Mafah’s move to Dallas creates a vacancy that Clemson must fill at running back. His departure leaves opening for Davidson, but Mafah’s NFL pedigree adds a narrative edge to the backfield’s evolution and the league-wide fantasy chatter about his future earnings.

Phil Mafah has emerged as a fast, instinctive runner for the Cowboys, catching attention after preseason work and a solid start to Oxnard. His ‘slasher’ style and feel for the run have boosted his standing as a real contender behind Pollard and in the team’s backfield rotation.

Mafah showed power and vision in his NFL debut, gaining 36 yards on 10 carries with a late burst that hints at a larger role as the preseason progresses. He benefitted from a pitch-count plan but demonstrated enough to keep fantasy observers attentive for a potential depth-chart rise.

Mafah showed flashes of the physical runner Dallas envisions, logging 10 carries for 36 yards in his first NFL action. Still buried in a crowded RB room, his future hinges on consistent carry equity and pass protection in upcoming exhibitions.

Mafah is stepping into a prime chance to claim a heavy workload in Dallas with injuries thinning the RB room. His proven power and improved practice tempo position him for snaps early in the preseason, and the Cowboys envision him contributing both as a traditional runner and a late-game relief option. His ability to protect the quarterback and pass-game involvement will be key to a real Week 1 role.