Injuries have played a part in the running game's ineffective play. Ezekiel Elliott has been dealing with a knee injury that only seemed to get worse in the Cowboy's last 3 game stretch. But its Tony Pollards concerning injury that compelled the Cowboys to sign a running back.

Randy Gregory has been designated for return from injured reserve. So he's in his 21-day window and can be activated for Sunday, provided he looks good this week.

The Cowboys have also added RB Ito Smith to the practice squad. Smith was a 4th rd pick by Atlanta in 2018.

— Dave Helman (@davehelman_) December 8, 2021

 Running back Ito Smith, the former Atlanta Falcon was added to the practice squad Wednesday afternoon. Smith has played all 3 years of his career in Atlanta tallying 1003 total yards and 6 touchdowns.

Tony Pollard

The move was done due to a concern surrounding Tony Pollard's availability this Sunday.

There is some concern – maybe not red-alert – about Tony Pollard's availability Sunday with that foot injury. With Ezekiel Elliott dealing with the knee issue, Pollard banged up, that's why they added Ito Smith to PS. Corey Clement the other RB on the 53-man roster.

— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) December 8, 2021

Pollard has been the big play catalyst to the offense in even in its low moments of the season. Last week Pollard broke off a 50+ yard TD run that gave the Cowboys the room it needed to close out the game.

Against the Raiders it was his 100-yard kickoff return that kept the game within reach. If Pollard isn’t able to go Dallas will lean on Ezekiel Elliott to carry the load.

Elliott mentioned today he feels better than he has in a while but has also acknowledged its just something he will have to play with.

Dallas travels to Washington this week with a chance to put the clamps on the division. But it won't be any easier without what has been their spark plug in the backfield.

Featured image: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports