Every NFL fan knows that the Dallas Cowboys are heading into an interesting situation when free agency begins next month. Both DeMarco Murray and Dez Bryant are set to hit the open market, which is not an ideal scenario for team owner and general manager Jerry Jones. Obviously, it would be his preference to keep both star offensive weapons in Big D for the foreseeable future. However, that may not be the most realistic option. Dallas doesn't have a whole lot of salary cap room to work with and neither player will come cheaply.
So, if Murray is the one sacrificed to the salary cap gods, what will the Cowboys do to replace him?
"I like going the draft pick route because I want the younger option," Jon Machota of DallasNews.com wrote. "That's not to say the Cowboys will do the same. As far as [Mark] Ingram, I like his physical style and think it fits what the Cowboys have been building. If they can't bring back Murray, I believe Ingram is the next best option in free agency."
Ingram is just one of several talented running backs that could become available this offseason. He's coming off what was undoubtedly the most productive season of his career. Through his first three seasons, Ingram struggled with injuries and never quite fit into New Orleans' pass-happy offense. But with an increased emphasis on running the ball, Ingram set a career high in carries (226), rushing yards (964) and rushing touchdowns (9) in 13 games last season.
Could the former Alabama star fit in with the Cowboys? Running behind an offensive line that features three first-round picks would certainly help Ingram with the transition. Of course, Dallas would still need a reliable No. 2 running back given Ingram's injury history. Considering backup Joseph Randle's recent legal troubles, it's fair to say that that guy may not be on Dallas' roster yet.
Dallas has plenty to think about in advance of free agency, which opens March 10.
