Could Leonard Fournette be the Key to the Dallas Cowboys’ Super Bowl Aspirations
The Dallas Cowboys have a rich history in the NFL, having won five Super Bowl championships in the past. However, the team has been unable to replicate that success in recent years, leading many fans and analysts to question the current state of the roster.
One player who has been at the center of this discussion is Ezekiel Elliott, the team’s star running back. Despite being a fan favorite and having a close relationship with owner Jerry Jones, Ezekiel Elliott and his declining production and lack of efficiency have led many to question his future with the team.
Ezekiel Elliott burst has finally burned out
According to a report from The Athletic, scouts and analysts believe that Elliott’s burst and acceleration have diminished significantly, and that his only chance of remaining with the team is to take a pay cut. While Elliott is still adored by the Cowboys organization, his contract coupled with his declining performance are not helping the team’s cause in their quest for a Super Bowl title.
If the Cowboys are serious about competing for a Super Bowl, they need to part ways with any and all deadweight on the roster, including Ezekiel Elliott. While this may be a difficult decision for the organization to make, it is necessary if the team wants to end their championship drought.
Assuming the Cowboys franchise tag Tony Pollard, who emerged as a first-time Pro Bowler last season, the team could scour the free agent market for a complementary running back. One player who has been suggested as a potential option is Leonard Fournette, who was recently released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Leonard Fournette could come cheap
Fournette is coming off a down year in 2022, but that can be said for the entire Buccaneers offense. He still has plenty of talent and potential, and would likely come cheaper than Ezekiel Elliott due to his age and 2022 production. Pollard would be the lead back, with Fournette serving as a change-of-pace option and potentially conceding snaps to a rookie draft pick.
Fournette is also a talented pass-catcher out of the backfield, having caught 73 passes for 523 yards and three touchdowns last season. He has a knack for showing up in the playoffs, and has markedly more left on his tires relative to Elliott despite being less than a year older. Fournette has 1,132 career carries compared to Elliott’s 1,881.
While the Cowboys may be hesitant to move on from Elliott, bringing in Fournette could be a wise move for the team. He can contribute as a between-the-tackles and short-yardage specialist who can also make an impact in the passing game. Additionally, if the Cowboys invest in a mid-to-late round pick on a prospect, Fournette could serve as a mentor and veteran presence in the locker room.
Ultimately, the decision on whether or not to move on from Elliott and sign Fournette will be up to the Cowboys organization. However, if the team is serious about competing for a Super Bowl title, they need to be willing to make difficult decisions and bring in the best talent available.
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