Jones' decision to release Ezekiel Elliott and roll with Tony Pollard as the every-down back didn't quite work. Pollard struggled as a runner in that role, backup Rico Dowdle was equally average, and rookie sixth-round pick Deuce Vaughn rarely saw the field.

As a result, Dallas ranked just 20th in yards per carry. Dallas rarely had an alternative to letting Prescott and the passing game carry the offense.

Pollard is set to become a free agent after playing under the franchise tag in 2023. The Cowboys must decide whether to re-sign Pollard, find a replacement in free agency or target a new running back in the draft.

The 2024 draft isn't expected to be loaded with top-tier RB prospects. With TreVeyon Henderson returning to Ohio State, Florida State's Trey Benson is now the highest-ranked back on the Bleacher Report Scouting Department's big board, at No. 47.

Several established running backs are slated to reach free agency, though, including Josh Jacobs, Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, Austin Ekeler, Gus Edwards and Elliott.

Dallas isn't loaded with cap space, but the depressed running back market could allow Jones to find a value at the position—and quite possibly, more value at other positions in the draft.

*Cap, contract and free-agent status information via Spotrac.