The NFL trade deadline has passed, but questions about Tony Pollard’s future in Tennessee remain. The veteran running back is finishing the three-year contract he signed in 2024 and is expected to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2026 season.
Pollard was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. After establishing himself in Dallas, he joined the Titans and became a central part of their running game. In the 2025 season, he recorded 242 carries for 1,082 yards and five touchdowns.
Tennessee did not trade Pollard, and the organization has indicated it would like him to stay. General manager Borgonzi said the running back had represented the team well and that the Titans would welcome his return after the season.
Still, a new contract is not guaranteed. Pollard will turn 30 next year, and Tennessee has struggled during the 2026 campaign, entering the season’s later stretch with a 1–7 record. The team may need to consider its longer-term direction, while Pollard could draw interest from clubs looking to strengthen their backfields.
His age may affect the length and value of his next contract. A two-year deal could give a team a chance to add an experienced runner without making a lengthy commitment. One possible estimate is a contract worth around $10 million over two seasons, though Pollard could also consider a one-year agreement if it offers a better opportunity to compete for a championship.
Here are five teams that could make sense as potential destinations if Pollard reaches free agency.
## 5. Denver Broncos
Denver could be a fit if its backfield needs change. The Broncos re-signed veteran running back J.K. Dobbins, but his future beyond the current season is uncertain. Rookie RJ Harvey is viewed as an important part of the team’s plans, which could leave room for an experienced option to complement him.
Pollard might not be guaranteed a starting role in Denver. However, if the Broncos believe they are close to competing for a championship, adding a proven runner could give them another backfield option. His experience could be useful alongside the team’s younger players.
## 4. Indianapolis Colts
The Colts’ running back situation could look different after the season. Jonathan Taylor attracted significant trade interest, although Indianapolis was reportedly unwilling to move him for a second-round pick. If the team’s results continue to disappoint, Taylor’s future could become a major offseason question.
Pollard would not be a direct replacement for Taylor’s full body of work, but he could offer Indianapolis an experienced runner if the team’s backfield changes. The Colts would need to build an effective offense around him, and the team’s broader direction would also depend on its quarterback situation. Daniel Jones has been mentioned as a possible candidate to be released after the season.
## 3. Minnesota Vikings
Aaron Jones returned to Minnesota on a one-year deal but has been moved into a backup role. That could leave the Vikings looking for help at running back, particularly if they want to strengthen the offense around their quarterback plans for next season.
Minnesota has a defense led by coordinator Brian Flores and could see Pollard as a way to add experience to its ground game. He would not resolve the team’s quarterback questions, but he could provide another established option in the backfield and potentially help the offense remain balanced.
## 2. Seattle Seahawks
Seattle’s backfield has changed since Kenneth Walker left in free agency. The Seahawks drafted Jadarian Price, while Zach Charbonnet returned after a season-ending injury. Charbonnet’s contract is also due to expire after 2026, and the team may need to reassess its options.
If Price is not ready to take on a starting role in 2027, Seattle could consider adding a veteran. Pollard’s experience would give the Seahawks another option as they decide how to shape their running game. Whether he would be a starter or part of a rotation would depend on the team’s plans for Price and Charbonnet.
## 1. Dallas Cowboys
A return to Dallas could be a natural possibility for Pollard, who spent the first part of his NFL career with the Cowboys. The team has struggled to find consistency at running back, and a reunion could give Dallas a familiar, experienced player.
Tyler Goodson has shown flashes of potential, while Javonte Williams has been part of the Cowboys’ plans. If Williams’ production declines, Dallas could consider adding Pollard to the backfield. A pairing of Pollard and Williams could give the team multiple options, although any signing would depend on the Cowboys’ roster and financial priorities.
Pollard’s next contract will depend on his performance through the end of the 2026 season and the needs of interested teams. Tennessee may still try to retain him, but if the two sides do not agree on a deal, Denver, Indianapolis, Minnesota, Seattle and Dallas are potential landing spots to watch.
