Are The Dallas Cowboys Running The Back Into The Ground?

As we are all aware, the Dallas Cowboys had a phenomenal season in 2014 and a big part of their success was due to the running game. They went as far as winning the division title with running back DeMarco Murray at the forefront. With Murray gone, the concern becomes whether or not he’s replaceable.

Here’s the thing – you give credit where it’s due but the show must go on. The ‘Boys have a staff that is second to none when it comes to this drafting business. Are we lacking in the running back area? I’d say not so.

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During the draft, that position contained a lot of depth. But Dallas had more important issues to address. A special shout out goes to defensive end Randy Gregory, cornerback Byron Jones, and offensive tackle La’el Collins.

What grinds my gears is the talent currently wearing The Star that many people seem to have forgotten. Dallas acquired former Oakland Raiders back Darren McFadden over the offseason. He now joins forces with running backs Lance Dunbar, Joseph Randle, and Ryan Williams.

"“I think everybody will have a great chance to show what they can do, and it’ll go from there. Really, that’s it. I never had a chance to run behind that O-line last year, so hopefully I get an opportunity this year. I think that’ll help my chance of showing everybody what I’m really capable of doing.” – Ryan Williams via ESPN"

Throughout his seven-year tenure with Oakland, McFadden accumulated 4,247 rushing yards. McFadden gets some grief being a veteran coming to a fresh squad, but now he’ll be operating behind the greatest offensive line in the league. Yes, I’m biased and there’s not much that can be done about it.

I have no doubt in my mind that Randle will be the next man up. Last season, he averaged 6.7 yards per carry. His longest run was 65 yards in the final game of the season against the Washington Redskins. With this information, I don’t understand why the push for panic in our camp.

Lance Dunbar didn’t have as many touches as Randle may have but his speed comes in handy when necessary. Dunbar is just as dependable for conversions as wide receiver Cole Beasley and tight end Jason Witten. It’s as if the window of opportunity has been opened for us to see more of Mr. Dunbar this season.

Ryan Williams told ESPN he feels like a Cowboy now. He was signed from the practice squad to a future/reserves contract. One thing the Cowboys staff does is show faith in these athletes. Williams hasn’t played in a regular season game since 2012. With Murray gone to the Philadelphia Eagles, I sense a change of pace coming to Valley Ranch.

"“We have a very talented backfield — a very, very talented backfield. I don’t know if it’ll be like the best man wins. I don’t know if it’ll be like everybody is sharing. I don’t know how the situation will go. I’m not really worried about it. The only thing I’m worried about is going out there and showing these coaches and everybody what I’m capable of doing and showing them what they brought me to do.” – Ryan Williams via ESPN"

According to Blogging The Boys, there have been rumors that the ‘Boys are willing to trade for a running back. It’s still early and anything could happen. But if you haven’t already, let’s let go of the Adrian Peterson idea. The staff is building a young team that will be around a while.

I, for one, am ready for the season to begin and for people to let the past remain where it is. We’re moving forward as a team and we’re running toward a victorious season. It’s time.

Go Cowboys.

Next: Will The Dallas Cowboys Running Game Suffer in 2015?

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