The Cowboys signed former Bears RB Anthony A-train Thomas to a one year deal Monday afternoon.
The signing gives Dallas even more depth at the running back position, but raises more questions that it answers. The Cowboys are only eight days from selecting University of Minnesota running back Marion Barber III in the fourth round of the draft. The Cowboys were looking for an elusive runner to spell Julius Jones and Thomas does not fit that description. He is more of a stand-up, straight-ahead runner. Parcells had also mentioned the importance of drafting Barber in his Friday press conference.
The signing was likely prompted by the release of all-purpose back Richie Anderson. Even with Barber's selection, Dallas had only four RBs on its roster. Barber's versatility -- he spent some time as a lead blocker in Minnesota's two RB sets and is a good receiver -- will likely move him into Anderson's old role. Thomas will fight with Rashard Lee, Erik Bickerstaff and Tyson Thompson for the third RB position.