Dallas Cowboys

There is a preseason excitement abuzz among Dallas Cowboy fans everywhere after finding a bonafide quaterback in Tony Romo last season which resulted in a playoff run by the end of the season. But the real reason that the Cowboys have a clear shot at competing for the NFC East crown in 2007 is the nearly in-tact Defense returning from a successful 2006 campaign. At the point of attack is a seasoned defensive line anchored by Jason Ferguson. He is flanked, on each side, by Marcus Spears and Chris Canty, completing the defensive line as his bookend defensive ends. The defensive front was supposed to be composed of returning linebackers DeMarcus Ware, Alvin Ayodele, Bradie James, and Greg Ellis. However, Anthony Spencer--their first round draft choice out of Purdue, may be forced into action earlier than expected with the potentially career-ending injury to Greg Ellis to a torn achilles tendon suffered originally in November last year. His recovery hasn't been as complete as he wanted over 6 months later going into camp. While this may slow Dallas down in their competition in the already brutal NFC East, the Cowboys may still be a formidable force in wreaking havoc by the end of the season in the race for the division pendant.
This is because most of their Offensive Line also returns in-tact. They lose some valuable depth in offensive tackle Jason Fabini--lost to the Redskins, and center Al Johnson--lost to Arizona. However, Jerry Jones countered this loss by acquiring big Leonard Davis from the Arizona Cardinals to potentially augment the line at one of the guard spots. That will allow for the remaining spots to be filled by returning veterans, Flozell Adams, Kyle Kosier, Marc Columbo, and Andre Gurode, completing the rest of the offensive line. This could end up being a solid unit once Davis is integrated into the Dallas run and pass-blocking schemes. All in all, a promising season awaits the Cowboys, despite what looks to be a difficult division race, if they can avoid the injury bug and play reasonably consistent.