FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys have placed their franchise tag on running back Tony Pollard, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.
The 2023 franchise tender for a running back is worth $10.09 million, which immediately counts against the Cowboys' salary cap whether he signs the tender immediately or not. The deadline for teams to use the franchise tag is Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET.
The Cowboys would like to sign Pollard to a multiyear deal and met with his agent at last week's scouting combine. If they are unable to reach an agreement by July 15, Pollard would have to play the season on the tag.
A fourth-round draft pick in 2019, Pollard had a breakout season in 2022 and earned a Pro Bowl spot after eclipsing 1,000 yards (1,007) for the first time in his career, although surgery to repair a high ankle sprain suffered in the playoffs against the San Francisco 49ers kept him out of the Pro Bowl Games festivities.
Pollard, who has the traits of a lead back with a dual-threat upside, is expected to be 100% before the start of training camp. Owner and general manager Jerry Jones said from the combine that the injury will not impact the team's desire for a contract.
The decision on Pollard is likely to affect Ezekiel Elliott, who is slated to make $10.9 million and count $16.72 million against the cap in 2023. The Cowboys could approach Elliott regarding a significant pay cut or save $4.8 million with his release. If they designate him a post-June 1 cut, the Cowboys would save $10.9 million against the cap, but Elliott would count roughly $6 million against the 2024 cap.
There was a changing of the guard at running back in 2022 even though Elliott started 14 of the 15 games he played. Pollard also had career highs in carries (193)
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