The Dallas Cowboys are open to changing more than just their starting quarterback during the bye week.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that a switch is also being considered in the backfield, where Christine Michael will see his share of first-team practice reps ahead of Joseph Randle, with a source informed of the situation saying of Michael: "We're definitely gonna use him more."
Dallas also plans to start rookie La'el Collins at the left guard position in place of Ronald Leary.
After replacing touchdown-averse Brandon Weeden with veteran Matt Cassel under center, the flailing Cowboys are examining their entire attack. "Don't be surprised if Randle starts," but "Michael plays as much" against the Giants in Week 7, Rapoport tweeted.
Michael was acquired in a September trade with the Seahawks, handing Dallas an intriguing young back who failed to break out in Seattle. A "Making the Leap" candidate two summers ago, Michael couldn't supplant Robert Turbin as Marshawn Lynch's backup, but his physical gifts were the stuff of myth in Seattle.
Seahawks general manager John Schneider once labeled Michael as one of the team's "most explosive offensive players," but the front office ultimately chose undrafted rookie Thomas Rawls and 34-year-old Fred Jackson to play behind Lynch.
Michael, though, has a chance to flip the script in Dallas, where the 'Boys are begging for someone to steal the show. With Randle and the frustrating Darren McFadden both running for under 4.0 yards per carry, why not see what Michael can do?
The Around The NFL crew has spied Michael with interest for two-plus years now, wondering when his time will come. With the Cowboys in need of new inspiration on offense, it's time for this enigmatic rumbler to be set free.
