Cowboys have their dream Tony Pollard replacement after thrilling Rose Bowl

It's pretty upsetting that Tony Pollard hasn't had the season Dallas Cowboys fans expected of him in his first season as the team's RB1.

Early in the year, Pollard didn't have the same burst and power he showcased in his first four years. Most folks pointed to his offseason ankle surgery as a reason for that, but over the last month that burst has returned. His forced missed tackle rate and yards after contact are way up and he's producing more explosive runs.

Still, Pollard hasn't lived up to expectations and it stands to reason that the Cowboys will draft another running back in April. Remember how much Texas phenom Bijan Robinson was mocked and linked to Dallas last year?

Something similar might happen with Michigan's Blake Corum, who led the Wolverines to a win against Alabama in the CFP Semifinals on Monday.

Cowboys should draft Michigan RB Blake Corum to replace Tony Pollard

Corum is arguably the top running back in this year's draft. Texas' Jonathan Brooks and Florida State's Trey Benson might have something to say about that, but Corum has the best vision of any back in the 2024 class and his contact balance is elite.

He showcased all of his traits on this 17-yard touchdown run in overtime that ultimately gave Michigan the win over Alabama.

Corum made it look easy, but that is an outstanding run. He's a quick decision-maker (bouncing outside was absolutely the right call) and he located his next block to finish off the run. His low center of gravity makes it easier to shed arm tackles and what he lacks in long speed he more than makes up for with quick feet.

None other than Micah Parsons recognizes Corum's talent and gave the RB a shoutout on social media after his game-winning TD run in overtime.

Sounds like Parsons wants Corum to come to Dallas.

Corum is currently No. 93 on Pro Football Focus' big board. That would make him a third-round prospect, but it wouldn't shock anyone if he goes as early as the second. Either way, the late-second, early-third round range is the ideal spot to take a RB and the Cowboys undoubtedly need to invest in the position again.

Pollard is a free agent and coming off a down year, while Rico Dowdle is a restricted free agent. There's a world in which both Pollard and Dowdle are back in 2024, but that shouldn't stop the Cowboys from targeting Corum. He has all of the tools to be an instant success in the NFL.

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