The Dallas Cowboys' running back situation has undergone a drastic transformation in just a year. With Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle no longer on the roster, new faces like Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, Jaydon Blue, and Phil Mafah have arrived. These players bring a diverse skill set to the team, with Blue's impressive speed and Mafah's power being highlighted as vital components of a potential dual-threat strategy.

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer is optimistic about the potential of this revamped group, hinting at a competition for starting spots during training camp. Each running back offers unique strengths, making the battle for roster spots intriguing as they vie for positions behind quarterback Dak Prescott. The Cowboys are expected to keep only four running backs on the active roster, intensifying the competition between these talented players.

Phil Mafah, the seventh-round pick for the Dallas Cowboys, is facing a crucial challenge in making the final roster. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 234 pounds, his size and strength suggest he could excel in short-yardage situations or as a third-down back. However, he will need to master the art of pass protection, an area where he performed well in college but needs refinement at the pro level. The pressure is on him as he competes against established players like Javonte Williams and Hunter Luepke, both of whom already fulfill similar roles.

A reliable pass protector is essential for the Cowboys, especially given Dak Prescott's injury history. Mafah's success in honing his skills in this area could be the deciding factor in securing a spot on the team. Combining effective special teams play with the ability to contribute significantly on offense will be key for him as he navigates a crowded running back room.

Quarterback Dak Prescott is making headlines by working out with his Dallas Cowboys' teammates ahead of the 2025 offseason. He was recently spotted training with tight end Jake Ferguson, wide receiver Jalen Brooks, and fullback Hunter Luepke, showcasing his commitment and readiness for the upcoming season. Prescott, who suffered a season-ending injury last year, is eager to regain rapport with his teammates and has reportedly lost around 3 pounds since his recovery. The new Cowboys coaching staff, led by head coach Brian Schottenheimer, is expected to introduce fresh offensive concepts, making these early workouts crucial for adapting and building chemistry.

Rico Dowdle is on a remarkable streak with three consecutive 100-yard rushing games, making him a valuable asset for fantasy football semifinals despite a challenging matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Meanwhile, star wide receivers like Cooper Kupp and D.K. Metcalf are struggling, yet they remain viable options for fantasy lineups. The article outlines a revamped start/sit strategy based on community feedback, emphasizing tailored advice for different league sizes and player circumstances.

Rico Dowdle is making waves in the fantasy football scene with back-to-back 100-yard rushing games, solidifying his role as the Dallas Cowboys' lead running back. His performance is expected to continue against the Carolina Panthers, who have struggled defensively against running backs.

Garrett Wilson remains a reliable start for fantasy managers, leading the league in targets and facing a favorable matchup in Week 15. The new format for start/sit advice aims to cater to the diverse needs of fantasy leagues, emphasizing tailored recommendations based on team depth and player circumstances.