you can replace him with. You can get multiple guys for what you're going to be paying him this year. Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

All right, let's take our second break. When we come back, it's time for a little bit of point of reference. I'll explain this gig when we come back. A little bit of a game to play. No, it's not all right. When we come back with more talking Cowboys ways.

[Commercial Announcer]

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[Kyle Yeomans]

It's a Pepper thing Cowboys fans, we've got big news. Black Rifle Energy is now available at Texas Seven Eleven stores and for a limited time you can score two cans for just $6 at participating locations. These cans pack a serious punch, 200 milligrams of caffeine, veteran crafted flavor and the clean energy you need to power through those long days. So next time you roll into your neighborhood 711 here in Texas, grab that two for six dollar black rifle energy deal and fuel up the American way. Black Rifle Coffee America's coffee getting at

[Commercial Announcer]

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[Kyle Yeomans]

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[Isaiah Standback]

Back

[Kyle Yeomans]

to talking Cowboys Back here on Talking Cowboys presented by Black Rifle Coffee Company, the official coffee of the Dallas Cowboys with Josh Rodriguez, Isaiah, stand back. Chris Beam in the back. All right, this is called points of reference.

[Isaiah Standback]

Okay.

[Kyle Yeomans]

This is seeing how recency bias is going to get us in trouble because I'm going to revisit this at the end of the regular season and I've got a. I've got a calendar

[Isaiah Standback]

spot

[Kyle Yeomans]

already reserved at the end of the regular season in 2026.

[Isaiah Standback]

It's not fair. Freaking no season.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I know I'll ask him about it it and and honestly, I know he's listening. If you want to text it in. No, see, you could totally text. Do it. He also said that he will allow the. The story that I shared at the beginning of the episode.

[Josh Rodriguez]

That's good.

[Kyle Yeomans]

But this is rating each football move that the Cowboys have made so far.

[Isaiah Standback]

Okay.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And we're gonna do it pretty quickly here, one through ten. One being. This is like a Super bowl caliber move. This is the most incredible move you've made all offseason. So if you believe there's one of those, then go ahead and say it. If you don't believe there's one of those, then don't say it.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Don't do it the opposite way.

[Kyle Yeomans]

What is it?

[Josh Rodriguez]

You said one is the super bowl move.

[Kyle Yeomans]

No, I didn't. Oh, right here on the text message, it says 10 equals Super bowl caliber.

[Josh Rodriguez]

No, I thought you just said one Super Bowl.

[Isaiah Standback]

Okay.

[Kyle Yeomans]

No, sorry. Ten is super bowl caliber. If I said it the wrong. Yeah, then that's what I mean. 10 is a Super bowl caliber move. One is the team is worse now because of this move.

[Josh Rodriguez]

So.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Got it right around five means you're steady, right?

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

So anything five and above is a good move. Anything five and below, probably not. Let's start with the big ones that happened even prior to free agency opening. Javante Williams being signed with Dallas. Where does that rank?

[Josh Rodriguez]

Oh, that's an eight.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Okay. Yeah, that's an eight.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah. I give it a seven.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Seven. Okay. I think I'm probably right there.

[Josh Rodriguez]

It's a lot of money obviously tied into his contract, but, I mean, he was an excellent contributor to your team last year, and you. He wants to. You have him as the backbone of your run game, obviously, so. Yeah, yeah, absolutely. I think you're in that.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And if you're in the chat, too, go ahead and give your.

[Commercial Announcer]

And I.

[Josh Rodriguez]

The contract is reasonable, although big. I mean, I think it's a reasonable tag for what?

[Kyle Yeomans]

Now that we're seeing what some of these running backs are getting to, I think you actually kind of got it for a steal.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah. Some of these other hometown discount. A little bit.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah.

[Commercial Announcer]

A little bit.

[Kyle Yeomans]

All right. George Pickens being placed on the franchise tag, it's kind of a tough one.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Four.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I mean, it's not done yet. It's necessary, so I'm fine with it.

[Isaiah Standback]

Five.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Five. You kind of got to see where it goes.

[Isaiah Standback]

It was gonna happen.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah.

[Caller Nebby]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Foregone conclusion.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Ten would be signing him, but.

[Commercial Announcer]

Yeah.

[Isaiah Standback]

Oh, okay.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I like that. Do you. Where would it be if he. If they do sign him for you?

[Isaiah Standback]

Eight. Eight.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Pretty high Move. Brandon Aubrey, second round tender.

[Isaiah Standback]

I give it an eight.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah, yeah. Just to keep him around.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah.

[Isaiah Standback]

Because he, I mean, nobody's offered anything yet, right?

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And I don't know if anybody will.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Well, Fairbairn only got 6.5.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Exactly.

[Josh Rodriguez]

And I think honestly that's a really good strategic move by the Cowboys.

[Isaiah Standback]

Great move by the Cowboys.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah. I'd give it an eight. Yeah.

[Isaiah Standback]

He lost. Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Well, that was kind of.

[Josh Rodriguez]

That's if he wanted 10, which the reporters.

[Isaiah Standback]

I don't think he wanted 10.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah, yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I think they want.

