The Dallas Cowboys face a critical roster decision as the NFL’s Tuesday roster deadline approaches, with their running back room presenting one of the toughest calls. The preseason finale on Friday offered little clarity on the competition, as rookie Phil Mafah didn’t see the field until the second half. However, it was the pre-game revelation about veteran running back Miles Sanders that could prove to be the defining factor in the Cowboys’ final roster cuts.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer disclosed after the game that Sanders sat out the finale due to a shoulder injury sustained during practice. This setback follows a two-week absence earlier in camp due to a knee bruise, raising serious questions about Sanders’ durability and future with the team. For a Cowboys squad looking to solidify its backfield, this latest injury may be the final push needed to part ways with the 28-year-old veteran.
Sanders’ Struggles and Declining Role
Miles Sanders was a standout early in training camp, showing flashes of the form that made him a second-round pick in 2019. However, his performance in the preseason was underwhelming, with just seven carries for 15 yards across limited action and two missed games due to injuries. Despite reports of strong practice showings this week, Sanders’ recurring health issues have diminished his case for a roster spot.
In contrast, the Cowboys have leaned heavily on Javonte Williams, who has been a healthy scratch throughout the preseason, signaling the team’s confidence in him as the lead back. Sanders, at best, projects as the RB3 in what many consider one of the NFL’s weakest backfields. His $1.197 million in guaranteed money is unlikely to deter Dallas from making a cut, especially given his age and lack of significant production since his 2022 season with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Case for Phil Mafah
Rookie Phil Mafah, a Clemson product, has emerged as a compelling alternative. In limited action during the preseason finale, Mafah showcased his potential with impressive contact balance and a fourth-quarter touchdown. While he may not be ready to anchor the backfield as a rookie, his upside makes him a valuable asset the Cowboys cannot afford to lose to waivers.
Unlike Sanders, who is unlikely to attract significant interest from other teams due to his age and recent performance, Mafah’s youth and potential make him a prime target for teams scouring the waiver wire. The Cowboys could cut Sanders with minimal risk, as he has a strong chance of clearing waivers and returning to the practice squad. Mafah, however, is far less likely to go unclaimed, making his retention a priority.
A Tough Call for a First-Year Coach
For first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer, the decision between keeping a veteran like Sanders or a rookie like Mafah is a delicate balancing act. Schottenheimer may prefer the reliability of a veteran presence, but Sanders’ injury history and limited impact in 2025 make him a less appealing option. Meanwhile, Mafah’s flashes of talent suggest he could develop into a contributor, even if he starts the season as a healthy scratch.
The Cowboys also have the luxury of a deep pool of running backs likely to be cut across the league in the coming days. Should Sanders be claimed off waivers—an unlikely scenario given his recent track record—Dallas could easily find a comparable or better replacement to bolster their depth.
The Path Forward
Cutting Miles Sanders may be one of the Cowboys’ hardest decisions, but his injury-plagued preseason and diminished role make it a logical one. By prioritizing Phil Mafah, Dallas can secure a promising young talent with a higher ceiling while avoiding the risk of losing him to another team. Sanders’ time in Dallas appears to be nearing an abrupt end, as the Cowboys look to build a backfield around healthier, more dynamic options.
As the roster deadline looms, the Cowboys must act decisively to protect their future while addressing the present. Letting go of Sanders may sting, but it’s a necessary step to ensure Phil Mafah remains a part of the team’s long-term plans.