The Dallas Morning News reports that the agent for restricted free-agent RB Marion Barber and the Cowboys have begun negotiations on a long-term deal to keep the bruising rusher in Big D. Per multiple sources, Barber has been offered a multi-year deal in the $30 million range, but Barber wants something starting at $40 million and close to deals like Larry Johnson, LaDainian Tomlinson and Clinton Portis. The Cowboys are willing to pay a deal similar to what Michael Turner received from Atlanta. A holdout is not likely, but a running partner in the Dallas offense is likely, possibly a rookie picked in the 2008 NFL Draft. (Updated 04/17/2008).
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 5/11/08).
Fantasy Analysis
Barber recorded 204 carries for 975 yards (a 4.8 avg.) with 10 rushing touchdowns in 2007, adding 44 catches for 282 yards and two passing scores. All of his yardage numbers and touches were career-highs -- not bad for a guy who didn't start a single game (until the postseason). Ultimately, Barber finished 2007 as a top-10 Fantasy scorer at his position in standard-scoring leagues. Barber is expected to stay in Dallas and start at running back in 2008, but it doesn't mean that he'll be alone. It's too early to speculate on who will aid Barber next season, but be assured that Barber won't be the every-down back. Even with that being the case, Barber is a touchdown machine that keeps his Fantasy numbers high even though his yardage isn't as good as other top Fantasy rushers. Bottom line: Barber is a top-end No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a top-30 pick in all 2008 drafts. (Updated 04/17/2008).
No information available at this time.
No information available at this time.
The Dallas Morning News reports that the agent for restricted free-agent RB Marion Barber and the Cowboys have begun negotiations on a long-term deal to keep the bruising rusher in Big D. Per multiple sources, Barber has been offered a multi-year deal in the $30 million range, but Barber wants something starting at $40 million and close to deals like Larry Johnson, LaDainian Tomlinson and Clinton Portis. The Cowboys are willing to pay a deal similar to what Michael Turner received from Atlanta. A holdout is not likely, but a running partner in the Dallas offense is likely, possibly a rookie picked in the 2008 NFL Draft. (Updated 04/17/2008).
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 5/11/08).
Fantasy Analysis
Barber recorded 204 carries for 975 yards (a 4.8 avg.) with 10 rushing touchdowns in 2007, adding 44 catches for 282 yards and two passing scores. All of his yardage numbers and touches were career-highs -- not bad for a guy who didn't start a single game (until the postseason). Ultimately, Barber finished 2007 as a top-10 Fantasy scorer at his position in standard-scoring leagues. Barber is expected to stay in Dallas and start at running back in 2008, but it doesn't mean that he'll be alone. It's too early to speculate on who will aid Barber next season, but be assured that Barber won't be the every-down back. Even with that being the case, Barber is a touchdown machine that keeps his Fantasy numbers high even though his yardage isn't as good as other top Fantasy rushers. Bottom line: Barber is a top-end No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a top-30 pick in all 2008 drafts. (Updated 04/17/2008).
