[an error occurred while processing this directive] 08/28/2008

A big game for Dallas Cowboys hopefuls

Dallas Cowboys receiver Danny Amendola (left), talking with Adam Jones, gets his lst chance to impress coaches tonight.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Dallas Cowboys receiver Danny Amendola (left), talking with Adam Jones, gets his lst chance to impress coaches tonight.

For some, tonight's preseason finale between the Cowboys and Vikings is just another boring affair that will have little or no impact on the regular season. For others, such as Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Danny Amendola, it means everything.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

08/26/2008

Romo-to-Owens connection goes long way for Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (left) and Terrell Owens connected on 10 touchdown passes of 21 yards or longer last season.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (left) and Terrell Owens connected on 10 touchdown passes of 21 yards or longer last season.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is not worried about missing Terrell Owens against Houston on a deep pass, writes Todd Archer. "I feel like the best thing that happens to me are the mistakes that I make," Romo said, "because very seldom do I make the same mistake twice."
Blog: Dallas Cowboys
Video: Phillips on practice

08/27/2008

It's more than an exhibition for Dallas Cowboys' televison crew
Once the regular season starts, the networks take over production of games. But that doesn't mean the Cowboys' television staff is done working.

Long shot was the only shot for 'Hard Knocks'
If Todd Lowber believes any publicity is good publicity, the free-agent wide receiver has got to be basking in the Hard Knocks spotlight. On the other hand, how much abuse should a man with a dream have to take? Offensive coordinator Jason Garrett on Lowber: "The ultimate project."

Ex-Dallas Cowboy Bob Hayes re-nomintated for Hall of Fame

Former Cowboys receiver Bob Hayes caught 371 passes for a franchise-record 71 touchdowns.
DMN file
Former Cowboys receiver Bob Hayes caught 371 passes for a franchise-record 71 touchdowns.

Bob Hayes didn't give many defensive backs a second chance in his days as a game-breaking wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys. But the Pro Football Hall of Fame has decided to give Hayes a second chance.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys crack down on Texas Stadium tailgating

A Dallas Cowboys fan fires up his grill in an area of the Texas Stadium parking lot that will be off-limits to tailgaters during the stadium's final season.
DMN File

Fans parking in the blue lots can no longer pull up early, throw out a grill, plop down some chairs, and pump up their pride wherever they want.
Link: New tailgating rules
Cowboys stadium coverage

08/26/2008

Bartel to start in Dallas Cowboys' preseason finale
If quarterback Richard Bartel is to do better than make the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad in 2008, he has to prove it Thursday night. Bartel said he will start the preseason finale against Minnesota at Texas Stadium.

Hard Knocks: Star treatment for Dallas Cowboys' Carpenter?
Getting star treatment – or at least as close to star treatment as anyone can get on this ensemble show – should be linebacker Bobby Carpenter.

08/27/2008

Spears may finally emerge for Dallas Cowboys
Marcus Spears is finally playing like a No. 1 pick, according to Jean-Jacques Taylor. He's had the best training camp of any defensive player. Now he just has to take it into the regular season.

08/26/2008

Kosier injury is latest test of Dallas Cowboys' depth

Dallas Cowboys left guard Kyle Kosier has started between Andre Gurode and Flozell Adams for two seasons.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Dallas Cowboys left guard Kyle Kosier has started between Andre Gurode and Flozell Adams for two seasons.

Propped up by two crutches, Kyle Kosier couldn't believe he'll miss four to six weeks with a hairline fracture in his right foot. Pat McQuistan, Joe Berger and Cory Procter will all play left guard in Thursday's preseason finale for the Dallas Cowboys against Minnesota.
Video: Injuries
Chat: Archer (8/25)
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

08/25/2008

Dallas Cowboys chat: Kosier injury, kick coverage are sore spots

Houston's Andre Davis burned the Cowboys for a 68-yard return on the opening kickoff Friday.
AP
Houston's Andre Davis burned the Cowboys for a 68-yard return on the opening kickoff Friday.

