Cowboys Targeting Rival Running Back in Free Agency Day 3 Rumors

The Dallas Cowboys have made it clear they'll be bargain shoppers in free agency after deciding to not pursue any big-name upgrades when legal tampering opened. Since many of the first- and second-tier targets have already agreed to deals, that leaves the Cowboys sifting through the rest heading into Day 3.

There's still a few notable names without new homes at this moment, and it appears Dallas is pursuing one of those players.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday morning that RB A.J. Dillon is weighing his options now that most at his position are off the board. Rapoport mentioned the Cowboys, along with the New York Giants and Indianapolis Colts, as one possible landing spot for the ex-Green Bay Packer.

Let's be real: Dillon doesn't exactly scream RB1 material. He's not the most efficient rusher, with marks of 4.3, 4.1 and an underwhelming 3.7 yards per carry over each of the past three seasons. That's prevented him from ever hitting the 1,000-yard benchmark on the ground.

However, considering how the running back market has dried up, Dillon is suddenly one of the better options remaining for an RB-needy squad.

Prior to his 2023 drop-off, the Boston College product notched back-to-back campaigns of at least 770 yards and 5 touchdowns. He's also proficient in the passing game, recording an average of 28.0 receptions and 247.3 yards per season since 2021.

Dillon may lack the electric playmaking of someone like Tony Pollard, but he can make a positive impact. Perhaps in a featured role, no longer splitting touches with a Pro Bowler like Aaron Jones, he'd even hit new heights.

Dallas simply needs someone who can lead this backfield, and there's not many capable starters like Dillon left. Considering his wealth of interest, the Cowboys must act fast to shore up this talent-deficient unit.

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