It was exposing the flaws he has to fix next season.
Year two traditionally has been when Parcells’ turnarounds take shape. So even though his first Dallas team made the playoffs, Parcells isn’t fooled into thinking the team has arrived — especially not after its 29-10 loss to Carolina on Saturday night.
“When you have an opportunity, you don’t know when you are going to get another one,” Parcells said. “But I told the players I am not going to rest. I am going to be tireless in my pursuit.”
Parcells said Dallas will be active in free agency, although he and owner-general manager Jerry Jones declined to elaborate Saturday night or Sunday. They’ve said they will start first by re-signing the players they want to keep, then look to other teams or the draft.
Cornerback Mario Edwards and defensive end Ebenezer Ekuban are among the unrestricted free agents. The Cowboys also may have to make decisions about high-priced veterans such as receiver Joey Galloway and maybe even offensive lineman Larry Allen. Dallas is in good shape with the salary cap.
The biggest decisions will center on quarterback and running back.
Troy Hambrick certainly won’t be the main ball carrier again after gaining just 1,001 yards, counting his lowly team-best 29 against Carolina.
Whether Quincy Carter remains the quarterback will be the hot issue. Jones said in early December that Carter had done enough to earn the job next season, but he left plenty of wiggle room.
