A seven-win performance in 2024 had Dallas Cowboys fans praying for some big changes this NFL offseason. Although America's Team hasn't landed the biggest available names, the Cowboys haven't hesitated to throw money at this year's free-agent class, handing 11 new contracts to fresh faces and returning players as of Apr. 4, according to Spotrac.
Some current Cowboys won't be impacted by the latest signings, however, that won't be the case for everyone. Certain additions are bound to put pressure on various veterans, including one offensive playmaker who'll likely be forced to fight for his job during training camp.
Deuce Vaughn Will Fight for His Job After Cowboys Offseason Signings
With last year's top running backs — Rico Dowdle and Ezekiel Elliott — no longer with the team, the Cowboys were forced to address their backfield this offseason. They didn't waste time addressing that need, signing veteran RBs Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams to one-year contracts shortly after free agency began.
With that being said, the duo's signings likely spell bad news for returning RB Deuce Vaughn.
Vaughn arrived in the Lone Star State as a sixth-round draft pick in 2023. Even though his 5-foot-6 frame presented an uphill battle in front of him, the former Kansas State playmaker fought his way into the coaching staff's good graces as a rookie while simultaneously becoming a fan-favorite undergod among Dallas fans.
Unfortunately, Vaughn has yet to carve a role out for himself in the Cowboys' offense despite the recent backfield issues. Having played just 113 offensive snaps across 14 games in the last two seasons, the Fayetteville, AR native has only mustered 110 rushing yards on 40 carries (2.8 yards per attempt) and 70 yards on 12 receptions without scoring a single touchdown.
It's hard to imagine Vaughn having much of a future in Dallas based on his performance to date. Not only has he struggled to produce as a runner and pass-catcher, but his diminutive frame means he doesn't have much use as a blocker either, limiting his usefulness to the lineup.
With the Cowboys openly considering adding a rookie RB later this month, the writing appears to be on the wall for Vaughn. Unless he totally dazzles head coach Brian Schottenheimer's staff throughout the offseason, there's a good chance the 23-year-old back will either be on the practice squad or with a different organization entirely come September.