Dallas Cowboys RB Leaves Practice Due to Injury

Veteran running back Royce Freeman was knocked from practice due to a groin injury, according to multiple reporters.

While the Cowboys were largely spectators during free agency, Freeman agreed to terms on a one-year deal worth $1.3 million, and was expected to be a change-of-pace option alongside Ezekiel Elliott in a backfield that also includes Rico Dowdle and Deuce Vaughn.

Freeman, 28, arrives in Dallas on the heels of rushing for 319 yards and two touchdowns last season for the Los Angeles Rams.

Through his first seven seasons, Freeman has rushed for 1,792 yards and 10 touchdowns.

It remains to be seen how severe Freeman’s injury is and whether he could miss significant time, but the Cowboys are in a bit of a precarious position at running back.

Dallas Cowboys’ Best Trade Target to Upgrade at Running Back

The Cowboys are taking a bit of a gamble that Elliott is still capable of shouldering the majority of the offense’s workload.

Likewise, if Freeman is forced to miss significant time, with Vaughn already sidelined, Dallas could look to trade for a veteran back to add some explosiveness — and durability to the backfield.

Chicago Bears running back Khalil Herbert could be an ideal scheme fit.

Herbert’s quickness and explosiveness would significantly bolster the Cowboys’ backfield, serving as an ideal complement to Elliott’s power. Though Herbert’s pass-blocking might be subpar, he could excel in a rotational role, where his ability to make plays as a receiver out of the backfield would be highlighted.

The Bears may not be shopping Herbert, but, after signing D’Andre Swift in free agency may prefer to add an asset in exchange for the 26-year-old who rushed for 611 yards and two touchdowns in 12 games last season.