The Dallas Cowboys faced significant challenges with their ground game last season, finishing with a disappointing average of just 100.3 yards per game, ranking 27th in the NFL. Both Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle struggled to establish a reliable rushing attack, prompting the Cowboys to seek changes. The team's inability to generate consistent offensive production on the ground has raised concerns about their competitiveness in future campaigns.

The upcoming season presents a critical opportunity for Dallas to revamp their strategy. Enhancing the run game could alleviate pressure on quarterback Dak Prescott, allowing the offense to operate more effectively. The Cowboys will need to reassess their personnel and play-calling to maximize their potential and improve in this vital area.

After the 2024 season, the Dallas Cowboys' backfield has seen a significant overhaul, especially with the additions of Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams during free agency, complementing the returning Rico Dowdle. The team also drafted Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, strengthening their depth. However, there are ongoing concerns among fans about whether these acquisitions can effectively replace Ezekiel Elliott, who left the team in the offseason. Speculation is rife that Nick Chubb, a star running back who has been training hard, might land with the Texans instead, raising questions about the Cowboys' decision to let him pass.

Injuries have plagued Chubb in recent years, but the Texans, already with Joe Mixon, are optimistic about his potential return to form. The Cowboys hope their revamped backfield can meet expectations and lead them deeper into the playoffs without the need to chase after Chubb.

The offseason has seen significant changes across the NFL as teams prepare for the 2025 season. Examining the NFC East, the Dallas Cowboys face challenges after losing running back Rico Dowdle, who averaged 4.7 yards per carry. They aim to fill this gap with new signings and draft picks. The New York Giants replaced safety Jason Pinnock with the more versatile Jevon Holland, while the Philadelphia Eagles lost interior defender Milton Williams, a key player during their Super Bowl run, and seek to adjust their defense accordingly. The Washington Commanders will feel the impact of Jonathan Allen's absence due to injury last season, which negatively affected their run defense. Each team must now adapt to these changes to stay competitive.

In the NFC North, the Chicago Bears completely revamped their offensive line, moving on from Teven Jenkins. The Detroit Lions face challenges after losing both offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, as they try to maintain their explosive play style. The Green Bay Packers are also in the midst of an offensive line shuffle, trying to fill the void left by Josh Myers' departure. The Minnesota Vikings are transitioning from quarterback Sam Darnold to J.J. McCarthy, despite the latter's preseason injury, which raises questions about their offensive consistency.

In the NFC South, the Atlanta Falcons must cope with the loss of defensive lineman Grady Jarrett, while the Carolina Panthers replaced safety Xavier Woods with Trevon Moehrig. The New Orleans Saints lost Ryan Ramczyk to retirement, leading to a reliance on rookies at tackle. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers also see a significant change with Jordan Whitehead leaving, necessitating adjustments in their defensive backfield. Across the league, teams are facing critical transitions, highlighting the importance of successful offseason strategies to build a winning roster.

The Carolina Panthers have assigned jersey numbers for their new rookies and acquisitions, giving fans a glimpse of the identities they'll forge in Charlotte. Trevin Wallace, a linebacker drafted in the third round, will wear No. 32, the number he made his mark with at Kentucky, where he had 80 tackles and 5.5 sacks last season. Fifth-round pick Tetairoa McMillan, a standout wide receiver from Arizona, takes No. 4, known for his explosive playmaking as he racked up 1,319 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns in 2023.

Jimmy Horn Jr., another speedy receiver, will don No. 15, channeling memories of past Panthers legends while aiming to create his legacy after a successful stint at Colorado. Returning to the NFL after a year away, Hunter Renfrow will wear No. 13, a nod to his previous success with the Las Vegas Raiders. The roster also sees veterans like Rico Dowdle and Tre’von Moehrig shifting to new numbers, as the team blends fresh talent with experienced players for a new season.