Tim MacMahon of ESPNDallas.com takes a look at the predicament that the Dallas Cowboys find themselves in with regards to Marion Barber and the salary that he’s owed.
MacMahon points out a number of issues that Dallas would suggest that Barber time in Big D is over.
The first point that MacMahon makes is that “his production hasn’t come close to justifying his seven-year, $45 million contract and continues to trend down.” I can agree with that. The Cowboys have gotten more production out of Felix Jones in recent years than Barber and it’s time to see what Tashard Choice can do with more carries.
“He has butted heads with head coach Jason Garrett, most notably by his defiant refusal to adhere to the travel dress code before Garrett’s interim coaching debut,” writes MacMahon. Not a lot to say regarding this other than players who have fallen out of favor with Jason Garrett don’t seem to return next year, e.g. Terrell Owens.
“There’s no more guaranteed money left on his deal. It would make no sense to pay him his $4.25 million salary next season.” As any Cowboys fan will tell you, the team has a number of roster holes to fill. Offensive line, defensive line, linebacker and secondary all have to be addressed on some level. Paying a declining running back that may end up being a backup by the start of the season $4.25 million is unjustifiable.
Barber was exciting to watch a few years ago but there was little doubt that his physical running style would eventually catch up to him and limit his production. The running back position is the most unforgiving position in the NFL considering that there is always a younger player with potential and less miles ready to take over for you as soon as you show any signs of a decline.
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