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2008-2009 Offseason: Cowboys Take Out
Terrell Owens
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- March 5,
2009 At
12:52 AM EST
- By
Eric M. Scharf
The Dallas Cowboys have released controversial wide receiver Terrell
Owens.
As Michael Irvin used to say during the height of his off-the-field
troubles, “Run it with the same intensity. Go ahead and run it with
the same intensity!”
And so shall the media outlets of the world run it. Yes, the world,
because, to Jerry’s delight, in both good and bad times, “anything
Cowboys” is a story worth sharing.
Whoever was involved in helping Jerry make the decision to release
Terrell has gotten their wish. Wishing, these days, goes along with
hoping and praying, and people everywhere within the organization
had better hope the problem really has left the building.
There
should also be some praying on whether or not the Cowboys currently
have the budding talent (with just enough experience) to reasonably replace
the undeniable skill the drama
magnet has taken with him.
The problem – according to Jerry – was one of locker room continuity,
offensive team unity, and the desire to give the younger receivers
the opportunity to prove their future value sooner rather than
later.
Now – not only do the younger receivers get the chance to prove
themselves as long-term options for the Cowboys – they need to prove
themselves. There is no option to ride the pine and try it again next year or the year after.
If Miles Austin, Sam Hurd, and Isaiah Stanback can stay healthy,
be(come) regularly reliable, and get the job done this year . . . then one, two, or all three of them may be rewarded with
longer-term commitments. Fans everywhere will be rewarded with
relief at knowing Jerry was correct in his decision to part ways
with Terrell.
If, however, these youngsters tank under the limelight, the Cowboys
will be back on the market for another established veteran receiver
or using another first round draft choice on someone they hope is as
T.O.-dynamic a receiver in the pros as he was during his college career.
We will not know if this latest move by the Cowboys is risky or
right until the season ends . . . with a playoff birth, delivered by
a consistently-good offensive unit, and led by an even more
comfortable and commanding Tony Romo.
While "The Tortured Cowboys Fan" may sound overly cautious, realism
is the appropriate perspective to maintain in the face of the
Cowboys' seemingly endless (and hopeless ?) search for
Michael Irvin and Alvin Harper dynamic duo replacements.
Fans – regardless of their feelings towards Jerry – should very much
want him to be correct.
The Tortured Cowboys Fan wants
back-ups of "America's Team" to head up
to the starting line-up. Their receiver dilemma, just like their safety
dilemma, needs to be Taken Out as soon as possible.
We shall see. We always do.
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