Tony Pollard can be a star in 2022

By: Jake Rajala

I firmly believe the Dallas Cowboys have a terrific floor in 2022, but they can really be Super Bowl contenders if they have x-factors ascend into quality contributors next season. With that said, I’m going to simply outline a few breakout candidates for the Boys in the 2022-2023 season.

Tony Pollard

The 25-year-old Tony Pollard has been climbing the ladder over the past two seasons. He unveiled 719 rushing yards and 5.5 YPC in 15 games in 2021. I expect him to garner a bigger workload next season and transition from an efficient RB into a productive 1,000+ yard ball-carrier.

Zeke Elliot may have some gas left in the tank, but I believe Pollard will outmuscle him as the season is in progress. It would make sense for the Cowboys to test/lean on the legs of Pollard down the stretch, as he is likely the future RB in Dallas.

Dalton Schultz

Dalton Schultz had a fine 2021 season (808 yards, 8 touchdowns), but he is seeking bigger numbers in the Cowboys offense. Amari Cooper is out of the building and the mismatch nightmare Schultz could really be in line for more targets. The former Stanford pass catcher will also lay everything out on the line for a new, hefty contract in 2023 (if he doesn’t sign an extension this summer).

Dante Fowler Jr.

I expect Dante Fowler Jr. to be the biggest surprise player on the Boys defense. He will be desperately striving to prove himself in a contract season and he will have better opportunities to be successful in a Cowboys uniform than in a Falcons uni. Outside of playing on a DL featuring Demarcus Lawrence, the reigning NFC East champions will be forcing opponents to keep pace with Dak in the passing game.