3 affordable running backs Cowboys can sign to replace Ezekiel Elliott

Please do not get triggered by the headline. In no way are we endorsing the Dallas Cowboys signing an Ezekiel Elliott replacement.

The Cowboys should draft a running back in April to reset the money at the position, and potentially look into signing a veteran after the draft if they want to add a third back to the mix, or the draft doesn’t fall in their favor.

That seems unlikely given the sheer depth at the position in this year’s class, but it’s always smart to have contingency plans lined up.

With that in mind, let’s underline some free agent running backs who’d be a worthwhile use of Dallas’ cap space after Elliott was released.

3 Ezekiel Elliott replacements Cowboys can sign in free agency

3. Leonard Fournette

Fournette is perhaps the most like-for-like Elliott comp in this article. Fournette is one of multiple veterans the Buccaneers ditched following Tom Brady’s retirement. Now 28 years old, the former Super Bowl champ is likely eyeing a move to a contender where he can challenge for a secondary role.

That might be complicated on Dallas if the Cowboys draft someone earl, but it wouldn’t hurt to add a player of Lenny’s pedigree.

Fournette’s days of being an elite between-the-tackles back may be coming to an end, but he’s still a people-mover and averaged 2.31 yards after contact per attempt in 2022 despite running behind a horrid offensive line.

A move to the Cowboys could be just what Fournette needs to jumpstart the backend of is career. The only caveat here is that the six-year pro likely would’ve only sign in Dallas if the team didn’t draft a running back in April.