The Cowboys finally got their first preseason victory Friday, but not everything was positive. The offensive line took a hit when Kyle Kosier was injured and the kick coverage units continued to struggle. Todd Archer addressed those issues and much more in Monday's chat.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Kickoffs targeted by Dallas Cowboys' Folk
Nick Folk is just about ready for the regular season. The second-year kicker has made all six field goal attempts in the preseason but said Monday he needs work on his kickoffs.

Dallas Cowboys' Pro Bowl credentials are deceiving

Cowboys running back Marion Barber made the Pro Bowl last season despite not rushing for 1,000 yards.
G.J. McCARTHY / DMN
Cowboys running back Marion Barber made the Pro Bowl last season despite not rushing for 1,000 yards.

The Dallas Cowboys have to be considered the favorites in the NFC. How could they not be with their 13 returning Pro Bowl players? But looks can be deceiving, writes Tim Cowlishaw, who says the 2007 Cowboys should be viewed as a seven- or eight-Pro Bowl-player team.
Blogs: Tim Cowlishaw | Dallas Cowboys

Texas Stadium injury threatens career of Texans' Willams
Texans receiver Harry Williams, who injured his neck and spine in Friday's preseason game against the Cowboys, will probably never play football again, team doctors said Monday.

08/24/2008

Dallas Cowboys' Ellis keeps applying the pressure

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Greg Ellis (left) had a stretch of 10 sacks over an eight-game span last season.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Greg Ellis (left) had a stretch of 10 sacks over an eight-game span last season.

The 2007 season was a magical one for Greg Ellis. The big question for the 33-year old Ellis now: Can he have another double-digit sack season? Defensive coordinator Brian Stewart believes he can.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Baby daughter brings a rush of joy to Dallas Cowboys' Ware, wife

Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware gets a big smile from his daughter Marley after a practice in Oxnard, Calif.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware gets a big smile from his daughter Marley after a practice in Oxnard, Calif.

On the field, Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware plays at a Pro Bowl level. Off the field, he's a father to 6-month-old daughter Marley, who changes his disposition from a game-face scowl to a smile. Times are fun for Ware and his wife Taniqua.
 Blog: Dallas Cowboys

08/23/2008

Dallas Cowboys' Kosier could miss 6 weeks
The Dallas Cowboys have not needed to re-shuffle their starting offensive line because of injury in three seasons, but that will change.

Former Dallas Cowboy Frank Cornish dies at 40

Frank Cornish (left) and teammate Brian Nielsen during a trip to London in August of 1993.
AP
Frank Cornish (left) and teammate Brian Nielsen during a trip to London in August of 1993.

Frank Cornish IV, who played on two Super Bowl-winning teams with the Dallas Cowboys, died in his sleep at his Southlake home Friday night. He was 40. Cornish, an offensive lineman, played with the Cowboys on Super Bowl-winning teams in 1992 and 1993, starting five games.
 Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Barber the finisher could be special as Dallas Cowboys starter

Marion Barber carried 13 times for 75 yards and a touchdown in Friday's 23-22 win against the Texans.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Marion Barber carried 13 times for 75 yards and a touchdown in Friday's 23-22 win against the Texans.

Throughout his three-year NFL career, Marion Barber has been a finisher. It's his opportunity to be a starter - at last - that makes one pause to consider just how special the possibilities could be, writes Tim Cowlishaw.
Video: Recap
 Photos: Cowboys 23, Texans 22
Blogs: Dallas Cowboys | Cowlishaw

Five key issues
The first-team offense and defense performed much better in the Cowboys' preseason home opener Friday night against Houston.

08/22/2008

Getting results: Dallas Cowboys deny Texans, 23-22

Cowboys wide receiver Patrick Crayton (right) is congratulated by Jason Witten after scoring a first-quarter touchdown.
G.J. MCCARTHY / DMN
Cowboys wide receiver Patrick Crayton (right) is congratulated by Jason Witten after scoring a first-quarter touchdown.

