The Dallas Cowboys wasted little time signing a running back after DeMarco Murray signed with the Philadelphia Eagles yesterday. The Cowboys announced on Friday that they have signed free-agent running back Darren McFadden. The two-year deal is with worth up to $5.85 million with $200,000 in bonus incentives, per Todd Archer of ESPN.
McFadden was drafted by the Oakland Raiders fourth overall in the 2008 NFL Draft. McFadden had 4,247 yards and 25 rushing touchdowns in his seven-year run with the Raiders. Over the past three seasons, McFadden has averaged 3.34 yards per carry. His best season was in 2010 when he compiled 1,157 yards rushing (5.2 ypc) and seven touchdowns, but since then, he has been hampered by lingering injury issues. However, McFadden did play in all 16 games last season.
In 2014, the Cowboys were second overall in rushing yards per game (147.1). Their offensive line is considered by most to be the best in the league, led by Zack Martin and Tyron Smith. It appears that McFadden will have an opportunity to go into an offseason healthy with a great offensive line, something that he never had the benefit of having in Oakland.
Most people around the league believe that this move will not deter Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones from pursuing running back Adrian Peterson, who has long been on Jones' radar.
Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones and McFadden both attended the University of Arkansas.