Dallas Cowboys: Rico Gathers Finally a Gamble That Worked?

It’s no secret that the Dallas Cowboys are a team run by an owner who has no fear of taking chances. That’s why they make so many bold moves.

Unfortunately several of those moves have blown up in their faces over the past few years. The most recent that spring to mind include letting DeMarcus Ware walk, drafting Randy Gregory, and signing Greg Hardy. Even as the team remains competitive, one could say these ill-advised risks either weakened the team or gave them unnecessary distractions.

However, at least for the time being it looks like one of their lesser gambles might actually be bearing fruit. This involved the drafting of Rico Gathers in the 6th round last year. That may seem benign save for the fact that Gathers was a basketball player.

"“Body beautiful. Absolutely shredded with plenty of beef on the bone. Former basketball standout at Baylor who excelled as a rebounder. Should be able to transition the timing, positioning and body control needed as a basketball big into the red zone as a tight end. Has worked with NFL QB Matt Flynn to re-learn the game. Durable. Never missed a game at Baylor. Brother played defensive end at Georgia Tech.”"

In essence the Cowboys went the route that Kansas City did with Tony Gonzalez and San Diego did with Antonio Gates. They took a freakish basketball athlete and felt with some work and patience they could turn him into an effective tight end. It sounds nice on paper, but it almost never works. Turns out though the Cowboys may be onto something.

Gathers had himself a nice Hall of Fame game against the Arizona Cardinals with three catches for 59 yards and a touchdown. It was the first real indication that he’s making progress. None too soon given the advanced age of Jason Witten. If Gathers continues to get better then that offense becomes even deeper and more dangerous.