Through the first two preseason games, Wade Phillips was not into results, just evaluation. On Friday, the Dallas Cowboys got the result - reclaiming the Governor's Cup with a 23-22 win against Houston at Texas Stadium - and Phillips and the coaches were able to do more evaluating.
Video: Recap
 Photos: Cowboys-Texans
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Felix Jones bottled up in home debut for Dallas Cowboys
The Houston Texans weren't about to let Felix Jones dazzle in his home debut. Jones, the Dallas Cowboys' first-round draft pick, didn't play in the first half. When he finally got on the field, he couldn't get anything going.

Texans receiver hospitalized after injury
Houston Texans wide receiver Harry Williams will undergo spine surgery this weekend at Presbyterian Hospital after suffering a neck injury in the team's loss to the Cowboys on Friday night.

Lions sign former Dallas Cowboys QB Henson
he Detroit Lions have signed former Cowboys quarterback Drew Henson, a high school and college standout who has struggled at the professional level in baseball and football.

08/21/2008

Spark needed from Dallas Cowboys' starters tonight

Cowboys tight end Jason Witten says the team's starters need to play better in the preseason.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Cowboys tight end Jason Witten says the team's starters need to play better in the preseason.

The Dallas Cowboys don't need to turn in a Super Bowl-winning performance tonight (7 p.m., Ch. 11) against Houston, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor. It's just another preseason game. But is it too much to ask the starters to perform as though they'll be ready for the regular season?
Video: Cowboys-Texans preview
Blogs: Dallas Cowboys

It's an exhibition, and Dallas Cowboys, Texans hope to show something
The Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans will both have a sense of urgency in tonight's preseason game at Texas Stadium. Both teams are expected to play their starters for three quarters.

Barbers - Dallas' Marion and Houston's Dominique - meet for first time in NFL
Today will be special for the Barber family. Cowboys running back Marion Barber will see his brother, Texans safety Dominique Barber, across the line of scrimmage for the first time in an NFL game.

Dallas Cowboys' Jones to open at corner vs. Texans

Adam Jones (right), who worked against Terrell Owens for much of training camp, is scheduled to start Friday against Houston.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Adam Jones (right), who worked against Terrell Owens for much of training camp, is scheduled to start Friday against Houston.

As Adam Jones has grown more comfortable with the Dallas Cowboys' system, his workload has increased. The coaching staff believes he's ready for some heavy lifting. Coach Wade Phillips said Jones will start at left cornerback in Friday's preseason game against Houston.
Video: Cowboys report | Fans enjoy open practice
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

08/20/2008

Surgery sidelines Dallas Cowboys linebacker Spencer
The Dallas Cowboys' received another blow to the linebacker position when Anthony Spencer underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee Wednesday morning. He is expected to miss two to four weeks.

Dallas Cowboys fans get chance to soak it all in
Greg Luttrell wanted to surprise his sons, Ethan and Grant, on Wednesday by taking them to the open practice at Texas Stadium to kick off the Cowboys' final season there.

08/21/2008

'Knocks' reveals whining rookie, camp drama
Someday Martellus Bennett may look back at Wednesday night's Hard Knocks and laugh at being portrayed as a petulant child unwilling to follow a simple direction. The Cowboys can only hope their second-round draft choice sees the light before it's too late.

Dallas Cowboys practice report (8/20)
Dallas Cowboys practice report (8/20)

08/19/2008

Experience the key to improving Dallas Cowboys' offense

The Cowboys were the NFL's second-highest scoring team last season, Jason Garrett's (left) first calling plays.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
The Cowboys were the NFL's second-highest scoring team last season, Jason Garrett's (left) first calling plays.

Everything seemed to work for Jason Garrett as a playcaller last year. The Dallas Cowboys scored 455 points, the second-highest total in team history. They averaged 365.7 yards per game, third in the NFL. Seven offensive players were named to the Pro Bowl. How does Garrett improve upon that?
Video: Practice report (8/19)
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Man-to-man is a zone of comfort for Dallas Cowboys' corners
With the additions of Adam Jones and rookies Mike Jenkins and Orlando Scandrick, the Dallas Cowboys' coaching staff believes the defense can play more man-to-man coverage.

