The Dallas Cowboys, led by quarterback Dak Prescott, enter the 2025 season hoping to capitalize on improvements made since last year, yet they face a significant challenge at the running back position. While the team’s overall roster shows promise, the running back group remains one of the weakest areas, raising concerns about the team’s ability to contend in the highly competitive NFC. Despite trade rumors, the Cowboys appear hesitant to make moves at the position before fully assessing their options in training camp.
Running Back Position: A Notable Weakness in Dallas’ Roster
After an injury-plagued 2024 season for Dak Prescott and inconsistent running back performances, the Cowboys understand that revitalizing their ground game is crucial. The team’s running back room is considered below average by NFL standards, and this shortfall could hinder offensive success, even with talent surrounding Prescott. Running backs have struggled to gain consistent yardage and impact the game effectively, leaving the Cowboys with a pressing need for stability.
One potential solution discussed by analysts involves acquiring Najee Harris, who recently signed a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Chargers after spending his first four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Harris rushed for over 1,000 yards and scored six touchdowns last season, demonstrating reliable production even if he never reached elite status.
Bleacher Report proposed that Dallas should consider Harris to strengthen their backfield, noting,
“Dallas should consider adding Harris as a high-floor option in its backfield. The Steelers may actually want to consider bringing back the 27-year-old now they have their quarterback in Rodgers,”
indicating the viability of Harris as a dependable contributor who remains available for trade.
Cowboys’ Stance on Making Trades for Running Backs
Despite external speculation about upgrading the running back group, insiders suggest that Dallas has no immediate plans to trade for new players at the position. Athlon Sports reported that the team is satisfied with the current roster and sees no pressing need to execute a trade. The Cowboys are adopting a wait-and-see approach, preferring to evaluate their existing talent before pursuing additional acquisitions.
Adam Schultz from Athlon highlighted the team’s current perspective, writing,
“It is Sanders and Williams. And any proposed move for another back right now simply doesn’t make any sense…at least from a Dallas perspective,”
emphasizing the organization’s confidence in their current personnel.
Running Back Competition Set to Define Cowboys’ Training Camp
As training camp looms, the running back position is poised to be one of the most contested areas on the Cowboys’ roster. Mike Crum of Cowboys Wire pointed out that the team’s running back group lacks financial commitment, suggesting that no player has secured a guaranteed role and that open battles for roster spots are expected.
With nearly the entire running back room turned over since last season, the Cowboys are starting fresh with a mix of players competing for limited spots. Crum noted,
“The Cowboys haven’t invested much in the position financially, around $8 million, which means there isn’t much holding them back from an open competition. In years past, money has played a role in who saw snaps, but that won’t likely be the case in 2025,”
indicating that performance rather than contracts will determine the backfield lineup.
Though trade rumors continue, it remains unclear whether the Cowboys will bring in a new running back like Harris or rely on internal competition to find their lead rusher. The uncertainty surrounding this position underscores a key challenge for the Cowboys as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Implications for the Cowboys’ 2025 Campaign and Beyond
The running back situation presents a potential obstacle for a Dallas Cowboys team aiming to navigate the tough landscape of the NFC. While Dak Prescott remains a strong leader and the overall roster has improved, the team’s lack of a proven, high-level running back could limit offensive balance and effectiveness. As training camp unfolds, the competition among backs may reveal whether internal options can fill the gap or if the Cowboys will revisit trade talks.
The way Dallas addresses this position could influence their playoff hopes and overall competitiveness during the 2025 season, making the running back rollercoaster a critical storyline to follow. With few financial commitments and a relatively open depth chart, the team’s next moves at running back will be pivotal in shaping their path forward.