DeMarco Murray's plan has likely not even landed in Philadelphia yet and most assumed he is prepared to sign a contract with the Eagles in free agency. The running back is the best available in NFL free agency right now after leading the league in rushing yards in 2014 and after battling the Dallas Cowboys on contract talks, he is prepared to head elsewhere. Without their star running back on the roster any more, where does Dallas look for a back?
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Murray is flying to Philadelphia with the intent of signing a contract with the team. Schefter reported that Murray personally called head coach Chip Kelly on Wednesday requesting a meeting with the Eagles in hopes to signing with the team. Murray has yet to take any visits to teams in free agency. He did meet with Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett at the start of the offseason, but it is unclear exactly what was discussed. He also removed all things Dallas from his social media accounts, a potential sign he was ready to move on.
Is the x-factor Sam Bradford? The Eagles acquired the quarterback in a trade on Tuesday, sending Nick Foles packing. It just so happens that Bradford was college roommates with Murray and he confirmed to the media per ESPN that he was pushing for the running back to head to Philadelphia. The one thing that could hinder this deal from happening is the contract given to Ryan Mathews who was signed on Wednesday.
So what does Dallas do? It is pretty clear that Murray is likely headed elsewhere. According to NFL.com, owner Jerry Jones has maintained the belief that any running back can succeed with the Cowboys thanks to their great offensive line. He will find out just how true that is. CJ Spiller has to be the primary target with this, but Dallas has to move fast. Spiller is taking visits with several teams, most recently the New Orleans Saints and the Cowboys could be left missing out.
Other options include former Baltimore Ravens running back Justin Forsett, but he is getting pushed to return to his former team. They could try for Stevan Ridley. There is of course the lingering trade deal for Adrian Peterson. They could also simply grab someone in the NFL Draft they feel could really succeed in the system. Jones cannot afford to sit on this. The good running backs are being swept up and Dallas will need to sign someone quickly.
