One of the key issues for the Cowboys heading into Week 3 is the state of their struggling running game. It has been underwhelming, even in their win against the Browns, but especially concerning in their blowout loss to the Saints.
This week’s matchup against the Ravens adds an intriguing twist, as Baltimore’s roster includes a player the Cowboys were frequently linked to in the offseason: future Hall of Famer Derrick Henry.
When it became clear the Cowboys weren’t bringing back Tony Pollard after last season, the expectation was they’d seek a powerful between-the-tackles runner—a role few fill better than Henry.
Having led the NFL in carries four of the last five years, Henry was entering free agency after eight seasons with the Titans and was focused on winning a Super Bowl. With Henry owning a house in Dallas, many believed the Cowboys would make a push for him.
However, when free agency began, the Cowboys remained quiet. Henry signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the Ravens, while Dallas brought back Ezekiel Elliott on a one-year, $2 million contract.
According to the Dallas Morning News’ David Moore, team sources confirmed that the Cowboys had no intention of spending big money on a running back.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones dismissed the notion that the team was seriously pursuing Henry. Speaking on 105.3 The Fan, Jones explained that the Cowboys were linked to many players but said that didn’t mean they were ever a serious option. “There are a lot of good players you’re connected with,” Jones said. “That’s not really connected at all. That’s a name.”
Jones acknowledged Henry’s talent but emphasized the team was content with its decisions. “He’s a heck of a running back, but you won’t find anyone doing better than Alvin Kamara with the Saints,” Jones said. “We’ve got other things to focus on besides regretting whether or not we signed one of those players we’re facing Sunday.”
To be fair, Henry hasn’t started the season strong either. He has rushed for 130 yards on 31 attempts with two touchdowns in two games. Meanwhile, the Cowboys’ ground game has produced just 170 rushing yards, ranking 25th in the NFL, with an average of 3.7 yards per carry (26th overall).
Despite Jones downplaying the connection, Henry himself hinted that he would have liked to play for the Cowboys.
In a podcast appearance, Henry expressed that while winning is his priority, he’s also mindful of the business side of football. “I want to be somewhere that gives me the best shot at a Super Bowl. But I’m not going to just accept anything—it has to make sense,” Henry said.
