Cowboys face urgent decision as Tony Pollard's franchise tag deadline nears
"It takes two to tango," said Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones last month when talking about potential extensions. Of course, that's what anyone would say in a negotiation to raise the opposite side's appetite for heading to the dance floor. And yet, it's true. Both the Cowboys and running back Tony Pollard […]
"It takes two to tango," said Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones last month when talking about potential extensions.
Of course, that's what anyone would say in a negotiation to raise the opposite side's appetite for heading to the dance floor. And yet, it's true. Both the Cowboys and running back Tony Pollard will both have to show some willingness if they're to reach a long-term extension before the 2023 NFL season.
After all, the league's July 17th deadline for tagged players to sign such contracts is only seven days away. Can the Cowboys get it done before the last tango?
Although it can't be ruled out, I'd call it a surprise if a long-term deal ends up happening.
As of right now, Pollard is set to make a guaranteed $10.09 million under the tag after having signed his tag earlier this year. Coming off of a significant ankle injury in the Cowboys' playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers, the team might be encouraged to play the long game to see what the veteran looks like when he's back on the playing field in the first place.
Not to mention, the front office will be trying to optimize to secure the futures of WR CeeDee Lamb, CB Trevon Diggs, and even superstar Micah Parsons in 2024. All while juggling Dak Prescott's next contract extension.
On top of that, I'd argue Pollard himself could be better off waiting for the negotiations out. With a full season to be the starter of the Cowboys, he'll have the chance to send his stock flying through the roof before next offseason.
This will be his first time being featured back in the NFL. If he manages to prove he can be an every-down back who can win in short-yardage situations and also be a consistent contributor as a receiver out of the backfield, his value could increase significantly.
In a market where teams are choosing to spend as little as possible, Pollard's bet on his future likely doesn't mean losing out on a ton of money today.
Whatever his and the Cowboys' decision is will be made official on July 17th. At 4 p.m. ET of that day, the sides will be unable to reach a multi-year deal until the 2024 offseason.
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