Running Back room evaluation

Everyone knows that Zeke is gone, and Pollard has received the franchise tag. But I simply don’t trust that Pollard will return to form in 2023 after the injuries he suffered in the playoff game against the 49ers. The Cowboys need to pick a RB in the upcoming draft.

Having said that, I do believe the Cowboys have signed a good player in RB Ronald Jones. Jones was the 38th overall pick in 2018 at age 20 out of USC, and has been a solid RB. For whatever reason, his workload has been relatively light, and he’s only had 510 rushes in his 5 year career. But he’s averaged 4.4 ypc, which is more than the Cowboys got out of Elliott last season. His best years were 2019 & 2020 when he combined for 364 carries for 1702 yards, and 13 touchdowns rushing, plus another 59 receptions for 474 yards and another touchdown. He can be a good compliment to Tony Pollard, and if Pollard doesn’t come back on time, Jones can provide a rushing threat if given an opportunity.

Malik Davis played well as the 3rd RB last season, showing toughness and inside running ability. And the Cowboys have re-signed Rico Dowdle, also. Overall, if Pollard returns intact and on-time the Cowboys are not in desperate need. But the uncertainty surrounding the health of Pollard, and the fact that both he and Jones are on 1-year contracts means the Cowboys would be wise to spend some draft capital to find a long-term replacement for Zeke Elliott.

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