NFL Rumors: Cowboys Wise to Part Ways with CB Mike Jenkins Now

Not only did the Dallas Cowboys sign free-agent cornerback Brandon Carr this offseason, but they just added the 2012 draft's best defensive prospect, cornerback Morris Claiborne, as well. Throw in the fact that they re-signed nickelback Orlando Scandrick to a six-year deal just last offseason and it is easy to see who's the odd man out in the Big D secondary: Mike Jenkins.

The former first-round pick is entering the final year of his contract and it is obvious that he'll leave Dallas in a year's time anyway. The Cowboys know now is the time to fetch anything possible for his services or they risk seeing him walk for free.

Jenkins has talent but has been inconsistent since entering the league in 2008. Cowboys writer Josh Ellis brought up the notion of shipping out Jenkins earlier today, but Cowboys vice-president Stephen Jones said:

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"That's what we'll have to decide," team Vice-President Stephen Jones said. "We think he's a very good corner, too. I think he's probably, when it's all said and done, playing an important role for us this year.

"Now, you never rule out someone doing something that made us better somewhere else. You'd take a look at it, but that's certainly not a priority for us and we're in no hurry to do that. It sure makes me sleep better at night knowing we have four really good corners."

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But if an offer comes their way it will be hard to turn it down considering what is coming at season's end. Only 27-years old, Jenkins will be looking for a big pay day and in an NFL that continues to move toward the passing game, he'll certainly find a team willing to sign a check.

That place is unlikely to be Dallas considering the investment they've made in three others already.

And Claiborne, meanwhile, is a potential superstar at the position and is someone who's drawing Deion Sanders-like attention.

Jenkins is a good player, but he's not worth making the Cowboys secondary the most expensive in the league. 

Don't be surprised if his name comes up later tonight as Dallas continues forward in the draft.