Cowboys Position Series: Inside Linebackers

If healthy, Sean Lee can have a great year

The interior linebackers weren't the most gaping hole in the Cowboys beleaguered defense but it was clearly and area that took a step back from 2009. The main reasons for this were age. It is an area of concern but not the most pressing need.

# 51- Keith Brooking- ILB: Keith Brooking's rejuvenation stopped last year and never came back. He was like the Rocky Soundtrack. Useful in pumping you up but ultimately old and overplayed. GRADE: B-

#56- Bradie James- ILB: Brooking wasn't alone in looking old...Bradie James, who for years has been underrated, looked a step slower this year. He's still in his 20's but the NFL runs in dog years. He was inadequate in pass coverage and neither starter was the run stuffer that they used to be. I'm sure many Cowboys fans were surprised by this notion but...they could have used Bobby Carpenter this year! As soft as he is, Bobby had found his niche as the nickel LB and had excelled at covering tight ends and running backs over the middle. No one stepped up into that role this year.
 GRADE- B

#50- Sean Lee- ILB: The Cowboys do have a potential stud in the making in Penn St. graduate Sean Lee. When Lee was on the field he flat out made plays. (See Indianapolis game). If you have a young play maker in the middle of your defense, that can set the tone for your entire team. (See Urlacher). However, Sean Lee seems to be VERY injury prone and he still needs to gain some size before I'm buying fully into him.  GRADE: B

# 54- Kenwin Cummings- ILB- As of now he is listed as the backup to Bradie James, but he did not see any action last season with the Cowboys. Will have to fight for a roster spot in training camp.
GRADE-N/A



# 52- Leon Williams- ILB- He has been a decent player on special teams and has shown in the past that he can be adequate as a reserve but he does not have much upside, which is why the Cowboys did not tender him. Most likely will not be back with the team.

GRADE- C+

DRAFT?- This is a low need for an inside linebacker at this moment. Yes, Brooking needs to be replaced but if healthy, Lee will be ready to step up and be a more productive player. All the backups can be found in FA.