The Dallas Cowboys have to make a big decision on what to do at the running back position, plain and simple.

Ezekiel Elliott’s salary is too high for his current production, and Tony Pollard is a free agent, meaning both could be elsewhere in 2023. However, NFL Network's Jane Slater spoke on the Cowboys' running back situation on Tuesday, and she feels at least one of them will return.

"I'm confident that Tony Pollard will be wearing the star next year," said Slater. "Now, how he'll be doing that is going to be interesting. They, of course, have the option of franchise tagging him, that window of course opened up today. I anticipate they'll do a little negotiation before that have to slap it on there which is March 7th."

The bottom line is, Pollard is the top guy in the Cowboys backfield right now, and keeping him on the roster would be wise for Dallas considering he is their most explosive offensive weapon overall.

Elliott, as Slater said, wants to stay in Dallas and is willing to take a pay cut to do so. The Cowboys have stated they want him back as well, so it depends on how much of a financial sacrifice he's willing to make.

If the Cowboys decide to use to exclusive tag on Pollard they would have until July 14 to work out a long-term deal with him and he wouldn't be allowed to talk to other teams. Also, Pollard would be paid $10.1 million next season if no deal is reached.

Dallas could also go the non-exclusive tag route on Pollard. If so, Pollard would be allowed to negotiate with other teams but he couldn't leave without the Cowboys being given a chance to match the highest offer. The Cowboys would receive two first-round picks for Pollard if they didn't match it.

Lastly, there's the transition tag option. Pollard could still negotiate with other teams and exit the building if the highest offer for him isn't matched by the Cowboys. However, Dallas wouldn't receive any compensation for him in that scenario.

The next coming weeks will be intriguing ones when it comes to this dilemma concerning the Cowboys.

Feature image via Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports