Cowboys Training Camp: Mike McCarthy explains what will define RB battle
The Dallas Cowboys know one thing when it comes to life after Ezekiel Elliott: Their starting running back will be Tony Pollard. Beyond that, everything seems up for grabs. And the battle that will determine the rest of the depth chart will be one of the most fun aspects of Cowboys training camp. It's sixth-round […]
The Dallas Cowboys know one thing when it comes to life after Ezekiel Elliott: Their starting running back will be Tony Pollard.
Beyond that, everything seems up for grabs. And the battle that will determine the rest of the depth chart will be one of the most fun aspects of Cowboys training camp. It's sixth-round rookie Deuce Vaughn fighting young backs Rico Dowdle and Malik Davis. And even veteran Ronald Jones will get in the mix. And did I mention there's a fullback-type back in Hunter Luepke calling for a spot on the roster?
Yeah, it will be fun indeed. But while many fans would assume it's their ability to run the football on offense that will define whether they're on the team or looking for a job in September, head coach Mike McCarthy explains that's not the case.
"When you have different traits in any position room, the conversation jumps ahead to special teams," McCarthy told reporters on Wednesday. "That's really what it's going to come down to, the importance of their role not only just on offense but on special teams."
McCarthy added that the fastest way to make the 53-man roster is through special teams as it's the easiest way to get on the field for non-starting players.
Even knowing that's the main criterion that will define the Cowboys' running back depth chart, it's tough to figure out what things will look like. Let's start with Davis and Dowdle, who are similar players in style and who fought each other last year in camp. Both contributed significantly on special teams, per Pro Football Reference:
- Rico Dowdle, 67% special teams snap count out of 5 games played
- Malik Davis, 52% special teams snap cont out of 12 games played
While the simple numbers would suggest Rico Dowdle (who is the underdog of this battle in the eyes of many) is the best special teamer of the two, there are a ton of variables to be considered that likely contribute to the big discrepancy. But it does speak volumes as to how highly the Cowboys think of him.
Earlier this year, McCarthy even told reporters "Don't forget about Rico." This time, the stakes of Dowdle's and Davis' battle are much higher. Not only are they battling for the backup role but they could be out of a roster spot if they don't win it.
Why? Enter sixth-round rookie Deuce Vaughn. The small-sized back provides a different style of player that will likely lead to the Cowboys wanting to keep him on board. Not to mention, he could provide upside as a returner if the league's new return rules lead the team to move on from Kavontae Turpin. In time, if he overcomes concerns about his size and pass protection skills, he could make a compelling argument to be RB2.
Veteran Ronald Jones doesn't have a lot of special teams experience to brag about as he's had three 100+ attempt seasons in his five-year career. If he's to make the roster, he'll likely be limited to the arguments he makes as a playmaker on offense.
As for Hunter Luepke, his different body type and role on offense could be enough to make the roster as an undrafted player if McCarthy wants a fullback or an H-back type like in his Green Bay days. I'm betting Luepke will make the cut.
Cowboys ace Tony Pollard decision but it comes at a high cost
The Dallas Cowboys have made up their minds regarding the future of RB Tony Pollard and while they made the right call, there is some downside to it.
Featured image via Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
