The Cowboys and Rams have discussed a trade that would send linebacker Bobby Carpenter to St. Louis in exchange for a player. Reports are surfacing that St. Louis is prepared to send offensive tackle Alex Barron to Dallas in the deal.
Both players were first-round picks, with Carpenter going to the Cowboys in 2006. In four years, he started just one game – occurring as a rookie in 2006, when he also started a game in the playoffs.
Since then, he's been more of a backup player and special teams contributor. This past season, Carpenter had his biggest role with the team, serving as the dime linebacker, replacing the departed Kevin Burnett.
As for Barron, he was drafted 19th overall in 2005, one spot ahead of Marcus Spears. Barron has started 74 of the 76 games played, although it's been reported the Rams have not been pleased with the consistency of Barron. St. Louis drafted Jason Smith with the No. 2 pick in the 2009 draft and then took Indiana lineman Roger Saffold with the 33rd pick in this year's draft.
Barron started all 16 games at left tackle last year, 15 games at right tackle in 2008 and all 16 games at left tackle in 2007.
If Barron indeed comes to the Cowboys, he will likely compete with Doug Free for the starting left tackle position, but his experience playing both positions could also increase his value as a swing-tackle to back up both spots.
More details to come.
