Trade Idea Brings Jets RB to Cowboys

FRISCO — Besides the ongoing extension talks between Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys , the backfield outlook has become the most exhausted conversation point about this team.

Dallas let Tony Pollard walk, reunited with Ezekiel Elliott and brought on Dalvin Cook last week. Altogether, those moves make for a now finalized offseason effort to replenish the running game.

However, the Cowboys look ready to roll into Week 1 with Rico Dowdle and Elliott paired together. Deuce Vaughn could see some moments Sunday and into the coming weeks, though Cook's presumed elevation from the practice squad could change those circumstances.

Down all avenues, there is not much anticipation for success. Therefore, Ian Valentino of the 33rd Team has suggested a trade the Cowboys could pursue to try for a value option that could improve the backfield.

"Instead, Abanikanda can be this team's 2022 version of Tony Pollard. Abanikanda has routinely created chunk plays since his days at Pitt, and this preseason has highlighted his ability to sprint into the open field. He averaged 6.1 yards per carry, totaling 129 yards on 21 carries with two touchdowns."

Abanikanda has certainly shown flashes with the Jets, but how that production translates into a regular season environment is not worth the risk of a trade to discover. While he shares similar traits to the former Cowboys back, Abanikanda would have to navigate a new system midseason in an already crowded room.

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Though the Cowboys' running backs have received many doubts and criticisms, the outlook of the run game altogether remains a concern with the changes across the offensive line. There are a lot of new and strange pieces in the fold and head coach Mike McCarthy will have to figure out the best way to orchestrate those together.

Another running back move, unless it is for a bona fide RB1 or All-Pro level player remains unnecessary. The Cowboys do not have a glamorous backfield, but they have enough to put something at least mildly productive together.

Dallas and its run game will face a challenge out of the gate when they kickoff the regular season at the Cleveland Browns Sunday afternoon at 3:25 on FOX.