Expect real Dallas Cowboys to appear under Friday night lights

You can expect to see much more of Tony Romo and the Cowboys' starters in Friday's preseason game against Houston, Jean-Jacques Taylor writes.
Getty Images
You can expect to see much more of Tony Romo and the Cowboys' starters in Friday's preseason game against Houston, Jean-Jacques Taylor writes.

The Dallas Cowboys' starters know they have yet to put together a complete performance. They do have pride - even in the preseason. That's why you'll get the best they have to offer against the Houston Texans, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor in the latest installment of Inside the Dallas Cowboys.
Blog: Jean-Jacques Taylor

Roy Williams misses practice
There was a notable absence from Tuesday's practice at Valley Ranch.

Dallas Cowboys' practice report (8/19)
Dallas Cowboys' practice report (8/19)

Romo to get face time on Week 3 of Hard Knocks
This week, Romo takes his rightful place alongside the likes of free-agent wide receiver Todd Lowber in gaining face time.

Public welcome at Texas Stadium practice tonight
The Cowboys have scheduled an open practice from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. today at Texas Stadium as part of the team's season-long farewell to the stadium.

Fans invited to Dallas Cowboys practice tonight as 'Farewell to Texas Stadium' begins
As construction crews ready a behemoth new home for America’s team in Arlington, a Cowboys marketing campaign is focusing on the last season in the 37-year-old Irving landmark with the famed hole in the roof.

08/18/2008

Dallas Cowboys glad to be back home

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Sam Hurd said training camp was the longest time he's been away from home.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Sam Hurd said training camp was the longest time he's been away from home.

The Dallas Cowboys will practice Tuesday at Valley Ranch after spending 24 days in Oxnard, Calif., San Diego and Denver for training camp practices and two preseason games. "You want to settle down and get into a regular routine," Greg Ellis said.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys
Video: Cowboys home

Door opens for Dallas Cowboys' Hurd
Miles Austin was gaining traction as the Dallas Cowboys' third receiver in training camp. Now, he's out four to six weeks with a sprained knee. This could be Sam Hurd's chance to showcase his versatility and become more than a special teams contributor.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

08/17/2008

Dallas Cowboys' Felix Jones knows business of running

Dallas Cowboys running back Felix Jones and his father thought basketball was the sport he would excel in.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Dallas Cowboys running back Felix Jones and his father thought basketball was the sport he would excel in.

You won't hear Felix Jones complain about sharing running back duties for the Dallas Cowboys with Marion Barber, but that doesn't mean he doesn't believe he will shine in the NFL.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys' Miles Austin out 4-to-6 weeks
With Miles Austin out four to six weeks with a knee injury, several young Cowboys receivers have another chance to show the coaching staff they belong on the 53-man roster.

It's early, but Dallas Cowboys' loss was ugly

Denver wide receiver Brandon Marshall gets behind the Cowboys' defense to pull in a touchdown pass in the second quarter.
Getty Images
Denver wide receiver Brandon Marshall gets behind the Cowboys' defense to pull in a touchdown pass in the second quarter.

It's just the Dallas Cowboys' second preseason game, so there's no need to overreact. That said, Jean-Jacques Taylor writes, the Cowboys' offensive and defensive starters turned in a pathetic performance in Saturday night's 23-13 loss to Denver.
Video: Game recap
 Photos: Cowboys-Broncos
Blogs: Jean-Jacques Taylor | Dallas Cowboys

Penalties plague Cowboys
Cowboys coach Wade Phillips had the players sign a pledge in November. No more dumb penalties, he insisted. It may be time for an extension.

Five key issues
The Cowboys' second preseason game had some bright spots from its backups. Most notably, Brad Johnson played much better in leading the offense to two scores. Adam Jones had a nice punt return, and the special teams unit performed well overall. But the first team was ineffective and hurt by penalties. The Cowboys will be heading home for their final two preseason games. 1. Brad Johnson

08/16/2008

Work to do: Late drive snuffed as Dallas Cowboys fall to 0-2

Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens (right) attracts a herd of Broncos after a reception.
Getty Images
Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens (right) attracts a herd of Broncos after a reception.