[Isaiah Standback]

I think he wanted 10. I don't think he asked for 10.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Fair.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He would take.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I also wanted.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah, Tim, Tim would be nice. TJ Bass, second round tender.

[Isaiah Standback]

Five.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Okay. TJ Bass. Yeah. They clearly don't want to lose him. I would go five.

[Kyle Yeomans]

That's where I'm at too. All right. This is where it starts getting juicy. Rashawn Gary, trade for a fourth round pick.

[Isaiah Standback]

In comparison to previous fourth round pick trades, I will give this a 7.5.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Okay. I'd give this an 8 because of the pay cut that he agreed to as well. If you incorporate that into the move, I'd say that's an eight.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Two years. 32 million. 16 on average per year.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yep.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Sounds pretty good to me. Solid edge rusher.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah, I'm going to give it a, I'll give it an A. I think he's a good player and we talked about this already. He gives you something better than what you had on defense last year in terms of rushing the passer by a long shot and he gives you versatility from a down lineman, a stand up lineman, whatever. You want to use him as stand up outside linebacker rather it gives you opportunities there. Sam Williams being re signed for Dallas.

[Josh Rodriguez]

So 3.5.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah. This is six, I think, I'm thinking six too. But I also agreed with Isaiah and the fact that I think he's better in the system.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And I think he benefits from Christian Parker here.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I think I'll just need to see that.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I, I, I get it. And I, I could see fans in the chat probably saying 1, 1, negative 6. Like there's, there's probably going to be some growing pains there.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Yep.

[Kyle Yeomans]

But he's back for one year. It's on a low end deal. If he makes any sort of impact, then I think it's a cherry on top.

[Isaiah Standback]

You'll surprise us.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Jalen Thompson signing with Dallas.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Oh, I love that move. For me currently as we sit here, give me an 8 because of the, the the player, the value of the position. And then I also think that the coaches are going to benefit from a guy that already knows the system he worked with. Ryan Smith, working with Christian Parker, I think is going to be beneficial to him. I think for the, the price that you got him for, honestly, that's a. That's an A move for me.

[Isaiah Standback]

Give it a 8.

[Kyle Yeomans]

This is my favorite move of the off season so far, so I'm going to give it a nine. Oh, I, I, I.

[Isaiah Standback]

One step away from Super Bowl.

[Kyle Yeomans]

The fit. Yeah, not there, but I love the fit for Jalen Thompson. I think he could be a star here if. If it all goes well and if he stays healthy.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Like those words. Kyle knows ball.

[Kyle Yeomans]

PJ Lock. Safety. Signing with Dallas.

[Isaiah Standback]

Seven.

[Kyle Yeomans]

You like it?

[Isaiah Standback]

Seven.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Okay, so you like him as another guy.

[Josh Rodriguez]

It's a practical move.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He's gonna start for you.

[Isaiah Standback]

Do you think starting is so, like, subjective?

[Kyle Yeomans]

Okay.

[Isaiah Standback]

I think this is going to depend on who we're playing.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Good point.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I think it's a very practical move. I think your safety room is obviously better than it was last year, but I think he's kind of an average player. What I'm seeing so far, I'd say five.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I'd give it a six. Same kind of thing. Like, you're better than what you were. Gives you options and you're better than what you are.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Certainly less bad.

[Kyle Yeomans]

That helps. Otito.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Oh, again, another depth piece. Improves the. The depth behind Quinn and Kenny Clark. You lost three contributors there, and it's more of a fit scheme because of those guys. But, you know, half a sack on his career, 44 solo tackles, one year, $3 million. I'd say five.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Okay.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah, give me a six.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Five. Yeah, I'm at a five. Sam Howell. Oh, quarterback.

[Isaiah Standback]

Give me an eight.

[Kyle Yeomans]

You like it that much?

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah. Wow. I like it a lot. I don't think people understand if you, if you were to lose Dak, you're in a bad. You were in a bad spot.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Oh, yeah, yeah.

[Isaiah Standback]

Like, I don't think people have no chance like you, really. No disrespect to Milton. Hopefully he's gotten a lot better so far during this, this off period.

[Kyle Yeomans]

We just haven't seen it.

[Josh Rodriguez]

But now we get to find out.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah, but now you get to find out. And, you know, Sam Howell is a dog. Like, Sam Howell's a dog. He's not a freaking. He's not a, you know, world beater, but he is somebody. You put him in the game, you got a chance. In my eyes, you got a freaking chance.

[Kyle Yeomans]

It's gonna be fun. Whenever we get into our production meetings for the preseason, we're gonna be sitting there at a table at some Marriott, wherever we are, getting ready for a. A preseason broadcast, and we're gonna turn to.

[Isaiah Standback]

I.

[Kyle Yeomans]

No, Marriott's where we.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Okay.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Their partner. Don't worry.

[Caller Nebby]

Okay.

[Kyle Yeomans]

The.

[Isaiah Standback]

The.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Where we. We turn to Isaiah, we're like, what do you want to talk about in the open? Isaiah. And Isaiah's gonna be like this Quarterback two battle. This is what we want to see. Sam Powell versus. Versus Joe Milton.

