updated 10:49 a.m. ET Jan. 15, 2009

Cowboys coach Wade Phillips and owner Jerry Jones will discuss releasing wide receiver Terrell Owens as the team looks to improve chemistry in its locker room, ESPN is reporting.

"I think we all know that chemistry is the problem with this team more than the schemes or anything else," a Cowboys source told the website. "The big one [Owens] didn't get discussed yet, but I'm sure it will and real hard."

At least two sources believe that vice president Stephen Jones will try to convince his father that Owens should be released despite the salary cap hit the team would take.

The Cowboys began the 2008 season with three players who have been suspended at one time or another by the NFL or a previous team. Of those three, Pacman Jones has been released by the team, and Tank Johnson, a free agent, is not expected to be re-signed.

"I think some people want to just cut our losses and get rid of all those guys. ... T.O., Tank, Pacman,'' a source said. "But I really think Jerry likes the thrill of trying to make it all work."

The discussions around Owens are expected to formally begin when the Cowboys' coaching staff is finalized. If offensive coordinator Jason Garrett is offered a head coaching job -- he has interviewed with the Rams and Lions -- some Cowboys sources believe he would not return to the organization unless he if offered the head coaching position and the team releases Owens. Jerry Jones has insisted that Phillips will be back as coach next season.

"I think Jerry would have to think about it, but I believe he'd let Jason leave,'' said one team source, noting Jones has a remaining $6 million obligation to Garrett.

However, some in the organization believe Owens could be released even if Garrett does leave, ESPN reports.

Also on NBCSports.com   Video: Legends say Federer greatest of his generation Curran: McNair — tough, talented, great  |    Images Ventre: Artest puts everything in jeopardy for Lakers Blyleven: Days of .400 hitter are dead and gone   NFL video: How to build the ultimate offense

MORE FROM NFL

NFL Section Front

Police rule ex-QB McNair’s death a homicide PFT: Woman's family thinks third person involved Curran: Tough, talented — McNair lived up to the hype   Slideshow: McNair's career highs, lows PFT: McNair's ex-teammates bemoan his loss PFT: Shock, sadness at McNair's death McNair brought big-time football to Alcorn St. Discuss: How will you remember Steve McNair? PFT: Favre not so popular in Vikings' camp? PFT: Giants not worried about Manning deal NFL Section Front   Add NFL headlines to your news reader: