Ezekiel Elliott Could Be in Trouble if Tony Pollard Emerges in Big Way for Cowboys
By Michael Luciano
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The Dallas Cowboys may find it difficult, some might even say impossible to replace Ezekiel Elliott's production and intimidation in the backfield. However, they might have just found a suitable replacement for Zeke, as his contract negotiations drag on in the form of fourth-round rookie Tony Pollard.
After splitting time between running back and wide receiver in college, the Cowboys have Pollard at running back through and through, and he's rewarded their faith with a strong preseason in which he's shown off his exceptional vision and quickness.
#Cowboys RB Tony Pollard sorting through the trash to score the TD (called back due to a block in the back): pic.twitter.com/wC5eB2EfLw
— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) August 25, 2019
Given the Cowboys offensive line and the volume of carries running backs have gotten in the last two years, a 1,000 yard season for Pollard can't be ruled out, should he be the RB1 throughout the year.
Elliott is currently asking for record-breaking money, which could prevent Dallas from signing either Amari Cooper or Dak Prescott. If Pollard stars on the cheap, Zeke could have put himself in a pretty difficult spot.
Tony Pollard up the middle for 20! @Tp__5
— NFL (@NFL) August 24, 2019
?: #HOUvsDAL on @NFLNetwork
Watch on mobile: https://t.co/TSVSsOzib3 pic.twitter.com/em87sjfYid
If Zeke holds out into the season, the first few games are going to be massive for Pollard and the direction of the Cowboys organization.