Shocking Comp Shows Cowboys Could Select Their Next Marion Barber in NFL Draft
The Dallas Cowboys have a storied history of hard-nosed running backs, and one prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft is drawing shocking comparisons to fan favorite Marion Barber III. As the team looks to bolster its backfield, a powerful, relentless runner has emerged as a potential mid-round target who could bring back the same physical, no-nonsense style that made Barber a Cowboys legend.
The Prospect: Braelon Allen, Wisconsin
Standing at 6’2”, 245 lbs, Wisconsin’s Braelon Allen is a bruising back with surprising burst, drawing direct stylistic comparisons to Barber. Like the former Cowboys standout, Allen thrives on contact, routinely breaking tackles and wearing down defenses in the second half. His aggressive running style, combined with underrated receiving ability, makes him an intriguing Day 2 or early Day 3 option for Dallas.
Why the Marion Barber Comparison Fits
– Violent Running Style – Barber was known for his punishing runs, often fighting for extra yards. Allen plays with the same level of physicality, frequently dragging defenders.
– Short-Yardage Dominance – Barber was automatic in goal-line situations, and Allen (18 TDs in 2022) has shown similar red-zone prowess.
– Relentless Motor – Neither Barber nor Allen goes down easily, making them exhausting for defenses to tackle in the fourth quarter.
Why the Cowboys Should Consider Him
With Tony Pollard now in Tennessee and Ezekiel Elliott no longer the bell cow, Dallas needs a complementary back to pair with Rico Dowdle and Deuce Vaughn. Allen’s downhill, physical approach would give the Cowboys a much-needed identity in the run game—something they’ve lacked since Barber’s prime.
The Bottom Line
If the Cowboys want to revive the hard-hitting ground attack that defined their mid-2000s teams, Braelon Allen could be their guy. While he may not be a flashy first-round pick, his Marion Barber-esque traits make him a perfect fit for Dallas’ culture—and a potential fan favorite in no time.
