Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley
Since 2001, HBO has presented its almost all-access "Hard Knocks" series three times. The first season featured the Baltimore Ravens, who were coming off a Super Bowl title. In 2002, the network used NFL Films to capture the Cowboys' training camp in San Antonio.
For no apparent reason, HBO chose a rather pedestrian Chiefs roster for its "Hard Knocks" comeback in 2007, which was intriguing only to Kansas City fans and this blog.
Now, "Hard Knocks" may be returning to fertile ratings territory, the Dallas Cowboys. According to local newspaper accounts, a deal is "imminent" that would allow NFL Films constant access to the club's training camp in Oxnard, Calif.
America will be able to see the charismatic Wade Phillips up close and personal, and viewers will watched contrived scenes of owner Jerry Jones cutting players he's never made eye contact with.
Who will be the stars?
Obviously Tony Romo and Terrell Owens will be front and center. If Jessica Simpson sneaks into town for a visit, I'm sure NFL Films will assign a camera or 20 to follow her. I'm planning to be in Oxnard during the first week of training camp, so perhaps Hashmarks will receive some air time. Lord knows we need it since "The Hot List" has completely turned its back on me.
Mark my words: Danny Amendola, a free-agent rookie out of Texas Tech, will be the feel-good storyline that "Hard Knocks" crams down our throats. You'll also meet a kid named Marcus Dixon, who has a fascinating backstory.
OK, let's send it back out to Sando in the Seattle bureau.
