The ‘No. 1 Running Back’ in NFL Free Agency could be lost by the Dallas Cowboys.
As the NFL enters the 2025 offseason, all eyes are on the running back position. In a league that has increasingly devalued running backs in favor of passing offenses, one player stands out as the crown jewel of the 2025 NFL free-agent class: Tony Pollard, the Dallas Cowboys’ dynamic running back. Pollard, who emerged as the Cowboys’ lead back in 2024 following Ezekiel Elliott’s departure, has been one of the most explosive and versatile players in the NFL. With his combination of speed, agility, and vision, he quickly became a focal point in the Cowboys’ offense. However, as Pollard approaches the free-agent market, the question on many fans’ minds is whether the Cowboys will be able to retain him, or if they will be forced to let him walk.
Despite his standout performances over the past few seasons, Pollard is set to enter free agency at a time when the NFL is increasingly prioritizing passing offenses and is often hesitant to invest heavily in running backs. The Dallas Cowboys, known for their offensive line dominance and run-first identity, may find it challenging to justify a large financial commitment to a running back, especially as they look to navigate the constraints of the salary cap. Moreover, Pollard’s success has led to increased interest from other teams around the league, making his future in Dallas uncertain. In a season where the Cowboys are in a championship window, losing Pollard could have significant repercussions for the team’s ability to contend for a Super Bowl.
Pollard’s Impact on the Cowboys’ Offense
Since joining the Cowboys as a fourth-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Tony Pollard has evolved from a promising but limited rotational back to one of the most dynamic and explosive playmakers in the NFL. In his first few seasons, Pollard was primarily used as a complementary back to Ezekiel Elliott. However, as Elliott’s performance began to decline, Pollard’s role expanded. In 2024, he finally seized the opportunity as the Cowboys’ clear lead back, finishing the season with over 1,400 total yards and 11 touchdowns.
Pollard’s strengths are evident in the way he contributes to both the running and passing games. As a runner, he has excellent vision, an explosive burst through the line of scrimmage, and the ability to break long runs. He finished the 2024 season with an impressive 5.1 yards per carry, averaging more than 100 rushing yards per game in several contests. Pollard is also a receiving threat out of the backfield, with over 400 yards and 3 touchdowns in the passing game in 2024. His versatility as both a runner and a receiver makes him a unique weapon for offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer to utilize.
Pollard’s ability to change the game with his speed and elusiveness has made him a fan favorite in Dallas and an essential part of the Cowboys’ offensive identity. Without him, the team would likely have to rely more heavily on Dak Prescott’s arm and the receiving corps, which could affect the overall balance of the offense. His absence would leave a significant hole in the backfield, and replacing him would be a considerable challenge for the Cowboys.
The Dallas Cowboys’ Salary Cap and Roster Construction
One of the primary reasons why Tony Pollard’s future in Dallas is uncertain is the state of the Cowboys’ salary cap. As of the start of the 2025 offseason, the Cowboys are projected to have around $18-20 million in cap space, which might sound like a healthy amount, but it’s important to consider several factors.
First, the Cowboys have a number of key players who are up for contract renewals or could become free agents in 2025. Among these players are linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, cornerback Trayvon Diggs, and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Additionally, the Cowboys will likely need to allocate resources for key positions such as offensive line, defensive line, and depth pieces across the roster. While the Cowboys have some flexibility to restructure contracts, extend players, and adjust the cap, a substantial portion of that cap space will need to be devoted to these other players, particularly Diggs and Lamb, who are central to the team’s long-term success.
Another significant factor in the Cowboys’ decision-making is the ongoing uncertainty around the running back market. Traditionally, NFL teams have been reluctant to allocate large portions of their salary cap to running backs, as the position is seen as one that is replaceable and subject to injury concerns. The Cowboys have seen this firsthand with Elliott, who was once among the highest-paid running backs in the NFL but saw his production decline as he aged, leading to his release. With Pollard approaching free agency and the NFL still reeling from the DeAndre Hopkins trade rumors and other significant player movements, the Cowboys may be hesitant to commit a large portion of their cap to Pollard.
