The Cowboys needed help at defensive end before the announcement of Greg Hardy’s suspension. And, sure enough, they still need help after it.
Though the stiff 10-game penalty (that could be decreased upon appeal) was more than most of us – including Jerry Jones – expected, I don’t think the slight increase in games missed for their star player warrants a drastic altering of the draft plan at Valley Ranch.
The Cowboys, of course, knew what they were getting with Hardy, baggage and all. They weren’t blindsided by the NFL’s announcement. There had to be a Plan B in place for Hardy’s anticipated absence, and part of that formula included added talent in the draft.
Plus, remember that Hardy is only signed to a one-year deal. Depending on his play and/or his personality, his career with the Cowboys could last only six games. Add to that the fact that Anthony Spencer and George Selvie left in free agency and that Jeremy Mincey is a free agent after this season, and it’s easy to see the need for help at end.
Hardy’s suspension doesn’t shove defensive end to the top of Dallas’ draft priorities. Because it should have been up there already.
A native Texan who was born in Duncanville and graduated from UT-Arlington, Richie Whitt has been a mainstay in the Metroplex media since 1986. He’s held prominent roles on all media platforms including newspaper (Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Dallas Observer), radio (105.3 The Fan) and TV (co-host on TXA 21 and numerous guest appearances, including NBC 5). He currently lives in McKinney with his wife, Sybil, and two very spoiled dogs.
