The Dallas Cowboys have 16 players set to become unrestricted free agents next week. In this series, we determine why a player should or should not return in 2016 and beyond.
Position: Running back
Age: 26
NFL experience: Four years
2015 salary: $1.542 million
2015 statistics: He played in only four games in 2015 after suffering a serious knee injury while returning a kick against the New Orleans Saints. Still, he posted a career high with 21 catches for 215 yards, including a long of 39 yards. He had five carries for 67 yards, including a long of 45 yards against the Saints on the first drive of the game.
Why he will be back: The Cowboys have seen playmaking ability in Dunbar since signing him out of North Texas in 2012. It just took them time to figure out how to use him. Scott Linehan has a feel for getting runners involved in the passing game and Dunbar showed he can be an explosive player before the injury. The Cowboys are not stacked at the running back position as currently constructed. Dunbar should want to come back because these coaches know him best, but more importantly the athletic training staff knows him best. Signing a one-year, prove-it deal makes sense to him and the Cowboys.
Why he will not be back: In addition to tearing his anterior cruciate ligament, Dunbar also suffered a patellar injury that forced a lengthy rehab for Morris Claiborne last year. For all of the potential the Cowboys have seen in Dunbar, he has not been able to stay healthy. He missed seven games in 2013 after suffering a serious knee injury. Being available is an important trait and he is unlikely to start the season ready to play. The Cowboys could look to move on with a similar talent at a cheaper rate.
Chance to return: Moderate to high. Since Jerry and Stephen Jones referenced Dunbar more than once at the combine, it seems as though they will keep him for 2016, most likely on a one-year deal. Considering the extent of the injury, it’s hard to see teams having the same patience the Cowboys would have.
The series:
Robert Turbin provided relief.
Charles Brown filled role but is not needed in 2016.
Hard to see Josh Thomas in plans.
Matt Cassel plan went awry.
Jeremy Mincey could return after all.
Is Morris Claiborne's time over?
Fullback Tyler Clutts a possibility to return.
Rolando McClain seems to like Cowboys fit.
Jack Crawford could get more elsewhere.
Nick Hayden a steady hand up front.