FRISCO, TX – The Dallas Cowboys Head Coach Mike McCarthy has been very candid about RB Tony Pollard and the leadership he has brought to this team during the off season.
Pollard was franchise tagged after the season ended and after he broke his leg during the playoff game against the San Francisco 49’ers. Pollard will be tagged for the 2023 season and earn $10.09 million for the year.
“He has a commanding presence and he has done a tremendous job with the young players.” McCarthy stated in the press conference on Wednesday morning leading up to day two of minicamp.
“Tony Pollard does it the right way.” McCarthy talked about the awareness Pollard has in the film room and his ability to read routes and understand the game. McCarthy stated he is also very good at explaining it to the rookies and said the rookies look up to him.
Following the 2022 season, RB Ezekeil Elliott and the Dallas Cowboys could not come to an agreement on pay and decided to part ways during the off season.
Pollard will be the new RB1 this season in Dallas and it was rightfully earned after an impressive 2022 season. Pollard had 193 carries (23rd in the league), racking up 1,007 yards (16th in the league), 9 total touchdowns (tied for 10th in the league), and averaging 5.2 yards per carry (5th in the league).
Following the 49’ers game Pollard got surgery immediately on the fractured fibula he got during the first quarter of the playoff game. The ProBowler was expected to be out for three months and could not participate in the ProBowl.
His return was expected to be around June or July and he is right on track. He told us after OTA’s that he is almost 100 percent and ready to go. He said he is very comfortable and out there and doesn’t feel hesitant on the leg at all.
“Actually I feel faster.” TP told us after OTA’s ended last week.
“He is chomping at the bit to get back out there physically.” McCarthy told us following day one of minicamp.
With Elliott out of the picture Pollard has some shoes to fill this season and it looks like he is handling the pressure with no problems.
