In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys chose to draft three offensive linemen, including two in the first three rounds. Dallas looks to prove that anyone can run behind a good offensive line, so fans should be encouraged by the team's selections.
But who will be responsible for carrying the ball?
With the Cowboys back in shape, Elliott will return to the Cowboys after one season with the New England Patriots. Elliot has one thing on his mind. It's about chasing a ring with his former team. Although his performance has declined each season in the NFL, he still wants to prove that he deserves to get the majority of carries on his team.
Dowdle proved his effectiveness in the Cowboys' backfield last season. With Elliott's production trending down, he and Dowdle will work as a strong one-two punch. Elliott will be a bull in short yardage situations, and Dowdle will be a home run hitter.
Despite his impressive preseason performance, Vaughn's regular season performance was underwhelming. Bourne will need to prove that his shortcomings during his rookie season were just a fluke and that he can transition to an NFL running back.
Despite making the 53-man roster as a fullback last year, Lupke struggled to establish a significant role. Lupke was used in short yardage situations. He will have to prove his worth again, especially with Elliott returning to Big D.
Freeman will be entering his seventh season with his fifth team. It wasn't the contract Cowboys fans were hoping for when they begged the running back in the early stages of free agency, but his talent continues to find a home in the NFL.
After a five-year collegiate career with the Florida Gators, Davis spent his first two seasons in the NFL with the Cowboys. He played in 12 games in 2022, averaging 4.2 yards per carry. However, in 2023 he did not receive any touches. Davis is currently a strong candidate to be on the 53-man roster this season.
Conner functions as a power back and is an unlikely candidate to make the Cowboys' roster. He's physical and a tough runner. However, the role of power back was filled by the return of Zeke.
Pete has tremendous speed, running an impressive 4.32 in the 40-yard dash at Missouri's pro day. Despite limited playing opportunities during his five years in college, Pete continued to fulfill his potential every chance he got. He won't be a lead back, but his speed and strength could make him a valuable asset to any team.
Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Doodle have secured their spots on the roster, but it's anyone's guess who will fill out the rest of the running back group. Deuce Vaughn and Hunter Luepke were on the roster last season and will be on the roster again this year along with Royce Freeman, Malik Davis, Snoop Conner and Nathaniel Peete.