The Dallas Cowboys could sign an Ezekiel Elliott replacement in former Browns and Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt.
Hunt surprisingly remains a free agent despite being a former Pro Bowler in Kansas City and compliment to Nick Chubb in Cleveland. While Hunt’s history of domestic violence could and should give teams pause, it didn’t stop the Browns from giving him an opportunity years ago, and they likely weren’t alone in their thinking.
As of now, Dallas has yet to secure an Ezekiel Elliott replacement. Tony Pollard is the feature back for now — as he should be — but who will take Zeke’s carries around the goal line? Surely, as talented as Deuce Vaugh is, his 5-5, 179-pound frame won’t be enough to make much of an impact there.
Cowboys: Kareem Hunt could replace Ezekiel Elliott
Enter Hunt, who at this point can probably be had for cheaper than Elliott or Dalvin Cook.
At 27 years old, Sports Illustrated views Hunt as one of the best remaining options for Dallas to replace Elliott, and they’re right.
"“Over his six seasons, Hunt has averaged nearly a 1,000 yards from scrimmage per year. There is the argument that he’s running out of gas; we’ve got scouting minds who see it that way. Still, currently, Dallas’ backfield has a whole lot of lightning and no thunder. Ronald Jones was the home-run threat in Tampa Bay during his best seasons, similar to Pollard’s role behind Elliott thus far into his career. The other notable back on Dallas’ roster is Malik Davis, an undrafted free agent from last year’s class who didn’t receive many opportunities as a rookie. Davis runs tough, but he’s no bruiser.”"
It’s tough to believe Hunt doesn’t have at least one good season left in him. Were he north of 30 years old, for example, then it would be unwise for the Cowboys to kick those tires.
Dallas has a crowded depth chart, but is there any harm in letting Hunt battle with Malik Davis, Ronald Jones and Vaughn for that backup spot?