Where the Cowboys' RB Depth Chart Stands Heading Into Draft

3. Deuce Vaughn

Deuce Vaughn finds himself as the Cowboys RB3 ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft following an uneventful rookie season. The 2023 sixth-round selection wasn't efficient with his limited opportunities, turning 23 carries into an abysmal 40 rushing yards (1.7 yards per attempt) while catching all seven of his targets for another 40 yards.

But even though Vaughn left much to be desired in Year 1, he can't be labeled a bust yet. Sixth-round draft picks can take some time to develop and we already know that he has something inside of him following impressive showings throughout training camp and the preseason.

Unless the RB depth chart receives a shake-up, Vaughn will likely be the RB3 this fall. Dowdle and Freeman will probably handle the majority of the work while Vaughn gets in the mix on the occasional passing down as the change-of-pace back (at least until he shows that he's capable of doing more).

4. Malik Davis

Malike Davis joined the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent following the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite starting the year on the practice squad, Willis earned playing time as the season went on, tallying 224 scrimmage yards and a touchdown on 44 touches in 12 games.

Dallas fans who were hoping for an encore performance in 2023 were let down, though. Davis spent the majority of last season on the practice squad, only being elevated to the active roster three times. He didn't take a single snap on offense, playing all 47 of his opportunities on special teams instead.

The Cowboys did re-sign Davis to a futures contract after the season ended, so it's clear that they haven't given up hope yet. Still, it's going to be tough for the 25-year-old to find more playing time if Dallas drafts another RB, meaning he'll need a strong training camp/preseason to avoid being stuck on the practice squad again.