Key Takeaways:
– The Dallas Cowboys need to address their lack of experience at running back following Tony Pollard’s move to the Tennessee Titans.
– With the NFL Draft approaching, the Cowboys are considering University of Texas running back Jonathan Brooks.
– ESPN deems Brooks a potential perfect fit for the Cowboys despite coming off an ACL injury in November.
– Scouts compare Brooks to former Kansas City Chiefs star Jamaal Charles, characterizing him as agile with a good understanding of the game.
Dallas Cowboys’ Search for New Talent Amidst Hope and Uncertainty
The Dallas Cowboys are presently grappling with a scarcity of experience and proven playmaking ability in their running back following the departure of Tony Pollard to the Tennessee Titans. This situation is about to take an interesting turn as the NFL Draft approaches.
Cowboys’ Crucial Decision in NFL Draft
The Cowboys’ needs at offensive tackle and depth along the front seven are critical, expected to be high on the club’s priority list. However, the question mark over the running back position remains the central concern heading to the 2024 NFL Draft.
An Optimistic Projection for the Cowboys
ESPN marks the exciting University of Texas running back, Jonathan Brooks, as a prospect beyond the first round who could fill arguably the biggest gap in the Cowboys’ roster perfectly. ESPN contributor Matt Miller notes that “The Cowboys’ lack of a starting-caliber running back on the roster means whoever they draft has to be ready to carry the load.” He further adds, “Brooks can do that, despite coming off a November ACL injury […]. He posted 1,139 yards last season.”
Brooks finally reached a healthy state and showcased explosive abilities throughout the 2023 season, averaging 6.1 yards per carry and finishing in the end zone ten times. In a running back class that many consider subpar, Brooks may be the most sought-after prospect at his position.
Jonathan Brooks’ Stepping Up the Game
Brooks brings the speed and explosiveness required for an NFL backfield. His skills could fill the gap left by Ezekiel Elliott’s decline and eventual departure from the Cowboys. According to Pro Football Focus, Brooks averaged an impressive 3.91 yards after contact per carry last season. He maneuvered past 63 missed tackles and attained an elite elusive rating of 140.3 during the robust 2023 campaign. Brooks is compared to former Kansas City Chiefs star Jamaal Charles by NFL Media’s Lance Zierline, who describes him as agile and skilled at reading blocks and setting up defenders.
The Addition the Cowboys Need?
Despite turmoil along Cowboys’ offensive line and the need to replace key players like Tyron Smith and Tyler Biadasz, Brooks, with his capabilities, could be the antidote to the growing problems faced by a revamped offensive line.
Potential Backfield by Committee Approach
Stephen Jones, the Cowboys COO, has indicated that the backfield remains a work in progress. He stresses that a position as important as the backfield may be addressed in the draft, free agency, or a combination of both. Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy has credited the running back-by-committee approach, suggesting that the team’s 2024 season may feature a blend of new and existing talent. This potential strategy underscores the Cowboys’ urgent need to upgrade their backfield while remaining adaptable in a dynamic NFL scenario.
The Cowboys’ Future Strategy
With the NFL Draft nearing, the times are exciting for the Dallas Cowboys, whose running back strategy will be closely watched by NFL fans. The addition of a skilled player such as Jonathan Brooks could be a game-changer for the Cowboys and pave the way for a successful season. With determination and strategic foresight, the Cowboys may well turn their current predicament into a turning point in the club’s history.