Cowboys’ OC “Really Not a Fan” of RG3

It doesn’t matter where the Dallas Cowboys’ backup quarterback will come from this offseason, because whoever it is is sure to make national headlines.

The smart money has limited the ‘Boys to three options: taking a chance on Robert Griffin III, taking an even bigger chance on Johnny Manziel, or snagging a replacement through the draft, either with the fourth overall pick or later.

But according to one man who will have a big say in the matter, RGIII may already be out of contention. ESPN NFL insider Ed Werder reported that Dallas offensive coordinator Scott Linehan is “really not a fan of RGIII’s and doesn’t think he would excel with what the Cowboys would ask him to do,” adding that “not a lot of people in Dallas think he’s a great fit in Jason Garrett’s offense.”

Frankly, it’s hard to fault the Cowboys for at least being a little cautious on this one. For a team desperate to get healthier above all else at the league’s most important position, a QB that doesn’t know how to take a hit probably doesn’t deserve to be on their radar.

Yes, Griffin would likely be playing behind a better offensive line if called into duty, but all the All-Pro blockers in the world couldn’t adequately protect Tony Romo and his worrisome collarbone last season.

For all the athleticism he’s gifted with, Griffin looks uncharacteristically awkward taking hits, his body twisting and confronting every which way as he is flung to the ground in violent fashion.

Now, there isn’t exactly a right way to brace for impact against a 300-pound man looking to leave an imprint of your jersey number in the turf, but there is a less wrong way, and RGIII has failed to differentiate between the two after several years in the pros. Even his sliding skills leave much to be desired; another area of concern in today’s era of closing defenses led by lighting-fast linebackers.

It might not be Jerry Jones’ style, but don’t be surprised to see the Cowboys make the unsexy move with a late-round draft pick. Romo’s window isn’t quite closing yet, and Dallas will be keen to milk as many good years out of its starter as possible before blowing everything up.