The Dallas Cowboys’ backfield enters the 2025 season as a case study in potential fantasy football frustration. While the team boasts depth at running back, a crowded rotation and lingering uncertainties make it a risky investment for fantasy managers.
Miles Sanders, expected to play a significant role, has missed critical practice time due to injury. His absence not only raises concerns about his readiness but also disrupts the rhythm of a backfield already packed with options. Sanders’ injury opens the door for other players, but it also amplifies the unpredictability of the depth chart.
Dallas Cowboys, Javonte Williams
Jan 5, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams (33) runs the ball on a hand off from quarterback Bo Nix (10) in the fourth quarter against the Kansas City Chiefs at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Dallas has added Javonte Williams and drafted rookies Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, creating a logjam at the position. Williams, once a promising talent, has struggled to regain form after a knee injury, while Blue, though explosive, is battling a heel bruise. Mafah brings a power-running element but lacks a clear path to consistent snaps.
This crowded setup leaves fantasy managers guessing which player will emerge as the go-to option. Dallas appears poised to adopt a hot-hand approach, further complicating the weekly outlook. Without a clear lead back, the risk of inconsistent production looms large.
Fantasy Football Analysis Explains Why Dallas Cowboys’ Backfield Could be Disastrous
Dallas Cowboys, Javonte Williams
Oct 12, 2024; Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Phil Mafah (7) during the second half against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Dallas’ backfiield may not be a good choice in Fantasy Football for the upcoming season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Brent Sobleski for Bleacher Report.
As a unit, the Cowboys finished bottom six in rushing yardage last season. To make matters worse, Dowdle left in free agency to join the Carolina Panthers.
Dallas responded by signing Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders in free agency, then drafted Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah in this year’s fifth and seventh rounds, respectively.
Williams once looked a future star before a significant knee injury ended his sophomore campaign. He hasn’t quite looked like the same explosive ball-carrier ever since. Sanders is now 28 and more of a change-of-pace option at this stage of his career. He can be effective as an outlet target.
Blue is the one option among this group with the upside to warrant a later flier. The rookie has impressive throughout training camp. He’s undersized but explosive. Although, he’s currently injured and dealing with a bone bruise in his heel, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram‘s Nick Harris.
Fellow first-year ball-carrier Phil Mafah shouldn’t be overlooked, either, because he provides a completely different skill set as a powerful, downhill runner.
The issues here is too many cooks in the kitchen with the potential to cancel out one another from a fantasy football perspective. The Cowboys should ride the hot hand each week, while will create far too much much uncertainty when considering lineup projections.
The uncertainty is compounded by the Cowboys’ offensive strategy, which may not prioritize a traditional ground game. While this depth provides real-life football benefits, it significantly reduces the fantasy upside of any individual player. Managers relying on a Cowboys running back may find themselves frustrated by unpredictable usage.
Dallas Cowboys, Javonte Williams
Dec 20, 2020; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Miles Sanders (26) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
With too many players competing for touches, the Dallas backfield offers more questions than answers for fantasy purposes. Unless a clear leader emerges, it’s a situation best avoided in drafts, as the rotation could prove disastrous for consistent scoring.
Dallas Cowboys, Javonte Williams
Dec 20, 2020; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Miles Sanders (26) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
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