DeMarco

Murray

Meanwhile, ESPN’s Ed Werder reports the Raiders are “still pursuing” Murray. Murray doesn’t sound like he’s close to picking a new team, as he’s mulling over “multiple offers.” He’s said to be seeking $8 million per year. The Raiders would seem to be Murray’s best chance at getting that kind of coin.

Oakland, Dallas, Philadelphia and Jacksonville are believed to be the four teams in the running. Yahoo’s Charles Robinson reported Wednesday afternoon that Murray’s “top choice” was to play for the Eagles. Reports have suggested the Cowboys have offered $5 million annually. Re-upping with the Cowboys makes by far the most sense from a football standpoint, but Murray has appeared quite peeved at Dallas’ handling of his free agency.

PFT reports the Jaguars are also interested. The Raiders are desperate to reach the salary floor, and Murray is desperate to get paid, so perhaps we have a match. Oakland represents Murray’s best shot at getting his annual $8 million. Considering California taxes and how noncompetitive the Raiders are, however, their money would likely have to vastly outstrip anyone else’s.

Helu is a role player. Murray is a feature back, one whose acquisition by the Raiders would throw a devastating wrench into the 2015 fantasy outlook of Latavius Murray. It’s also possible the DeMarco interest is agent-driven, intended to drive up his price tag in talks with the Cowboys and Jaguars. (Or at least, that’s what Dynasty owners of Latavius should be hoping.)

Murray gave the Eagles a discount so he could play in Chip Kelly’s scheme, stick it to the Cowboys twice a year and avoid the annual train wreck that is the Raiders. He probably did Oakland GM Reggie McKenzie a favor. The Raiders should be building through youth, with exciting running back Latavius Murray a major part of that.

Tashard Choice and DeMarco Murray are both expected to see time behind Jones, perhaps in a “hot hand” situation. “Murray got here as a good blocker,” said Jones. “Now, he doesn’t have the experience that Choice has got. But I like our combination. Felix is a better blocker than he’s ever been in his career. ... Choice is used to not getting snaps and living to tell about it, handles it well.”

The fact that Jones was able to finish out yesterday’s game -- albeit on a limited basis -- obviously bodes extremely well. The concern, however, is that the Cowboys will take it easy on Jones next week and use a committee that includes plenty of Tashard Choice and DeMarco Murray. Jones’ injury history combined with his extremely slow start are yellow flags for the coaching staff.

Murray flashed some impressive agility and ability to make something out of nothing. Dallas’ running back depth is deep, and Murray is currently third in line, but don’t be surprised if the Cowboys try to find ways to get their rookie on the field. He isn’t a fantasy option just yet, but the upside is there for 2012.

A shoulder separation certainly sounds bad, but Jones was able to play through it sparingly Sunday. He finished with 10 touches. The Cowboys’ medical staff wrapped up the shoulder and allowed Jones to reenter. When Jones was out, Tashard Choice and DeMarco Murray played equally, with each getting seven touches. Were Jones to miss Week 3 against Washington, a committee backfield would ensue. We’ll definitely have more updates by tomorrow.

Jones, never known as a quick healer, is expected to miss 2-4 weeks. Although Tashard Choice now won’t be traded, Murray solidified himself as Jones’ primary backup on early downs over the last few weeks. The rookie figures to lead this committee, making at least 15 touches likely. Although Murray hasn’t shown much on a per-touch basis, he gets two plus matchups against the Rams and Eagles right out of the gate.