Dallas Cowboys: Rookie RB Tony Pollard continues to shine

The Dallas Cowboys are getting more out of rookie running back Tony Pollard than anybody expected.

When the Dallas Cowboys drafted Tony Pollard in the fourth-round of the 2019 NFL Draft, he was considered more of a scatback who could make an impact in a complementary role. However, through two preseason games and the bulk of training camp, it is obvious that Pollard has the skill-set to be much more.

With Ezekiel Elliott still holding out, the Cowboys are treating Pollard like their true franchise back. Like all of the other offensive starters, Pollard only played one series in the Cowboys’ second preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday night. He stole the show in that one series, Pollard carried the ball five times for 42 yards and a touchdown. He also caught one pass for nine yards.

We knew that Pollard was a playmaker in space and could make plays in the passing game as he was coming out of college, but his ability to be a strong and consistent playmaker on the ground has been a bit of a surprise.

Pollard did a majority of his damage against the Rams on the inside, which is great to see. He showcased his impressive elusiveness, but he also finished his runs with plenty of power, as you can see on his touchdown run below.

Obviously, the Dallas Cowboys offense is at its best with Elliott taking a full load of snaps. That being said, Pollard is proving himself to be a worthy replacement who can make an impact on an NFL football field. At worst, they may have found the perfect change-of-pace back to their star.

If Zeke comes back, then the Cowboys have found a nice complimentary player who can help Elliott stay fresh throughout the season. If he continues to hold out through the season, we may be looking at Pollard as one of the premier breakout players of 2019.