Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard was one of three running backs to receive the franchise tag this off-season.
After a strong 2022 season where he became the Cowboys' primary running back, Pollard is set to become a free agent this off-season. The two sides couldn't agree to a long-term deal that forced the Cowboys to use the franchise tag on him. New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley and Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs also received the tag.
On Thursday morning, Pollard became the first running back to sign his franchise tender, per Todd Archer.
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He is set to make $10.09 million on the tag this season, which is fully-guaranteed. Through four seasons, Pollard has made $3.96 million and after this season he will have $14 million in career earnings. The two sides will have until July 17 to agree to a long-term deal before the window closes.
Tony Pollard's stats in 2022
Tony Pollard had a standout season last year as he entered the final year of his rookie contract. He set career highs in nearly every single running and receiving category.
He rushed the ball 193 times for 1,007 yards and nine touchdowns. He also caught 39 passes for 371 yards and three touchdowns.
Pollard was also named to his first Pro Bowl of his career last season.
Tony Pollard Madden rating over the years
As a rookie, Tony Pollard began his Madden career with a low rating of 68 in Madden 20.
Pollard's Madden 21 rating was a 75 heading into the season. His rating went up two overall as he entered Madden 22 with a 77 overall.
Heading into this last Madden, Pollard's was an 81 to start the season but is currnetly an 87.
Will Tony Pollard be the top-10 highest-rated running back in Madden 24?
Why did Cowboys choose to cut Ezekiel Elliott? Tony Pollard's stellar 2022 in spotlight
After Pollard’s career season in 2022, the Cowboys have officially moved on from Ezekiel Elliot.
Elliot was the Cowboys’ first-round pick in the 2016 Draft and was selected fourth-overall. The team had a lot of confidence in Zeke’s potential drafting him that high. This past season, Elliot set career-lows in rushing yards (876) and yards per carry (3.8) while Pollard set career-highs while splitting the backfield.
Elliot is currently a free agent after the Cowboys released him shortly after the new league year began.
Who do you think Elliot will sign with in 2023?
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