Don't be shocked if the Dallas Cowboys let running back Tony Pollard depart this offseason.
ESPN's Aaron Schatz predicted Dallas would move on from the 26-year-old and select an RB, such as Michigan's Blake Corum, in the second or third round of the NFL Draft.
The former Pro Bowler signed the franchise tag (a one-year, $10.09M contract) last offseason and became the feature back after the Cowboys cut Ezekiel Elliott. While he wasn't terrible, Pollard fell short of expectations.
In 17 regular-season games, he averaged a career-low four yards per carry and rushed for six TDs. When he broke out in 2022, he averaged 5.2 yards per carry and nine TDs in 16 games. Also, he only rushed for 56 yards on 15 carries in Dallas' embarrassing wild-card loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Spotrac estimates the Cowboys will be $11.06M over the cap. To create room, they will need to move on from some players. Although Pollard is a solid back, he might be a cap casualty. His market value is a three-year deal worth $6.6M annually, 11th at his position.
Selecting Corum as a replacement would be wise. In 15 games, he led the FBS in rushing TDs (27), helping Michigan win its first national championship in 26 years. Notre Dame's Audric Estimé is another compelling target. He was third in rushing TDs (18 in 12 games).
BLAKE CORUM COULD NOT BE STOPPED‼️
— ESPN (@espn) January 2, 2024
Michigan takes the lead in OT #CFBPlayoff pic.twitter.com/FfeVQlHAAQ
HOUSE CALL BIG DRIC#GoIrish☘️ pic.twitter.com/a1JCY1dQUH
— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) October 1, 2023
If Pollard does walk, he will attract some suitors. One intriguing destination could be the Tennessee Titans. It appears they won't re-sign star RB Derrick Henry, and Spotrac projects they have the league's second-most cap space ($77.59M).
It's a difficult choice for the 'Boys, but it seems like a good move for both parties. Dallas would be able to create some financial breathing room, and Pollard can explore his options in free agency.
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