The Dallas Cowboys are in the midst of an open competition at running back during training camp. Playmakers are not only competing for the starting gig, but several running backs are in danger of being cut in the coming weeks.
Veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders are being given the initial opportunity to win the starting job. Rookie Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah could push their way into the mix as well.
Fan favorite Deuce Vaughn may be on the outside looking in when it comes to making the 53-man roster ahead of Week 1. Find out why Vaughn in predicted to get cut in the coming weeks.
The Cowboys Predicted to Cut 2 Key Running Backs
Ahead of training camp, ESPN’s Todd Archer offered his projected final roster. The Cowboys insider has Dallas keeping the following running backs: Williams, Sanders, Blue and Hunter Luepke.
This would mean Vaughn and Mafah would be among the notable cuts on offense. Luepke is more of a hybrid player given his ability to play both fullback and running back. If the projections come to fruition, the Cowboys would only be carrying three traditional running backs on the final roster.
Javonte Williams & Miles Sanders Are Splitting the First-Team Reps at Running Back During Cowboys Training Camp
As for the early favorite to emerge as the new Cowboys RB1, both Williams and Sanders are splitting the early reps. Vaughn and Blue have been relegated to backup duty.
“Who will be the Cowboys’ running back? Coach Brian Schottenheimer said once the pads come on that the battle will hit full speed because of the nature of the position,” Archer wrote in a July 25, 2025, story titled, “2025 Dallas Cowboys training camp: Latest intel, updates.”
“But as the Cowboys opened practice Tuesday with a non-padded workout. Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders alternated with the starters during the eight team periods. Williams had five carries and Sanders finished with six. Deuce Vaughn and Jaydon Blue split the work behind backup quarterback Joe Milton III.”
Cowboys RB Deuce Vaughn ‘Getting More Reps’ During Training Camp
Despite a standout college football career at Kansas State, Vaughn has underwhelmed with the Cowboys. Vaughn has yet to score a rushing touchdown for Dallas in his two seasons since being a sixth-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft.
The running back has 40 carries for 110 yards in 14 appearances during his Cowboys tenure. All City DLLS’ Clarence Hill Jr. reported that Vaughn has been getting more reps in practices.
“Cowboys rb Deuce Vaughn is getting more reps this year in camp than ever so far,” Hill noted in a July 24, message on X. “He looks like Deuce.”
Cowboys HC Brian Schottenheimer on Running Backs: ‘I Think They Will All Get a Fair Shot’
There is still plenty of time for Vaughn to gain ground before the end of training camp. Likewise, Williams and Sanders also need to show they are capable to carrying the load. Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer has promised all the running backs will get a chance to prove themselves.
“I think they will all get a fair shot,” Schottenheimer said of the running backs, per The Athletic’s Jon Machota. “The problem with OTAs for a running back is the game is meant to be played very physically. The way you run through the hole is different when you’re wearing pads or you’re in a nine-on-seven period than when you’re running around in shorts and T-shirts in OTAs. They’ll all get reps.
“… That’s one of the matchups and one of the position rooms that we’re very excited to watch and see where it develops, not only through practice but through the preseason games.”
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