The Dallas Cowboys have adopted a cost-effective strategy at running back after letting Tony Pollard go. They re-signed Rico Dowdle and brought back Ezekiel Elliott, who spent last season with the New England Patriots. The team initially planned a committee approach, but with Elliott's recent decline in performance, Dowdle has seen an increase in touches.

Despite Elliott's struggles, owner Jerry Jones believes in preserving him for crucial moments as the season progresses. However, Elliott's role may be limited to short-yardage situations, raising questions about his effectiveness as the team aims for playoff contention.