During NFL free agency, the Cowboys reach an agreement with a potential running back.

The NFL free agency period is always a time of excitement, speculation, and big moves as teams seek to strengthen their rosters for the upcoming season. For the Dallas Cowboys, a team with a storied history and a passionate fanbase, free agency often brings heightened anticipation. In recent years, the Cowboys have built a competitive team, with a strong defense and potent offensive weapons. However, one area that has remained a subject of debate and scrutiny is the running back position.

As the Cowboys entered the 2025 NFL free agency period, the team’s front office, led by general manager Jerry Jones and head coach Mike McCarthy, was actively seeking to bolster the running back position. With an offense that had relied heavily on their star quarterback, Dak Prescott, and a solid receiving corps, the Cowboys recognized that the addition of a high-impact running back could give their offense the balance it needed to take the next step toward a Super Bowl title.

In this article, we will explore the circumstances surrounding the Cowboys’ pursuit of a running back during the 2025 free agency period, analyze their motivations, and take a closer look at the potential addition and its implications for the team.

The Need for a Running Back

The Cowboys have had a history of success at the running back position, with some of the NFL’s most iconic backs donning the silver and blue. From Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith to current stalwart Ezekiel Elliott, the Cowboys have always understood the importance of having a strong running game. In recent years, however, the team has faced challenges in terms of consistency in the backfield.

Elliott, who was once the focal point of the Cowboys’ offense, had been slowing down in terms of production in recent seasons. His 2024 campaign was a microcosm of his decline—while still effective in short-yardage situations and in the red zone, Elliott lacked the burst and explosiveness that had defined his early years. With the Cowboys looking to maximize their championship window, it was clear that a change was needed.

The team had explored a committee approach in recent years, with rookie running back Deuce Vaughn offering some hope and flashes of brilliance, but neither Vaughn nor Elliott could replicate the dominance of past Dallas running backs. The Cowboys’ offense was still potent with Prescott’s arm and wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks, but there was a growing sense that the offense needed a more dynamic, every-down running back to provide balance and relieve some pressure off Prescott.

Thus, heading into free agency, the Cowboys’ front office set their sights on bolstering the running back position, aiming to find a back who could be a workhorse and complement their potent passing attack.

Key Factors in the Cowboys’ Pursuit

1. Offensive Balance

At the heart of every successful NFL offense is balance. Over the past few seasons, the Cowboys had leaned heavily on their passing game, especially after the emergence of Prescott as one of the league’s top quarterbacks. While Prescott had proven capable of carrying the offense, particularly with the talented wide receiver corps at his disposal, there was always the need for a potent running game to keep defenses honest.

A strong running game would allow Prescott to work off play-action, giving him more time in the pocket and helping to open up the passing lanes downfield. Moreover, with the NFL’s increased focus on speed, particularly with defenses moving towards more aggressive, fast-paced units, having a versatile and reliable running back capable of breaking big runs or picking up tough yards on the ground would put the Cowboys’ offense in a more favorable position.

By adding a new running back, the Cowboys would also alleviate the wear-and-tear on Prescott, which could help him stay healthy throughout the season. It would also allow the team to control the clock more effectively, particularly in close games or in situations where they wanted to preserve a lead in the second half.

2. Strengthening the Depth Chart

As previously mentioned, the Cowboys had a few running back options in-house, but none of them were seen as long-term, every-down solutions. Deuce Vaughn had shown promise in his rookie season, but at 5’5″ and 179 pounds, he lacked the physicality to consistently handle a large number of carries over the course of a 17-game season.

Elliott, while reliable in short-yardage situations, was no longer the explosive, dynamic force he once was. The Cowboys’ depth behind these two options was questionable, making the acquisition of a more reliable, durable running back essential for their offensive depth.

A strong running back signing would allow the Cowboys to mix and match their backs depending on the situation. Whether it was a power back for goal-line situations, a speedy back for outside zone runs, or a dual-threat back capable of contributing in both the run and passing game, the Cowboys needed a versatile playmaker who could carry the load when necessary.

