NFL: Re-signing Barber priority for Cowboys
Web Posted: 01/19/2008 08:59 PM CST
Tom Orsborn
San Antonio Express-News
The Dallas Cowboys face a hectic offseason personnel-wise, beginning with negotiations to keep "The Barbarian" from bolting.
Pro Bowl running back Marion Barber is a restricted free agent, meaning the Cowboys have the right to match any offers made to him.
It also means they could put the first- or second-round tender on him. If that happens, a team that wants to sign Barber would have to give Dallas a first- or second-round draft pick.
The St. Paul (Minn.) Pioneer Press speculated recently the former University of Minnesota standout could command a $25 million, five-year deal or "have to settle for a tendered $2.6 million, one-year deal."
The Cowboys, of course, would like to re-sign him to a long-term pact.
"I think this season, he proved himself to me and to everybody else what kind of player he is," Cowboys coach Wade Phillips said.
Dallas is expected to be around $10 million below the salary cap when free agency starts in March. They have 15 free agents, including six who are unrestricted: offensive tackle Flozell Adams, safety Keith Davis, safety Ken Hamlin, running back Julius Jones and cornerbacks Nate Jones and Jacques Reeves.
Barber's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, told the Dallas Morning News last week several teams could be interested in his client.
Barber's stock rose dramatically this season after he notched career highs in carries (204), rushing yards (975), receptions (44) and receiving yards (282). He also scored 12 touchdowns, including a team-high 10 on the ground, giving him 33 for his three-year career.
Barber also proved he could get the job done as a starter. After coming off the bench for all 16 regular-season games, he started in the playoffs against the New York Giants and carried 27 times for 129 yards and a TD.
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NFL: Re-signing Barber priority for Cowboys
NFL: Re-signing Barber priority for Cowboys
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