The Dallas Cowboys’ running back situation heading into the 2025 NFL season is far from ideal. While it’s not quite a crisis, the backfield lacks the depth and proven talent needed to compete at the highest level. With veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders leading the charge, alongside rookie Jaydon Blue, the Cowboys are banking on potential rather than certainty. Blue, a Day 3 draft pick, shows promise but expecting him to carry a significant load as a rookie is a risky proposition. This uncertainty has Dallas potentially looking to the trade market for a solution, and one name stands out as both a surprising and logical target: Antonio Gibson, a former Washington Commanders star and longtime Cowboys rival.
A Rival Turned Ally?
Antonio Gibson, now with the New England Patriots, spent four seasons with the Commanders, where he was a thorn in Dallas’ side. His standout 2021 campaign saw him rush for 1,037 yards and seven touchdowns while adding 42 receptions for 294 yards and three scores, proving his value as a versatile, all-purpose back. However, his tenure in New England has been less impressive. After signing a two-year deal last offseason, Gibson struggled in his debut season with the Patriots, and the team’s selection of TreVeyon Henderson in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft has pushed him to third-string status behind Henderson and Rhamondre Stevenson.
This depth chart demotion makes Gibson a prime trade candidate. At 26 years old, he’s still in his prime, and his skill set aligns perfectly with the Cowboys’ needs. Dallas is likely to employ a running back-by-committee approach in 2025, and Gibson’s ability to contribute both as a runner and a pass-catcher makes him an ideal fit. Unlike Miles Sanders, who has underperformed for the past three seasons, Gibson offers a proven track record and untapped potential in the right system.
Why the Trade Makes Sense
The Patriots have little incentive to keep Gibson buried on their depth chart, especially with a young, high-upside back like Henderson ready to take on a larger role. For Dallas, acquiring Gibson would provide a reliable veteran presence to complement Williams and Blue while potentially elevating the entire backfield. His dual-threat ability could add a dynamic element to an offense that needs more playmakers, especially in the passing game out of the backfield.
The cost of acquiring Gibson is unlikely to be steep. Given his current role in New England and his contract situation, the Cowboys could likely secure him for a Day 3 draft pick—a small price to pay for a player who could stabilize their running back room. This move would also allow Dallas to ease Blue into the NFL without overburdening him early in his career.
Overcoming the Rivalry Stigma
The idea of bringing in a former Washington Commander might not sit well with Cowboys fans at first. Gibson was once a hated rival, consistently gashing Dallas’ defense during his time with Washington. However, his talent and fit for the Cowboys’ needs outweigh any lingering animosity. The NFL is a business, and successful teams often set aside rivalries to make smart roster moves. Gibson’s familiarity with the NFC East could even be an advantage, as he knows the division’s defenses well.
A Low-Risk, High-Reward Move
Adding Antonio Gibson wouldn’t make him the centerpiece of Dallas’ offense, but it would provide much-needed depth and versatility. He’s not a true No. 1 back, but he doesn’t need to be in the Cowboys’ committee-based approach. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him a valuable asset, and at 26, he still has plenty of tread left on his tires.
For a team like Dallas, which is looking to maximize its roster for a playoff push in 2025, taking a chance on a former rival like Gibson could be the spark they need. The trade would be a low-risk, high-reward move that could turn a position of weakness into one of quiet strength. Cowboys fans may cringe at the thought of cheering for a former Commander, but if Gibson delivers on the field, that disdain will quickly turn to appreciation.