Dallas Cowboys running backs Tony Pollard and Ezekiel Elliott helped carry one of the best NFL offenses in 2022. As the franchise prepares to make difficult decisions with its roster this offseason, the fates of their two ball carriers could be decided.
Pollard was poised to become one of the top NFL free agents in 2023 when the playoffs began. However, the 25-year-old suffered a fractured left fibula in a Divisional Round loss to the San Francisco 49ers. While he is expected to be ready for training camp, the injury created new questions regarding his outlook for a contract this offseason.
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The free-agent class of running backs includes Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs and Miles Sanders as the headlines of a deep group. Pollard’s talent and playmaking ability would’ve made him a sought-after player. Now, the recovery from surgery diminishes his potential earnings.
- Tony Pollard stats (2022): 1,378 scrimmage yards, 12 total touchdowns, 5.2 ypc
Despite any outside concerns regarding how explosive Pollard will be after leg surgery, Dallas is reportedly prepared to keep him from testing free agency.
According to Pro Football Network’s Tony Pauline, Pollard is expected to receive the franchise tag this offseason. It would mark the sixth consecutive year the Cowboys used the franchise tag to keep a player from testing the open market.
It’s a worthwhile outcome for Pollard. If he signs the tag, he is automatically guaranteed $10.1 million in 2023. Playing on a prove-it contract, he could prove he is healthy before cashing in next offseason as one of the best players available.
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Evaluating the Dallas Cowboys running back plans in 2023
Dallas is facing a dilemma at running back, especially if Pollard is tagged. Adding $10.1 million to the salary sheet puts the Cowboys $17 million over the 2023 salary cap. The easiest solution is cutting Elliott, freeing up $10.9 million by designating him as a post-June 1 release.
- Ezekiel Elliott stats (2022): 876 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, 3.8 yards per carry
However, owner Jerry Jones made it abundantly clear that he wants Elliott back next season and there is support from Stephen Jones. With Mike McCarthy also focused on becoming a more run-heavy team in 2023, it’s even more likely Elliott is back.
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Pauline notes that the expectation around the NFL is Elliott will take a pay cut. Restructuring his contract won’t create $10.9 million in cap space, but it will help Dallas generate more room to make moves to help the roster.
Coming off a season that saw Dallas finish with the ninth-highest rate of run plays (47.3%), McCarthy’s new play-calling duties could push that above 50% in 2023. If that’s the case, the splits for touches could flip for Elliott (231 last season) and Pollard (193), with the more explosive back taking on the lead role. Assuming Elliott is back in Dallas, he’ll likely be the Cowboys’ short-yardage and goal-line back.
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