Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys are looking to come back stronger in head coach Brian Schottenheimer’s second year at the helm. The offense showed strong potential last season, but there’s much to be done if the team is to keep up with a Philadelphia Eagles squad that’s been dominating the NFC East for some time now. Nonetheless, there’s one move on the table that could have a significant impact.
Cowboys Touted To Land RB Nick Chubb To Bolster Backfield
The Cowboys’ defense might’ve been the worst in the team’s history last year, but the offense delivered plenty of action. The unit ranked seventh in the NFL in scoring (27.7 points per game) and, according to PFSN’s Offense Impact Metric, ranked sixth in the league. Maintaining that form will be key, as Schottenheimer aims to make real progress in Year 2.
Wideouts CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, along with tight end Jake Ferguson, are the anchors of Prescott’s receiving corps. Meanwhile, Javonte Williams holds the fort in the backfield.
ESPN’s Matt Bowen, however, believes the team should make an effort to add running back options. Williams might be a sufficient lead back at age 25, with 1,200+ rushing yards and 11 touchdowns last season, but adding an experienced piece will do only good.
“A veteran grinder at this point of his career, Chubb could provide value as the Cowboys’ No. 2 or No. 3 option behind starter Javonte Williams,” Bowen wrote. “Chubb can still secure catches on swings and checkdowns in the passing game, but he should be viewed as an early-down option who can use his power and vision in short-yardage situations.”
At age 30, Chubb has more productive years behind him than in front. Running backs generally don’t produce prime numbers into their 30s, leaving the four-time Pro Bowler at a point where his best bet is RB2.
Chubb’s ribs also bothered him a lot last season, underscoring the health concerns that come with a running back in his 30s. His golden years of 1,000-yard campaigns in Cleveland are far behind him, almost half a decade, in fact — but there’s still gas left in the tank.
BE AN NFL GM: PFSN’s Ultimate GM Simulator
In the Cowboys’ electric offense, Chubb could slot into a comfortable role behind the Williams. As a trademark power back, he can help establish the run game to open opportunities through the air for a loaded receiving corps featuring 1,000-yard receivers Lamb and Pickens.
Whether owner Jerry Jones pulls the trigger on the move will be interesting to see.
