In a bold strategic move this offseason, the Dallas Cowboys chose not to sign superstar running back Derrick Henry, instead opting to re-sign their former star, Ezekiel Elliott. Despite a clear need for the running back position, the Cowboys decided to stick to a committee approach and work within their financial constraints.
Financial Factors Behind the Decision
Cowboys Executive Vice President Stephen Jones highlighted on Mad Dog Sports Radio with host Adam Schein that finances significantly influenced the team’s decision. “We just didn’t have the dollars to allocate to the running back position,” he explained. This pragmatic approach meant passing up on Henry’s workhorse capabilities.
Tony Pollard and Derrick Henry Find New Homes
The financial realities led to Tony Pollard signing a three-year deal with the Tennessee Titans. Meanwhile, Derrick Henry joined the Baltimore Ravens on a two-year, $16 million contract. His partnership with quarterback Lamar Jackson marks a significant upgrade for the Ravens’ offense and sets up a different dynamic than what the Cowboys will field this season.
What’s crazy is this might be even better https://t.co/3QBAzsdHde pic.twitter.com/VcwvTIzBGS
— Artist Formerly Known as Derrick Henry’s Stiff Arm (@traviebird00) May 7, 2024
Dallas Cowboys’ New Running Back Strategy
The Cowboys, led by head coach Mike McCarthy, now turn to a committee backfield featuring Elliott, promising rookie Deuce Vaughn, and veteran Royce Freeman. This trio will spearhead Dallas’ ground game, which ranked 14th in the NFL last season.
Elliott, back with the team on a one-year, $3 million deal, will play a pivotal role. His performance, combined with contributions from Vaughn and Freeman, will shape the Cowboys’ offense as they transition to a new approach that relies on versatility rather than a single standout running back.
Implications for the 2024 Season
With this committee strategy in place, much depends on quarterback Dak Prescott’s ability to lead the offense effectively. Opposing defenses will likely focus on stifling Prescott and the passing game, putting additional pressure on the running backs to deliver consistently.
If the committee approach falters, the decision not to sign Henry may loom large. However, if Elliott can recapture his form, this versatile backfield could complement Prescott and help the Cowboys redefine their offensive identity for a successful 2024 campaign.
