IRVING, Texas – As reported nationally early Thursday morning, the Cowboys worked out veteran running back Ben Tate as they look for depth on their 90-man offseason roster.
Former Cowboys running back Felix Jones was also among a group of eight free agents going through a workout Thursday, though the team hasn't officially confirmed any names.
Such workouts are common this time of year as teams look to create competition for training camp over the next couple of months, though it doesn't mean a signing is imminent.
The Cowboys surprisingly didn't draft a running back following DeMarco Murray's free agent departure to the Eagles, but team officials have repeatedly stated they'll keep their eyes open for free agent talent to join the current running back group that includes Darren McFadden, Joseph Randle, Lance Dunbar and Ryan Williams.
Tate, a second-round pick by the Texans in 2010, had three productive seasons as the complement to Arian Foster, including seven starts in 2013. He signed a free agent deal with the Browns before the 2014 season, but he was released midseason and wound up playing three games for the Vikings and filling in for injured Steelers starter Le'Veon Bell in the playoffs.
Jones, one of two first-round picks by Dallas in 2009, has been out of the NFL since appearing in 16 games (two starts) with the Steelers in 2013. He played in 64 games for the Cowboys from 2009-2012, rushing for 2,728 yards (4.8 average) with 11 touchdowns while also returning kicks part time. He participated in the league's first veteran combine in March.
Thursday's workouts also included running backs Daniel Thomas and Ronnie Wingo.
Wide receiver is also a potential area of focus for the Cowboys after they lost Dwayne Harris to the Giants in free agency. The Cowboys signed five rookie free agents after the draft but will continue to look for depth there, too. Thursday's workouts included receivers A.J. Jenkins, B.J. Cunningham, Tommy Streeter, and Kris Durham, who played under offensive coordinator Scott Linehan in Detroit.
