The Dallas Cowboys insist that they are happy with their running back situation and that a “ running back by committee ” approach appears to be in place for 2015. Still, there have to be some in the front office who are keeping an eye on the cuts made by other teams, and two running backs – Fred Jackson and Trent Richardson – are now available.
Dallas has Joseph Randle, Darren McFadden, and Lance Dunbar who will likely split reps throughout the season. None of the three have jumped to the lead of the pack, and it’s going to be a committee offense all season.
As reported by ESPN , running back Fred Jackson was released by the Buffalo Bills, and it was reportedly a very “difficult decision.” The 34-year-old had spent nine years with the team and was a captain and fan favorite.
He also was the third leading-rusher in the franchise behind Thurman Thomas and O.J. Simpson.
Thank you Buffalo!! We have loved being part of this community. The fan support has been overwhelming. The Old Man isn’t done yet!!
— Fred Jackson (@Fred22Jackson) August 31, 2015
Jackson is far from being done in the NFL though. he already met with the Seattle Seahawks after his release from Buffalo, but as Pro Football Talk reported, head coach Pete Carroll said that a signing is not yet in place and it was just a visit.
“We have not made that decision at all at this point.”
Now, there are likely other teams that will look at Jackson, but HNGN reports there is “mutual interest” between him and the Dallas Cowboys . Jackson isn’t young by any means, but he’s still fast and can help the Cowboys in both the running game and passing game.
Fred Jackson was also born in Forth Worth, TX, and played football in Arlington. Going home wouldn’t be too bad for him and would allow him to continue playing for a true contender.
There is another big name running back on the market now, and that is Trent Richardson who was released by the Oakland Raiders. He had a tough training camp for the silver and black, and honestly, he’s had a career that hasn’t been too successful.
As Sports World Report stated, Richardson had signed a two-year deal with the Raiders for $3.85 million, but he didn’t even make it through the first round of cuts. He was only guaranteed $600,000 and came into camp overweight so his cut was not a huge surprise.
With McFadden already a huge injury risk, the Cowboys may not want to take a chance on Richardson too. Honestly, it seems as if he may have a hard time finding work ever again in the NFL.
The Dallas Cowboys have a number of free agent options at running back, but they will either need to hurry or just stand strong with what they have. Fred Jackson is honestly the best available back on the market, but he won’t be free long.
[Image via Getty Images – Brett Carlsen]