Cowboys rebound following controversial trade in 7-round mock draft

Round 2, Pick 56: Jonathon Brooks, RB, Texas

Fans got their wish in 2023 as Tony Pollard became the featured back. Dallas had spent four seasons sprinkling Pollard in behind Ezekiel Elliott but didn't make him the starter until they made sure to use him just enough that it was too late. Pollard wound up crossing the 1,000 yard mark in 2022 while watching Elliott vulture all his touchdowns.

He then suffered a fractured leg in the playoffs meaning he would be working his way back to health this year. That led to a franchise tag as he made just over $10 million to struggle his way through the year. Pollard had 1,005 yards on the year but crossed the 100-yard mark just once, which was in their loss to Arizona.

Without another back on the roster capable of carrying the load, he continued to give them about three yards per touch, with an occasional burst coming here and there. With that being the case, the Cowboys have to revamp the entire backfield. That's why they use a pick in Round 2 on Jonathon Brooks from Texas.

This pick doesn't come without risk since Brooks suffered a torn ACL in November but as Dan Brugler said when he mocked Brooks to Dallas, "The Cowboys have never shied from taking risks, especially in the second round." Some have paid off while others have not but this one seems like it could be a huge win for America's Team.

Brooks was behind Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson for two years but broke out in 2023 with 1,139 yards and 10 touchdowns. He averaged 6.1 yards per attempt and added 286 yards and a touchdown through the air.

In addition to his skill with the ball in his hands, Brooks knows how to pick up the blitz meaning he can be on the field for all three downs. As long as he can recover from his knee injury, and his age will help him in this regard, he could wind up being considered a steal on Day 2.