Most NFL pundits have assumed that Dallas Cowboys running back and the leading rusher in the league last season, DeMarco Murray, is headed elsewhere once the NFL's free agency period opens in March.
That may not be the case, though, according to a report from ESPN today.
"NFL rushing champion DeMarco Murray would likely return to the Dallas Cowboys if the team's offer is equal or financially similar to those he receives from other teams as an unrestricted free agent, league sources told ESPN NFL Insider Ed Werder on Tuesday."
Murray, per ESPN's report, is expecting a "vigorous" free agent market. He made just $1.4 million last season - the 23rd-highest figure in the league amongst running backs - and is looking for a major contract upgrade.
While it's not what most people would technically consider a "discount," it is considering the fact that if the money from another team is the same or only slightly above, Murray will choose to stay with Dallas.
If another team blows the doors off the offer from the Cowboys, Murray is, understandably, gone.
Cowboys vice president Stephen Jones said recently that Murray would test the market and see what was to be had out there.
"[Murray] is probably going to, you know, get some peace and see what's out in the market and then we'll talk and see. I do believe deep down he'd love to stay in Dallas," Jones said, per Fox Sports.
The 27-year-old running back finished the year with 1,845 yards rushing on 392 carries, both of which led the league. He also set career-highs in receptions (57) and receiving yards (416).
