As the Dallas Cowboys approach week three of the preseason, the running back position stands out as the team’s weakest area. Currently, the roster includes Ezekiel Elliott, Rico Dowdle, Malik Davis, Royce Freeman, and Deuce Vaughn. Back in May, head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed to the press that the team would adopt a committee approach rather than relying on a single lead back.
“We’re running back by committee. I think it’s the times that we’re in. Seventeen games is a lot of football — that’s a big role for those guys. Don’t get me wrong, they’d all like to carry it like the old days and have those touches, but you want those guys fresh at the most important time of the year. So, that’s all part of planning and how you look at projections of play time.”
Implementing a committee approach for the running backs isn’t necessarily a poor strategy. Historically, successful teams avoid the practice of investing heavily in a single player to handle the rushing duties. However, the current group in Dallas leaves much to be desired. Elliott is coming off of his worst season yet, managing just 3.5 yards per carry with the New England Patriots last year. Freeman ended the 2023 season with only 319 rushing yards for the Los Angeles Rams and is not guaranteed a spot on the roster. Although Dowdle showed promise last season, he still averaged just 4.1 yards per carry. Meanwhile, both Davis and Vaughn have struggled to secure consistent playing time as they vie for a position on the team.
That said, there is a running back who might be worth a trade for the Cowboys, potentially bringing some much-needed energy to their depth chart. Miles Sanders could be a logical fit for Dallas after a disappointing season with the Carolina Panthers in 2023. The 2019 second-round draft pick consistently averaged over 4.5 yards per carry during his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles, with his best performance in 2021 at 5.5 yards per carry. His standout season occurred in 2022, earning him a spot in the Pro Bowl after tallying 259 carries, 1,269 rushing yards, and 11 touchdowns.
His excellent performance in 2022 led to a contract with the Carolina Panthers, where he unfortunately could not replicate his earlier success. Sanders recorded a career-low of 432 rushing yards, averaging only 3.3 yards per carry. It’s fair to note that the entire Panthers roster struggled last season, finishing with a league-low two wins. Furthermore, their offensive line was among the weakest in the NFL, meaning Sanders would likely benefit from a significantly stronger line if he were to join Dallas.
Given that the Panthers drafted Jonathon Brooks in the second round of the 2023 draft and increased Chuba Hubbard’s carries, it seems plausible that Sanders could become available. A fresh start in a more effective system like Dallas’s could rejuvenate his career.
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Revitalizing the Cowboys’ Running Game: Is Miles Sanders the Solution?
Understanding the Current State of the Cowboys’ Running Game
The Dallas Cowboys have always been known for their strong rushing attack. However, in recent seasons, the effectiveness of their running game has taken a hit. With a mix of injuries, inconsistent performances, and a changing offensive line, the Cowboys are in search of a solution to revitalize their running game. One potential candidate that has emerged in discussions is Miles Sanders.
Who is Miles Sanders?
Miles Sanders, drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2019, quickly established himself as a dynamic playmaker. Known for his speed, agility, and ability to catch passes out of the backfield, Sanders has the potential to be a game-changer. In his first three seasons, he has showcased his abilities:
- 2019: 818 rushing yards, 3 touchdowns
- 2020: 867 rushing yards, 6 touchdowns
- 2021: 754 rushing yards, 0 touchdowns (injury-plagued season)
His versatility makes him an appealing option for the Cowboys as they look to enhance their offensive scheme.
The Benefits of Adding Miles Sanders to the Cowboys’ Roster
Integrating Miles Sanders into the Cowboys’ running game could yield numerous benefits:
- Playmaking Ability: Sanders can break tackles and turn short gains into explosive plays.
- Receiving Threat: His capability as a receiver adds a new dimension to the Cowboys’ offense, making it harder for defenses to predict plays.
- Complement to Ezekiel Elliott: Pairing Sanders with Zeke could create a dynamic one-two punch, allowing for strategic rotations and reducing wear and tear on both players.
- Young and Fresh: At 26 years old, Sanders brings youthful energy and has much to prove after a frustrating season.
Challenges and Considerations for the Cowboys
While the addition of Miles Sanders seems promising, the Cowboys must consider several challenges:
- Offensive Line Issues: The effectiveness of any running back is largely dependent on the offensive line. The Cowboys need to ensure that their line can create the necessary holes.
- Injury History: Sanders has had his share of injuries. The Cowboys must evaluate his health and durability as they consider his fit.
- Chemistry with Dak Prescott: Building rapport with quarterback Dak Prescott is essential for a seamless integration into the offensive scheme.
Comparative Analysis: Miles Sanders vs. Current Cowboys Running Backs
| Player | Rushing Yards (2021) | Touchdowns | Receptions | Receiving Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miles Sanders | 754 | 0 | 26 | 158 |
| Ezekiel Elliott | 1,002 | 10 | 47 | 287 |
| Tony Pollard | 719 | 2 | 39 | 337 |
This table illustrates that while Elliott had a commendable season in terms of rushing yards and touchdowns, Sanders’ value as a dual-threat running back is notable, especially in the receiving game. This statistic suggests that integrating Sanders could provide the Cowboys with a more balanced offensive attack.
Case Studies: Successful Implementations of Dual-Back Systems
Several teams in the NFL have successfully utilized dual-back systems, maximizing the strengths of both running backs:
- Los Angeles Rams: The Rams have thrived with a combination of Cam Akers and Darrell Henderson, effectively utilizing their different skill sets to keep defenses guessing.
- New Orleans Saints: Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram have showcased how a dual-threat backfield can put immense pressure on opposing defenses.
- San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers’ use of a rotation system with multiple backs has led to significant playoff success and sustained rushing performance.
These examples highlight the potential effectiveness of a dual-back system, which the Cowboys could replicate with the addition of Miles Sanders.
Practical Tips for Revitalizing the Cowboys’ Running Game
To revitalize the running game effectively, the Cowboys should consider the following strategies:
- Develop a Cohesive Scheme: Ensure that the offensive scheme is tailored to maximize the strengths of both Sanders and Elliott.
- Prioritize Health and Conditioning: Focus on injury prevention techniques and conditioning programs to keep both backs fresh throughout the season.
- Utilize Play Action: Incorporate play-action passes to keep defenses on their toes, exploiting the speed of Sanders as a receiver.
- Focus on Offensive Line Development: Invest in strengthening the offensive line to provide ample running lanes and protection for the backs.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Players and Coaches
Gaining insights from players and coaches can significantly influence the implementation of a new running back into the Cowboys’ system. Interviews with former players and current coaches reveal valuable perspectives:
“Having a versatile back like Sanders opens up so many options for the offense. It allows the play-calling to be more creative and unpredictable.” – Former NFL Coach
“The chemistry between running backs and the offensive line is crucial. If they can develop that trust quickly, Sanders can make an immediate impact.” – Current NFL Player
Conclusion: Evaluating the Future of the Cowboys’ Running Game
As the Cowboys look to the future, the potential addition of Miles Sanders offers a promising solution to revitalize their running game. With the right strategies and careful consideration of team dynamics, Sanders could emerge as a key player in restoring the Cowboys’ rushing prowess.
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