Running back C.J. Anderson gashed the Dallas Cowboys defense in the playoffs, but now he’s a player they should be trying to sign in free agency
In 2017 while with the Denver Broncos, Anderson roughed up the Dallas Cowboys defense to the tune of 118 yards rushing and 36 receiving. He scored twice in a 42-17 Week 2 win that left the Boys defense frustrated.
Then, the Cowboys met Anderson again in the playoffs this past January, which led to another frustrating game. This time, Anderson got work in for the Los Angeles Rams as Todd Gurley was dealing with knee problems.
Facing Anderson rather than Gurley should have been a positive for Dallas, but it was anything but. Anderson had one of the best games of his career in that Divisional Round matchup, rumbling his way to 123 yards and two touchdowns on 23 carries. He was a key cog in the 30-22 loss that ended Dallas’ season in heartbreaking fashion.
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Now as the free agency period has moved along, there’s an argument to be made for Dallas going after Anderson as their No. 2 running back. Anderson, who played for three different teams in 2018, has yet to sign a deal for the coming season and he’s been growing frustrated about the lack of contact from NFL teams.
As for the Cowboys, they have yet to re-sign their No. 2 running back from 2018, Rod Smith. While Smith is a talented running back, his production fell off last season and Dallas could look to move on from him.
Anderson would be the perfect replacement. He’s accustomed to being a backup, which means he would have no issues spelling Ezekiel Elliott and then returning to the bench. He’s also very experienced and even has a Super Bowl ring from his time with the Broncos.
Most importantly — for this front office anyway — Anderson likely wouldn’t break the bank considering there’s been no bidding war for his services. That means the Boys could get him on a cheap deal, and Anderson would be coming in with a chip on his shoulder and something to prove.
Finding players who fit that mold has been the M.O. of this front office for the past couple of seasons and there’s no reason to stop now.