Cowboys RB Depth Chart: Now that Ezekiel is gone, Pollard and Dowdle lead the Dallas Cowboys backfield.
Despite the absence of Ezekiel Elliott, the Dallas Cowboys look ahead to the 2023 NFL campaign. Jones allowed Zeke to leave during free agency after he had carried their ground game for several fruitful years. With this decision, Tony Pollard has become the clear front-runner to lead the Cowboys' backfield.
Significant closures, such as that of the Zeke Era, mark the conclusion of a stage.
With Ezekiel Elliott gone, an era draws to a close for the Dallas Cowboys. Former first-round pick and offensive linchpin since 2016, Elliott is now a member of the New England Patriots. The sudden evolution has elicited an equal measure of reaction from Cowboys followers and NFL buffs alike.
Tony Pollard: The New Sheriff in Town
Now, that Ezekiel Elliott is gone, Tony Pollard fills the spotlight as Dallas' top rusher. Despite the remarkable journey so far, Pollard had a Pro Bowl season in 2022 by rushing 1,007 yards and scoring 9tds. With 39 catches for 371 yards and three TDs, he underscored his flexibility.
A large cap hit of $10.9 million was incurred when the Cowboys employed the franchise tag on Pollard during the offseason, indicating their confidence in him. Now in his fifth pro campaign, the Memphis alum faces increasing pressure after Elliott left.
Rico Dowdle: The Backup Plan
To Rico Dowdle, the Cowboys have turned to backing up Pollard. Unlike others', Dowdle's journey thus far was irregular. In 2020, he became the third-string running back for the Cowboys, after being drafted.
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Despite playing in just 15 games because of numerous injuries, Dowdle started his career in 2020. Having gone without any touches in 2022, he is considered relatively inexperienced. Although questionable about his capabilities, Dowdle was chosen by Dallas to be an essential backup player under Pollard.
Deuce Vaughn: The Rookie Sensation
Not one of the tallest runners, Deuce Vaughn stands at only 5 feet 5 inches, yet his output was undeniable at college level. With selection in the sixth round of the NFL Draft, he became a valued asset to the Cowboys as their third-string runner.
With Kansas State being his alma mater, Vaughn accumulated an astounding 1,558 rushing yards along with nine touchdowns during his college years. With versatility as his strength, he racked up an extra 348 receiving yards. Despite limited game time at first, his dynamic abilities have impressed fans and coaching staff alike.
Ronald Jones: The Veteran Presence
In the Cowboys' running back stable, Jones is an experienced veteran. With the Cowboys, following time spent by Jones of 26 years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and a short spell with the Kansas City Chiefs, he signed a contract lasting one year.
Jones won't be accessible during the initial two weeks of the season. Dealing with a groin issue and facing disciplinary action, the athlete has been given a two-game suspension.
Not facing serious injuries, Jones may play a more vital role in the Cowboys' 2023 campaign than anticipated.
The Cowboys' Path Forward
With an eye on the future campaign, the Cowboys have recently witnessed a substantial reshaping of their running back depth chart. Aided by a strong ground game featuring Tony Pollard, Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn, and Ronald Jones, the Cowboys hope to seamlessly combine their run and pass plays under the guidance of Dak Prescott and standout wideout CeeDee Lamb.
A successful run game means everything to the Cowboys in their pursuit of a Super Bowl championship in a very competitive NFC East division. With Ezekiel Elliot gone, Dallas opens up a novel period defined by unyielding success on the gridiron.
From dynamic Tony Pollard to promising rookie Deuce Vaughn, the Dallas Cowboys running back depth chart shines with talent and promise. With Ezekiel Elliott no longer part of the equation, the Cowboys have acted resolutely to secure a prosperous backfield existence. Excitement awaits as Dallas brings together youth and experience to kick off yet another captivating NFL season.