Running back Tony Pollard could make the difference, as each year it seems is marked as the one the Dallas Cowboys win it all. That comes from having an illustrious history in the game. The five Super Bowls, and the many near misses.
Every franchise looks for a breakout star. The Cowboys have had many in the last decade or two as they search for their sixth title. Tony Pollard is one emerging star – pun intended – that could be the answer. After starting his career in the shadow of Ezekiel Elliott, now could be his time to shine.
Tony Pollard looks to stamp his authority in 2023
Pollard emerging from the shadows
The Dallas Cowboys selected the ball carrier in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he broke the 100-yard barrier twice. His backup role behind Zeke meant limited playing time at first. With Elliott suffering from some nagging injuries, running back Tony Pollard got more of a starting role. Last season was his breakout year. He rushed for 1,007 yards, and nine touchdowns. As well as gaining 371 yards receiving, with three more trips to the end zone. Earning himself a first Pro Bowl selection.
Just as the Cowboys were making a run in the postseason, he suffered his own injury setback. During the loss to the San Francisco 49ers, he suffered a high ankle sprain. Also, a fractured fibula was detected upon X-ray.
Missing Zeke
With Elliott not getting an extension to his contract, Pollard is now the RB1. In early March, this year the franchise tag was placed on him. With training camp now in full swing Pollard realises and relishes the new role he has. He also misses the man he is replacing. “It is definitely different. Not having him out here with all the energy he brings.”
This is also on the backdrop of how much the stock has fallen on running backs in the NFL over the last 25 years. In the huge mega trade that turned the Cowboys fortunes in 1989, they gave up Herschel Walker for a whopping nine draft picks. And five players, from the Minnesota Vikings. The Dallas Cowboys know the value of a running back. The foundation of their 1990s success was in the hands of all-time leading rusher Emmitt Smith.
Now as they look to reach the promised land again, they will rely on Tony Pollard. “I signed the tag, I’m here in camp. I’m just ready to focus on the main thing and just stick to winning. Yeah, that’s fine with me.” He remarked when questioned about getting the franchise tag.
Cowboys RB Tony Pollard comes in at No. 55 in this year’s NFL Top 100 Players for 2023…
Pollard last year set career highs in rush yards, rush TD, receiving yards and receiving TDs! #DallasCowboys
(🎥: @NFLFilms) pic.twitter.com/QQNYgnylTV
— Kevin Gray Jr. (@KevinGraySports) July 28, 2023
Pollard keeping Coach happy
Head coach Mike McCarthy has noticed changes to running back Pollard’s approach this off-season. “I think the first thing is still recognizing he’s coming off an injury.” He said when talking about how the practices will slowly see Pollard get more reps. “At the end of the day, it’s been really cool to see Tony step up and lead that room. He’s speaking up in meetings more. His attention to detail has been excellent. A great role model to our young players.”
Main Photo Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
