Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks is set to miss the entire 2025 NFL season as he continues to recover from a torn ACL in his right knee, a setback that has followed him since his college days at Texas. Brooks, who was drafted 14th overall in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, has played only three games in his rookie season due to these ongoing injuries.

In light of Brooks' condition, the Panthers have signed running back Rico Dowdle to a one-year deal. This move reflects the team's strategy to prioritize Brooks' long-term health and potentially allows him to return to training camp fully ready for the 2026 season. However, concerns linger regarding Brooks' lack of high-level playtime, as he has accumulated a mere 66 touches over his brief career, leading to skepticism about his development and future impact on the field.

The Dallas Cowboys' backfield has changed dramatically since last season, shifting from a one-man show with Rico Dowdle to a highly competitive situation featuring veterans Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams alongside rookies Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah. As the team prepares for the summer, former Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant is advocating for the addition of Nick Chubb, a talented free agent still looking for a home after an injury-riddled 2023 season. Despite Chubb's impressive workout clips, the Cowboys appear to have no immediate need for him given their crowded backfield. Insiders suggest that the current roster already poses a dilemma, as there may be room for only a few of the backs on the field. Chubb's future remains uncertain, particularly if injuries or roster cuts impact the team's needs.

The Dallas Cowboys are reshaping their backfield after losing 1,000-yard rusher Rico Dowdle to the Carolina Panthers. Owner Jerry Jones has opted not to solely rely on veteran signings like Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, instead drafting two promising running backs, Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, to introduce competition. With the Cowboys' head coach expressing hope for the rookies to potentially start, veterans Williams and Sanders face pressure to elevate their performances from last season, where both struggled significantly. The stage is set for a fierce training camp battle as all four running backs vie for the top spot on the depth chart.

The Dallas Cowboys addressed their backfield need by drafting running back Jaydon Blue in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. With the loss of Rico Dowdle to free agency, the Cowboys were expected to prioritize a running back earlier in the draft, especially after Ashton Jeanty was taken by the Raiders at pick No. 6. They opted for Alabama guard Tyler Booker at No. 12, a decision that garnered mixed reactions from fans, particularly linebacker Micah Parsons who had hoped for a skill position player like Tetairoa McMillan, picked by Carolina at No. 8.

Blue is not projected to be a workhorse back, as he averaged less than 15 carries per game during his college career, sharing duties with Quintrevion Wisner at Texas. The Cowboys’ rushing leader last season, Dowdle, posted over 1,000 rushing yards, making the expectation for Blue's immediate impact modest. However, his blazing speed, clocked at 4.38 seconds in the 40-yard dash, offers potential for a valuable complement to the existing backfield that includes veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders.

As the 2025 fantasy football draft approaches, it's crucial to be cautious about newly signed free agents who might disappoint. Aaron Jones, now with the Minnesota Vikings, had a standout year but is entering his age-30 season and faces competition from Jordan Mason, limiting his potential. Rico Dowdle, recently signed by the Carolina Panthers, is likely to be overshadowed by Chuba Hubbard, compromising his fantasy value. Russell Wilson's move to the New York Giants has raised concerns about his performance and job security, as he could be replaced if the team struggles. Sam Darnold's tenure with the Seattle Seahawks also carries risks; despite a successful 2024 season, his new situation presents challenges due to a shaky offensive line. Lastly, Cooper Kupp's underwhelming performance last season makes him a risky pick, especially with the uncertainty surrounding the Seahawks' offensive scheme.