NFC East Notes: Cowboys, Eagles, Redskins

Cowboys

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones explained the team’s decision to fire OL coach Paul Alexander by saying that they hadn’t lived up to their standard this season.

“We have a high standard,” Jones said, via the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. “When we look at the strength of our team, we look at it as the offensive line. You are on the spot when you are playing and coaching in that area. That is an area we want to be a symbol of what the team is about. After seven games, we weren’t getting the job done to the standard. We felt we needed new voices. That was the way to give up to the best chance to go in the direction we want to go.”

Eagles

New Eagles WR Golden Tate told reporters on Wednesday that he’s “extremely excited” about this new opportunity in Philadelphia.

“I’m extremely excited to be a Philadelphia Eagle,” Tate said, via Mike Kaye of NJ.com. “I’ve followed this organization for years now, I’ve seen this organization [go] through some ups and downs, I’ve seen this organization win a Super Bowl that I was rooting for you all last year. It’s an extreme blessing and a dream come true to be part to be part of such an amazing organization.”

“I’m excited for — at least these next eight games — to show who I am as a person, as a player, and most importantly, just help this organization win,” Tate added.

• According to Charles Robinson, Tate’s camp is looking at his production and plans to use the Jarvis Landry contract (five-years, $75.5 million total, $47 million guaranteed) as a template for his next contract in free agency next year.
• Ian Rapoport reports that Eagles CB Jalen Mills is dealing with a foot sprain that he suffered during their game last weekend. Rapoport adds that Mills is considered week-to-week.

Redskins

• Ian Rapoport reports that the Redskins are optimistic that LT Trent Williams, who dislocated his thumb against the Giants, will be able to play this week.
• Redskins designated RB Byron Marshall to return from injured reserve. (NFLTR)