Just CHill: Jerry Jones not ruling out a Greg Ellis return

 
Clarence Hill

Former Cowboys defensive Greg Ellis, who was recently released by the Raiders, has expressed interest in returning to his former team next season.

Owner Jerry Jones measured his words carefully when asked about Ellis before responding this way, "It's not unrealistic is the best way to say it."

Ellis was a first-round pick of the Cowboys in 1998 and become one of the most respected players in the locker room before he became disgruntled over money, position and his role. He battled Jones and the Cowboys coaches until he was released following the 2009 season.

In the midst of all, Ellis enjoyed the best season of his career in 2007 when he recorded 12.5 sacks and was named the league's Comeback Player of the Year.

Despite an injury plagued year with the Raiders, Ellis still recorded seven sacks in 2009 and has 84 for his career. He has led the Cowboys in sacks five times in his career.

What's also true is that the Cowboys need a third pass rusher to complement starters DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer. The Cowbys were counting on Brandon Williams to fill that role last season but he missed the entire season with a knee injury.

Williams will be ready to go in 2010. But he is unproven, while Ellis has made a career out of getting to the quarterback.

Comments

[DesparatelyNeedAnotherSB]

I think Ellis would be a great situational rusher IF he can accept that role.

[Don Hoffman]

Bring Greg back. We need some veteran leadership if we plan on making it to the Super Bowl.

[nnagi]

bring him back for what, i guess the grass wasn't greener in oakland...screw ellis, he whined his way out, don't bring him back

[Craig Henson]

Ellis is a whining malcontent. Please do not sign him.

[Richard]

I really liked Ellis. But please don;t stop the progress of the younger players'