As voluntary OTAs kick off around the National Football League, fans eagerly anticipate news about the players showing up and excelling in practices.
For the Dallas Cowboys, the running back position has always been a focal point, with Ezekiel Elliott leading the pack. However, as we look towards the future, it is essential to consider the potential for new talent in the running backs room.
As an Oklahoma native and a dedicated Cowboys fan, I cannot help but speculate about the future of the running back position for “America’s Team.”
Could the Cowboys be eyeing a running back in the upcoming draft? And if so, why not consider another Cowboy hailing from Stillwater?
Ollie Gordon II
Enter Ollie Gordon II, a promising running back from Oklahoma State. Standing at an impressive 6’1 and 212 lbs.
Ollie is heading into his third year as a running back for Oklahoma State. In 2023, his first full year as a starter, he put up remarkable numbers, carrying the ball 285 times for over 1,700 yards with 21 touchdowns.
Over the past two seasons, Ollie has maintained an impressive average of nearly 6 yards per carry.
Not only is Ollie a force on the ground, but he has also demonstrated his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, with 406 receptions and an average of 8 yards per catch.
These stats hold up favorably compared to another running back, namely Zeke, who was drafted in the first round by Dallas a few years ago.
O-Line Upgrades
If the Cowboys were to draft Ollie next year, he would join a team with a revamped offensive line.
The recent draft saw the Cowboys invest heavily in big, powerful linemen to fortify their offense.
This enhanced line could pave the way for Ollie to make significant plays and provide the spark the fan base has been yearning for.
Mentor
As Ezekiel Elliott approaches the latter part of his career and milestones as a Dallas Cowboy, the Cowboys may be considering the future of the running back position.
Ollie could learn from Zeke, who has experienced every aspect of being a back in this league.
Having Zeke as a mentor could be invaluable for Ollie, given their shared traits and Zeke’s wealth of experience.
3 Headed Monster
With Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons leading the charge, adding in a high-caliber running back like Ollie could present a challenge for opposing teams.
Ollie would address the team’s struggles in the red zone and could have a ripple effect, benefiting all facets of the game.
Time of Possession
As we saw last year, the defense was tired from being on the field late in the game. Raising the time of possession from around the 53% mark to about 55 to 60% creates a rested defense.
Owning time of possession creates a rested and fierce defense.
Who doesn’t want a rested Micah Parsons?
The addition of a talented running back like Ollie Gordon II could be the key to revitalizing the Cowboys’ offense.
Setting the stage for a return to the glory days of playoff wins and Super Bowls.
Only time will tell, but I believe speaking this possibility into existence may help steer the Cowboys back to greatness.