The Cowboys Must Draft One of These Three Running Backs in 2024

The 2024 NFL Draft is right around the corner and the Dallas Cowboys' backfield still has much room for improvement. After losing Tony Pollard to free agency, the Cowboys haven't done anything to address their running back room outside of re-signing last year's RB2, Rico Dowdle.

Given the team's lack of presence in free agency, it's likely that Dallas will address its RB need at the draft. Although this year's class is lacking when it comes to elite running back prospects, there are still plenty of serviceable rushers that the Cowboys can find on all three days of the draft.

Here are three running backs that the Cowboys should target in Las Vegas later this month.

Early Pick: RB Jonathon Brooks, Texas

If the Cowboys want to use their second-round pick to find a new No. 1 RB, they must target Texas' Jonathon Brooks.

Brooks has been one of the more popular potential Pollard replacements among Cowboys fans this offseason. Although the 2023 campaign was the 20-year-old's first as the Longhorns' lead back, Brooks made the most of his opportunities, turning 187 carries into 1,139 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns while hauling in 25 catches for another 286 yards and a score.

Unfortunately, Brooks' final college season wasn't perfect. The second-team All-Big 12 RB's campaign came to a premature end when he tore his ACL in a game against TCU in November. The good news is that his rehab has been positive thus far and all signs point to his being ready by training camp.

Brooks boasts a terrific combination of speed and power when healthy, making him one of the more well-rounded RB prospects. The fact that he's also a Texas-born player who played for the Longhorns will help him become a fan favorite that much quicker.

Considering how explosive the Cowboys' offense can be, it's easy to imagine him thriving in Mike McCarthy's system.