NFL free agency is right around the corner. While some players will work out extensions with their current teams, most of them will become unrestricted free agents and hit the open market. One of the most prominent offensive free agents is Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard. What are some possible landing spots for Pollard?
Tony Pollard Free Agency Predictions
Every year, the free agent class has its strengths and weaknesses. The 2023 class is very weak at wide receiver but absolutely loaded at running back. That, combined with what is believed to be a very strong rookie running back class, will make watching this unfold very interesting.
There are several teams clearly in need of a running back, as well as a few more with a starter likely on his last legs. The RB landscape is set to undergo a significant change over the next year or two.
Someone is about to get an answer for potentially the next three seasons in Pollard. Here are the three most likely landing spots for the Cowboys running back.
A Return to the Cowboys Remains Most Likely
Despite the Cowboys already investing far too much capital into the running back position, it still feels like the most likely outcome is Pollard returns to Dallas.
I’m sure Pollard would prefer a 3-4 year deal, but with the running back franchise tag projected to be just a little over $10 million, it’s actually advantageous for teams to go that route.
At least for 2023, Pollard will likely be cheaper on the tag than in his average salary over a multi-year deal.
MORE: 2023 NFL Free Agency Predictions
Per The Athletic’s Bob Sturm, NFL teams are well aware that Ezekiel Elliott is pretty much done. If the Cowboys did cut him, he’d likely have to settle for a near-league-minimum contract.
As a result, a pay cut and contract restructure seem probable, which will pave the way for the Cowboys to retain Pollard as well.
According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, Stephen Jones had this to say about the franchise tag: “We’re not afraid of the tag. End of the day, we’ll probably use it again this year.” While not an explicit admission, fans can read the tea leaves, which strongly points to the team using the franchise tag on someone, likely Pollard.
The Eagles Have Very Few Holes, But Pollard Would Fill One at Running Back
By no means am I suggesting that Miles Sanders or the running backs are the reason the Eagles fell short to the Chiefs in the Super Bowl. If they play that game 100 times, the Eagles probably win 45 of them. But that doesn’t mean the Eagles can’t improve the position.
Sanders is also a free agent. Unless the Eagles are planning on rolling with Kenneth Gainwell as their clear RB1, they will need to add someone who is presumably at least better than Gainwell.
Pollard makes all too much sense. His slasher running style and receiving acumen perfectly fit what Nick Sirianni does in Philly.
The Eagles are slightly over the cap at the moment, but nothing GM Howie Roseman can’t make work.
Pollard would provide a sizable upgrade on Sanders and add yet another dynamic element to the Eagles’ already elite offense.
Pollard Would Be a Perfect Fit for the Dolphins
The Dolphins went through the 2023 season with a hodgepodge of replacement-level running backs. They started with Chase Edmonds and Raheem Mostert before ultimately cutting Edmonds. By the end of the season, Mostert was the lead back, with Salvon Ahmed the primary guy behind him. Suffice it to say; the Dolphins need a true starting RB.
Pollard would fit perfectly into what Mike McDaniel wants to do with a consolidated but explosive offensive attack.
The Dolphins have a need at the position but have a history of not spending up at running back. When asked about the Dolphins’ RB situation, Sports Illustrated’s Alain Poupart responded, “The Dolphins’ history with drafting running backs and the various needs throughout the roster likely will combine for a late-round selection at best for a running back, if even that.”
While signing Pollard makes all the sense in the world from a team perspective, the Dolphins’ salary cap situation will make it challenging. Ultimately, while the Dolphins make sense as a landing spot, I don’t expect Pollard to end up taking his talents to South Beach.
Tony Pollard’s Market Value, Career Stats, and More
Pollard currently sits at No. 15 in our top 100 free agents. He is the top-ranked non-quarterback offensive player, ahead of Saquon Barkley, which may be considered a spicy take. On his rookie deal, Pollard cost the Cowboys just $1.1 million against the salary cap. Now poised to get his second contract, that number is going up … a lot.
Pollard is still only 26 years old. Last year, we saw older veterans James Conner and Leonard Fournette get three years, $21 million. Pollard is better and more valuable than both of them. He is likely looking at a minimum of $10 million a year.
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If Pollard does hit free agency (or gets extended by the Cowboys), look for a 3-4 year deal worth around $10-$12 million per year.
Pollard has proven capable of being a three-down back in an era where so few running backs have that skill set. Wherever he ends up, at worst, he should be the 1A in a committee. 1,500 total yards and 10+ touchdowns is a very reasonable projection for Pollard’s 2023 output.
Tony Pollard Career Stats
- Carries: 510
- Rushing Yards: 2,616
- Receptions: 121
- Receiving Yards: 1,008
- Total Touchdowns: 22