Dec 11, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard (20) carries the ball for a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the first half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-USA TODAY Sports
NFL: Houston Texans at Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys are expected to franchise tag running back Tony Pollard, according to Tony Pauline of Pro Football Network.
Pollard underwent successful surgery last month after fracturing his left fibula in the Cowboys Divisional Round loss to the 49ers, but appears the injury hasn’t changed Jerry Jones view on the star running back. The expectation is Pollard will be ready for the start of the 2023 season.
If Dallas does indeed franchise tag the 25-year-old budding superstar, they would be inclined to pay him $10 million next season. Tagging the former Memphis standout would give Dallas until July to reach a long-term deal.
The Tennessee native is fresh off career highs across the board as he continues to push his counter-partner Ezekiel Elliott for touches amongst the Dallas backfield.
Cowboys GM Jerry Jones said the last week the team wants to bring Elliott back next season despite his lucrative contract. The 27-year-old is scheduled to make $16.7 million in 2023.
Releasing the once cornerstone back remains an option, but would come with $12 million in dead money.
