IRVING, Texas – It's not exactly a new storyline, but the Cowboys are consistent with a reminder that they haven't necessarily closed the book on the running back position.
It might be the most-discussed topic in an offseason full of them. The Cowboys lost NFL-leading rusher DeMarco Murray to free agency in March, and they're in the process of evaluating a replacement between Joseph Randle, Darren McFadden, Lance Dunbar and Ryan Williams.
"Obviously the running back situation is something we want to keep our eyes on, but we're comfortable," said Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones on Wednesday.
It's not the first time Jones has alluded to a potential addition at the position. On several occasions he has mentioned that the New England Patriots didn't add LeGarrette Blount to their Super Bowl run until Week 12 of last season.
Just how comfortable the Cowboys are may depend on how these offseason practices go. They signed McFadden to a small deal during free agency, but they famously opted not to address the position in the NFL draft. There's still plenty of time to make additions, but Jones said he was encouraged by watching his current group at OTAs.
"I think, out there watching some of the guys, I think they look good. I think they can get the job done," he said.
Given Murray's combined total of 2,486 yards in 18 games last year, the speculation is bound to continue about how to best replace that production. It's a virtual certainty to continue after comments like Randle's from last week, when he said Murray had left some yards on the field.
"Joe is doing a good job. Joe is working hard. He has worked very hard in the offseason program," said Cowboys coach Jason Garrett on Wednesday. "He has worked hard in practice. He practices the right way. The biggest thing is he needs to focus on doing and not talking."
The talking isn't going to stop outside the Dallas locker room, though Randle was sure not to say anything so quote-worthy when asked for a follow-up. But it certainly seems to be up to the current ball carriers to make sure the Cowboys stay comfortable with what they have.
"Just keep grinding – just keep doing more of the same," Randle said. "We've got a great group. We're all working hard trying to be the best we can be."
