Dallas Cowboys return game seeks major improvement

With many holes to fill during free agency, it’s been easy to overlook the vast improvement needed by the Dallas Cowboys return game.

The Dallas Cowboys entered free agency with dozens of roster spots needing attention. Among the headliners were securing their franchise quarterback and premiere wide receiver.

There were also many starting roles without an answer. While many of these have been solved, the unheralded returner positions remain a question mark.

The excellent hiring of special teams guru John Fassel provides ample optimism the return deficiencies will be addressed. Yet after years of past roster shortcomings, skeptical minds are rightly waiting to see the proposed solutions.

KICK RETURNERS DEAD LAST

With 20 returns averaging 16.3 yards per attempt, Cowboys kick returners finished dead last in the NFL. Dallas also tied for last in 20+ yard kick returns with only 10.

Since most kick returns begin at the five yard line or less, this stat is troubling. A touchback moves the ball to the 25 yard line. Which means many of the Cowboys returns would have been better off avoiding the catch if likely to roll into the end zone.

Rookie Tony Pollard fielded 14 of 20 returns (17.5 avg.) and only slightly beat the team average (16.3). His production alone would have still ranked last among NFL team averages.

A year of experience should help Pollard going forward. Though Dallas should explore other options. Cedrick Wilson had three returns for 21.3 yards per attempt, though the sample size was far smaller. A new contender needs to join the fray.

PUNT RETURNERS LEFT TOWN

Lead punt returner Tavon Austin is no longer a Cowboy. Though his 4.9 average yards on 17 punt returns won’t be missed. Only one NFL team had a lower average. Randall Cobb fared better (4 returns, 8.5 avg.), yet he now plays in Houston.

With an improved defense, a solid punt returner can be a much greater weapon than an equally talented kick returner. The field position difference of where the return often begins simply dictates such.

The Cowboys are already on the hunt for a dynamic new slot receiver. This new face will likely be pursued in the draft. It only makes sense that a separating virtue will be the targeted player’s ability to add electricity on punt returns.