Draft History: 2002

IRVING – Every struggling NFL franchise that eventually turns its fortunes around normally has a superb draft that serves as a catalyst.

That was the case for the Cowboys in the early '90s, when their draft-day success in 1991 and 1992 helped them win three Super Bowls in four seasons.

A few years from now, Jones said he hopes to be saying the same types of things about the 2002 draft.

"The combination of the draft and free agency have caused me to feel like I used to feel in 1990, 1991 and 1992, when I wished every fan could be sitting in the office with me," Jones said. "We're not winning games, but the future is bright.

"We've done as much to help our team as we have in any draft since the early '90s. We've improved a lot - a whole lot."

In 1991 and 1992, the Cowboys drafted Russell Maryland, Alvin Harper, Erik Williams, Leon Lett, Kevin Smith and Darren Woodson, who became anchors on their championship teams.

The Cowboys completed their draft Sunday by adding five more players and filling needs at fullback, cornerback and tight end.

They drafted Ohio State fullback Jamar Martin (5-10, 245 pounds) in the fourth round and traded with New England to acquire Virginia Union cornerback Pete Hunter (6-3, 197) in the fifth round.

The Cowboys added Ohio State tackle Tyson Walter, Sacred Heart (Conn.) receiver DeVeren Johnson and tight end Bob Slowikowski in the sixth round.

On Saturday, the Cowboys drafted three players - safety Roy Williams, guard Andre Gurode and receiver Antonio Bryant - rated as first-round picks on their draft board. They also added cornerback Derek Ross, the third-best cornerback on their draft board.

"Right now, it's all based on opinions," coach Dave Campo said. "The proof is what they do when they come in here, but I think several of them can come in and play. I'm tired of 5-11, and these guys give us a chance to be competitive."

Jones said he expects Williams to start at strong safety, moving veteran Darren Woodson to free safety. The Cowboys are split on whether Gurode will compete with Kelvin Garmon at right guard or Matt Lehr at center.

Bryant will compete for playing time as the third receiver with Ken-Yon Rambo, Reggie Swinton and Darrin Chiaverini. Ross will compete for a starting cornerback position.

Jones said he hopes the Cowboys' draft along with the moves they've made in free agency will change the perception of the club's front office and scouting department.

The Cowboys have drafted poorly since 1995. Linebacker Dexter Coakley, a third-round pick in 1997, is the only draft pick to earn a Pro Bowl berth in that span.

Many first- or second-round picks such as defensive end Kavika Pittman (1996), tight end David Lafleur (1997), Dwayne Goodrich (2000) and Tony Dixon did not or have not played to expectations.

The Cowboys have also been handicapped by not having a first-round draft pick four times since 1995. Dallas has had only two top-10 draft picks since drafting Russell Maryland No.1 overall in the 1991 draft.

"I hope this draft will enhance our perception that we can manage a football club," Jones said. "It's certainly understandable why we've been criticized, but I hope that what we've done over the last days is given some positive comments."