The biggest remaining question mark for the Dallas Cowboys' offense is how the team will manage carries in the backfield. Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders were both signed after frustrating seasons with their former teams. It is a potential bargain addition if either player is able to turn back the clock to what they once were.
Sanders is a name Cowboys fans will remember from his time with the Philadelphia Eagles. While the results with Philly were consistent, leaving the star-studded offensive line has resulted in the veteran back looking very average.
Williams struggled as well in Sean Payton's Denver offense and accepted a bargain deal and a chance to compete for carries. However, early camp returns have Dallas fans paying attention to a surprise contributor.
Fifth-round pick Jaydon Blue continues to make plays and grab attention. It is easy to make the case that the rookie should have the inside track when it comes to earning starting reps. Blue is a bit of an unknown, while the two veteran backs remain outside shots of turning back the clock and producing. Blue's great performance could have both veterans playing for their respective jobs.
Cowboys Veteran Backs Have Been Put on Notice
Jaydon Blue with one heck of a one-handed catch on a throw from Joe Milton. pic.twitter.com/s9g7h6UmPa
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) July 26, 2025
Despite being a late-round selection, Blue has the needed speed and hands to play the position perfectly, helping take pressure off Dake Prescott. Having the duo of George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb is going to open up a lot of rushing opportunities.
This was a piece of why Williams and Sanders were brought in, believing a better situation could serve as a needed reset. With this in mind, the emergence of Blue should be changing expectations for the group and has left the positioning of both veterans on shaky ground.
If the rookie is able to win a contributing role, it doesn't make sense to roster both veterans. Keep either Sanders or Williams and rely on Blue and Phil Mafah to breathe life back into the unit. It is the best path forward and allows you to save cap space while having a higher upside. Still, it is important to remember that these are still the early days of camp, and Blue is far from establishing himself in a contributing role.
The rookie is going to need a strong preseason and a handful of camp moments to supplant the more proven options. It is an exciting development, turning up the heat on the veteran backs and giving hope that, for the first time in two years, perhaps the Cowboys have a long-term solution for the position.