Moreover, Pollard is coming off a season in which he showed he can be a true workhorse back. While his ability to perform in a lead role raises his stock, it also makes him an expensive proposition for any team. His market value will likely be driven higher by his impressive 2024 season, meaning that re-signing him might require a hefty long-term deal—one that the Cowboys might not be willing to pay given the team’s current financial constraints.
The NFL Free Agency Market: Pollard’s Appeal to Other Teams
The fact that Tony Pollard is set to enter free agency has already caught the attention of multiple teams around the league. As one of the top running backs available, Pollard’s blend of speed, elusiveness, and receiving ability makes him an attractive option for any team looking to improve its backfield. Several franchises could find themselves in a bidding war for Pollard’s services, making it difficult for the Cowboys to retain him, particularly if they are unwilling or unable to match the offer that another team might present.
Teams with Cap Space and Running Back Needs:
- Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins have one of the most high-powered offenses in the NFL, led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and head coach Mike McDaniel. The team is likely to prioritize a running back who can complement their dynamic passing game, and Pollard would be an ideal fit. Miami’s offense thrives on speed and space, and Pollard’s ability to hit the second level and be a threat in the passing game would complement the Dolphins’ existing skill players, including Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
- Buffalo Bills: The Bills are another team that could look to upgrade their running back position. While Devin Singletary and James Cook have been serviceable, neither has been a true game-changer for Buffalo. The Bills have the salary cap space and a strong playoff-contending roster, and adding Pollard to their offense could help elevate Josh Allen’s play, especially in the red zone and the short-passing game.
- Chicago Bears: The Bears are in a rebuilding phase but have significant cap space to work with. Adding a playmaking running back like Pollard could accelerate their growth, and the Cowboys’ back would provide a dynamic weapon to pair with young quarterback Justin Fields. Chicago’s offense could benefit from Pollard’s versatility, as they work to establish a balanced attack.
- Indianapolis Colts: With the potential for a rookie quarterback (possibly Caleb Williams or Drake Maye) in 2025, the Colts could look to surround their new signal-caller with a reliable, game-changing running back. Pollard would provide them with an established threat who can both run between the tackles and contribute as a pass-catching option out of the backfield.
- Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons have an emerging offense built around running the ball with quarterback Desmond Ridder and standout rookie running back Bijan Robinson. However, Pollard could serve as a complementary piece, helping to maintain a balanced attack while taking some of the pressure off Robinson. Atlanta’s offensive line is one of the best in the league, and Pollard could thrive behind it.
The Market Dynamics for Pollard
Pollard’s appeal as a versatile and explosive playmaker means that he is likely to command a significant contract on the open market. According to various projections, Pollard could see a deal worth upwards of $12 million to $14 million annually, a salary that is above what many traditional running backs command but reflects his ability to contribute in both the running and passing games.
Given the Cowboys’ financial constraints and their reluctance to pay a premium for running backs, it’s possible that another team will offer Pollard a contract that Dallas simply cannot or will not match. While the Cowboys have prioritized maintaining a solid and effective offensive line and securing long-term deals for key players like Prescott and Lamb, paying Pollard at the market rate may not align with the team’s broader financial strategy.
The Emotional and Strategic Loss for the Cowboys
From an emotional standpoint, losing Tony Pollard would be a difficult blow for the Cowboys and their fanbase. Pollard has become one of the team’s most exciting and beloved players, and his departure would leave a noticeable gap in the offense. His burst, versatility, and ability to make plays in key moments made him a fan favorite, and he became one of the few constants in an offense that has often relied on Prescott’s arm and Lamb’s playmaking ability.
Strategically, losing Pollard could force the Cowboys to change their offensive identity. The team could shift to a more pass-heavy approach, relying more on Dak Prescott’s arm and the receiving corps. However, this would represent a departure from the balanced offense that the Cowboys have thrived with in recent years. While Malik Davis or another running back could step into a starting role
, replacing Pollard’s specific skill set would be a formidable challenge.
