The Dallas Cowboys know they need DeMarco Murray while Murray is well aware the Cowboys need him. The running back was the team's x-factor when it comes to the offense last season. He helped Tony Romo put up one of his best seasons if his career while carrying the team into the playoffs. Now approaching free agency, Murray is not looking to bolt from Dallas, but he wants to be paid for his efforts.
Murray is not aiming to take a hometown discount, something Dallas was likely hoping would happen. After leading the league with 1,845 yards and getting named NFL Offensive Player of the Year, Murray says he wants to be respected in his next contract and while he would prefer that be with Dallas, it could come from anywhere.
"Obviously I think they want me here," Murray said, via ESPNDallas.com. "I want to be here. It's just finding the ... just what helps them, what helps me. Things like that. I think both sides want to be here, so I think we'll see where it goes. I'm very patient so ... if that's the process I have to go through, then that's the process I have to go through."
Murray is aware that the Cowboys have a lot of factors in play when it comes to a contract for him. The deal currently linked to Tony Romo certainly does not help negotiations as the Cowboys really cannot restructure that contract again. Dez Bryant is the priority in terms of getting a massive contract which again leaves Murray waiting in the wings. However, the recent arrest to Joseph Randle means the Cowboys really cannot afford to let Murray leave considering replacing him will not be easy.
"At the end of the day, it's all about respect, and I think different people show their appreciation in different ways," Murray said. "I don't need a pat on the back. I don't need someone telling me how good I am on a constant basis and whatnot like that. I understand my value, so to speak, and I understand what I bring to the table."
The Cowboys are at risk of losing their top two running backs which would force the team to find help elsewhere. Unless Adrian Peterson takes a massive pay cut a trade for the Minnesota Vikings running back will not be what the Cowboys turn to. Instead, players like CJ Spiller, Frank Gore or Mark Ingram could be the priority. The Cowboys have a strong offensive line that will aid any rusher, but getting the same production Murray put up will be hard to come by.
