Why concerns about Cowboys RB Tony Pollard's larger workload linger

"And, even for those of us who drove the Pollard bandwagon the last few years, there is legitimate curiosity as to how much of a workload he can handle over 17 weeks," wrote Tim Cowlishaw of The Dallas Morning News.

Although Pollard broke out last season—rushing for a career-high 1,007 yards and nine TDs in 16 contests — he's never averaged more than 15 carries per game in four seasons.

Some may argue splitting carries with Elliott—who the Cowboys released in March— stifled the 26-year-old's potential. Nonetheless, it lightened Pollard's workload. The former Pro Bowler averaged 15.4 carries per game in 15 games last season.

Elliott's departure raises questions about Dallas' backfield depth.

RBs Malik Davis and Rico Dowdle struggled in the preseason opener against Jacksonville. In a 28-23 loss, Davis logged three yards on four carries, while Dowdle recorded 21 yards on six attempts.

Rookie RB Deuce Vaughn, a sixth-round pick, flashed potential against the Jaguars, rushing for 50 yards on eight carries and a TD. But his size (5-foot-5, 176 pounds) could limit his ability to complement Pollard.

The NFL suspended RB Ronald Jones II for two regular-season games after he violated the league's performance-enhancing drug policy. Also, he recently suffered a groin injury in practice.

The murky RB2 situation could create a concern after Pollard underwent surgery on an ankle injury he suffered in a postseason loss to San Francisco this offseason. He still needs time to regain speed.

"Right now, I'm feeling pretty good, feeling pretty healthy," Pollard recently said of his ankle, via ESPN's Todd Archer. "Just being smart with the trainer, not trying to push it too much. Just trying to ease back into things and go from there."

Dallas should consider signing another veteran back, such as Super Bowl champion Leonard Fournette, to fortify the RB room. Plus, The Cowboys want one of their best players to stay healthy throughout the season.