Newman Close to New Deal?

Dallas Cowboys CB Terence Newman currently has one year remaining on his contract (the final year was voided) and there had been reports of both sides being far apart on negotiations on a new deal.

Contrary to those reports, a league source with knowledge of the negotiations told Scout.com/TheRanchReport.com that both sides have made solid progress of late and a deal could be struck soon.

The 29-year old (he turns 30 in September) former Kansas State University defensive back is scheduled to make $1.416 million in 2008.

It's believed the final season of Newman's seven-year rookie deal, which he signed in 2003, was voided due to him meeting certain playing time levels (generally playing a certain number of the defensive snaps in one or a few seasons). His base salary for 2009 was $1.69 million.

Dallas spent one of their two first-round pick in April's draft on CB Mike Jenkins. Should Newman get signed to a new deal as expected, veteran CB Anthony Henry could be moved to safety in future seasons once the coaches feel Jenkins is ready to start or he could be moved to a nickel role. The belief is Jenkins will handle the nickel role this season.

Dallas also traded for corner Adam "Pacman" Jones this offseason to address its concerns in the secondary.

Jones, however, has not been reinstated by the NFL following a string of off-the-field incidents.

Newman was voted to the 2008 Pro Bowl last year after tying his career high with four interceptions. He also had 50 total tackles and 13 pass deflections as well.

The former Kansas State standout is one of five starters for the Cowboys who is entering the final year of a contract. RB Marion Barber, S Ken Hamlin, WR Terrell Owens and DE Chris Canty are also entering the final year of their respective deals.