The Dallas Cowboys are facing challenges at the running back position, and finding a viable solution may have to wait until the offseason. Matt Holder from Bleacher Report suggested that Minnesota Vikings star running back Aaron Jones could be a fitting addition for Dallas in 2025 NFL free agency. If the Cowboys were to acquire Jones, the former Pro Bowler would likely become the team’s starting running back, especially with both Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle set to hit free agency.
“Ezekiel Elliott’s and Rico Dowdle’s contracts are set to expire at the end of the season, leaving Dallas in need of running backs,” Holder noted in a September 23, 2024 article titled, “NFL Team Needs: Prioritizing Every Roster’s Biggest Weaknesses Before Week 4.” He added that even if one of the current players is retained, the offense could benefit from a dynamic option in the backfield, given that Deuce Vaughn hasn’t seen much playing time.
Holder highlighted Jones as a potential solution, citing his impressive career stats of around 280 catches for approximately 2,100 receiving yards. Although the 29-year-old, who will turn 30 in December, may not have a long stint with the Cowboys, his experience could come at a lower price, especially if he’s playing for a Super Bowl contender.
Aaron Jones is already making an impact with the Vikings, having recorded 325 total yards and 2 touchdowns through the first three games of the season. He signed a one-year, $7 million deal with Minnesota after previously being on a four-year, $48 million contract with the Green Bay Packers.
The Cowboys have struggled significantly in the rushing department, ranking third-worst in the NFL with an average of just 73.7 rushing yards per game through the first three weeks. Both Dowdle and Elliott have underperformed so far, prompting speculation that the Cowboys might consider Dalvin Cook, who is currently on the practice squad and has yet to see any game action.
Despite these issues, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones does not seem worried about the running back situation. Ahead of their Week 3 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, Jones stated he was satisfied with the current roster at that position. However, the Cowboys managed to rush for only 51 yards against Baltimore, largely because they were playing from behind and needed to rely more on the passing game.
Jones acknowledged the need for better protection for their running backs and praised Rico Dowdle’s performance but indicated there wouldn’t be any changes involving Cook for that week. It’s also worth noting that the Cowboys did not address the running back position in the draft after Tony Pollard signed with the Tennessee Titans in free agency, and they only brought in veteran Royce Freeman, who ultimately did not make the final roster.
Leave a Reply