Five Cowboys storylines to follow at the NFL Scouting Combine

It’s where the league goes to evaluate potential draft picks with a fine-tooth comb, including tests for running, agility, strength and mental aptitude.

But it’s more than measurements, weigh-ins and 40-yard dashes. It’s also the start of unofficial free agency, as agents and general managers meet under the guise of draft talk to lay the groundwork for veteran free-agent signings.

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has made many deals aboard the gaudy team bus parked outside the downtown Indianapolis Marriott. It will be no different this week.

Here’s a look at five storylines for the Cowboys at the combine:

1 Dez and DeMarco talks

With free agency beginning March 10, time is running out on the Cowboys getting deals for receiver Dez Bryant and running back DeMarco Murray. The combine provides an opportunity to get on the same page as well as lay groundwork for dealing with other free agents, such as Rolando McClain, Doug Free, Bruce Carter, Jermey Parnell and Justin Durant.

2 Tag for Bryant or Murray

With no deals imminent for Bryant or Murray, the Cowboys will almost certainly have to use the franchise tag on one of them. The first day a franchise tag can be used is Monday. The window for teams to use those designations runs through March 2. The Cowboys have said Bryant is a priority, and he will most likely get the tag. But until it happens, Murray remains in play.

3 Cowboys’ draft focus

The biggest needs for the Cowboys are on defense. They could use help at end, tackle, cornerback and linebacker, depending on what they do with McClain, Carter and Durant. They will interview players at the combine accordingly. With Murray possibly leaving in free agency, the Cowboys are likely to draft a running back. There are several options, led by Georgia’s Todd Gurley and Wisconsin’s Melvin Gordon.

4 The Jameis Winston watch

No player will be scrutinized at the combine more than controversial Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston, who is a strong possibility to go No. 1 overall. Winston has all the tools to be a franchise quarterback, but his off-the-field issues and character concerns raise a lot of questions. His media interview could rival the huge crowds that surrounded Cam Newton, Tim Tebow and Johnny Manziel.

5 The Paul Dawson question

This story was originally published February 14, 2015 at 6:24 PM with the headline "Five Cowboys storylines to follow at the NFL Scouting Combine."