Cowboys Mailbag:Mick's Mail: 07/27

How far up could the Cowboys move in the first round if they packaged the 12th overall pick and their third-round pick in a trade? Who would have to be available for you to trade both picks to move up? 

I don't understand all the 1-year contracts. It seems to me they set the stage for the Cowboys being in the same place again this time next year. I get it in the case of older or injured players looking for a prove it contract, but why not sign someone like Cobie Durant, who is coming off his rookie contract, to a multi-year deal if you're convinced he can help your team?

Since the non-exclusive tag allows players to negotiate with other teams, why haven't we heard anything about George Pickens' agent trying to work on a big contract with another team? I would think no offers would mean less leverage when it comes to negotiations with the Cowboys. Your thoughts?

I remember in years past the Cowboys employed older, veteran backup quarterbacks like Brad Johnson, Jon Kitna and Andy Dalton. Was that a front office preference or coach's decision? If it was the front office, what changed? Would you prefer they had more experience at backup QB?

Are you concerned not just about how many inside linebackers are on the roster, but the size of the guys they currently have? I know it's a different day and age, but generally the 3-4 calls for larger inside linebackers.

Would you rather have the draft before free agency starts, like every other major sport? In the draft you are regulated to who is available at the time your turn comes up. But then knowing what you have and need, free agency would then allow you to go get any player you wanted, as long as you have the money?

Does placing a tender on Bass indicate the Cowboys are really more willing to let him walk and want to make sure they get something, or do they actually value him more?

I know the Cowboys' goal is defense, defense and more defense in this draft, but what happens if by more than one miracle running back Jeremiyah Love or one of the top offensive tackles is available at No. 12? What do the Cowboys do?

Why have the Cowboys not yet addressed linebacker in free agency or with a trade? This was a glaring weakness last season. How concerned should we be?

Can this defense have a successful rebuild if the free agent signings only include good depth pieces? Or is the only way to turn this defense around depend on a top tier player?

What are your thoughts after this first wave of free agency? Are you pleased with what the Cowboys have done, or does it feel like business as usual?