According to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News, free-agent running backs Dalvin Cook and Ezekiel Elliott “have interest in potentially signing” with the Dallas Cowboys.
“Team owner Jerry Jones and executive vice president Stephen Jones told the Dallas Morning News this week at the NFL’s annual meeting they could neither confirm nor deny interest in the running backs,” Gehlken stated.
“Although they remained silent, anyone considering the Cowboys’ options at the position would do well to keep an eye on both the experienced running backs and the rookie pick. According to several individuals who are aware of the players’ thoughts, The News has learned that the veterans are considering signing with Dallas.”
Before signing a free agent contract with the New England Patriots last year, Elliott spent his first seven seasons playing for the Cowboys.
Cook played for the Minnesota Vikings for six seasons before joining the New York Jets as a free agent. Before the regular season ended, Gang Green released him, and the Baltimore Ravens signed him to help them in their postseason run.
In the running back room, the Cowboys require additional reinforcements. Tony Pollard, the starting lineman from the previous season, signed a free agent contract with the Tennessee Titans. Deuce Vaughn and Rico Dowdle, the backup and third-string backs from the previous season, are still available.
But according to Gehlken, “it appears all but certain” that Dallas will choose a running back on the second or third day of the draft.
But in 2023, neither Elliott nor Cook had a productive rushing year. Elliott had a career-low 3.5 yards per carry. Cook, meanwhile, ran for a career-low 3.2 yards per carry.
Following Rhamondre Stevenson’s season-ending sprained ankle, Elliott emerged as New England’s top running back, accumulating 955 yards and five touchdowns.
Cook found himself relegated to a third-string role and little playing time in New York due to his fall down the depth chart. Throughout the season, he only got 82 touches for 292 yards and no touchdowns.
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