The Cowboys are expected to sign a ‘physical’ running back as a potential starter.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a potential crossroads as they head into the 2024 season. With Tony Pollard currently under the franchise tag and the status of Ezekiel Elliott uncertain, the team is faced with the task of securing a new starting running back. According to Pro Football Focus’ Trevor Sikkema, the Cowboys are eyeing Notre Dame running back Audric Estime as a promising prospect to fill this crucial role, targeting him with a fourth-round pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.The situation becomes even more intriguing with the possibility of Tony Pollard departing in free agency. If the dynamic back, who has been a significant part of the Cowboys’ offensive arsenal, moves on, it would leave the team with only rookie Deuce Vaughn under contract for the next season. This potential void in the running back position has fueled speculation about the Cowboys actively seeking a new talent in the draft.

The Cowboys are expected to sign a 'physical' running back as a potential starter.
The Cowboys are expected to sign a ‘physical’ running back as a potential starter.

Sikkema argues that while the Cowboys are unlikely to enter the draft without a veteran running back on the roster, Audric Estime presents an attractive option regardless of Pollard’s decision. Describing Estime as more than just a physically imposing presence at 5-foot-11.5 and 227 pounds, Sikkema highlights the Notre Dame standout’s exceptional vision and footwork. These attributes have translated into an impressive 91.2 running grade for Estime during the current season, making him a well-rounded prospect for the Cowboys’ offensive scheme.The mock draft scenario painted by Sikkema underscores the team’s focus on securing larger players, indicating a potential shift in the offensive strategy. Estime, with his combination of size and skill, could bring a new dimension to the Cowboys’ ground game, providing them with a powerful and agile runner who can make a significant impact.

The Cowboys are expected to sign a 'physical' running back as a potential starter.
The Cowboys are expected to sign a ‘physical’ running back as a potential starter.

As the Cowboys prepare for the 2024 NFL Draft, the prospect of Audric Estime joining their ranks adds an element of anticipation and excitement for fans. Whether he becomes the next starting running back or complements existing talent, Estime’s potential arrival marks a strategic move for the Cowboys as they aim to maintain competitiveness and agility in a league that is constantly evolving.In the realm of American football, where agility and speed often take center stage, there’s a player who defies the conventional expectations of a running back. His name is Estime, a formidable force standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing in at 233 pounds. These numbers alone place him in a category that challenges the norms of his position. To truly appreciate his impact on the game, one must understand the context: the top seven heaviest running backs all tip the scales at a minimum of 235 pounds.Estime’s physique is not just a statistic; it’s a statement. In an era where lighter, more agile backs dominate the scene, Estime brings a refreshing and powerful presence to the field. He’s not the shifty, fluid runner that some teams prefer, but he embodies the essence of a “physical” runner. His playing style mirrors the likes of Ezekiel Elliott, a running back who made a name for himself in Dallas by relentlessly pounding the football between the trenches.

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The Cowboys are expected to sign a 'physical' running back as a potential starter.
The Cowboys are expected to sign a ‘physical’ running back as a potential starter.

The numbers from Estime’s junior season tell a compelling story of his impact. With 988 yards gained on 163 carries, he boasts an impressive average of 6.1 yards per carry. But perhaps even more telling is his ability to find the end zone, having scored 13 touchdowns during the season. These statistics underscore Estime’s effectiveness as a powerful, goal-line threat—a player capable of bulldozing his way through opposing defenses to secure crucial points for his team.While his stats showcase his prowess on the field, it’s the intangibles that truly set Estime apart. His physicality isn’t just a product of his size; it’s a mindset that resonates with the grit and determination reminiscent of football legends. When Estime takes the handoff, there’s a palpable sense that he’s not just carrying the ball; he’s carrying the hopes and dreams of his team, absorbing hits and delivering punishment in equal measure.

The Cowboys are expected to sign a 'physical' running back as a potential starter.
The Cowboys are expected to sign a ‘physical’ running back as a potential starter.

In a league that constantly evolves, Estime represents a throwback to the era of bruising, hard-nosed football. His presence in the backfield adds a dimension that forces opposing defenses to adjust their game plans. In a league where finesse often takes precedence, Estime’s style serves as a stark reminder that sometimes, the most effective way to move the chains is by sheer force and will.As Estime continues to carve out his legacy on the gridiron, it’s evident that his impact extends beyond the numbers on the stat sheet. He is a testament to the enduring appeal of power football—a style that may have evolved but still finds its place among the finesse and flash of the modern game.

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