Dallas Cowboys and Tony Pollard Unlikely to Reach Long-Term Contract Agreement
The Dallas Cowboys and running back Tony Pollard are not expected to reach an agreement on a long-term contract before the deadline for franchised players, according to sources. Pollard is one of three running backs who received the franchise tag but have yet to agree to a long-term deal. Unlike Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs, Pollard has signed his franchise tender and attended the Cowboys’ offseason program.
The deadline for these players to agree to long-term contracts is approaching, and it seems unlikely that Pollard will reach an agreement before the deadline. This means that he will play under the franchise tag for the 2023 season, earning $10.09 million.
Despite the contract situation, Pollard is set to take over as the lead running back for the Cowboys this season. The team released longtime starter Ezekiel Elliott earlier in the offseason, paving the way for Pollard to step into a more prominent role. He expressed confidence in his readiness for training camp after undergoing ankle surgery following Dallas’ playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers in January.
Instead of a traditional surgery that would require screws, Pollard opted for a “tightrope” procedure. This innovative method uses a braided polyethylene cord to restore the original position of the bones and promote proper healing. He also dealt with a fractured fibula, which has since healed.
Pollard’s performance last season earned him a Pro Bowl selection. He rushed for a career-high 1,007 yards on 193 carries, scoring nine rushing touchdowns. Additionally, he contributed in the passing game with 39 receptions for 371 yards and three touchdowns. These impressive numbers showcased his versatility and playmaking ability.
As the Cowboys’ veterans prepare to report to training camp in Oxnard, California, on July 25, Pollard will be focused on proving his worth and solidifying his role as the team’s lead running back. While a long-term contract agreement may not be in the immediate future, Pollard has the opportunity to showcase his skills and potentially earn a lucrative deal in the future.
In conclusion, the Dallas Cowboys and Tony Pollard are unlikely to reach a long-term contract agreement before the deadline for franchised players. Despite this, Pollard is set to take on the lead running back role for the team this season. His performance last year earned him a Pro Bowl selection, and he will look to build upon that success in the upcoming season. Although a long-term contract may not be imminent, Pollard has the opportunity to prove his worth and potentially secure a lucrative deal in the future.