FAYETTEVILLE - When the Dallas Cowboys were doing their homework on Felix Jones prior to April's NFL Draft, it only made sense for them ask Reggie Herring for his opinion.

After all, Herring took over as Arkansas' defensive coordinator in December of 2004, only a few months before Jones arrived in Fayetteville as a freshman running back.

And during their three years together with the Razorbacks, Herring had plenty of opportunities to observe Jones' speed, work ethic and playmaking ability in practice and in games.

So before the Cowboys selected the versatile running back with the 22nd pick in the draft, team officials asked Herring - Dallas' new linebackers coach - what he thought of Jones.

"The bottom line is they asked me if I'd want him on my football team," Herring said. "And I said, 'Heck yes.'"

Herring got his wish, and already he has seen Jones make a good first impression with the Cowboys. Herring said Dallas' coaches are "in love" with the rookie's work ethic, giving them reason to be optimistic as they prepare to open training camp on Friday.

"Felix is the same guy he was at Arkansas, and that's what got him to the Cowboys as the first-round draft pick - his impeccable work ethic, his attitude and personality," Herring said. "He always has a smile on his face, whether it be 100 degrees and practicing hard or inside air condition."

Coincidentally, Herring coached Jones in his final game as a Razorback. And as it turned out, the game was in Dallas.

After Houston Nutt left in late November to become Ole Miss' coach, Herring stepped in and served as Arkansas' interim coach for the Cotton Bowl. The Razorbacks lost 38-7 to Missouri, but only a few months later, Herring and Jones were reunited with the Cowboys.

"Right now, where we're at at the start of the season and after going through practices and being around him for four months, I think the offensive coaches are extremely excited about what lays ahead for Felix and their offense," Herring said.