The Dallas Cowboys suffered a dismal 23-13 loss to the Broncos on Saturday that leaves the team winless after two pre-season games. "We definitely have things to work on," quarterback Tony Romo said, "but there is still some time for that."
Video: Game recap
Tell Us: Grade the Cowboys' performance | Concerns?
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys Insider blog: What About Anquan Boldin?

Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens (81) reacts after dropping a pass during Wednesday's workout.
TOM FOX / DMN
Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens (81) reacts after dropping a pass during Wednesday's workout.

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Kevin Burnett gives readers an inside look at what it's like to be a player for America's Team on our Dallas Cowboys Insider blog.

08/15/2008

Second look a key opportunity for three Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys hope to get backup quarterback Brad Johnson more playing time behind the first-team offensive line against Denver.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN
The Cowboys hope to get backup quarterback Brad Johnson more playing time behind the first-team offensive line against Denver.

Saturday night's preseason game against Denver (8 p.m., Ch. 11) is big for several Dallas Cowboys. Backup quarterback Brad Johnson gets to work with the first-team offense. Cornerback Adam Jones hopes to continue to knock off rust. And it could be rookie wide receiver Danny Amendola's final chance to impress the coaches.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Game a special chance for some young Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys spent the week working on all facets of special teams play. Several young players will have a chance to show if they've improved in Saturday's preseason game against the Broncos.

Darrent Williams' spirit lives on through teen center

Fort Worth O.D. Wyatt graduate Darrent Williams was known as the little guy with the infectious personality, Jean-Jacques Taylor writes.
Getty Images
Fort Worth O.D. Wyatt graduate Darrent Williams was known as the little guy with the infectious personality, Jean-Jacques Taylor writes.

It has been 593 days since Darrent Williams' senseless murder, but his spirit remains alive in Denver, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor. It lives in the Darrent Williams Memorial Teen Center. And it lives in the hearts of Denver Broncos teammates such as Domonique Foxworth, who refuse to let Williams' memory fade.
Blog: Jean-Jacques Taylor

Practice for a prelim benefits Dallas Cowboys and Broncos

Two days of practice against Denver were a tuneup for Dallas' preseason game Saturday vs. the Broncos.
AP
Two days of practice against Denver were a tuneup for Dallas' preseason game Saturday vs. the Broncos.

It's hard to tell whether the Dallas Cowboys or Denver Broncos benefited more from practicing together the last two days. The team that went 7-9 last season loved matching up against a team with Super Bowl aspirations. When all was said and done, both teams believe they got better.
Video: Morning report | Afternoon report
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

08/14/2008

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Kevin Burnett to have knee surgery
Kevin Burnett is expected to undergo arthroscopic surgery on his left knee today in Dallas, but the Cowboys aren't ready to rule the linebacker out of the Sept. 7 season opener at Cleveland.

Dallas Cowboys' defense trying to add to its versatility
The Dallas Cowboys are considering moving defensive end Marcus Spears to nose guard and nose guard Jay Ratliff to end.

Dallas Cowboys training camp report (8/14)
Dallas Cowboys training camp report (8/14)

'Knocks' a tough way to find out you've been cut
If rookie Danny Amendola is a long shot to make the Dallas Cowboys as a wide receiver, Todd Lowber is a no shot. That's what makes him so appealing to the Hard Knocks story tellers.

Dallas Cowboys training camp report (8/13)

08/13/2008

Dallas Cowboys' Henry takes it in stride

Dallas Cowboys cornerback Anthony Henry led the team with six interceptions last season.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN
Dallas Cowboys cornerback Anthony Henry led the team with six interceptions last season.

It's easy to underestimate Anthony Henry or take him for granted, because he's so low-key on the field and off, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor. "With my personality, that's cool," Henry said. "I let my play speak for itself."
Video: Camp report (8/13)
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys' Adam Jones to send letter to NFL
When the Dallas Cowboys arrived here, Adam Jones went to work. The cornerback grabbed a laptop computer and typed a 1 ½-page letter to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell asking for a full reinstatement to the league.

