DeMarco Murray no longer a franchise back in Cowboys eyes

Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (29) runs for a short gain during the first half against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Cowboys RB DeMarco Murray is a solid feature back in this league and has shown this season that he can make an impact as a receiving back as well, but he has always had huge issues with staying healthy. Murray sprained his MCL in the second quarter of last week’s win over the Washington Redskins, and he will miss this week’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles; Murray is currently listed doubtful on the injury report.

The NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that the Cowboys are “no longer sold” that DeMarco Murray is a franchise back in this league, and they “had discussions” about trading for a running back. Rapoport warns us to keep our heads up for a potential deal at the trade deadline for an RB, and many of us are wondering if they could get Maurice Jones-Drew from the Jacksonville Jaguars. I’m sure the Jaguars would like to get something for MJD, and draft picks are more valuable than a struggling  feature back.

It’s interesting to hear that the Cowboys are souring on Murray, and I think it is simply due to the fact that he is rarely ever healthy. Murray missed a combined nine games in 2011 and 2012, and that has undermined some solid rushing. There is little doubt in my mind that Murray is a good back in this league (he is averaging a solid 4.7 yards per rush this year with 24 receptions and three rushing TDs), but it looks like he can’t be relied upon for an entire season due to his interesting rushing style that leads to more injuries.

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