The key to Darren McFadden being successful with the Dallas Cowboys is his health. Since entering the NFL, McFadden has yet to play a full season as he struggled heavily with injuries while with the Oakland Raiders. The Cowboys signed McFadden to replace DeMarco Murray and remained confident that he would bounce back at the second chance. However, McFadden is injured once again and Joseph Randle could be taking his starting spot.
According to ESPNDallas.com, McFadden will miss a portion of offseason workouts thanks to a hamstring injury. The running back has dealt with this issue in the past as his hamstring has flared up in the past. This is a setback for the cowboys who were potentially counting on McFadden to be the starter in 2015. Now, they are looking closer at Randle to be a bigger threat in the upcoming season.
Bill Cowlishaw of the Dallas Morning News made the case to let Randle take over as the starter because he can be more of a dual-threat back for the team. McFadden has been more of a down-field rusher during his time in the league whereas Randle has solid hands to be more versatile out of the backfield. Cowlishaw wrote that fans should expect Randle as the starter since he is looked as being more effective than McFadden.
If the Cowboys move on with those two backs along with Ryan Williams, what happens with Lance Dunbar? The running back has seen his share of carries for the Cowboys and has potential to be a threat, but the crowded backfield is making it hard for him this season. Bob Strum of the Dallas Morning News believes that Dunbar could be released if Williams looks like the strong option as the third back. Dunbar has the experience, but nothing is guaranteed right now.
The Cowboys are hoping everyone truly steps up in 2015 so they can build off the success of last season. Dez Bryant will be reporting despite his contract issues. Meanwhile Jason Witten will step up for more receptions while Terrance Williams and Cole Beasley and Devin Street get playing time with the starters as well. If the depth on offense can be successful, the Cowboys will be well-prepared for next season.