Cowboys RB Tony Pollard to Rival Commanders in Free Agency?

Could Cowboys running back Tony Pollard follow Dan Quinn to the Commanders in Free Agency?

Now that head coach Dan Quinn is running the Washington Commanders, could the former Dallas Cowboys coordinator try to poach some of his old players in free agency?

As a former defensive coordinator, Quinn would likely prefer that his offense establish a strong run game so that the team's defense can stay fresh all four quarters, and arguably, the best way to ensure that happens is by signing Cowboys Pro Bowl running back Tony Pollard.

Could Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowl running back Tony Pollard join Dan Quinn on the Washington Commanders? / Ron Jenkins-FR171331 AP via Imagn Content Services, LLC

"With Antonio Gibson heading to free agency, the Commanders could target someone like Pollard on a short-term deal to create a backfield rotation with Brian Robinson Jr. I like that duo," ESPN writes. "Washington could then reduce the workload for Pollard while maximizing his dual-threat ability. In five pro seasons with the Cowboys, Pollard had 179 receptions, and in 2023 he rushed for over 1,000 yards for a second straight season."

Pollard is ranked as the No. 46 free agent available this offseason by ESPN, and adding him could be just what the offense needs next season. It's been widely speculated that the Commanders will take a quarterback in the first round of this year's NFL Draft, and a strong run game is a terrific way to alleviate pressure and help ease a rookie passer into the NFL. 

Another reason why Pollard could be an enticing free agent for Quinn to poach is that he's a proven pass catcher. Back when Quinn was the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, running back Devonta Freeman thrived, earning his only All-Pro appearance while catching around 80 percent of his targets and having a terrific complimentary back in Tevin Coleman, who was also a reliable pass catcher.

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Both Brian Robinson Jr. and Pollard caught over 82 percent of their targets last season and had over 1,100 yards from scrimmage each. Together, the two could form one of the top running back tandems in the NFL and helped Quinn attempt to avenge his Super Bowl loss from his days back in Atlanta. 

Washington getting to improve its roster while hurting Dallas would be a great way to kick off free agency under Quinn, so if you're a Commanders fan, Pollard is a free agent to keep tabs on.