Swagger Returning to Big D

Obviously the big story for the Dallas Cowboys during the offseason was the acquisition of the mercurial, self-promoting Terrell Owens. The signing no doubt has many thinking the Cowboys could get back on top of the tough NFC East this year, and I have to agree... but for a different reason.

The defense!

Assuming Parcells and Owens can coexist through training camp, there's little doubt Owens will be a huge sparkplug for the team's offense. But the reason this team is going to move to the top of the division this year, in my opinion, is a defense that is ready to move up among the elite in the league.

DeMarcus Ware was an animal his rookie season, spending more time in the backfield than running back Julius Jones. Along with other youngsters like Chris Canty, Terrence Newman, Marcus Spears, Akin Ayodele, rookie Bobby Carpenter --not to mention Roy Williams playing the enforcer role-- this defensive unit is loaded.

The only serious concern I see is with the offensive line. Drew Blesoe does have a tendency to hold the ball a little too long, and he needs good protection to be successful because he has very little mobility. But I don't think the Cowboys are going to have to put a lot of points on the board this year, and the presence of Owens will help keep defenses honest.

Things could change as the preseason unfolds, but as of now, I believe the Cowboys are the favorites to win a very tight division. Read more...