NFL franchise tag 2023: 10 players most likely to be tagged

5. Top Franchise Tag Candidates – Dallas Cowboys RB Tony Pollard

The Cowboys are never afraid to use the franchise tag and did so last season to keep tight end Dalton Schultz in the fold. Schultz had a solid year for Dallas but he should actually get to test free agency this season since the team has been very public about its desire to use the tag on Pollard.

The long-time caddy to Ezekiel Elliott got more responsibility in the offense this season and delivered his best performance as a result. Pollard got a career high 193 carries and posted his first 1,000 yard season, averaging 5.2 yards per carry while also catching 39 passes for 371 yards and posting 12 total touchdowns.

The breakout came to an ill-timed end when Pollard broke his leg in a divisional round loss against the San Francisco 49ers, essentially taking Dallas’ offense down with him. Elliott, who clearly lost a step this season, may be a salary cap casualty if he doesn’t take a pay cut so the Cowboys need to find a way to retain Pollard this offseason.

The franchise tag value for running backs makes it a smart bet for Dallas to use it on Pollard and see how he looks after rehabbing the leg injury. A strong bounce back would provide a good incentive for the Cowboys to work on a long-term deal with Pollard in the future.