Malik Davis exploded onto the Cowboys’ summer scene in the preseason opener vs Rams, rushing seven times for 63 yards and delivering a 16-yard burst in the fourth. An undrafted Florida product who’s spent three seasons in Dallas, he seized a rare chance as Dallas’ backfield dealt with injuries, including rookie Jaydon Blue’s ankle issue and Miles Sanders’ knee treatment. Davis’s day wasn’t just about yardage; it showed a player who can blend familiarity with Schottenheimer’s system with quick, on-the-fly learning of new plays.

In roughly 36 hours, Davis became the Cowboys’ leading rusher, turning opportunity into momentum as the backfield remains wide open. He spoke of belonging and maximizing his chance, while Schottenheimer praised him, saying, “He had a hell of a day.” The episode underscored a real competition angle for fantasy managers: if the backfield continues to be unsettled by injuries, Davis could carve out meaningful role potential behind a shifting roster.

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.