Dallas Cowboys Predicted to Sign Cleveland Browns RB
Dallas Cowboys Predicted to Sign Cleveland Browns RB: A Potential Game-Changer for Dallas’ Offense
The Dallas Cowboys have consistently been a franchise that has prided itself on having a dominant offense, from the famous “Doomsday Defense” of the 1970s to their more modern, potent offensive schemes. As the Cowboys look ahead to the future, especially after another season where they fell short of their Super Bowl aspirations, the team is actively exploring options to improve their roster, especially on the offensive side of the ball.
One of the most notable rumors circulating in NFL circles is the possibility of the Dallas Cowboys signing Cleveland Browns running back Kareem Hunt in the upcoming free agency period. Hunt, who has been one of the more dynamic and electrifying running backs in the NFL over the past several seasons, could provide the Cowboys with an immediate upgrade to their backfield.
While the Cowboys have been solid in their running game with Tony Pollard and Ezekiel Elliott, the team is currently undergoing changes at several positions. Some questions remain about whether the Cowboys can fully rely on Elliott moving forward, given his age and recent struggles. Pollard, meanwhile, is undeniably talented, but he’s also coming off an injury and may not be able to shoulder the entire workload in the coming seasons. Therefore, a potential move for a player like Hunt could dramatically alter the landscape of the Cowboys’ offensive attack.
This article explores how Kareem Hunt’s potential signing could provide a much-needed boost for the Cowboys, the fit of Hunt in Dallas’ offensive scheme, and how the move would impact the running back room in terms of both talent and depth.
Kareem Hunt’s Career and Impact in the NFL
Before diving into why Hunt would be a great addition to the Cowboys, it’s important to understand what Hunt brings to the table as a player. Hunt, 28, entered the NFL in 2017 as a third-round pick by the Kansas City Chiefs. He burst onto the scene with a phenomenal rookie season, leading the league in rushing yards (1,327 yards) and earning a Pro Bowl selection. His combination of vision, agility, and explosive speed made him one of the most dangerous running backs in the NFL.
However, after an off-field incident that led to his release from the Chiefs in 2018, Hunt signed with the Cleveland Browns, where he has since revitalized his career. In Cleveland, Hunt has shared the backfield with standout back Nick Chubb, but that hasn’t stopped him from continuing to perform at a high level. He’s consistently been a dual-threat running back, capable of excelling in both the running and passing game.
Over the past several seasons, Hunt has posted impressive numbers, including more than 800 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns in 2021, along with receiving contributions. While his role in Cleveland has been as a complimentary back to Chubb, Hunt has proven time and time again that he can be a starting-caliber player in the NFL, capable of carrying a heavy load when needed.
Hunt’s versatility and ability to contribute in various areas make him a prime target for any team in need of a dynamic, well-rounded running back. His skill set aligns with today’s modern NFL, where dual-threat running backs are increasingly valuable. Hunt can break off long runs, serve as a reliable pass-catcher out of the backfield, and provide depth to a team’s running game.
The Dallas Cowboys’ Current Running Back Situation
The Dallas Cowboys have had one of the more reliable running games in the NFL over the past few years, thanks to the work of Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard. However, the situation is far from simple, as the team’s backfield could see significant changes in the near future.
Ezekiel Elliott’s Role Going Forward
Elliott, who has been the Cowboys’ workhorse back for the better part of a decade, is no longer the dominant force he once was. After signing a massive contract extension in 2019, Elliott has struggled to consistently put up the gaudy numbers that made him one of the league’s premier running backs earlier in his career. While he’s still a solid player, his declining efficiency, coupled with a noticeable drop in his yard-per-carry average, has led to questions about whether the Cowboys should move on from him.
Elliott’s contract situation is another factor. With the team set to enter a critical offseason, they may choose to part ways with Elliott to create cap space. While Elliott has been a fan favorite and an integral part of the Cowboys’ offense over the years, there’s no guarantee that he will remain in Dallas for the 2024 season.
