Dallas Cowboys May Let Star Running Back Test Free Agency

The Dallas Cowboys may let star running back, Tony Pollard test free agency next month. It’s already a difficult situation for Dallas who will look to extend Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. Dallas will likely have to make some sacrifices to keep some of their stars for next season. However, the running back situation looks uncertain and Pollard could be heading to a new team.

One report made a huge prediction that will drastically shake things up in Dallas. It said the Cowboys would allow Pollard to walk in free agency and trade up in the third round to take a new running back. This could be a big prediction, but the Cowboys have more options than that. They could dip in free agency and sign a back for a one-year deal while it buys them time to find a legitimate franchise player.

It won’t be easy to replace Pollard despite his slow production this past season. Pollard did notch his 1,000-yard mark for a second straight season. However, in four of its five losses this season, they failed to surpass 100 yards rushing. Prescott had little to no time in the pocket and continuously faced red zone issues.

The Cowboys finished 15th in rushing yards per game (113.5). All of this pretty much tells you that Dallas probably won’t spend big money on Pollard. He’ll likely receive another deal with a new team as a potential backup for more money. It does feel logical that the Cowboys move on to find a running back that fits with Prescott’s playing style.

Dallas Cowboys May Let Tony Pollard Test Free Agency Next Month

Another Ezekiel Elliott Situation

In 2023, the Cowboys let go of one of their biggest stars who had potential but became slow due to injuries. This could be the same situation that’s happening with Pollard because he was coming off an injury in 2022 and that could be the reason for his slow production. He had high expectations coming in this past season but that all went out the window. However, it probably could be that he isn’t meant to be a starter just yet.

The best-case scenario for him would probably go back as running back No. 2. He could get that chance with a new team as it’s likely he’ll get picked up fast. It looked difficult for Pollard this season being the lead back getting most of the touches. Mike McCarthy tried switching it up and getting Rico Dowdle in the mix, but that didn’t pan out.

The best thing that Cowboys could do is try putting Pollard back as No. 2 but it’s probably too late for that. Dallas is focused on bringing the bigger names that have contributed to the team’s success this past season. The Cowboys may want to get a back that can be a legitimate run-blocker to provide extra help for Prescott and the offensive line. There are plenty of names that can do that will be available in free agency.

So What Do the Cowboys Do Next?

They could bring in some free agents next month for a visit to see how they fit with the Cowboys offense. However, Dallas may have to act quickly since most names may come off the list quickly. Names that have been circulating are Derrick Henry, coming off an explosive season with the Titans. Henry might want a longer deal, though but it may be out of the Cowboys’ price range.

A name to watch for is Joshua Kelley from the Los Angeles Chargers. He isn’t on many radars but he may be good use for a quick one-year until Dallas finds their franchise running back. He’s a moderate built-runner who can still do several things on offense.