Dallas Cowboys sophomore running back Tony Pollard has shown flashes of potential whenever he gets the opportunity. Some have suggested that maybe he could end up splitting backfield duties with Ezekiel Elliot. However, team owner Jerry Jones, though acknowledging Pollard's potential, shut down that possibility, reiterating that the 23-year old's role would not come at the expense of the three-time Pro-Bowler Elliot.
“Tony’s not a Johnny come lately to our appreciate for what he can bring to us,” Jones said on 105.3 The Fan, via Brad Crawford of 247 Sports. “It always was exponential his potential here to help us, not though, let me emphasize, not though, at the diminished times we get the ball in the hands of Zeke or get Zeke involved in the offense in a way that he influences the offense so we can make big plays.
“All of this is all around what we’re trying to do with our key spot at quarterback. I would say no in answer to any role that Pollard is being considered that would diminish anything that we’re doing with Zeke.”
After leading the league in rushing as a rookie and again in his third year, Elliot is having a rough season, with five fumbles to his name so far this season. He is averaging 3.8 rushing yards and has recorded six touchdowns this season. However, all of them came within the first five games of the 2020 campaign.
Meanwhile, Pollard has seen his role grow throughout the season, with Ezekiel Elliot dealing with a nagging hamstring issue. Through nine games so far, the 2019 fourth-round pick is averaging 4.4 yards per carry.
Another thing Jerry Jones doesn't want to see is the Cowboys losing again, so expect him to keep a close eye on his team during a bye in Week 10, as Dallas prepares for a meeting with the Minnesota Vikings on the road in Week 11.