3. Playoff Aspirations

The Dallas Cowboys’ playoff hopes are always high, given the team’s history, fanbase, and the talent they possess on both sides of the ball. However, one issue that had hindered the team’s playoff runs in recent years was their inability to execute a well-rounded game plan. In particular, their lack of a consistent, high-impact running game had been a limiting factor in key playoff matchups.

The Cowboys’ defense had made strides under defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, with standout players like Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs giving the defense an aggressive edge. However, the offense had often faltered when the team faced top-tier playoff teams, especially those with strong defenses that could neutralize their passing attack.

A strong running back, capable of providing that offensive balance, could prove to be the missing piece for the Cowboys as they attempt to make a deeper postseason run. In an NFC conference that featured juggernaut teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers, Dallas would need to be able to control the tempo of the game and keep opposing defenses off-balance.

Targeting the Right Running Back

With these goals in mind, the Cowboys set out to target the right running back in free agency. The team’s needs were clear: they wanted a back who could be a true workhorse, a versatile player who could contribute in all facets of the offense and provide stability to their backfield. With several intriguing running backs available, the Cowboys had a few different options.

Top Running Back Candidates

1. Josh Jacobs (Las Vegas Raiders) Josh Jacobs was one of the most sought-after running backs in free agency. Coming off a career-best season with the Raiders in which he led the NFL in rushing yards, Jacobs was a powerful, durable back with the ability to dominate both between the tackles and in space. His downhill running style, combined with his ability to catch passes out of the backfield, made him a perfect fit for a team like the Cowboys, who needed an every-down back.

Jacobs would have provided the Cowboys with the physicality and balance they sought. His downhill running ability would complement the Cowboys’ zone-blocking scheme, and his receiving ability would give Prescott another weapon in the passing game. The major concern was Jacobs’ price tag, as he was likely to command a high salary after his dominant 2024 season. However, the Cowboys’ front office was willing to make moves to secure a long-term solution at the position.

2. Tony Pollard (Dallas Cowboys – Re-Sign) While not technically a free agent from another team, Tony Pollard’s name had been mentioned frequently during the offseason. Pollard had been a dynamic part of the Cowboys’ offense in 2024, offering explosive plays and big gains both in the running and passing game. While Pollard was never meant to be a bell-cow back, his ability to contribute as a playmaker made him a valuable asset. The team had to make a decision on whether to re-sign Pollard and allow him to take on a more prominent role in the offense or pursue a different running back.

3. David Montgomery (Detroit Lions) David Montgomery, coming off a solid season with the Detroit Lions, was another intriguing option. Known for his ability to grind out tough yards between the tackles, Montgomery would have brought the physicality that the Cowboys needed in short-yardage and red-zone situations. While not as explosive as some of the other options, Montgomery’s consistency and toughness made him a solid, affordable option for the Cowboys.

4. Miles Sanders (Carolina Panthers) Miles Sanders, a former Pro Bowler with the Philadelphia Eagles, had been a part of a very successful running game but was now looking for a fresh start. Sanders’ speed and quickness would have added an element of explosiveness to the Cowboys’ offense, particularly on outside runs and stretch plays. He was capable of contributing as a pass catcher as well, which would have made him a nice fit in Dallas’ offense.

The Decision and Agreement

After much deliberation and evaluation, the Cowboys’ front office made a decision: they reached an agreement with Josh Jacobs, signing him to a multi-year contract. The Cowboys were impressed by Jacobs’ ability to carry an offense as a workhorse back and believed he was the missing piece to complete their offensive puzzle.

The contract details were significant but manageable within the Cowboys’ salary cap structure. Jacobs would come in as the lead back, taking over the role previously held by Elliott. His ability to pound the ball between the tackles while also being a threat in the passing game made him a perfect fit in the Cowboys’ system.

The Dallas Cowboys’ pursuit of a running back in NFL free agency was a critical move to solidify their roster for the 2025 season. By signing Josh Jacobs, the Cowboys addressed a glaring need in their offense and added a dynamic playmaker capable of taking their team to the next level. With a balanced offensive attack, a strong defense, and the leadership of Dak Prescott, the Cowboys would head into the 2025 season with renewed hope and optimism for a Super Bowl run.