3 hidden gems on the Dallas Cowboys roster

2. Tony Pollard is a capable backup to Exekiel Elliott

The struggles of Ezekiel Elliott, either through indications of his own decline or chalked up to a banged-up offensive line, took center stage last year. But focusing on that means missing what Pollard did when he got opportunities.

After averaging 5.3 yards per carry as a rookie in 2019, Pollard got 101 carries last year as Elliott dealt with hamstring and calf injuries. In the game Elliott missed entirely, Week 15 against the San Francisco 49ers, Pollard posted 132 total yards on 18 touches (six receptions) with two rushing scores. In games he had at least nine opportunities (carries plus targets) in last year, he had at least 40 total yards five times with touchdowns in two other game he didn’t reach that threshold.

Tilting toward fantasy production, Pollard posted at least six points in full PPR eight times in 2020. In Week 14 he was RB20 in full PPR and in Week 15 when Elliott was out and his managers surely turned to him on the waiver wire or already had him as the handcuff, Pollard finished as RB1 in full PPR (and RB2 in standard scoring).

Elliott will be the Cowboys’ workhorse back, and he’s in line for a rebound season. But Pollard is a legit talent, and he should get more consistent opportunities this year.