The Dallas Cowboys’ approach to managing their running back lineup this offseason has been less than stellar. The loss of Tony Pollard to free agency left a noticeable void, one that the Cowboys hesitated to fill immediately. This indecision has led to speculation, missed opportunities, and now, a potential trade scenario that could see Pro Bowl running back Miles Sanders donning the star-spangled jersey.
Dallas Cowboys’ Offseason Conundrum
After allowing Pollard to depart, the Cowboys seemed positioned to make a splash in the running back market. Derrick Henry’s name was tossed around the rumor mill, yet he escaped to the Baltimore Ravens, leaving Dallas fans bewildered and frustrated. The NFL Draft brought further disappointment, with the Cowboys missing out on Texas standout Jonathon Brooks, who was snagged by the Carolina Panthers.
In response, Dallas re-signed Ezekiel Elliott, though his best days as a lead back appear behind him. Currently, Elliott shares the backfield with Deuce Vaughn and Rico Dowdle—hardly the fearsome trio that strikes fear into the hearts of opposing defenses.
Miles Sanders on the Trade Block?
Enter Joe Dolan, an analyst from Fantasy Points, who recently floated a fascinating possibility on the FANTASY FEAST podcast. Dolan suggested that Miles Sanders, after a lackluster year with the Panthers, could be a trade target for the Cowboys.
“Miles Sanders was a disaster in his first year with Carolina who could look to ship him to Dallas during training camp just to unload that contract,” Dolan explained. This comment adds a layer of intrigue as the Panthers were the very team that outmaneuvered Dallas for Brooks.
Sanders, a former Pro Bowler with the Philadelphia Eagles, has shown he can be explosive. Two seasons ago, he accumulated 1,269 rushing yards, scored 11 touchdowns, and maintained a healthy 4.9 yards per carry. Despite a disappointing tenure with the Panthers, where he averaged just 3.3 yards per carry, Sanders’ pedigree is not in question.
The Potential Impact of Miles Sanders in Dallas Cowboys
The addition of Miles Sanders could rejuvenate a Cowboys’ offense that looks lackluster on paper. While not the ultimate solution, Sanders would bring experience and a proven track record to a group that desperately needs a spark. His ability to break open games with his agility and speed could complement Elliott’s power-running style, potentially giving Dallas the dynamic they need to contend more effectively.
A Calculated Gamble Worth Taking?
While acquiring Sanders is far from a guaranteed success, it represents a proactive move that could pay dividends for a Cowboys team in need of offensive stability. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Dallas’ management to see if they can secure a deal that bolsters their backfield and reinvigorates their playoff aspirations.
For the Cowboys, the time to act is now. The question remains: Will they pull the trigger on a trade that could potentially turn their fortunes around, or will they continue to play a waiting game that could cost them dearly in the competitive landscape of the NFL?