In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the NFL landscape, the Dallas Cowboys are poised to land one of the most explosive running back talents in recent college football history. Sources close to the team confirm that Nebraska’s Emmett Johnson, the 2025 Big Ten Running Back of the Year, is on a fast track to Big D in the 2026 NFL Draft. This isn’t just another roster tweak—it’s a game-changer that has the entire NFC scrambling to rethink their defensive strategies.
For years, the Cowboys have treated the running back position like an afterthought, prioritizing their aerial attack with mega-deals for quarterback Dak Prescott and wideout CeeDee Lamb, plus that blockbuster trade for George Pickens. They’ve even poured first-round picks into their offensive line three times in the last five years. Running backs? Nah, they’ve been content with bargain-bin finds like Rico Dowdle (who bolted to Carolina after a 1,000-yard 2024 season) and Javonte Williams (another 1,000-yard rusher in 2025 on a measly one-year, $3 million deal).
But whispers from Jerry Jones’ war room suggest that’s about to change. With Williams likely walking in free agency—Jerry’s not known for opening the wallet wide for RBs—the Cowboys are eyeing Johnson as their next star. Projected as a third- or fourth-round gem, Johnson could be the steal of the draft, bringing a dynamic skill set that’s tailor-made for Dallas’ high-powered offense.
Let’s talk numbers: In his junior year at Nebraska, Johnson erupted for 1,451 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging a blistering 5.8 yards per carry. Oh, and don’t sleep on his hands—he hauled in 40 receptions for 370 yards and three more scores. This kid isn’t just a ground-pounder; he’s a dual-threat nightmare who can line up in the slot and torch linebackers in coverage.
Bleacher Report’s Dame Parson nailed it: “Johnson is one of the best and most impactful running backs in college football. He has proved that if Nebraska wants to run the offense through him, he is more than capable. He is a quick, decisive runner who can be a weapon in the passing game.”
Nebraska hasn’t been a powerhouse since the glory days—seven losing seasons in the last decade, no real title contention in over 20 years. NIL deals, Matt Rhule’s coaching stint, even those packed 90,000-fan stadiums haven’t turned the tide. But Johnson? He’s been the lone bright spot, carrying the Cornhuskers on his back and opting to declare for the draft with a year of eligibility left.
Why Dallas? It’s a match made in football heaven. The Cowboys’ elite O-line—bolstered by those recent first-rounders—has turned average backs into 1,000-yard machines. Imagine what it could do for a phenom like Johnson. No more wasting low-round picks on flops like 2025 fifth-rounder Jaydon Blue or seventh-rounder Phil Mafah. This is about injecting youth, speed, and versatility into an offense that’s already a juggernaut.
As Heavy’s Beth Mishler-Elmore pointed out on December 9: “League-wide, the running back market has been squeezed quite a bit in recent years, with many front offices growing weary of investing heavily at a position where production can often be found cheaper in the draft or by committee. Will the Cowboys let Williams walk in 2026? They may not have a choice.”
But with Johnson incoming, who needs Williams? This bombshell has NFC rivals like the Eagles, 49ers, and Lions hitting the panic button. A Prescott-Lamb-Pickens trio paired with a 1,400-yard beast in the backfield? Defenses are already sweating.
Jerry Jones, ever the showman, hasn’t commented publicly yet, but insiders say he’s thrilled at the prospect of snagging Johnson without breaking the bank. “It’s the perfect fit,” one scout told us. “Emmett’s got that burst, vision, and receiving chops to elevate this team to Super Bowl contenders.”
Stay tuned, Cowboys Nation—this could be the spark that ignites another dynasty. The NFC? They’re officially on notice.