Tony Pollard’s Growing Role
In contrast, Tony Pollard has become a standout player for the Cowboys. The team has increasingly relied on Pollard, especially in the passing game, where he has shown impressive ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. In 2022, Pollard rushed for 1,007 yards and 9 touchdowns, and also added 39 receptions for 371 yards. Pollard is dynamic, fast, and has the ability to break big plays, making him a key part of the Cowboys’ offense moving forward.
However, Pollard is coming off a severe injury (a broken fibula) sustained in the Cowboys’ playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers. While it’s unclear how he will recover from that injury, it raises legitimate concerns about whether Pollard can handle a full workload as the team’s featured back in the future. The Cowboys may want to hedge against the risk of Pollard not being able to return to full strength or taking on a heavier load than he can handle.
The Need for Depth and a One-Two Punch
While Pollard is a great option as the lead back, the Cowboys need to create a more balanced and versatile running game. This is where Kareem Hunt could fit in. A dynamic dual-threat back who can carry the ball and contribute in the passing game, Hunt would be an ideal complement to Pollard. Together, Hunt and Pollard could form a formidable one-two punch that would make the Cowboys’ offense even more unpredictable and dangerous.
Hunt’s ability to step into a shared backfield and maintain his high level of play would allow Pollard to focus more on his strengths as an explosive playmaker, while Hunt could handle a greater share of the traditional rushing duties. Additionally, Hunt’s proven ability to handle short-yardage situations and goal-line opportunities would add much-needed depth to the Cowboys’ running game.
Hunt’s Fit in the Cowboys’ Offensive Scheme
The Dallas Cowboys run a pro-style offense, which places a significant emphasis on both the running and passing games. Head coach Mike McCarthy has been working to bring a more balanced approach to the offense, and the addition of a versatile running back like Kareem Hunt could provide a crucial piece to that puzzle.
As mentioned earlier, Hunt’s ability to contribute in both the run game and as a pass-catching back makes him a perfect fit for this offensive scheme. In McCarthy’s offense, running backs are often involved in a variety of roles, whether it’s handling traditional rushing duties or running routes as an outlet for the quarterback. Hunt excels in both areas.
His experience in Cleveland has made him a reliable check-down option for quarterbacks, and his skills as a runner who can pick up tough yards in short-yardage situations would be invaluable for the Cowboys. The Cowboys have often struggled in critical short-yardage situations, and Hunt could help fix that by providing a more consistent ground attack.
Moreover, Hunt has shown the ability to run effectively both outside and between the tackles. This would give McCarthy flexibility in terms of play calling, as Hunt’s versatility would allow for more diverse offensive schemes. Additionally, Hunt’s quick burst and vision would allow him to take advantage of gaps in opposing defenses, especially in an offense that is centered around creating space for the running back.
Why the Cowboys Should Pursue Hunt
The potential signing of Kareem Hunt could be a game-changer for the Cowboys for several reasons:
- Depth and Versatility: Hunt’s ability to function as a workhorse or a complementary back to Pollard gives the Cowboys the flexibility they need in their running game. With his skill set, Hunt can be effective in both the running and passing games, making him a reliable weapon in multiple situations.
- Injury Concerns with Pollard: While Pollard is an exciting player, his injury status could be a concern heading into the new season. Adding Hunt would give the Cowboys an experienced, capable back who can take over if Pollard struggles with his recovery or injury management.
- Goal-Line and Short-Yardage Situations: The Cowboys have struggled in goal-line and short-yardage situations at times in recent years. Hunt’s ability to gain tough yards between the tackles and finish drives near the end zone would significantly improve their red-zone efficiency.
- Veteran Leadership: Hunt is a proven veteran who has played in big games and can be a stabilizing force in the locker room. His leadership would be a valuable asset to a team with playoff aspirations.
- Complementing the Cowboys’ Offensive Strategy: The Cowboys’ offensive scheme relies heavily on a strong running game to create balance. Hunt’s style of play is perfectly suited to what McCarthy wants to establish in Dallas. His ability to be effective in both the ground game and the passing attack would allow the Cowboys to better execute their offensive system.
