Heels in the League – Greg Ellis out in Dallas

As the National Football League begins it’s course into the 2009-10 season there is a story, which I found in this ESPN article, about the release of an ex Tar Heel. The Dallas Cowboys have decided to release veteran 6’6″/262 lbs. line backer Greg Ellis. Now this is not a surprise if you follow football, as Cowboys owner Jerry Jones had stated a while back that the probability of Ellis playing in Dallas in the `09-`10 season were slim to none. It was also pretty evident that this would happen when the team front office went for pass rushers in this year’s draft. The 12 year veteran finished his career in Dallas, where he played his entire career, with 634 tackles, 36 tackles for losses, 197 quarterback pressures and 77 sacks. I would say stats to be proud of, and probably would have added to them if not for the bickering about on the field (his role on defense) and off the field (his contract) issues.

From what I have read about Ellis, he was a three time All-ACC player while at Chapel Hill under the tuteledge of now Texas head coach Mack Brown, as well as being an All-American in 1997. That same year the linebacker was also a finalist in the Lombardi Award. He still holds the record for most sacks at UNC. In the NFL Ellis won awards as well, like being Comeback Player in 2007, the same year he was part of the Pro Bowl.

As I do with any and all Tar Heels (sports or not) I wish Ellis all the best in the next chapter of his life. I will also make sure to keep an eye on this story and update it as soon as I head something.

Shortlink: