3 Cowboys Starters Fans Want Replaced This Offseason
The Dallas Cowboys have a lot of work to do if they want to end their Super Bowl drought next season. While a third consecutive 12-5 season was nice, another quick postseason elimination has left the fanbase feeling like they're starring in 1993's Groundhog Day for the last 28 years.
After claiming that the Cowboys are going "all in" this offseason, it's up to owner/general manager Jerry Jones to turn things around. He's going to have to make some tough decisions concerning free agency and the 2024 NFL Draft, especially in regards to upgrading the starting lineup.
When it comes to those who underperformed in 2023, here are three starters that Cowboys fans want to see replaced this offseason.
1. RB Tony Pollard
After three decent seasons with America's Team, Tony Pollard became a household name in 2022. Backing up Ezekiel Elliott, the former Memphis running back rushed for 1,007 yards and nine touchdowns on 193 carries while converting 39 receptions into 371 yards and another three TDs.
So when the Cowboys cut ties with Elliott last March, a chunk of the fanbase was excited to see what Pollard could do as the lead back. Unfortunately, much like many players who face lofty expectations, Pollard didn't quite live up to the hype.
Despite seeing 59 more carries than he did in the previous years, Pollard finished with fewer rushing yards (1,005) and touchdowns (6) in 17 starts. He also saw 12 more targets while tallying 16 more receptions, but only recorded 311 receiving yards without a score. Even worse is that he only had one performance of 80 or more rushing yards compared to seven last year.
After proving that he isn't fit to be an every-down RB, Cowboys fans are more than fine with letting Pollard walk as a free agent this offseason. Running backs are often replaced in the NFL, so I fully expect Jones & Co. to weigh their free-agent and draft options to find the perfect fit.
Who knows? Maybe Pollard can thrive in an RB2 role again if the Cowboys can add another RB who's similar to Elliott's style of rushing.