The Dallas Cowboys' playoff chances are virtually gone, as they own just a 1% chance of making the playoffs after their latest loss. They will still fight hard in the remaining three games, but eyes on the offseason moves will start picking up, especially around the running back position.
There are several areas where the Cowboys will need to make additions, and running back should be near the top of the list. Javonte Williams will be a free agent and would look to cash in after his stellar campaign.
While the Cowboys would love to extend him, there are no guarantees that will happen after his breakout season, which would leave a void in the running back room. Running back Kenneth Gainwell should be atop their list of potential running backs to target.
Kenneth Gainwell Should Be a Target for Cowboys in Free Agency
The Cowboys drafted Jaydon Blue in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL draft, but he hasn't been able to carve out any meaningful role. He has 70 total scrimmage yards on the year, but it's clear the coaching staff doesn't have confidence in him.
Dallas has also used Malik Davis as the team's RB2 for the past few weeks, but that isn't inspiring. Davis hasn't rushed for more than 47 rushing yards in any game this season. They need more in the running back room, which is why potentially pursuing Gainwell makes sense.
Gainwell is a dual-threat playmaker in the backfield, making waves as a pass catcher and ball carrier for the Steelers. Through 14 games, he has compiled 451 rushing yards, 352 receiving yards, and six total touchdowns. He's consistently been a safety value for Aaron Rodgers and that offense. For the year, Gainwell has four games with 100-plus scrimmage yards, and Rodgers revealed that it's been his mission to get Gainwell paid in the offseason.
Considering that Gainwell signed with the Steelers for just $1.8 million, that's a steal. What he provides the Steelers offense with is a change-of-pace playmaker, and he would be an asset in the Cowboys offense. He can make defenders miss in space and turn a check down into a big play.
The Cowboys have some decisions concerning who they'll pay this offseason, which include pending free agents Javonte Williams and George Pickens. That's up to Jerry Jones and company to figure out, but Dallas would be wise to see what it would cost to bring in Gainwell.
Gainwell isn't your RB1, but having him as your RB2 would be massive and add another wrinkle to an already explosive offense. The Cowboys know they'll have some questions in the backfield going into the offseason, but the acquisition of Gainwell would help solve a problem for this team.