Cowboys: One crucial move will have a domino effect on entire offseason
The Dallas Cowboys have some important decisions to make this offseason. Some bigger than others. Mike McCarthy has revamped much of the offensive staff and will take over play-calling duties. While Dan Quinn is back to run the defense after a very successful first two years with the franchise. However, tough choices will be made […]
The Dallas Cowboys have some important decisions to make this offseason. Some bigger than others.
Mike McCarthy has revamped much of the offensive staff and will take over play-calling duties. While Dan Quinn is back to run the defense after a very successful first two years with the franchise.
However, tough choices will be made over the next month and beyond before kickoff in September. Arguably the biggest decision will center around what to do with Tony Pollard.
Pollard, an impending free agent, proved his value this past season. It was obvious how big of a factor that he played in the Cowboys having offensive success. He is a dynamic threat that puts pressure on defenses in so many ways.
With that said, it's not as easy as the Dallas Cowboys simply re-signing him. Rather, there are different factors that the front office and coaching staff must consider. Especially since Pollard suffered a gruesome injury in the final game of the season for Dallas.
Cowboys have tough decision to make
Tony Pollard enters free agency after having ankle surgery. He broke his left leg and suffered a high-ankle sprain in the playoff loss to the San Fransisco 49ers. That is a factor that could have an impact on his negotiations.
Signing an injured running back – as flukey as that seemed to be – is always a risk. Furthermore, it's been shown over the years that it's not smart to give a running back a second contract.
Running back is such a physical position where there is a ton of wear and tear involved. Ultimately leading to a decline in talent and production. Ezekiel Elliott is one prime example, as it has been clear to see Zeke lose his explosiveness that made him so valuable early in his career.
Additionally, it is almost like running backs grow on trees. Every team seems to have a back that makes an impact without premium draft capital or a lofty salary. Team building is strategic, and investing money at that position is unwise when looking at the big picture.
That makes signing Pollard to a long-term deal or even placing the franchise tag on him tricky.
Talented draft class
Furthermore, the 2023 NFL Draft class appears to have a ton of talent at running back. Texas running back Bijan Robinson is the headliner of the group. He even has been linked to the Cowboys early on in the draft process.
Beyond Robinson, there is a ton of prospects that should intrigue the Cowboys. Jahmyr Gibbs of Alabama, Devon Achane out of Texas A&M, and Tank Bigsby from Auburn are other notables that could have big impacts right out of the gate in the NFL.
That makes the decision to move on from Pollard (and Elliott) or keep him even more difficult. On one hand, you know what Pollard can do when healthy. On the other, why pay market value when you can get a talented replacement on a rookie deal?
There is a lot for the Dallas Cowboys to consider when it comes to running back. The next month or so will tell us a lot about what the Cowboys are thinking for next season and beyond.
Featured image via Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
