Cowboys reportedly have made decision on Tony Pollard

Jul 27, 2022; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard (20) during training camp at the River Ridge Fields. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Tony Pollard is a free agent, and the Dallas Cowboys reportedly have made a decision about his future.

The Cowboys are prepared to use the franchise tag on Pollard if the two sides cannot reach a long-term deal by Tuesday, according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport.

The #Cowboys will franchise tag RB Tony Pollard if the two sides cannot work out a long-term deal by the Tuesday deadline, sources say. Dallas has been clear the tag is an option, and they aren't in the business of letting great players walk. Pollard will be there in 2023.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 4, 2023

Pollard is recovering from a fractured fibula and high ankle sprain that he suffered in the Cowboys’ Divisional Round playoff loss to the 49ers. He is expected to be ready for training camp, so Dallas obviously does not have too many concerns about his health.

Pollard would receive around $10 million if he is tagged. That would more than triple his career earnings, which came out to $3.18 million over his first four seasons.

A fourth-round pick in 2019, Pollard became the Cowboys’ go-to back last season. He had 1,007 rushing yards and 9 rushing touchdowns, as well as 371 receiving yards and three receiving touchdowns.

Whether it’s via a contract extension or franchise tag, Dallas has decided that they won’t let Pollard go.