I'm completely shocked the Cowboys didn't draft at least one running back. I feel that this is desperately needed to prevent it from becoming a one-sided crime. And I don't think Ezekiel Elliott is the No. 1 back. Does the organization no longer value the running back position? – Jamie Cione/Montgomery, New York
Nick Eatman: I think that's pretty strong. I can't say it's not appreciated. The Cowboys had intentions to draft a back as early as the second round. But each time they came to that choice, they felt there was a better option. If you're saying they don't value it the same way, I think that's fair. But what I do know is that they were in talks to recover almost every round. So I don't think it's undervalued, I think they believe this year's options made the least sense. But there's probably also a mindset that puts a little more emphasis on backing up the offensive line and fixing the blocking scheme. If he can do that, it would be a big step in fixing the running game as a whole. Something tells me they've already finished addressing this position, even after Zeke officially signs.
cart: The Cowboys still value the running back position…to some extent. Sure, they want a balanced offense, but in today's NFL it doesn't necessarily make sense to spend a lot of money or a top draft pick on that position. Unless it can be produced for less. They were definitely interested in drafting a running back, but simply found great value on their board in other areas. They clearly focused on their offensive line, with two of their top three and three of their eight overall selections being big blockers. As a result, a stronger line should result in better production no matter who runs the ball. As you said, Elliott probably isn't the answer in terms of being the No. 1 back, but I hope he can be a contributor to the rushing attack. The days of one running back carrying the load are largely over as teams embrace a committee approach. Consider that last season, Derek Henry led the NFL with 280 carries, the lowest number to lead the league since 1964 (Jim Brown, 280). The last time he reached 300 rushing attempts in a season was in 1990 (Ernest Byner, 297). There's no question that having a healthy ground game is important to this team's success, but the traditional formula continues to change. Both for the Cowboys and the entire NFL.
