The Dallas Cowboys have long been known for their potent rushing attack, with names like Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard once anchoring a ground game that kept defenses guessing. However, heading into the 2025 NFL season, the Cowboys are still searching for a spark to reignite their backfield. With Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders leading the charge, questions linger about whether Dallas has the firepower to dominate on the ground. But what if the Cowboys had seized a golden opportunity to land Jacksonville Jaguars’ star running back Travis Etienne for a mere $6 million in cap savings? Such a move could have sent shockwaves through the NFL.
A Backfield in Transition
The Cowboys’ current running back tandem of Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders brings experience but also uncertainty. Williams, who signed a reported one-year deal with Dallas after four seasons with the Denver Broncos, posted a modest 513 yards in 17 games last season, averaging just 3.6 yards per carry—below his career average. While he reached the end zone four times, his production has raised doubts about his ability to carry the load as the lead back.
Miles Sanders, a former second-round pick, joined Dallas after a disappointing two-year stint with the Carolina Panthers. Once a dynamic force with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he eclipsed 800 yards in two of his first three seasons and peaked with 1,269 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2021, Sanders struggled in Carolina. Injuries and inconsistency limited him to 432 yards and one touchscreen in 2023, followed by just 205 yards and two touchdowns on 55 carries last season. The Cowboys are banking on Sanders rediscovering his early-career form, but the gamble is far from guaranteed.
The Etienne Opportunity
Enter Travis Etienne, the Jacksonville Jaguars’ star running back, who could have been the answer to Dallas’ backfield woes. Despite a down year in 2024, where he rushed for 558 yards in 15 games, Etienne’s first two seasons showcased his elite potential. From 2021 to 2022, he amassed 2,133 yards, proving he can be a game-changer for any offense. With Etienne entering the final year of his rookie contract, the Jaguars could reportedly save over $6 million in cap space by trading him—a move that has sparked speculation across the league.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox recently urged the Cowboys to inquire about Etienne’s availability, noting, “The Dallas Cowboys should already be calling about Etienne’s availability. They currently have a backfield headlined by Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders—two big question marks, given their recent production—and have shown a willingness to trade for talent post-draft.” While the Jaguars have publicly dismissed the idea of trading Etienne, a shift in their stance could have opened the door for Dallas to make a blockbuster move.
A Game-Changing Trade That Never Was
Imagine the Cowboys pulling off a trade for Etienne. For just $6 million in cap savings to Jacksonville, Dallas could have added a dynamic, proven rusher to complement their newly acquired wide receiver, George Pickens. The Cowboys’ front office demonstrated their willingness to make bold moves by trading for Pickens last month, giving quarterback Dak Prescott a young, explosive pass-catcher to stretch defenses. Pairing Pickens with Etienne could have created a balanced, high-octane offense capable of keeping secondaries and front sevens on their heels.
Etienne’s ability to break off big runs and contribute as a receiving back would have added a dimension Dallas currently lacks. His 2,133 yards over two seasons dwarf the combined recent outputs of Williams and Sanders, and at 26 years old, Etienne is still in his prime. Such a trade would have sent a clear message to the league: the Cowboys are all-in for 2025.
Why It Didn’t Happen
Despite the tantalizing possibility, the Jaguars’ firm stance on keeping Etienne has kept this dream scenario from becoming reality. Jacksonville views Etienne as a cornerstone of their offense, and with good reason. His down year in 2024 can be attributed to a variety of factors, including offensive line struggles and play-calling, rather than a decline in talent. The Jaguars are likely banking on Etienne rebounding in 2025, making a trade unlikely unless their cap situation becomes dire.
For Dallas, the decision to stick with Williams and Sanders reflects a calculated risk. Both backs have shown flashes of brilliance in the past, and the Cowboys’ coaching staff may believe they can unlock that potential in a new system. Additionally, the team’s recent investment in Pickens suggests a focus on bolstering the passing game, which could take pressure off the run game and allow Williams and Sanders to thrive in complementary roles.
The Road Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, the Cowboys’ backfield remains a question mark. Williams and Sanders have the experience and talent to succeed, but their recent performances leave room for doubt. Meanwhile, the missed opportunity to acquire Travis Etienne for a reported $6 million in cap savings looms large. Had Dallas pulled the trigger, they could have secured a star running back capable of transforming their offense and sending shockwaves through the NFL.
For now, Cowboys fans can only wonder what might have been. If Williams and Sanders falter, the whispers of Etienne’s availability may grow louder, and Dallas’ front office might regret not acting sooner. One thing is certain: in a league where bold moves can define a season, the Cowboys’ decision to stand pat could be a gamble that shapes their 2025 campaign—for better or worse.