Is DeMarco Murray is ready to step up for the Dallas Cowboys and become their workhorse running back? The talented ball carrier appears prepared to handle what the team wants him to do, which could potentially include 300-plus carries.
DeMarco Murray says he can handle 300 carries this year, but how many will the #Cowboys give him? http://t.co/4ZyXzPjCk7
— Fantasy Football Today (@FFToday) July 16, 2014
Murray had this to say (via Fox Sports).
If they decide to do that with me, of course, when asked if he could handle a 300-carry-a-season workload. Whatever they decide to do with me, I think I can handle it.
Mentally prepared is one thing, but physically prepared is another issue. Murray is capable with bursts of talent, but he also has a hard time staying on the field a whole season. During the first three years of his career, he has missed a total of eight games with a sprained foot and sprained MCL. In 2013, Murray had a career high 217 carries, which tied him for 17th in the league.
To carry upwards of 300 times would put Murray in the LeSean McCoy and Marshawn Lynch territory. When asked about if he could handle this workload, Murray further commented.
You just have to take care of your body and know when to go and fight for that extra yard or inch and know when not to. That’s something about just being a smarter football player in general and knowing when you’re helping your team and when you’re hurting your team.
Murray is entering the final year of his rookie contract, so I’m sure that will further motivate him to stay in top shape and be prepared for a challenging year.
Photo: CBS Sports