The Cowboys will tag Pickens to prevent him from hitting the free agent market while it concentrates on outbidding suitors for free agents who will markedly upgrade the defense. Then Jones will come back and try to get something done with Pickens, the same way I intend to give my wife more than a cheesy card for Valentine’s Day if I know what’s good for me.
Doubts it will unfold this way are understandable. Jones has brought those on himself. But the first sign this offseason will be different came with the hiring of defensive coordinator Christian Parker from Philadelphia. The next will be what happens when free agency opens on March 11.