Dallas Cowboys' Wilson, Broncos' Cutler cope with diabetes

Dallas Cowboys quarterbacks coach Wade Wilson (left) challenges a receiver during a drill.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Dallas Cowboys quarterbacks coach Wade Wilson (left) challenges a receiver during a drill.

For a few minutes before Wednesday's practice, Wade Wilson and Jay Cutler chatted not about footwork or arm slots or hot reads, but about dealing with Type 1 diabetes, writes Todd Archer.
Video: Camp report (8/13)
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys lose Burnett to sprained knee
The Dallas Cowboys desperately wanted to get through five practices against the Denver Broncos with no injuries. Inside linebacker Kevin Burnett was gone by the end of the first.

08/12/2008

Software gives Dallas Cowboys film-study shortcuts

The DVSport system allows coaches, such as Cowboys tight ends coach John Garrett, to diagram plays, write notes on the screen and print them out.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN
The DVSport system allows coaches, such as Cowboys tight ends coach John Garrett, to diagram plays, write notes on the screen and print them out.

Long gone are the days of the clack-clack from a projector with coaches having to fast-forward or rewind to study film, Todd Archer writes. This season, the Dallas Cowboys are using DVSport, a digital video software that allows coaches to access video of any play or plays they want with the click of a mouse.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Don't panic Dallas Cowboys fans; it's only one preseason game

Cowboys running back Felix Jones averaged 5.3 yards per carry in his preseason debut against the San Diego Chargers.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN
Cowboys running back Felix Jones averaged 5.3 yards per carry in his preseason debut against the San Diego Chargers.

After one preseason game, it seems most of you think Felix Jones is going to the Hall of Fame and Martellus Bennett should be cut. Chill out, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor in the latest installment of Inside the Dallas Cowboys. Nothing is concrete after one preseason game.
Blog: Jean-Jacques Taylor

Dallas Cowboys break camp, head to Denver
After 24 practices in 18 days, the Cowboys left training camp Tuesday and headed to Denver.

Amendola takes lead role for Dallas Cowboys in Hard Knocks
Danny Amendola, the free-agent wide receiver from Texas Tech, is expected to get lots of face time.

Dallas Cowboys' James puts team over ego

Linebacker Bradie James has played his five NFL seasons with the Dallas Cowboys.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Linebacker Bradie James has played his five NFL seasons with the Dallas Cowboys.

No doubt exists in Bradie James' mind about his ability to be a three-down linebacker. But he's not going to get a chance to do it this year. The Dallas Cowboys have a bevy of defensive players who must subjugate their egos for the good of the team, writes Jean-Jacques Taylor.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys
Video: Camp report
Video: Cali fans

Familiar route working for Dallas Cowboys' Austin

Dallas Cowboys receiver Miles Austin plays defender on an errant ball in Saturday's game in San Diego.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN
Dallas Cowboys receiver Miles Austin plays defender on an errant ball in Saturday's game in San Diego

Knowing the right people helped Miles Austin become a Dallas Cowboy in 2006. His work since has enabled the wide receiver to take advantage of that opportunity.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys
Video: Camp report
Video: California fans

Dallas Cowboys' backup QB to get time with starters
Backup quarterback Brad Johnson will get more playing time with the first team when the Dallas Cowboys play their second preseason game Saturday in Denver.

Dallas Cowboys' special teams look to improve
Bruce Read stood in the middle of the practice field on an overcast Monday afternoon – alone. It was as if he was waiting for a storm to come crashing down on him.

Olympics take down Dallas Cowboys' TV dominance
It takes a village to beat the Cowboys when it comes to the hometown ratings – an Olympic village.

Dallas Cowboys training camp report (8/11)

08/11/2008

Dallas Cowboys chat: Concerns crop up after preseason opener

Cowboys backup quarterback Brad Johnson didn't get much help from his offensive line against the Chargers.
AP
Cowboys backup quarterback Brad Johnson didn't get much help from his offensive line against the Chargers.

