Top Five Cowboys Training Camp Battles to Watch

Dec 21, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back

(21) runs with the ball against Indianapolis Colts linebacker

(93) at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Starting Dallas Cowboys Running Back

The Primary Competitors: Darren McFadden and Joe Randle

The Favorite: Joe Randle

Not many positions are more important to the Dallas Cowboys’ success in 2015 than the running back. Last season’s lead horse and NFL rushing champ, DeMarco Murray, was allowed to leave in free agency. The Cowboys will enter camp with a much-scrutinized stable of runners chomping at the bit to prove their worthiness.

Last season’s #2 RB, Joe Randle, is the early favorite to win the job, but with questions about his maturity, pass-protection, and ability to withstand a heavy workload, Randle will need to earn it in training camp.

Darren McFadden was added primarily as offseason insurance, but will be given an opportunity to earn a starting role. The Cowboys, as well as McFadden himself, are hoping to resurrect the once promising career that died in Oakland.

Lance Dunbar has a roster spot all but guaranteed, but Dunbar lacks the physical stature to claim more than his niche spot as a change-of-pace playmaker.  The Cowboys will likely be looking to add veteran depth during training camp, but the bulk of carries should stay with either Randle or McFadden.

Next: Step Aside for the Rookie?