Analysts, mock drafts predict notable change for Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys' backfield situation is uncertain, with No. 1 running back Tony Pollard headed for free agency after playing the year on the franchise tag. While keeping Pollard isn't out of the question for 2024, one analyst believes the franchise will go in a different direction.

In ESPN's breakdown of each team's offseason priorities throughout the league, Aaron Schatz predicted that the Cowboys would let Pollard walk and select a future bellcow in April's NFL Draft.

Schatz throws out Ohio State's TreVeyon Henderson and Michigan's Blake Corum as potential targets, adding that the Cowboys would need to move up from the No. 56 pick in the second round to "get the guy they want." 

This past season, Corum was the only player in the FBS to score a touchdown in every game. Meanwhile, he rushed for more than 3,000 yards (3,660) in three seasons at Michigan and ended his collegiate career as the program's all-time leader in single-season (27) and career rushing scores (58).

On the flip side, consensus says the Cowboys will target Texas RB Jonathon Brooks in the second round, according to NFL Mock Draft Database. 

Dane Brugler of The Athletic is one mock drafter who believes Brooks would be a good fit in Arlington. Despite coming off a torn ACL, Brooks is still in line to be one of, if not the first, back selected in this year's draft. Meanwhile, Brugler added an extra nugget, pointing out that the Cowboys' head physician, Dr. Dan Cooper, performed Brooks' surgery in November 2023 and would have intimate knowledge about his status and recovery. 

Before going down with a season-ending injury, Brooks was arguably one of the most explosive backs in the country, rushing for 1,139 yards and 10 touchdowns over 11 games. 

Running back may not be the top need for the Cowboys, but it's likely to be one of the team's main holes to fill. 

Pollard didn't equal the output from his Pro Bowl season in 2022, but he was more than serviceable, rushing for over 1,000 yards for the second consecutive season while scoring six touchdowns on the ground. However, barring a long-term deal, he'll hit the open market soon. The only other option to keep him would be using the franchise tag again, but that would cost the Cowboys $12 million in 2024, up from $10 in 2023.

Whether the Cowboys believe Pollard is worth a long-term commitment or a large chunk of next year's salary is the question. The answer is likely no on both counts, which should lead to a new face taking handoffs from quarterback Dak Prescott next season.