Key Takeaways:
* After signing Ezekiel Elliott, the Dallas Cowboys may further boost their backfield.
* Miami Dolphins’ Running Back (RB) Jeff Wilson Jr. could be a potential target following Dolphins’ plan to clear cap space.
* A proposed trade might involve the Cowboys’ 2025 sixth-round pick for Wilson.
* On reducing Wilson’s cap number from $3.67 million to $2.375 million, a trade for him could be the most upside, cap-friendly deal for the Cowboys.
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, the Dallas Cowboys appear set to expand their backfield options even after signing seasoned running back (RB) Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott made a phenomenal comeback to Dallas, recording his 642-yard rush with three touchdowns for the New England Patriots in the 2023 season. However, the Cowboys may need an additional big-play threat to complement Elliott’s robust, between-the-tackles running style.
Potential Addition to Cowboys’ Backfield
According to Ari Meirov from The 33rd Team, the Miami Dolphins might make RB Jeff Wilson Jr. available through a trade or release. Amid cap space constraints, Miami could clear $1.2 million by letting go of Wilson. Wilson, over seven seasons with the San Francisco 49ers and Dolphins, has accumulated 2,313 rushing yards with 18 touchdowns and 5 additional scores from 71 catches totaling 566 yards.
The Dolphins’ planned backfield adjustments with younger, faster RBs and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa might make space for Wilson’s exit. Additionally, Wilson’s 5 out of 41 explosive rushes in 2023 for 10 yards or more emphasize his prowess. Adding such speed and receiving proficiency to the Cowboys’ backfield could result in a versatile duo threat.
Profile of The Potential Trade
The Dolphins’ considerable RB investments aligned with a potential decision to offload Wilson may cost Cowboys only a late-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Suggestive trade: 2025 sixth-round pick from Cowboys for Dolphins’ RB Jeff Wilson Jr. As the Dolphins traded off their sixth round pick of 2025 to acquire Chase Claypool from the Chicago Bears, the proposed Cowboys deal may replenish their draft hold next season.
In the Cowboys camp, Wilson could swiftly move up to Elliott’s lead backup, edging out Rico Dowdle and Deuce Vaughn based on their recent underperformance. Despite drafting Royce Freeman, Wilson’s addition could bring a new dimension to the Cowboys’ backfield.
Cowboys’ Cap Space Situation
The Dolphins’ recent Wilson contract restructuring lowered his cap number from $3.67 million to $2.375 million, increasing trade appeal. The Dolphins’ move, reported by Sun-Sentinel, could make the Cowboys’ decision to acquire Wilson more financially appealing. As Spotrac reveals, the Cowboys maintain a leaner cap space amounting to $4.49 million. Therefore, Jerry Jones and the Cowboys might consider making cap-friendly deals, like possibly trading for Wilson, while maximizing their upgraded RB position after Elliott’s return.