The Dallas Cowboys have signed free agent running back Royce Freeman to a one-year deal. Freeman, a former third-round pick of the Denver Broncos in the 2018 NFL Draft, rushed for 319 yards and two touchdowns with the Los Angeles Rams last year. The 28-year-old running back has seen his career highs in rushing yards and touchdowns come during his rookie season with the Broncos, where he rushed for 521 yards and five touchdowns.
After his rookie season, Freeman’s production somewhat declined in subsequent years, with his rushing totals dropping to 170 yards in 2020 and 169 yards in 2021 with the Carolina Panthers and Houston Texans. In 2022, he rushed for 117 yards with the Texans before joining the Rams last season. Freeman will now join a Cowboys running back room lacking experience, with Tony Pollard departing for the Tennessee Titans in free agency. The remaining backs on the roster include Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn, Malik Davis, and Snoop Conner.
Despite adding Freeman, the Cowboys are still looking to bolster their running back depth through the upcoming NFL Draft or additional free agency moves. Potential free agent options include JK Dobbins, Jerick McKinnon, and former Cowboys star Ezekiel Elliott. In the draft, there are no clear standout prospects, but names like Blake Corum from Michigan and Trey Benson from Florida State could be on Dallas’ radar. The team is in need of a true No. 1 running back to solidify their backfield.
The Cowboys have been active in making moves to strengthen their roster, with owner Jerry Jones overseeing the team’s pre-draft additions. The addition of Freeman adds depth to their running back group, which now includes a mix of young talent and veteran experience. The team’s current running backs have shown flashes of potential but lack the consistent production needed from a lead back. Freeman’s signing provides competition and depth at the position.
Freeman’s journey in the NFL has seen him move from the Broncos to various teams before landing with the Rams and now the Cowboys. Despite some ups and downs in his career, he has shown the ability to contribute to teams in a backup or rotational role. The Cowboys will look to maximize Freeman’s skill set and provide an opportunity for him to showcase his abilities in their system. With a competitive running back room, Freeman will have the chance to earn playing time and make an impact on the field.
As the Cowboys prepare for the upcoming season, they are keeping all options open for further roster moves. The addition of Freeman is just one step in the team’s efforts to build a competitive and well-rounded roster for the upcoming season. With a mix of veteran leadership and young talent, the Cowboys will aim to address their running back situation and continue to make strategic moves to improve their overall team performance. Fans will be eager to see how Freeman and the rest of the running backs perform in training camp and preseason games leading up to the regular season.
