The Dallas Cowboys continue to stress their confidence in Darren McFadden as a productive running back in 2016, but that will not stop them from looking at other options to add to the backfield. Entering next season, the team has McFadden and no one else on the roster meaning they need to add someone either free agency or the draft for help. In a win-now mode with the championship window closing, could Matt Forte become a favorite for the team?
Last season McFadden shocked many by putting up 1,089 yards as the main running back for the Cowboys. However, history says the chances those numbers get repeated are slim. McFadden has a lot of injury history on his resume and while Jerry Jones is hopeful, the need for help is great. According to ESPN's Todd Archer, for the right price Forte could be a target for Dallas considering he represents someone that can step in and have immediate success for the team. With Tony Romo reaching the end of his career, the Cowboys are trying for a Super Bowl sooner rather than later and Forte would be a solid options to help in that effort.
It is unclear just how much money the Cowboys would be willing to spend on running back help. With the offensive line the team has, almost anyone can find success on the ground. That might turn them away from rushers like Lamar Miller, Chris Ivory or Doug Martin. All three running backs could command five-year deals similar to what DeMarco Murray signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. However, can the Cowboys afford to skimp on the run game? While they have one of the best offensive lines in the league, having an elite backfield is exactly what Romo needs to be successful and potentially injury free in 2016.
The Cowboys have options that do not include spending in free agency. The team will eye defense or a quarterback in the first round of the NFL Draft, but they draft early enough in the second round, that getting either Ezekiel Elliott or Derek Henry remains a possibility. Elliott told the Dallas Morning News that he would love for Dallas to pick him in the draft as he would thrive with the offensive line in place. The same could be said for Henry or even Kenneth Dixon in the third round. That would give the Cowboys a mix of youth and a veteran in the backfield.
One option left for Dallas is Lance Dunbar. Prior to getting injured, Dunbar was on pace for a very impressive 2015 season. However, a leg injury ended things before they could start. According to ESPN, the Cowboys could eye bringing Dunbar back on a short-term prove-yourself deal. The running back is expected to be healthy come the start of next season. A one-year contract could be beneficial for both Dunbar and the Cowboys.
