Running back Phillip Tanner’s days in Dallas are likely numbered.
According to reports, the Cowboys will not make a tender offer to Tanner, who was the No. 4 back on the depth chart a year ago--though he also played a key role on special teams--behind DeMarco Murray, Lance Dunbar and Joseph Randle. In such a crowded backfield, Tanner’s chances were predictably quite limited and he finished 2013 with just 12 yards and a touchdown on nine carries.
Without no tender offer, Tanner--the Cowboys only restricted free agent this offseason--will become an unrestricted free agent.
A Dallas Kimball and Middle Tennessee State product, Tanner joined the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2011 and his rookie season would be his most productive in his first three years. That year, he went for 76 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries.
There is still a chance that Tanner could return to the Cowboys at the veteran minimum for a fourth-year player.
Stay on top of the latest Dallas Cowboys news with NBCDFW.com. Follow NBC DFW on Facebook or have breaking Cowboys news sent directly to your phone with Blue Star SMS alerts. Text "bluestar" to 622339 (NBCDFW) to subscribe, text HELP for more info, and text STOP to end the subscription. Message and data rates may apply.Read more about it here.
