NFL Insider Dan Graziano has expressed skepticism about the notion that the Dallas Cowboys should draft Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders. With the Cowboys struggling at three wins as they approach Week 11 of the season, the team faces the real possibility of missing the playoffs. This situation has led to discussions about whether the franchise should pivot towards a rebuilding phase.
Should the Cowboys Tank for Shedeur Sanders?
ESPN broadcaster Stephen A. Smith has suggested that the Cowboys might benefit from tanking the remainder of the season to secure a chance at drafting Sanders. While this idea has garnered attention, Graziano explained on “Get Up” why it might not be the best strategy for Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.
The Financial Implications of Drafting Sanders
Before the season commenced, Jerry Jones made a significant investment by signing starting quarterback Dak Prescott to a four-year, $240 million extension. Graziano pointed out that bringing in Shedeur Sanders would necessitate a difficult decision regarding Prescott, which could lead to substantial financial repercussions.
“They signed Dak Prescott to a massive contract extension. Historic. Largest of all time for a quarterback or any player in the NFL. So, if you bring in Shedeur Sanders, you’re going to have to do something with Dak Prescott,” Graziano stated.
“Trading Dak Prescott would cost the Cowboys more than $100 million in dead money on next year’s cap. If you thought Jerry Jones was crying poor about the cap this year, wait till he has $103 million dead sitting for Dak Prescott,” he added.
Current State of the Cowboys
Prescott’s season has been marred by injury; he played only eight games before suffering a season-ending hamstring injury in Week 9 during a narrow 27-21 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. In Week 10, the Cowboys turned to backup Cooper Rush, who struggled in a disheartening 34-6 defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles. The team’s current record and performance have sparked debates about the future direction of the franchise.
Could Deion Sanders Be the Answer?
Amidst the turmoil, “Get Up” TV anchor Mike Greenberg posed an intriguing question to co-host Domonique Foxworth: Should Jerry Jones consider hiring Shedeur Sanders’ father, Deion Sanders, as the new head coach? This idea comes in light of the criticism directed at current coach Mike McCarthy, with many fans and commentators suggesting that a change is necessary.
Deion Sanders’ Coaching Potential
Foxworth acknowledged that while Deion Sanders, often referred to as “Coach Prime,” could be an exciting hire, the challenges facing the Cowboys are considerable. He noted, “I mean, sure. It seems like Deion Sanders is very interesting and exciting, which seems like that is more important to Jerry Jones than anything else.” However, he also emphasized that turning around the Cowboys’ current situation would be no easy feat.
“It seems that he’s gotten Colorado turned around pretty quickly, so that suggests that he has some coaching ability at multiple different places. I’m sure it’s a job he can do. I’m not sure this is a job anyone can succeed at, given the current state of the situation they are in,” Foxworth elaborated.
Looking Ahead: Colorado Buffaloes’ Focus
As the speculation swirls around the Cowboys, Shedeur and Deion Sanders remain focused on their current mission with the Colorado Buffaloes. With a record of 7-2 and 5-1 in the Big 12, the Buffaloes are gearing up to face the Utah Utes, who sit at 4-5, in Week 12. The Sanders duo is determined to finish the season strong and secure their eighth victory.
What Does the Future Hold for the Cowboys?
As the Cowboys navigate this challenging season, the questions surrounding their quarterback situation and coaching staff will only intensify. With significant financial implications tied to Dak Prescott’s contract and the potential for a coaching overhaul, Jerry Jones faces tough decisions ahead. Will he stick with Prescott, or will he take a leap of faith with a new quarterback and coaching staff? The answers may shape the future of the franchise for years to come.
In the world of college football, the spotlight remains on the Buffaloes as they aim for a successful finish to their season. The dynamics of the NFL and college football are intertwined, and the decisions made at the professional level can have ripple effects throughout the sport. As fans, we can only watch and wait to see how these narratives unfold.
