DE, like WR, is suddenly a very crowded room for the Cowboys. Suppose Randy Gregory does make the 53 as a DE. Do you think the Cowboys carry more than 4 DEs and go light at say DT? Would the Cowboys consider moving Tyrone Crawford back to DT to bolster the depth there and keep some of the other talent at the DE spot? - GARY DAVIS
Bryan: I believe they go long at defensive line. I don't see them doing anything by moving Crawford. If they add, it would likely be to move someone like Kony Ealy inside or work the waiver wire.
Rob: Well, David Irving's four-game suspension means technically they can go heavier on the D-Line (last year they kept eight) for the first month. I think Crawford is preparing to play end, not tackle, this year. On paper, this might be as deep as the Cowboys have been at DE in a few years. DeMarcus Lawrence, Crawford, Taco Charlton, Dorance Armstrong, Kony Ealy, Charles Tapper – that's a lot of competition for Gregory. Yet, my gut feeling is the Cowboys want to find a place for him if he can earn it.
With his back injury history and only a single season of elite production, I understand why the Cowboys chose to give D-Law the franchise tag and not offer a long-term deal. However, premier pass rushers are a rare commodity and if he has another strong season his price tag could inflate significantly. In my opinion it is worth it to take a chance on a QB or pass rusher. Do you think the Cowboys made a mistake not getting a deal done? - GINO TOMASELLI
Bryan: I have said all along, if Lawrence has another outstanding season they will find a way to pay him. Could be wrong but that's my belief.
Rob: Well, they always could franchise Lawrence again next year and keep him under contract that way, just like Anthony Spencer played on two straight tags. My guess is Lawrence would prefer a long-term deal with some security after this season. And as Bryan said, the Cowboys are known for rewarding their top guys. But there's no question his earning power could jump even higher next year.
