Dallas Cowboys Face Running Back Depth Concerns as Injuries Pile Up

ARLINGTON, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys are grappling with concerns over their running back depth as injuries mount. Javonte Williams, who leads the Cowboys’ rushing attack, is sidelined, raising questions about who will step up.

Currently, the Cowboys average 117.2 rushing yards per game, ranking 15th in the NFL, largely due to Williams’ impressive performance. He ranks fourth in the league with 476 rushing yards. However, with Miles Sanders now on injured reserve for the season, the team’s backup options have become precarious.

Williams has been a standout for Dallas, but the responsibility now falls on rookie Jaydon Blue, Hunter Luepke, and practice squad player Malik Davis to fill the gap left by Sanders. None of these players has proven their capability to handle the load alongside Williams, as the depth chart looks uncertain.

Blue, who the Cowboys drafted in the fifth round this year, was anticipated to contribute significantly, both running and catching. However, he hasn’t yet won the coaching staff’s trust, sitting out the first four weeks. Limited opportunities have hindered his chance to showcase his talents, adding to the urgency for a backup.

As the NFL trade deadline approaches on November 4, speculation is rising that the Cowboys may seek additional help at running back. Jaylen Wright of the Miami Dolphins is a potential candidate, having caught Dallas’ eye during the pre-draft process in 2024. Wright, a second-year player, has faced challenges in securing a role on Miami’s roster and could provide a spark for the Cowboys.

With pressure mounting, the Cowboys hope Blue can establish himself as a reliable backup to Williams. However, another rookie, Phil Mafah, eligible to return from injured reserve, may complicate matters in the running back room. The return of KaVontae Turpin could also impact Blue’s involvement in kick returns, further restricting his opportunities.

As the Cowboys prepare for their next matchup against the Washington Commanders, all eyes will be on how they address their running back situation and the contributions of their rookies amidst the mounting challenges.