Things did not go well for several Cowboys backups in Saturday's preseason opener. That includes quarterback Brad Johnson. So, it's no wonder that his performance prompted some fans to call for a new No. 2. Beat writer Todd Archer addressed the Johnson question and many others in Monday's chat.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

08/10/2008

It's a rough debut for Dallas Cowboys' Adam Jones

Dallas Cowboys cornerback Adam Jones tackles Chris Chambers in Saturday's preseason game.
Getty Images
Dallas Cowboys cornerback Adam Jones tackles Chris Chambers in Saturday's preseason game.

It was not what Adam Jones expected. He had not played in the NFL since Dec. 31, 2006, so the limited number of snaps in Saturday's game in San Diego was not helpful. "My timing is so messed up right now," Jones said.
Blog: Dallas Cowboys
Video: Camp report (8/10)

Dallas Cowboys working on defensive communication

Brian Stewart (left) communicated with Bradie James using a helmet speaker system Dallas Cowboys coach Wade Phillips (right) fought hard to implement.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN
Brian Stewart (left) communicated with Bradie James using a helmet speaker system Dallas Cowboys coach Wade Phillips (right) fought hard to implement.

Brian Stewart and Bradie James had their first in-game opportunity to work with the coach-to-player communication system Saturday in San Diego, and came away knowing they have some work to do before the Sept. 7 season opener at Cleveland, writes Todd Archer
Blog: Dallas Cowboys
Video: Camp report (8/10)

Dallas Cowboys' third-string QB gets chance
Former Grapevine standout Richard Bartel, the Dallas Cowboys' third-string quarterback, gets a rare opportunity to show what he can do.

Result not great, but it's early for Dallas Cowboys 

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Patrick Crayton (84) caught two passes for 31 yards.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Patrick Crayton (84) caught two passes for 31 yards.

The Dallas Cowboys' 31-17 loss to San Diego on Saturday at Qualcomm Stadium was not pretty, even for the most optimistic with the regular-season opener at Cleveland 29 days away.
 Tell Us: Which new Dallas Cowboys player impressed you the most?
 Video: Game recap
 Photos: Saturday's game
 Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys' defense messy, but it can be cleaned up 

Safety Roy Williams tries to plead his case with an official after the Dallas Cowboys were flagged for pass interference.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN
Safety Roy Williams tries to plead his case with an official after the Dallas Cowboys were flagged for pass interference.

Hidden inside a not-so-impressive body of work in Saturday night's 31-17 loss, the Dallas Cowboys' defense got big plays from three players who either weren't here a year ago or stand to be significantly more productive in 2008, writes DMN columnist Tim Cowlishaw.
 Video: Game recap
 Photos: Saturday's game
 Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Special problems crop up for Dallas Cowboys
Rookie jitters may have gotten the best of Danny Amendola when he fumbled on a punt return in the first quarter against San Diego.

Dallas Cowboys' attention high on these five
The Cowboys opened the preseason Saturday night with their first-team offense and defense playing well. The backup units and special teams had some struggles.

08/09/2008

There's a new train of thought for Dallas Cowboys

Terrell Owens (right) and Ken Hamlin play dominos aboard the train taking the Cowboys from Oxnard to San Diego on Friday.
MICHAEL AINSWORTH / DMN
Terrell Owens (right) and Ken Hamlin play dominos aboard the train taking the Cowboys from Oxnard to San Diego on Friday.

Instead of flying or busing to San Diego, the Dallas Cowboys, who face the Chargers tonight (9 p.m., Ch. 11) in their preseason opener, rode the Amtrak rails. Most of the sojourn, writes Todd Archer, was about watching the California fields and surf, whizzing by at speeds that topped out at 79 mph.
Video: Riding the rail
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

08/08/2008

Dallas Cowboys not getting ahead of themselves

Cowboys owner/general manager Jerry Jones (left) has learned not to get too worked up over preseason games.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Cowboys owner/general manager Jerry Jones (left) has learned not to get too worked up over preseason games.

