Evaluating the needs of the Dallas Cowboys entering the NFL Draft -- two days away -- running back sticks out as a seemingly obvious desire for a team that lost its load-carrier, DeMarco Murray.
However, owner Jerry Jones said Tuesday it's not a necessity that the Cowboys come away with a running back.
"It's not urgent. It's not urgent in the draft," he said. "We don't have that as a must to come out of here with a running back."
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Dallas could draft a running back in the third or fourth round.
The Cowboys currently have Darren McFadden, Lance Dunbar, Joseph Randle and Ryan Williams as their running back depth chart. It's a group that lacks a workhorse, given that McFadden has averaged less that 3.5 yards per carry in each of his past three seasons.
Despite that outside assessment, Jones believes the Cowboys would be fine entering the season with their current corps.
"Yes, if we had to," he said. "Yes. Again, is running back an area of interest position-wise? Certainly. Certainly it is. But my opinion is we could play with the running backs we've got right now and play well."
At this stage in the draft process there is a chance that Jones is tossing up a massive smokescreen by utilizing the "we'll take the best player available" mantra. It will be interesting to see the Cowboys' decision if either Todd Gurley or Melvin Gordon are available when the Cowboys pick at No. 27.
One statement Jones made that is undoubtedly true is about the most important area he wants to upgrade in the draft.
"I'd say we do need to help the defense, as a must. By hook or crook," he said.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast previews the 2015 NFL Draft and breaks down the biggest rumors and storylines. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
