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.

The NFL offseason kicked off with rookie minicamps across six teams, showcasing new talent just a week after the 2025 NFL Draft. The Baltimore Ravens focused on enhancing their defense, banking on first-round pick Malaki Starks and second-rounder Mike Green, who notably led FBS with 17 sacks last season. The Dallas Cowboys, under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer, displayed an energetic atmosphere, with rookie running back Phil Mafah praising the coaching staff's vibrancy.

In Green Bay, first-rounder Matthew Golden made headlines by changing his jersey number for personal significance, while offensive lineman Anthony Belton aims to refine his hand technique. The Kansas City Chiefs are keeping an eye on first-round tackle Josh Simmons, who is recovering from a knee injury. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles welcomed rookie Kyle McCord, a lifelong fan, into the fold as they seek a backup. Lastly, the Seattle Seahawks introduced Jalen Milroe as they repurpose their quarterback position, revealing plans to pivot from his scrambling past.

The Dallas Cowboys are focusing on building a successful team culture, as emphasized by head coach Brian Schottenheimer. His strategy includes selecting players with strong character and leadership qualities, evident in their top draft picks like Tyler Booker and Donovan Ezeiruaku. These rookies have quickly made a positive impression, displaying maturity and professionalism during minicamp. Schottenheimer noted their intentionality and engagement during drills, crucial traits as the team aims to foster a better locker room atmosphere.

With additional rookies like Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah embodying the same leadership qualities, the Cowboys are cultivating a new generation of players eager to contribute positively. While it remains to be seen how these traits will hold up under the pressures of training camp, Schottenheimer's confidence reflects the team's commitment to a transformative culture as they prepare for the next NFL season.

In a surprising move, the Dallas Cowboys waited until Day 3 of the NFL Draft to bolster their running back depth, selecting Jaydon Blue from Texas in the fifth round. Blue's speed and versatility received positive feedback from fans, especially considering the potential for a fierce competition with fellow newcomers Phil Mafah from Clemson and established free agents Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders.

Cowboys' scouting regarded Blue as one of the best prospects in his class, ranked just behind Boise State's Ashton Jeanty and North Carolina's Omarion Hampton. Blue's potential impact is expected to grow with first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who favors versatile backs. With a 4.38 40-yard dash time and 500 receiving yards in his last two college seasons, Blue is a player to watch during training camp as he aims to prove he can be a key player in the Cowboys' backfield.

Phil Mafah made a striking impression during rookie minicamp at The Star, showcasing a powerful physical presence that evokes comparisons to legends like Marion Barber and James Conner. The Dallas Cowboys' new offensive coordinator, Klayton Adams, sees in Mafah a potential cornerstone for the backfield, a player whose downhill running style and ability to finish strong can set the tone for the team.

This offseason, the Cowboys have revamped their backfield, signing veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders while adding explosive rookie Jaydon Blue to the mix. The depth chart now reflects a complete overhaul, enabling potential competition for the lead role. Mafah, with his unique combination of size and mindset, could thrive if he earns the coaching staff's trust early on. Cowboys fans hope to see him become the sledgehammer in a committee that includes versatile backs geared toward a more aggressive run game.