The Dallas Cowboys waived RB Deuce Vaughn in August. After two seasons in Dallas, they decided it was time to move on. Since hitting the open market, Vaughn had to wait some time to get his next option, but he landed in the perfect spot for him.
According to Matt Zenitz of CBSSports, Vaughn is signing with the Broncos' practice squad. And that's the ideal landing spot with head coach Sean Payton running the show, who had plenty of success with Darren Sproles in his offense.
Former Cowboys RB Deuce Vaughn Signs with the Broncos
Vaughn failed to make an imprint during his time with the Cowboys, as he had 110 rushing yards and 58 receiving yards. He also played some special teams reps for Dallas, but with how the Cowboys overhauled the RB room this offseason, there wasn't space left for Vaughn.
But just because it didn't work in Dallas, being in an offense led by Payton is exciting. Sproles played with the Saints for three seasons (2011-2013). Across 44 games (14 starts), he recorded 1,067 rushing yards, 1,981 receiving yards, and 21 total touchdowns in Payton's scheme..
During his time there, Sproles was a dual-threat weapon in Payton's offense that consistently made his presence felt. While Sproles was already a better player than Vaughn was when he landed with Payton, there are similarities between the two, mostly in stature.
Vaughn is listed at 5-foot-6, weighing 176 pounds. Meanwhile, Sproles is 5-foot-6 and 190 pounds. They have similar body types and builds. Even though Vaughn has room to grow as a player, Payton has shown that he can be effective with a player who owns a similar play style.
Nonetheless, Vaughn still has some work to do in order to get elevated to the active roster. The Broncos have J.K. Dobbins, RJ Harvey, Tyler Badie, and Jaleel McLaughlin on the 53-man roster. If one of these guys goes down with an injury, Vaughn could be the one they call up.
Regardless, making plays on the practice field and standing out in meetings is a way to get on the good side of the coaches. The Broncos clearly like what Vaughn could do and signed him for a reason. Payton has a history of being productive with a smaller back, and that should put a smile on the face of Vaughn.