3 running backs the Cowboys could target to replace Ezekiel Elliott

2. Damien Harris, New England Patriots

If the Dallas Cowboys are looking for a physical runner who can get downhill in a hurry to replace Ezekiel Elliott, they could certainly do worse than adding former New England Patriots running back Damien Harris.

Harris was a third-round pick out of Alabama back in the 2019 NFL Draft. At the time, a lot of people really fell in love with his three-down capabilities, and specifically, his ability to pass protect stood out on tape as a member of the Crimson Tide. But when you watch the 2021 season Harris had, it’s hard not to fall in love with some of the things he can do as a runner on a consistent basis in terms of creating yards after contact.

In 2021, Harris had a breakout campaign with a whopping 15 touchdowns, over 1,000 yards from scrimmage, and a career-best 18 receptions. His production in 2022 fell off a cliff when the Patriots really gave way to Rhamondre Stevenson as the RB1 in their offense. Harris was being phased out.

He had just 123 touches in 11 games, down by nearly 100 touches compared to the year prior. I think Harris, at this stage of free agency, really presents a tremendous value to a team like the Cowboys. He has been effective in a tandem backfield, he’s a good contrast to the skills of Tony Pollard, and he could really help a team like Dallas finish out games.