DeMarco Murray is fully prepared to test the free agent market in just over a week. The Dallas Cowboys star is about to find out just how much a top running back is worth in the NFL as the position continues to be devalued in the league. With several young players also available for contracts, Murray could be finding out the hard way just how much teams value his skillset. However, while Murray wants to get his money while his stock is high, the running back is not ruling out a Dallas return.
When the Cowboys used their franchise tag on Dez Bryant, Murray was considered gone. The running back's value is high at the moment given the fact that he led the league in rushing and Murray intends to capitalize on that. Team vice president Stephen Jones made it clear that the Cowboys certainly favor Murray, but are going to let him test the market before agreeing to a deal.
According to ESPN NFL Insider Ed Werder, Murray actually would prefer to return to the Dallas Cowboys, but wants to find out what other teams are willing to offer first. Werder rights that if other contract offers are equal or similar to what the Cowboys are offering, then Murray will simply return to Dallas and continue on with the team. Murray was the x-factor for Dallas last season, excelling behind their top offensive line. Clearly, they are the best landing spot for any running back as they can be partially credited for the 1,845 yards Murray put up in 2014.
It is hard to determine what a team could offer Murray. At 27-years-old he is in his prime, but certainly not worth a long-term deal with a lot of guaranteed money. ProFootballTalk.com reports there is no chance Murray inks a deal similar to Adrian Peterson's seven-year, $96 million contract with $36 million in guaranteed money. That is out of the question. Last season, most backs inked one-year contracts, the highest being about a three-year deal. Is that Murray should expect from Dallas who is already limited in cap space?
Teams are ready to make offers on Murray. The Indianapolis Colts, Oakland Raiders, Arizona Cardinals or Jacksonville Jaguars all need top rushers. Murray would be a good fit if the dollar amount is higher.
