The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2025 season with a running back room widely regarded as the weakest in the NFL, consisting of Jaydon Blue, Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, Phil Mafah, Hunter Luepke, and Deuce Vaughn. Despite some young talent, this group has failed to impress national media. With the main phase of free agency and the draft now distant memories, the Cowboys face a critical challenge: accept their fate or find ways to upgrade their roster?
Opportunities for Upgrades Post-Market
Although traditional avenues for roster improvement have closed, the Cowboys still have viable “aftermarket” options. From signing free agents and waiting for final roster cuts to pursuing trades, Dallas has pathways to bolster their running back room before the regular season kicks off.
1. Free Agent Market
Several notable names remain available in free agency, including Ameer Abdullah, Nick Chubb, and Gus Edwards. Among them, Nick Chubb—a four-time Pro Bowler—stands out as the most intriguing. While he may no longer be at his peak, Chubb could still represent a significant upgrade over current options like Williams or Sanders if they underperform in training camp. However, signing a star like Chubb, with an estimated $38 million price tag for a long-term deal, is a massive gamble. Are the Cowboys willing to invest heavily in a player past his prime to salvage their rushing attack?
2. Roster Cuts
With a deep running back class from the 2025 draft, quality players are likely to hit the market after training camp roster cuts. This presents an opportunity for the Cowboys to exercise patience and cherry-pick suitable additions. If Jaydon Blue proves to be the player the front office hopes, Dallas could afford to wait and add one or two pieces to complete a “committee” backfield. However, the Cowboys’ current running backs aren’t just competing against each other—they’re up against the bottom of every NFL roster.
3. Trade Market
Although the Cowboys have already parted with several future draft picks in trades this offseason, the trade market remains an enticing option. With some teams boasting deep running back rooms, Dallas could capitalize on a buyer’s market to acquire talent stuck behind established stars.
According to Pro Football Focus, the Baltimore Ravens have the deepest running back room in the NFL, with Justice Hill and Keaton Mitchell buried behind a top-tier star. One of these players could potentially be acquired for a mid-Day 3 draft pick. Similarly, names like Breece Hall (New York Jets), Jerome Ford (Cleveland Browns), or Audric Estime (Denver Broncos) could be available. However, trading away more future draft picks is a risky move, especially given Dallas’ depleted draft capital.
The Controversial Decision: Betting on Nick Chubb?
Among the options, the potential acquisition of Nick Chubb is the most polarizing. With four Pro Bowl selections and an impressive career, Chubb has the potential to transform the Cowboys’ rushing attack. However, a $38 million long-term contract for a 30-year-old running back with a history of injuries is a high-stakes gamble.
Should the Cowboys bet their future on a star nearing the end of his career? If Chubb returns to his elite form, he could be the missing piece to propel Dallas deep into the playoffs. But if he fails to meet expectations, this massive contract could become a financial albatross, hampering the team’s ability to build for the future.
Conclusion
The Dallas Cowboys stand at a crossroads: stick with their current roster and hope for a breakout from young talents like Jaydon Blue, or take a bold risk by pursuing a high-profile upgrade like signing Nick Chubb or making a trade. The decision to wager $38 million on a former Pro Bowler could unlock success, but it might also prove to be a costly mistake. Time and training camp will provide the final answers.
Follow the Cowboys’ journey as they navigate their roster upgrades and see whether the front office dares to make this audacious move!