The initial roster moves of the offseason for the Dallas Cowboys involve bolstering their running back depth. In addition to securing eight players on Reserve/Future deals, the team has unveiled three more signings. Among them are running backs Snoop Conner and Malik Davis, along with wide receiver Martavis Bryant.
Martavis Bryant had a brief stint on the team’s practice squad earlier in the season, which concluded before the NFL playoffs when the squad spot was allocated to another player. Malik Davis has spent the past two seasons with Dallas, primarily on the practice squad.
A notable newcomer is Snoop Conner, who wasn’t previously part of the Dallas roster. Conner most recently played eight games for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022, registering 12 carries for 42 yards.
Earlier, the Cowboys confirmed the Reserve contract signings of the following players: receiver Jalen Moreno-Cropper, wideout Racey McMath, tackle Earl Bostick, cornerback Josh Butler, tight end Princeton Fant, linebacker Buddy Johnson, pass rusher Durrell Johnson, and defensive back Sheldrick Redwine.
New Dallas Cowboys Running Back Snoop Conner Posted 13 Touchdowns at Ole Miss in 2021
The latest addition to the running back roster comes with an impressive collegiate track record, having excelled at Ole Miss. In 2021, Conner showcased his skills with 130 carries, accumulating 647 yards, and scoring 13 touchdowns.
Leading up to the 2022 NFL draft, Lance Zierlein of NFL.com characterized Conner as an “aggressive” and “rocked up” player. Jacksonville opted for Conner in the fifth round of the draft.
Describing Conner in his pre-draft analysis, Zierlein emphasized his robust running style and assertive approach. Despite his aggressive demeanor, Conner has relatively low mileage on his playing career. Zierlein highlighted Conner’s versatility within different offensive schemes, noting that it could be an asset in his transition to the professional level. Conner’s willingness to embrace a physical style of play is evident on every snap, yet he maintains a keen vision to navigate through less congested pathways.
SNOOOOOP! Snoop Conner with his first NFL TD! š„ pic.twitter.com/PRfmt1TvGt
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Zierlein pointed out that Conner’s high-tempo style might lead to some self-imposed tackles, but paradoxically, he is a patient and highly effective short-yardage back. Despite a less-than-stellar performance at the NFL Scouting Combine, Conner possesses three-down talent and is seen as a promising committee back. Moreover, his robust frame suggests an ability to handle a significant workload if required.
Cowboys Rumors: Dallas May Let Tony Pollard & Draft a New Starting Running Back
What do Reserves/Future deals entail? They serve as a method for NFL teams to secure the rights of young players in anticipation of the upcoming season. These agreements prevent players from engaging in negotiations with other teams, in contrast to in-season practice squad deals, where individuals can be recruited by other teams.
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Conner and Davis are unlikely candidates for the Cowboys’ RB1 role in 2024. While they contribute depth to a position that lacked luster last season, the primary uncertainty this offseason revolves around the future of Tony Pollard. Facing impending free agency, the former Pro Bowler may prompt Dallas to address the running back position in the draft, offering a potentially more cost-effective solution.
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ESPN’s Adam Schatz anticipates this scenario, suggesting that the Cowboys will allow Pollard to depart in free agency and then trade up to secure a new starting running back, possibly TreVeyon Henderson (Ohio State) or Blake Corum (Michigan). In his January 14, 2024 story titled “2024 NFL offseason: Key free agents, draft notes, predictions,” Schatz states, “There aren’t really any running backs projected to go in this year’s first two rounds, but the Cowboys will want to move up to make sure they get the guy they want.”