The person who writes the checks has a different perspective at a time when many feel that Tony Pollard is becoming more popular than Ezekiel Elliot as a Cowboys running back.
In an interview with NFL Network, owner Jerry Jones said the team's running back strategy must emphasize Elliott. According to Jones, he has to be the focus of attention. Pollard can still fit in while Zeke is inside.
Pollard will likely line up in the slot and play some receiving. But last year, Pollard was generally thought of as the superior option for the running game.
Perhaps Elliott was struggling with a knee issue at the time.
Regardless, if the compensation hadn't been fully guaranteed in 2021, the Cowboys would not be paying Elliott $12.4 million this season. And until he has a year on par with his rookie season, there is no chance they will give him $10 million the following year.
On the other hand, Pollard might not be too excited about the strategy, given that the team's owner put it out. At under $969,000 in total compensation, Pollard enters the last year of his rookie deal. He will be more in demand on the free market in 2022 the more he accomplishes.
A cynic would question Jones' desire to downplay Pollard is motivated only by that thought. Zeke can be worked over this season, released after it, and Pollard can be signed for less than he would be paid if he had a strong season in his contract year.
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