The Dallas Cowboys aren’t the only team preparing for the upcoming NFL draft. With as much of a cornerstone selection with the No. 12 pick, they’re looking to treat a running back, again similar to their choice in 2016 with Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott’s effect on the team was overwhelming, turning the Cowboys into a playoff contender for the entirety of his stay in Dallas. The organization is reportedly laser-focused on at least three of the top running back prospects this year. Among them are Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty and North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton.
The Cowboys are clearly very interested in deepening their backfield. They’ve interviewed Jeanty and Hampton, as well as a number of other running backs. Virginia Tech’s Bhayshul Tuten, Ohio State’s TreVeyon Henderson, Quinshon Judkins of Ole Miss & Oklahoma State’s Ollie Gordon II paid visits, as well. Further, Miami RB Damien Martinez and SMU WR Brashard Smith followed suit.
The Cowboys seem to be in the market for a new running back. This trade continues to show their desire to improve their offensive complexion with offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. Since taking over the reins, Schottenheimer has talked at length about the need for a strong running game. It’s affecting the most important aspect of his overall offensive philosophy.
“Physical. Again, I talked a little bit in the opening press conference about the marriage between the run game and the action pass, but as a football team, as an offense, we want to be physical,” – Brian Schottenheimer
The Cowboys’ roster has a few enticing options right now in Rico Dowdle, who showed flashes of star potential last year. In 2024, Dowdle accumulated 1,079 rushing yards. If Dowdle had kept up that production for an entire season, he would have accrued a projected total of 1,416 yards. During the final ten games of the season, he rushed for 833 yards, indicating he could be a valuable asset to the team’s running game.
The Cowboys are deep at RB and won’t be dependent on Dowdle. Executive Vice President Stephen Jones has expressed optimism about potentially adding a young running back through the draft to complement their existing talent.
“We’ll see if there is a young back there as well that can help us in the draft,” – Stephen Jones
Jones has consistently commended Elliott’s enormous impact while he’s been with the franchise. He praised Elliott’s extraordinary play and invaluable locker room presence.
“I thought Zeke had a hell of a run. He played at a high, high level,” – Stephen Jones
The Cowboys’ decision-making strategy reflects lessons learned from past experiences, notably when they selected Elliott in 2016 after observing DeMarco Murray’s success during his leading rushing season in 2014 while under then-coach Jason Garrett. Elliott’s locker room presence was the X-factor. On the pitch, however, he immediately unlocked a new level of attacking prowess in Dallas’s game.
This is where Schottenheimer’s deep well of experience from his previous positions comes into play. Most importantly, he was the Seattle Seahawks’ playcaller when they led the NFL in rushing during 2018. His experience affords him a unique perspective of just how crucial a solid running game can be. This strategy is a huge key to winning the battle for team synergy.
In addition to Schottenheimer’s wisdom, the Cowboys have taken some pretty aggressive steps to fortify the coaching department. To that end, they have welcomed Klayton Adams as their new offensive line coach. Schottenheimer made no bones about it — Adams’ skill set is going to enhance the offense.
“I think getting a guy like Klayton Adams really helps us as the coordinator [with] his knowledge. I’ve been tracking him for a couple years now,” – Brian Schottenheimer
As the draft approaches, analysts and fans alike will be watching closely to see how the Cowboys leverage their No. 12 pick. The organization as a whole is intent on rebooting their approach to the running game. Whether they opt to improve what they already have or find a replacement who can deliver equal or greater value to Elliott’s output, an upgrade is warranted.
The Dallas Cowboys have made these kinds of decisions recently in drafts, that set them up for future success. With a focus on revitalizing their rushing attack and a commitment to physical gameplay, they are poised to make decisions that could greatly influence their performance in the upcoming season.
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