The biggest running back name out on the free agent market this year is undoubtedly former Bears back Matt Forte, who's one of the best all-purpose running backs in recent memory.
But if you ask me, Forte isn't even a top-3 option for the Cowboys to bring in alongside Darren McFadden with the thought McFadden will be gone after 2016 and they'll be turning the reins over to whoever they bring in as the featured back all by his lonesome.
So, let's take a look at who the top three targets should be for the Cowboys, whether it's via trade or free agency, and rank 'em.
1. Lamar Miller (24 years old) — The Dolphins running back is free to go, and it seems unlikely he'll be brought back by Miami. The Dolphins have a young back they're high on in Frisco native Jay Ajayi, and Miller is about to get more expensive. Here's the thing: He's fresh, still young and when given opportunities, he's been very good for the Dolphins. He doesn't have the best career numbers of these guys, but he's easily the freshest with the lightest workload.
2. Doug Martin (27 years old) — Martin is a high priority for the Bucs to bring back, but it's going to take some cash after the fantastic season he had in 2015. He ran for 1,402 yards, trailing only Adrian Peterson for the league rushing crown, and he's in his prime right now. Can you just imagine what he'd do behind the Cowboys' line?
3. Chris Ivory (27 years old) — The Longview native has long been a timeshare back but last year for the Jets was finally given a lead role and did a lot with his chance. Ivory rushed for 1,070 yards and seven touchdowns in an age now when suddenly a 1,000-yard season means great success for a running back again.
There you go, there's the order the Cowboys should prioritize their offseason shopping list at running back. Then after McFadden leaves following the 2016 season, any of those three guys could be handed the keys to the Cowboys' running game and do a bang-up job.
