Despite always having to play second fiddle to Ezekiel Elliott, Dallas Cowboys backup running back Tony Pollard has carved out a fairly significant role in the offense since being drafted in the fourth round in 2019.

While he’s made just a total of six starts in his four-year career, Pollard has racked up 2,616 rushing yards with the Cowboys, including 1,007 yards in 2022. He was even named to the Pro Bowl team, a feat Elliott didn’t accomplish this season.

Pollard’s explosiveness has even led to some analysts calling for the Cowboys to start the 25-year-old back over Elliott or move on from the latter altogether. Instead of making changes to the starting lineup any time soon, we could see the Cowboys faced with a much bigger decision regarding Pollard’s future with the team.

Once the Cowboys’ season concludes, Pollard’s rookie contract will expire, making him one of the top unrestricted free-agent running backs available this offseason. Unless, of course, the Cowboys can agree to a contract extension with their prized running back first.