NFL Mock Draft Week 15: Raiders build dynasty through defense

player. 123. <p>The Cowboys thought they could just plug and play running backs behind that offensive line after losing DeMarco Murray, but this year has proven you can’t do that in football. Instead they trade back a couple of slots and pick up one of the best running backs in the country.</p> <p>While some people don’t agree with running backs being taken early, players like Todd Gurley have proven it’s not as crazy of an idea as once thought. With Tony Romo coming off his second collarbone injury next year, the Cowboys are going to have to protect him big time. When DeMarco Murray was carrying the offense last year we saw Romo have a great season. With no running game to protect him, we’ve seen Romo make questionable decisions.</p> <p>Having someone the Cowboys can consistently hand the ball off to once against will help keep Romo around while he mentors whomever Jerry Jones decides to be his heir. Elliott is a strong back who runs with both speed and power. Had Ohio State not lost to Michigan State this past year, he very well may have won the Heisman Trophy.</p>. RB. Ohio State. Ezekiel Elliot. 8