The Dallas Cowboys running back rotation just got a little more confusing. While team president Jerry Jones and head coach Jason Garrett continued to stress their absolute confidence in the running backs they already have on the roster, the trade with the Seattle Seahawks to acquire Christine Michael says that might not be the case. With the 53-man roster set, will Darren McFadden still be the No.1 back heading into the season opener?
The Cowboys announced the trade of Michael from the Seahawks after Seattle signed Fred Jackson to help backup Marshawn Lynch and Robert Turbin. Michael played sporadically during his time in Seattle over the past two seasons, acquiring just 254 yards, but there is some talent there after he was drafted in the second round back in 2013. The question is whether he is good enough to upset Darren McFadden and Joseph Randle. According to team vice president Stephen Jones, the Cowboys were content with their backs before the trade and that still stands after Michael was added.
"We're very content with the three backs that we have as we head into the Giants game," Jones said, via the team's website. "I think they're all healthy and hitting on all cylinders, so I'm looking forward to seeing how those guys do."
Jones wants a running rotation by committee. They do not intend on giving anyone the workload they gave DeMarco Murray last year. McFadden returned from injury and was moved to No.1 on the depth chart. Randell and Lance Dunbar are still dealing with injuries which could mean Michael at least enters the season as the No.2 back. According to NFL Media's Michael Robinson, Michael is the more complete back over anyone on the rotation for the Cowboys. Garrett told the media everyone will get an opportunity.
"There's opportunity every day in practice," Garrett said, via the team website. "We're going to evaluate guys in practice, and if they show that they're worthy of being part of our roster on Sundays, we'll give them a chance to do that. If they're worthy of getting some opportunities to carry the football, we'll give them a chance to do that, as well."
The Cowboys are also dealing with question marks at the cornerback position with Orlando Scandrick out. The team does not have a clear No.1 cornerback emerging as Brandon Carr, Morris Claiborne and Byron Jones compete. According to the Dallas Morning News, the Cowboys are likely to start Carr and Claiborne while Jones works in as a backup along with joining the safeties as well.