Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones may have unintentionally ruined the team’s plans on Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft. Jones openly professed his love of Texas running back Jonathon Brooks following the first night of the event.
Yet, Brooks was selected by the Carolina Panthers before the Cowboys were even on the clock on Friday night. While the Cowboys addressed multiple needs on Day 2, there is still a gaping hole in Dallas’ backfield.
Could a Reunion Between the Dallas Cowboys and Ezekiel Elliott Be Coming Soon?
After Jones openly admitted his admiration for Brooks on Thursday night, it was clear that Dallas was eyeing him on Day 2. Then the Panthers pounced on the top running back on their draft board, and the Cowboys are now forced to pivot in a new direction.
Yet according to multiple reports, Dallas has discussed a reunion with former fan favorite running back Ezekiel Elliott. After spending last season with the New England Patriots, Elliott could be returning to the top of Dallas’ running back depth chart in 2024.
As of right now, Dallas’ situation at running back is uninspiring, with Rico Dowdle and Royce Freeman leading the room. A reunion between the Cowboys and Elliott makes sense for both sides. Elliott is experienced, familiar with the offense, and would likely start immediately in 2024.
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Following the conclusion of Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft, Jones was asked about a potential reunion with Elliott. “He’s good enough to be a starter,” Jones said, according to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News.
Although the 2024 NFL Draft isn’t over just yet, it’s clear that a reunion between both sides has been in the works for a few days. Even if the Cowboys select a running back on Day 3, Elliott would provide much-needed experience in Dallas’ backfield.
Potential Running Back Targets for the Cowboys on Day 3
While the Cowboys missed on several of the top running back prospects, including Brooks and Trey Benson, there are still plenty of options available. With four picks remaining on Day 3 of the 2024 NFL Draft, Dallas should be able to find a running back.
Tennessee running back Jaylen Wright is an explosive playmaker and likely the top player remaining at the position. Wright put his speed on full display at the 2024 NFL Combine, and he would add a much-needed home run-hitting element to Dallas’ backfield.
At just 5’8″, Kentucky running back Ray Davis certainly isn’t Derrick Henry, but he can make defenders miss consistently. Davis is a tough runner and rarely goes down on initial contact due to his elite contact balance. While he might be overlooked due to his size, there is no denying Davis’ ability on the field.
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If Dallas is looking for a bigger running back, Wisconsin’s Braelon Allen could be their top choice. At 6’1″, 235 pounds, Allen has the size to be a full-time starting running back at the next level. His blend of size and power makes him difficult to bring down as he continues to battle for extra yardage.
While a reunion with Elliott is likely in the works, the Cowboys would be smart to add another running back in the 2024 NFL Draft as well. It will certainly be interesting to see how Dallas’ backfield takes shape heading into the upcoming season.
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