The idea that Adrian Peterson could be headed to the Dallas Cowboys is looking more realistic by the day. The Cowboys benefitted from a highly successful run game all season thanks to the legs of DeMarco Murray who broke the franchise single-season rushing record along with leading the league in the same category. However, Murray will be an unrestricted free agent in March and has already rejected one offer from Dallas.
Murray was the x-factor to the Cowboys' season. Yes, Tony Romo stayed much healthier this year. Dez Bryant made his usual athletic catches and the defense stepped up to the challenge, but it was Murray that made the biggest difference and got the team to the NFC divisional round. The idea that Dallas would let him walk away seems crazy, but rejecting the first contract offer is not a good sign for the future.
According NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, Murray rejected an offer of four years and $16 million. Considering all that Murray did for the Cowboys last year, that offer is low. However, the running back market is extremely weak. Last year, most backs coming off career-high seasons only earned a two-year at best ranging around $2 million per season. Now none of those backs led the league in rushing, but Murray might not be able to expect much more from the Cowboys.
Rapoport writes that Dallas could be gearing up to try and acquire Peterson when the running back is reinstated into the league in April. The Minnesota Vikings remain hopeful that Peterson will opt to simply return to the team, but his contract makes him an ideal trade. The Cowboys will be tight on salary cap space with Romo's contract and the potential big deal for Bryant and might not be able to take on Peterson's deal as well, but fans can count on Jerry Jones at least making a call.
Murray is not concerned about his future knowing that several teams will make a fun at him at the start of the offseason. The Oakland Raiders need upgrades from Darren McFadden and Maurice Jones-Drew. The Atlanta Falcons could be eyeing Murray to replace Steven Jackson and pair with Devonte Freeman. The New York Jets will be needing a replacement for Chris Johnson. The Denver Broncos could be looking for running back help as well. If the Cowboys are not willing to pay up, there might be other teams ready to make a move.