[Isaiah Standback]

Can't wait.

[Kyle Yeomans]

He's gonna use that on the broadcast now.

[Isaiah Standback]

I'm still. I don't.

[Kyle Yeomans]

If I don't use it now. Tyrus Wheat signing with the team.

[Isaiah Standback]

That's good. Good value. Give me a 6.5.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I'll say 7 to 6. Okay. Matt Hennessy signing with the team.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I actually like that move. Like you said, he's a very versatile lineman. And if you're losing Brock Hoffman, that's a good replacement for that. Yeah, give me six.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Six.

[Isaiah Standback]

I would have been okay with Hoffman. So give me a five.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah. Hoffman, man, I don't know who cost you more money. Probably Hoffman. Honestly, with that deal, I would. I would give me a five with Hennessy. I don't think it moves the needle a ton for me.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I also really hope Rob Jones gets another shot because he had an injury last year. Like, I really want to see.

[Isaiah Standback]

Neck injury.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah, I want to see. Good call. Kobe Durant signing at the cornerback spot.

[Isaiah Standback]

Good. I.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Really good. I'd say 7.5. The value of the player and the ceiling that he has. So give me a. Yeah, 7.5.

[Isaiah Standback]

Give me a 7.6. 7. 8.

[Caller Nebby]

Okay.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And then Princeton fan returning at the title.

[Isaiah Standback]

Oh, I love Princeton.

[Commercial Announcer]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

That's your guy.

[Isaiah Standback]

That's my guy. I love that. He's so underutilized, man. Yeah, give me a. Give me a 6.5.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Okay.

[Josh Rodriguez]

6.

[Kyle Yeomans]

7, actually.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Wow.

[Kyle Yeomans]

6. Nah. 6.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Okay. Not.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Not a 6.

[Isaiah Standback]

7. 6.

[Kyle Yeomans]

The reason I even bring up this conversation is what would be a 10 from here on out? It doesn't have to be a specific name.

[Isaiah Standback]

There are no tens out there.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Okay. But you could make a move. Let's say George Pickens, the move that happened last year, a trade, whatever it may be. What do you have to get in order for it to be a 10? Can it be a position group? It can be whatever you think. There's no more 10 signings. I don't think. But to make a move this off make a trade.

[Isaiah Standback]

It would have to be a beast of a receiver or a beast of a. Of a corner for me.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Well, I think Jayton Jalen Waddles on the trade block, right?

[Isaiah Standback]

He gone.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Oh, yeah, you gone? What happened? Where did he go?

[Isaiah Standback]

He is in Denver now. Freaking freak.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Wonder if. First round. Wonder if the front office's ears perk up when they see Jill and Wall go for a first and a late.

[Isaiah Standback]

It was a 30th overall in a. In an early fourth.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah. And then a third pick swap, right? Yeah, something like that.

[Josh Rodriguez]

Gotta wonder if they're like, I mean, if you.

[Isaiah Standback]

I mean, adding, obviously.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I hope not.

[Isaiah Standback]

Obviously you don't need it here. But if you were to do that, then, I mean, you're pretty much making your offense, you know, invincible.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Yeah. But you got to find a way to retain one of your guys already.

[Isaiah Standback]

Oh, for sure. No, that's what I'm saying. That's not a reality for Dallas, but I'm saying, like, it would require a move like that. Like, I'm sure Denver fans are like, oh, crap. Heck yeah. You know what I'm saying? Like, we're not sitting here expecting that to happen, but if it did, we'd be like, oh, yeah, let's go.

[Kyle Yeomans]

And Miami's got a couple first round picks that they could spin and they needed a wide receiver now. Maybe. Maybe they'd be willing to.

[Isaiah Standback]

There's still a couple DNS out there that I think are on the trading block or, you know, even are in free agency that you would still be like, oh, that's a nice addition. Yeah, I'll take that.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Talking about Bosa.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I'm talking about linebacker, buddy.

[Kyle Yeomans]

I need a linebacker too, dude. I need a badass linebacker for real. That would be my. That would be my 10 or both. Make it happen.

[Caller Nebby]

I.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Both would be great. I'm cool with both. I'm all good with BoF.

[Isaiah Standback]

Yeah.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Both of them.

[Isaiah Standback]

Them both.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Both of them. All right, that does it for us here on Talking Cowboys. Hope you had fun with us over the last I did minutes. Did you have. Yeah. Are you back next week?

[Isaiah Standback]

Yes.

[Kyle Yeomans]

Oh, good. Thank goodness. You scared me first.

[Isaiah Standback]

The week after.

[Josh Rodriguez]

I don't think me and Kyle and it wouldn't be great podcast. I'll tell you that right now.

[Kyle Yeomans]

That'd be rough. All right, that does it for us For Josh Rodriguez, for Isaiah. Stand back. For Chris Beam in the back of Kyle Yeomans saying, so long from Talking Cowboys, we'll see you next week.

[Isaiah Standback]

Week.

[Kyle Yeomans]

This has been a production of Dallas Cowboys.com and the Dallas Cowboys Football Club. How about this?

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