If the Cowboys get a top ten pick, which need should they fill first?
Nov 15, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Darren McFadden (20) runs with the ball as Tampa Bay Buccaneers outside linebacker Lavonte David (54) defends during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Running Back
Current Roster:
Darren McFadden
Christine Michael
Rod Smith
Trey Williams
Lance Dunbar (IR)
2016 Free Agent Options:
Matt Forte
Chris Ivory
Doug Martin
Lamar Miller
Alfred Morris
LeGarrette Blount
Ronnie Hillman
Chris Johnson
2016 Draft Targets:
Ezekiel Elliott, Ohio St.
Derrick Henry, Alabama
Alex Collins, RB, Arkansas
Devontae Booker, Utah
Corey Clement, Wisconsin
Analysis: Out of this current running back group, only Lance Dunbar and Trey Williams have expiring contracts after this season. So, Darren McFadden, Christine Michael and Rod Smith should all return in 2016. I think McFadden has done enough to prove he’s the favorite to start next year. And a full offseason program in Dallas for Michael and Smith should do wonders for both.
Ohio State’s Ezekiel Elliott seems to be the top running back available in next year’s draft. But I’m not sure he’s worth a top ten selection. And there appears to be a small gap in talent between him and the other top prospects at the position. All of whom could be had in the second or third rounds.
As far as free agents are concerned, Matt Forte’s age (30 in December) could make him an affordable option. Especially if the Cowboys elect not to re-sign Dunbar. And Cowboys vice president has used LeGarrette Blount as an example of a successful late addition from free agency to the New England Patriots last year that helped them along their Super Bowl run.
Martin and Miller are also interesting free agent names as well. But I just have a feeling the Cowboys will stand pat with what they currently have on their roster and will simply draft a project running back sometime after the first round.
Next: Top Ten Pick: Cowboys Wide Receiver Options