What many believe is Dallas' Super Bowl road begins tonight (9 p.m., Ch. 11) in San Diego, writes Tim Cowlishaw. Jerry Jones thought that's where a trip to San Diego was taking him after a preseason win over the Chargers in 1989. Dallas finished 1-15 in 1989. Jones has since learned not to overcelebrate the preseason.
Blogs: Dallas Cowboys | Tim Cowlishaw

Rookie CBs for Cowboys, Chargers making debuts together
When Antoine Cason and Orlando Scandrick played together at Los Alamitos High School in California, all they thought about was playing college football.

Dallas Cowboys' rookies to be tested in preseason opener
The Cowboys' rookies will be given an opportunity to show the coaches what they can do in the team's preseason opener at San Diego.

TE Bennett misses practice for personal matter
Rookie tight end Martellus Bennett missed Thursday's practice for what Cowboys owner Jerry Jones called a "little emergency."

08/07/2008

Dallas Cowboys' Adam Jones eager for game action

Cornerback Adam Jones (left) has been going against Terrell Owens, one of the best, in practice but hasn't played an NFL game since 2006.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Cornerback Adam Jones (left) has been going against Terrell Owens, one of the best, in practice but hasn't played an NFL game since 2006.

Adam Jones returns to the NFL on Saturday, when the Dallas Cowboys visit the San Diego Chargers in their preseason opener. Jones is not fully reinstated from a yearlong suspension, but this will be his first NFL game since Dec. 31, 2006. "I got a little more rust I need to shake," Jones said.
Video: Camp report (8/7)
Blog: Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys get Hurd's best shot as punt-team gunner
It's not easy being a gunner on the punt team. But Dallas Cowboys receiver Sam Hurd has the attitude, hustle and willingness to be a little 'crazy' that's necessary.

Dallas Cowboys training camp report (8/7)
Dallas Cowboys training camp report (8/7)

Romo eager to see offense in action
The Dallas Cowboys posted one of their best offensive seasons in 2007. But with the preseason opener at San Diego just two days away, quarterback Tony Romo can't wait to try some of the new stuff the offense has implemented.

'Knocks' lacks trademark insider gems
The buildup and anticipation for Hard Knocks ' second season with the Cowboys was almost Super Bowlian. Nothing NFL Films could produce could match the hype. Wednesday's opening episode on HBO didn't.

08/06/2008

Changes worked wonders for Dallas Cowboys guard Davis

Moving to guard allows former Texas standout Leonard Davis to outmuscle opponents with his 6-6, 350-pound frame.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
Moving to guard allows former Texas standout Leonard Davis to outmuscle opponents with his 6-6, 350-pound frame.

A change of scenery from the Arizona Cardinals to the Dallas Cowboys, a club-record $16 million signing bonus and a shift to right guard worked wonders for Leonard Davis last season. A former Cowboy believes Davis could be a top interior linemen for years to come.
 Photos: Wednesday's practice
Blogs: Dallas Cowboys | Kevin Burnett

Dallas Cowboys training camp report (8/6)
Dallas Cowboys training camp report (8/6)

Lights, camera ... business as usual for Dallas Cowboys

An HBO <i>Hard Knocks</i> cameraman and sound man record the action during Tuesday's practice at Cowboys camp.
LOUIS DeLUCA / DMN
An HBO Hard Knocks cameraman and sound man record the action during Tuesday's practice at Cowboys camp.

The Dallas Cowboys have adjusted to their Hard Knocks life. "Every once in a while they'll stick a camera in your face and you kind of notice them," head coach Wade Phillips said, "but other than that, they've been good." The six-part series begins tonight on HBO (9 p.m.) with an episode entitled "Stars."
 Photos: Tuesday's practice
Blogs: Cowboys | Kevin Burnett

Crayton glad no Favre 'saga' going on in Oxnard
The NFL media circus may be in full swing up in Green Bay, but all's quiet here at Cowboys camp. Receiver Patrick Crayton wouldn't have it any other way.