Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports reports that the Cowboys are expected to make one more run at signing DeMarco Murray to a long-term deal before the start of free agency.
Garafolo also addresses Adrian Peterson‘s interest in playing for the Cowboys by mentioning that the Dallas would like to use the option of possibly adding Peterson to gain some leverage in contract talks with Murray.
The problem with this idea is that Peterson is currently suspended and may not be reinstated until weeks into free agency, which means the Cowboys would likely need to move quicker than that to retain Murray.
Dallas has said that they would like bring Murray back next year, but they’ve also been realistic about their situation seeing as Dez Bryant is likely headed for the franchise tag.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Media previously reported that the Cowboys have had a four-year contract worth more than $16 million on the table for Murray, but he should be able to do much better than this on the open market.
Murray, 26, was extremely impressive this season. He ran for 1,845 yards on 393 carries (4.7 YPC) and scored 13 touchdowns, over the course of 16 games and added another 57 receptions for 416 yards receiving.
Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 5 running back in the league out of 57 qualifying players.
We have Murray listed as the No. 10 player in our Top 100 Free Agents list.
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