Cowboys won't tag Tony Pollard but don't rule out a reunion just yet
As expected months ago, the Dallas Cowboys won't be using the franchise tag on Tony Pollard ahead of the 2024 NFL free agency, nor on anyone else. Even though the Cowboys tagged Pollard last year, circumstances were stacked against the running back in 2024: A flooded running back market in free agency, a strong rookie […]
As expected months ago, the Dallas Cowboys won't be using the franchise tag on Tony Pollard ahead of the 2024 NFL free agency, nor on anyone else.
Even though the Cowboys tagged Pollard last year, circumstances were stacked against the running back in 2024: A flooded running back market in free agency, a strong rookie class ahead of the NFL Draft, and quickly-declining prices for RBs.
Most importantly though, Pollard lack his usual explosiveness as a playmaker. Whether that's because of poor scheming and blocking up front, his ankle injury, and/or an increased role is up for debate. However, the point remains the same: Circumstances don't justify paying Pollard premium money.
But the doesn't mean the Cowboys and Pollard are done. The two sides could still reach an agreement in time for next season. After all, if and when Pollard tastes free agency, what are the chances he gets the deal he's looking for? Let's dive into what that could look like?
RB Tony Pollard contract projection
Below is one of our 105 NFL free agent contract projections, which showcases Pollard's projected deal:
Pollard struggled to amass 1,000 yards despite seeing the highest number of snaps and carries of his career. He also saw a significant drop in his yards per carry, yards after contact and yards per reception.
Still Pollard missed tackle forced rate (which was better than both Josh Jacobs and Saquon Barkley in 2023), combined with his overall value as both a runner and a receiver, combined with the relatively low miles on his tires should have teams lining up to give him a 2nd-tier deal on a two-to-three year timeframe.
3 yrs $22.5M, $7.50M APY, $13M fully GTD
Year One Cap Hit: $3.5 million
It's going to take a bigger discount
At this point, with the Cowboys reportedly moving on from Tyron Smith and doing little to advance contract negotiations with its top players, including QB Dak Prescott, I believe it'll take a lower figure than the above projection of $7.5 million per year.
If Pollard is to return to the Cowboys, it will likely be after a quiet start to free agency for the running backs that sees their values decline before the front office caves in. Recently, I wrote about Dak holding all the leverage in his negotiations with the team. With Pollard, that's not the case.
Dallas can afford to be patient, knowing there are a lot of solid FA options out there and a juicy draft class in the horizon. Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, and many others are headed to free agency after not being tagged themselves, either. Supply and demand is the name of the game and I wouldn't be surprised if this is a market that becomes stagnant later in March.
Expect the Cowboys to squeeze their leverage to sign Pollard to a cheap deal if he's to return. If they can get him at a deal closer to the $5M range, I'd be surprised if they don't try to bring him back. A reunion is still on the table despite the latest tag news. Otherwise, the RB room is about to look way different next September.
