So is the plan for the offseason *really* going to be something like
Franchise tag a Running back that is coming off a pretty bad ankle break and then double down and extend the QB that led the league in interceptions, in 5 less games than Davis Mills.
Cowboys have a unique philosophy with paying running backs, but with the draft supposed to be sorta deep at the position, would you want them to let both backs walk and go cheap at RB?
Step 1 is complete!
What would you have done differently ?
Franchising Pollard is smart. The one year cost of about 10 million is not prohibitive and Pollard is a difference making player. Zeke is strictly a complimentary player at this point, and, if he's back, it will be for a fraction of the value of his current contract. Additionally, the team can take another RB with a mid-round pick. The reality is they can build a really good RB room without expending excess capital.
My only caveat would be if Bijan Robinson makes it to #26, because if he does, you have to take him. Getting a top 4 prospect, regardless of position, at 26 is grand theft.
I remember a few years back when Lamb was expected to go top 10 and he fell to the Cowboys. You just take the best player and it almost always works out.
I would say, if you are franchising a RB, he better be "The man" but from all accounts I have read, Pollard is a guy that *needs* another guy to help him carry the load. Jacobs and Saquon probably don't need to be spelled nearly as much as Pollard. Add in the fact he is coming off injury, but this is how Dallas operates so I get it. I would guess Dallas will certainly look to add a running back via the draft, but if Zeke IS back, he probably won't get a ton of playing time.
Regards to Bijan, if he is there close to 26 and the Birds still have pick 30, I don't see a way Howie allows that to happen, knowing our team has a need at the spot as well, he almost certainly (IMO of course) would try to leapfrog Dallas like they did with Dallas Goedert when both teams *knew* they needed a new tight end.
Lamb is a a really good WR, can't deny that you guys generally draft really well. Managing the salary cap. maybe not so much.