How do you describe Emmitt Smith in a word? Powerful? Durable? Productive? Shifty? No, they just don't do him justice. I like a description that FOX television analyst John Madden has used to describe Emmitt Smith-- "Warrior". Like Troy Aikman and Michael Irvin, he will always be remembered as a vital part of the currently eroding Dallas Cowboys dynasty. He, too, has a date with the Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio when he finally retires. He will also join a group of heroes in the Cowboys' Ring of Honor. When these honors will occur, however, will be determined by his play on the field, the size of his heart, and the weight of a salary cap burden that is much like the national debt in that it is always pushed further in the future.
Emmitt Smith continues to prove his critics wrong. He is still productive and he is still a leader, but when you perform at such a high level for as long as he has any drop in productivity can easily be twisted by those who live to be critical. Obviously, after ten years of constant abuse Emmitt Smith's legs are not the same as when he was a first- round selection in the 1990 NFL draft. Looking back in history, do you recall a cold day at Giants Stadium where several years ago Emmitt sustained an injury to his shoulder, but still carried the Cowboys to a victory on his back. While it remains as one of my favorite Emmitt Smith memories, it is just that-- a memory. That Emmitt Smith no longer exist. As he ages, he is more injury prone. Known as a back who delivers punishing blows to those who attempt to tackle him, Smith has one of the best straight-arms ever. His pass catching is underrated while his blocking has saved Aikman great pain time and time again. He has proven to be one of the most durable running back in the history of the NFL and has missed five regular season games in his career. He holds the record for most touchdowns by a running back and rushing touchdowns overall. A four-time NFL yards rushing leader, he continues his march up the career rushing yards list and begins the season with 13,963 career yards as "The Warrior" continues his march toward Walter Payton's NFL record of 16,726 yards.
Robert Thomas, a converted linebacker, did everything possible last season to ease the loss of Daryl "Moose" Johnston. A real surprise, he provided Emmitt Smith with quality blocking and sacrificed his body for the team. He can catch the ball in a pinch, and you can look for him to get three or four "surprise attack" carries this season. Thomas has progressed so far in the eyes of the Dallas coaches that he may be the only fullback on the roster.
Backup: Chris Warren - Ferrum - 11th Season
Entering his 11th season, Warren provides just what the Cowboys have needed for years-- quality depth behind Emmitt Smith. Warren is a true threat to a defense, and valuable insurance at running back. He can break down a defense at any moment, and he was really contributing in 1999 despite a nagging groin pull. He is the career rushing leader for the Seattle Seahawks and also has the stature and credibility to push Emmitt Smith unlike any other running back on the roster in recent years. If Emmitt Smith and Chris Warren could stay healthy for the entire year, they could be a special one-two attack.
Rookie Impact: Michael Wiley - Ohio St.
A fifth round selection, Wiley main contributions will be on special team as a kick returner. He has displayed decent skills as a running back, but it's doubtful he sees significant playing-time unless massive injuries occur.
Prediction: Emmitt Smith will have 1250 yards and score 15 touchdowns in another solid season-- but he will also miss parts of three games with various injuries, a pulled hamstring, and bruised ego caused by the emergence of Chris Warren. Looking at Warren, he should add at least 500 yards to the Cowboys rushing total with 4 touchdowns.
Rating And Reality Check: A (If Emmitt & Warren stay healthy)
The Cowboys have a solid group of running backs, but age is a constant reminder that the glory days could end at any moment. Nevertheless, with an improved offensive line, the Dallas Cowboys won't need to address the position in the draft for several seasons to come barring injury.
