Ezekiel Elliott and four-time Pro Bowler named as potential solutions for Dallas Cowboys

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The Dallas Cowboys are trapped in a contract standoff with their quarterback but the running game problem is just as prominent.

Jerry Jones stated that the Cowboys needed to run the ball better in an offseason interview.

2023 starting running back, Tony Pollard, hit free agency and did not return.

He agreed a three-year deal to join the Tennessee Titans and left a hole in Dallas.

Cowboys pass on free agency

There were plenty of established choices in the free agency market, rushers from Derrick Henry to Josh Jacobs and Saquon Barkley to Zack Moss were all available.

However, the Dallas front office made no movements once the legal tampering window opened.

Zack Moss held talks with America’s Team but Jerry Jones pulled out of negotiations as the price was too steep.

As a result, the same problem still needs addressing a few weeks on.

There is a chance that the Cowboys will put their faith in the NFL Draft for their starting rusher.

Stephen Jones highly rates the local prospect Jonathon Brooks but an ACL injury endured might be a deterrent.

So could the Cowboys persist in finding their running back in the NFL?

Ezekiel Elliot returns to the Cowboys

Cowboys reporter for the Dallas Morning News, Michael Gehlken, has suggested this is a possible outcome.

Gehlken posted on X: “As the Cowboys prepare for additions at running back, a potential reunion with Ezekiel Elliott or Dalvin Cook bears monitoring.”

The former Cowboys running back Elliott was released by the Cowboys due to his lack of production in unison with his extortionate contract.

After being the NFL’s best running back, the Cowboys made their 2016 draft pick the highest paid in the league.

After their hand was forced, Elliott refused to return to training camp and secured a six-year deal.

His production fell off from there and the Cowboys released the three-time Pro Bowler.

Would Cook lead the run game in Dallas

The other name mentioned was the four-time Pro Bowler Dalvin Cook.

Cook has broken 1,000 yards in four seasons during his professional career, with the latest coming back in 2022.

In 2023 he joined the New York Jets but carries were minimal as he was second choice to Breece Hall.

He was unclaimed on the waivers by the Baltimore Ravens to add depth to their playoff charge and has been a free agent since.

Both players have had exceptional production in the past and would be a boost if they could turn back the clocks.

A veteran running back paired with a rookie rusher could be a prosperous recipe.

However, if they are going to rejuvenate the run game, Elliott and Cook cannot be the sole answers.