Cowboys Not Opposed to RB in 1st Round of 2023 NFL Draft amid Bijan Robinson Links

The Dallas Cowboys haven't ruled out selecting a running back in the first round of the 2023 NFL draft with Texas star Bijan Robinson projected to be an option for the the team.

Team CEO Stephen Jones told reporters Tuesday he broadly isn't opposed to targeting a running back with the No. 26 overall pick, when Dallas will be on the board this spring.

Dallas' backfield could look a lot different in 2023.

Ezekiel Elliott is no longer playing up to his six-year, $90 million contract, and the team could save $4.9 million by cutting him before June 1. Tony Pollard, meanwhile, is coming off his first Pro Bowl nod but is a free agent recovering from a high ankle sprain and a fractured fibula.

Jones had somewhat cryptic comments regarding both players Tuesday:

Even if they lock down Pollard before then, the Cowboys might use the draft as a way to find a younger, cost-effective replacement for Elliott. Should that be the case, Robinson is by far the best option in the 2023 draft class.

The Longhorns star is the No. 4 overall player on Bleacher Report's big board after running for 3,410 yards and 33 touchdowns in three college seasons. B/R NFL scout Derrik Klassen compared him to a "supercharged Breece Hall":

"Robinson checks just about every box for an elite running back prospect. He should step in right away and be able to carry the workload for a rushing offense, as well as contribute in the passing game. Robinson has the potential to be a multi-time Pro Bowler and one of the better backs in the NFL."

Because of the general value of running backs, there's a chance Robinson will still be available at the Cowboys' current position. He fell to the Buffalo Bills at No. 27 in B/R's most recent mock draft.

By now, most fans are probably ready to see Elliott in a different uniform. They'd be over the moon if Robinson was the guy taking his place.