While Christine Michael has only been in town for a few days, he has been working hard to get caught up on the Dallas Cowboys' offensive playbook. Much of his time has been spent huddled in the running back room trying to cram in as much information as possible. Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan is unsure of how quickly Michael will be able to learn the system, but acknowledges that running backs often catch up quicker than other positions.
The Cowboys are unsure of what Michael’s role will be with the team. Dallas traded a conditional seventh-round draft choice to the Seattle Seahawks for Michael, who joins a committee of running backs including Darren McFadden, Joseph Randle and Lance Dunbar. The group looks to replace the league-leading production of DeMarco Murray who signed with the Philadelphia Eagles in the offseason.
While Michael is unlikely to play Sunday against the New York Giants, the Cowboys hope he can bring a physical, downhill running style that they were lacking with their current group of backs on the roster. Michael was a 2013 second-round pick of the Seattle Seahawks after playing college ball for Texas A&M. He only saw limited action in his first two seasons with the Seahawks. After his departure some members of the Seattle organization were critical of Michael, stating that they were disappointed that they felt they could not get the best out of the running back. Michael became the odd man out with the addition of Fred Jackson last week. Perhaps the fresh start will help.
Michael told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, “Seattle has been good to me, man.” He seems ready to move on to the next challenge. In addition, Michael feels comfortable with the Dallas offense since the schemes are similar with just some different terminology used. He has spent much of his time with his running back coach, former NFL running back Gary Brown.
In a backfield that comes into the season with many questions, Christine Michael is another question in Dallas. His size and running style have many in the organization excited for him to get onto the field. The team is hopeful they will be able to get out of him what the Seattle Seahawks were not.