The Dallas Cowboys have revamped their running back room this offseason, bringing in four new faces to bolster the position. The team signed veteran free agents Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders while also drafting Phil Mafah in the seventh round and Jaydon Blue in the fifth round. Alongside these newcomers, third-year running back Deuce Vaughn remains on the roster. However, with the Cowboys likely to keep only three running backs on their 53-man roster, tough decisions loom, and one veteran could be on the chopping block.
According to Douglas Fritz of Clutch Points, Miles Sanders, a proven rusher with 4,345 career yards and 23 touchdowns over six NFL seasons, might be the odd man out. Fritz argues that the selection of Jaydon Blue in the fifth round has intensified competition in the running back room. “Because of Blue’s unique skills, he will likely make the 53-man roster,” Fritz wrote. Blue’s dynamic playmaking ability gives him an edge, putting pressure on veterans like Sanders and even Vaughn.
The Cowboys’ late-round pick, Phil Mafah, further complicates matters. Mafah’s physical running style could earn him a roster spot, potentially at the expense of Sanders. Despite Sanders’ impressive resume, including a standout 2022 season with the Philadelphia Eagles where he rushed for 1,200 yards and 11 touchdowns, his production dipped significantly during his two years with the Carolina Panthers. Combining his totals from those seasons, Sanders failed to match his Eagles performance, which may make Dallas less hesitant to move on.
Sanders’ experience and proven track record demonstrate his ability to succeed at the NFL level, but the Cowboys appear ready to bet on youth. Jaydon Blue’s upside and unique skill set have positioned him as a likely roster lock, while Mafah’s bruising style adds depth. If Dallas follows through with cutting Sanders, it would be a bold statement, prioritizing the potential of their rookie draft picks over a veteran with nearly 4,500 career rushing yards. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on the running back battle in Dallas, where the team’s future at the position is taking shape.