The Dallas Cowboys’ running back situation has evolved significantly since they drafted Ezekiel Elliott fourth overall. While they sought to secure a franchise player, the subsequent extension for Elliott perhaps left the organization with mixed feelings. This leads to their cautious approach in future drafts and free agency, where they are less inclined to invest heavily in veteran running backs or prioritize the position in early draft picks.
In the 2025 draft, the Cowboys opted for a strategic approach by selecting Texas’ Jaydon Blue in the fifth round, alongside Clemson’s Phil Mafah in the seventh round. Mafah, a 22-year-old powerhouse at 6-foot-1 and 234 pounds from Loganville, GA, showcases a different running style compared to other backs on the roster. His one-cut, north-south style could complement the existing dynamics, especially as Dallas continues to assess their offensive depth following the signings of Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams in free agency.
Mafah’s stats reflect his potential; he accrued over 2,000 rushing yards in his last two years at Clemson, demonstrating both skill and endurance. Recently, he has caught the attention of Cowboys’ head coach Brian Schottenheimer during training camp, suggesting that his performance has sparked intrigue. The key question remains whether Mafah can distinguish himself enough to secure a spot on the final roster amid a competitive landscape, or if he will primarily serve as a short-yardage option.
The Cowboys’ decision-making process reflects a cautious but strategic approach, prioritizing versatility and unique skill sets to enhance their roster. If Mafah can leverage his advantages and differentiate himself during the training camp, he might just find a niche within the Cowboys’ game-day strategy, promising to contribute to the team’s offensive capabilities in the coming season.