Cowboys draft Memphis RB Pollard as possible Elliott backup

FRISCO, Texas (AP) — The Dallas Cowboys have drafted running back Tony Pollard of Memphis as a potential backup for two-time NFL rushing champion Ezekiel Elliott.

The Cowboys took Pollard with the 128th overall pick in the fourth round Saturday. Dallas considered the spot behind Elliott an offseason priority after not bringing back seldom-used Rod Smith.

Pollard also has potential as a return man after tying the FBS career record with seven kickoff returns for touchdowns.

Although owner and general manager Jerry Jones has said a multipurpose back wasn’t a requirement for Elliott’s backup, Pollard fits that bill as well. He had 552 yards rushing with six touchdowns and 458 yards receiving with three more scores as a junior at Memphis.

All three of Dallas’ picks skipped their senior seasons to enter the draft. Central Florida defensive tackle Trysten Hill was the club’s top pick at 58th overall in the second round. Offensive lineman Connor McGovern of Penn State went 90th overall in the third round.