In two interviews, the Cowboys running back talked about Terrell Owens' release and the team's locker room problems.

"I don't cause controversy, I'm just straightforward," Barber told The Dallas Morning News. "[Critics] are trying to make [Owens] into something he's not. I felt the same way like everybody else, but then I met the man. Once you know who he is, he's a great guy."

Barber told ESPN he was shocked by the Cowboys' decision to cut Owens.

"I couldn't really believe it," he said. "It's part of the business and you just try to keep on moving from there. It was a shock. I'm sure a lot of people watching felt the same way I did as far as everything that went on last year. He was hoping to put things in the past."

The gag order imposed on coach Wade Phillips was lifted briefly Friday to allow him to issue a statement regarding Owens' departure.

"I think that when his playing days come to an end, he will have compiled a career that is worthy of the Hall of Fame," Phillips said.

"We're now ready to move on, and this decision will open the door for other younger players on our team to step up. That process will begin here in a few weeks [March 30] with the start of the off-season program."

DE Olshansky signs: The Cowboys filled a large vacancy on their defensive line Friday by signing Igor Olshansky. The Ukraine-born defensive end received a four-year deal worth $18 million with approximately $8 million guaranteed.

Like linebackers Keith Brooking and Matt Stewart, two other additions this off-season, Olshansky (6-6, 309) has a history with coach Wade Phillips, who was his defensive coordinator for three seasons in San Diego.

DMN