New York Jets running back Chris Johnson (21). Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
Running back Chris Johnson is interested in joining the Dallas Cowboys, but the free agent might be kept waiting while coach Jason Garrett evaluates his current roster.
Johnson could find his way onto a depth chart that includes Darren McFadden, Joseph Randle and Ryan Williams before the start of the regular season. The Cowboys first want to review their in-house options to replace NFL Offensive Player of the Year DeMarco Murray, who joined the Philadelphia Eagles in free agency.
McFadden is the presumed starter in 2015 but has only played 16 games in a regular season once (2014) and was sidelined most of the offseason with a balky hamstring.
In May, the Cowboys said they were considering Johnson. Executive vice president Stephen Jones said at that time Johnson was “on the short list” of veteran backs they would consider. However, Jones said the position is not a priority.
That could change if injuries or ineffectiveness pushes Garrett and his coaching staff to look in another direction.
