The Dallas Cowboys have designated Ezekiel Elliott as their starting running back, but this could be just a name.
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy said on Wednesday that Elliott will be named RB1 this season, although he will split carries.
“Let’s be honest: you don’t play 11 on offense and defense. McCarthy told Patrik Walker of the team website, “We have 14 guys we consider starters [on both sides of the ball].” “It will take more than one running back. “Those guys are all going to play.”
The team’s designated RB2 is former undrafted free agent Rico Dowdle. South Carolina product Jon Machota of The Athletic wrote in a blog on Monday that he “should be the favorite to lead the Cowboys in rushing attempts and rushing yards this season.”
In his three seasons with the Cowboys, Dowdle has only gained 385 yards and two touchdowns by rushing on 96 carries. He did, though, let Machota know that he anticipates a heavier workload this season, so his stats might rise.
Elliott, a former first-team All-Pro, might be passed his peak. Last season, he played in 17 games with the New England Patriots and had career lows in carries (184), running yards (642), and rushing touchdowns (3).
Dallas recently added running back Dalvin Cook, who is still on the practice squad. The former Minnesota Vikings player can be added to the gameday roster three times by the Cowboys before having to be added to the 53-man roster, according to ESPN’s Todd Archer.
Having Dowdle and Elliott split the burden seems to be the best course of action for Dallas. Tony Pollard (Titans), a former Pro Bowl running back, left the Cowboys in free agency, and they still lack a viable successor.
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