As the Dallas Cowboys running back competition continues to turn, the competition is about to get hotter. Joseph Randle, who missed the preseason opener with an oblique injury should return to practice soon, which will be needed after Gus Johnson separated his shoulder against the San Diego Chargers. Now Jerry Jones' personal favorite has returned to the mix, with the Cowboys activating Darren McFadden off the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
The former Arkansas Razorback and Oakland Raiders running back is hoping for a fresh start in Dallas, behind one of the best run-blocking lines we've seen in the past five years. After seeing DeMarco Murray's breakout 1,845-yard season last year, McFadden saw the perfect opportunity to revitalize his career.
Dallas has an opening at running back as they seek a workhorse to replace Murray. While Randle is the favorite, there is an opening with three preseason games left to go for McFadden to prove himself. Randle is more of a home run hitter, he won't give you singles or sacrifice flys, he is an all or nothing back. McFadden used to do it all, but no one has seen it since 2010. Hamstring, ankle and knee injuries have crippled some of the explosiveness he used to have.
McFadden played in all 16 games last season for the Raiders, but his 3.4 yards per carry last season speaks to how poorly he ran the ball. Some will blame it on the Raiders' system or the offensive line but averaging 3.3 yards per carry speaks to a back thatgoalline doesn't have the same explosiveness he used to. Another hamstring injury kept him out of training camp for 11 practices, now he returns to the field. If he doesn't suffer a setback, then the door is open for McFadden to be the singles and sacrifice fly guy of the Cowboys' running back. Picking up the tough yards and working near the goal line. Of course, McFadden has to stay healthy and show his legs still have some run left in them.
Fantasy Spin:
McFadden currently has a Top-100 ADP, coming in at 98th overall. It seems awfully high, especially when you see Alfred Blue, Ryan Mathews and receiver John Brown going after him. Dallas has a phenomenal offensive line, but McFadden carries immense injury risk and he hasn't showed the ability to be a reliable, efficient running back in years. Spending a Top-100 pick on him, even with his activation off the PUP list, just seems to be putting far too much weight on risk with lesser value and reward than it's worth.