Cowboys take potential Pollard replacement in new mock draft

Florida State running back Trey Benson. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Cowboys take potential Tony Pollard replacement in new mock draft

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 3/5/24

The Cowboys didn't franchise tag Tony Pollard before the deadline on Tuesday, raising doubts about his future in Dallas. The franchise should seek a replacement in the draft if it plans to move on from the former Pro Bowler.

In his latest two-round mock draft, ESPN's Jordan Reid had the Cowboys taking Florida State's Trey Benson with the 56th overall pick.

"This year's running back class feels a little like the 2014 group, when none were picked inside the top 50 but seven went inside the top 100," Reid wrote of the selection. "Pollard is heading toward free agency, and Benson could be a great fit in Dallas. He not only ran for 904 yards and 14 scores last season but also caught 20 passes."

According to Cowboys staff writer Nick Harris, Dallas held a formal interview with Benson at the scouting combine in Indianapolis. If the club takes him in the draft, it could be a smart move.

Per NFL.com, the 21-year-old is the top RB in the class.

Trey Benson is an absolute force on the field

: @NickPenticoff pic.twitter.com/GZDzs61hWJ https://t.co/m1fgO0cWmz
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) March 2, 2024

"Overall, Benson has all of the physical tools and the IQ to be a highly productive running back on the next level," the Draft Network's Keith Sanchez wrote of the 6-foot, 216-pounder. "Simply improving the minor details of his game will help him become a more impactful player for offenses."

The Cowboys could still re-sign Pollard. Spotrac estimates the 26-year-old's market value is a two-year deal worth $6.5M annually, eighth at his position.

The team lacks cap space, however. According to Spotrac's salary cap tracker, it's $4.03M over the cap. Don't be surprised if Dallas goes for a cheaper, younger back, especially after Pollard averaged a career-low four yards per carry in 17 games last season.

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