QUICK TAKES - Jan. 23, 2009

The first time Michael Irvin watched “American Idol,” he loved the concept of giving undiscovered singers the chance to become stars. Now Irvin is doing the same for NFL wannabes.

The Hall of Fame receiver is launching a TV reality show in which 12 “football neophytes” will compete for an impressive grand prize: a spot on the Dallas Cowboys’ training camp roster.

The Cowboys confirmed that one of their 80 roster spots will go to the show’s winner.

The show, which doesn’t yet have a title, will air this spring on Spike. Irvin will be the host; judges will include Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and former players and coaches.

The show will pit six receivers and six defensive backs. As for how they will compete, all Irvin would say is, “Tune in and watch. It’ll be groundbreaking in so many ways.”