The Dallas Cowboys have numerous needs in the upcoming NFL Draft, and because of this, they can wait to draft a position with multiple talents coming out of college.
The Cowboys need wide receivers, offensive linemen, defensive linemen, and running backs, but a premium position needs to be the number one priority in the 2025 draft.
The offensive line regressed during the season, and uncertainty at the tackle positions and right guard should make it a high selection. A wide receiver is also necessary, with CeeDee Lamb being the only viable receiver.
That said, as much as fans want a running back in the first round, it would be wise to wait until the second or third round to draft this position.
This is a heavily talented running back draft class, and an NFL starter can be found easily in the second, third, or even later rounds.
Let’s look at running backs who should be available starting in the second round.
Second-Round Running Backs
Numerous running backs could be taken in the second round of the NFL draft unless a couple of these slip into the first round.
The running backs most likely to get a round-two grade are Kaleb Johnson (Iowa), Omarion Hampton (North Carolina), and Quinshon Judkins (Ohio State).
Omarion Hampton and Kaleb Johnson are fringe first-round picks, and if so, a few third-round running backs could move up into the second.
Omarion Hampton showcases a powerful downhill running style that excels at gaining yards after contact. His strong lower body and aggressive finishing make him the ideal choice for short-yardage and goal-line situations, delivering an immediate impact as a two-down back.
Hampton must improve in key areas of his game. His upright running posture makes him vulnerable to bigger hits, and he needs to refine his receiving skills.
While he shows potential in pass protection, greater consistency is necessary to earn trust on all downs. Improving his route running and ball security is essential for transitioning to the next level.
Kaleb Johnson may lack elite breakaway speed, but his power and burst make him a formidable chain-mover and red-zone threat. His ability to wear down defenses will attract teams focused on a physical rushing attack, though he must improve his pass protection and receiving skills to be a true every-down back.
With the potential to excel as an early-down runner, he can develop into a three-down back. His vision and decisiveness allow him to maximize yardage in tight spaces, and he thrives in a zone-blocking scheme where he can exploit defensive over-pursuit.
Quinshon Judkins is interesting due to his strong performance in the SEC. His transfer to Ohio State was a prime opportunity for him to showcase his talents in a new offensive system, likely boosting his draft stock.
Judkins is poised to become a reliable three-down back in the NFL by refining his receiving skills and pass protection.
His vision, burst, and power suit him perfectly for zone-based running schemes. While he may lack some elite running backs’ top-end speed, his ability to gain yards through contact and navigate tight spaces distinguishes him as a standout prospect.
Jordan James is a dynamic change-of-pace back with significant home-run potential. He is ideally suited for a zone-heavy offensive scheme. His explosive first step and vision enable him to excel in outside zone concepts by effectively exploiting cutback lanes.
His effectiveness in the red zone and ability to make big plays add immediate value, but his long-term success will depend on mastery of fundamental skills.
Ultimately, James is a day two draft pick ready to contribute in a rotational role. His explosive potential and scoring ability position him as an intriguing prospect, and his development into a complete back will determine if he becomes a feature player in the NFL.
TreVeyon Henderson is a dynamic three-down back in the NFL with the potential for an immediate impact. His explosiveness, vision, and receiving skills make him well-suited for modern, versatile offenses.
With strong acceleration and long speed, he can excel in both zone and gap schemes, taking advantage of openings for significant gains.
Although there are durability concerns, his game-breaking talent is evident, and he is an appealing option on third downs. Teams using a rotational backfield can optimize his impact by managing his workload and leveraging his ability for big plays at key moments.
Third-Round Running Backs
The following running backs are third-round picks and a couple who could slide into the late second round. In the right situation, they have the potential to be feature-backs.
Ollie Gordon II is primed to become a top running back at the next level. He effectively manages both zone and gap schemes. His strong vision, patience, and evasion skills will ease his transition to the NFL.
He has reliable receiving abilities, which makes him a solid three-down potential in today’s pass-heavy offenses.
Gordon’s capacity to wear down defenses in the fourth quarter positions him as a lead back in a ground-and-pound offense, making him well-suited to adapt to the NFL’s pace and complexity.
Dylan Sampson has explosive speed and lateral quickness, making him a potential game-changer at the next level. His skills fit well in zone-heavy schemes, allowing him to leverage his vision and one-cut ability effectively.
His precise route running and reliable hands create mismatches against linebackers in the passing game. As a Day 2 prospect, his success depends on finding a team that can maximize his open-field talents. He could become a dynamic weapon in the right system, even with limited touches.
Raheim Sanders in the NFL must focus on setting the tone and establishing field position, which means he needs to consistently flip the field.
He possesses the explosive traits front offices covet, especially in zone schemes. However, the film also shows that he is more than just a one-cut runner; he has the capability to turn the corner and break off big plays.
When you watch the film, Sanders stands out as an every-down back, showcasing a well-rounded skill set that is becoming increasingly rare in college football. His vision, power, and burst place him in the elite conversation among running backs.
Nicholas Singleton has the potential to be a three-down back in the NFL, with the skills to contribute right away in a committee role. His vision, power, and burst make him well-suited for zone-blocking schemes, where he can exploit defensive weaknesses with his one-cut ability. While he shows promise as a receiver, further development could solidify his status as an every-down threat.
In the right system, Singleton could become a feature back. His pass protection skills and improving receiving ability suggest he could handle third-down responsibilities early in his career. With his college production, athleticism, and growth potential, Singleton is an exciting option for teams looking to enhance their backfield.
Devin Neal is projected as a dynamic change-of-pace running back with the potential for a larger role. His skill set fits well in a zone-blocking scheme, utilizing his vision and one-cut ability.
NFL coordinators will appreciate Neal’s big-play potential and contributions across various facets of the game.
His experience in a Power Five conference and consistent performance against top competition suggest a smooth transition to the NFL. Although he may need to add some weight for the league’s physicality, his natural instincts provide a strong foundation.
Kalel Mullings showcases a powerful, north-south running style that is attractive to teams in need of a strong running back. His combination of size and unexpected speed enables him to overpower defenders and gain difficult yardage between the tackles.
Additionally, his background as a former linebacker enhances his football instincts, particularly in his vision and ability to set up blocks, indicating potential for further growth as he gains more experience in the backfield.
The Best of the Rest
Hopefully, the Cowboys do not make it past the second or third round when drafting a running back, but just in case, here are a few who could develop into a feature back or be a good piece in running back by committee.
Kaytron Allen is best suited for a power-running game, thanks to his one-cut style and physicality, making him ideal for zone-blocking schemes. While he may not be an every-down back right away, his strength and vision should help him excel in short-yardage and goal-line situations early in his career.
Damien Martinez is a high-floor prospect ready to make an immediate impact in a committee backfield. His powerful running style and ability to gain tough yards make him an ideal choice for teams focused on a strong ground game. While he may not possess breakaway speed or extensive receiving skills, he is effective as an early-down runner and short-yardage specialist.
DJ Giddens is viewed as a reliable workhorse running back with the potential to contribute immediately in a committee role and develop into a featured runner. His size, vision, and versatility make him an appealing prospect for zone-blocking schemes.
While he may not have elite breakaway speed, Giddens excels at gaining yards after contact and is effective in the passing game. Teams looking for a dependable mid-round option who can handle a heavy workload will find Giddens attractive.
Cam Skattebo a former FCS transfer from Sacramento State, became a Heisman finalist through determination and strong instincts. He consistently exceeds his modest athletic testing numbers.
Despite his 4.62-second speed and small-school background, NFL teams will value his reliability and production. His MVP performance in the College Football Playoffs shows that he excels against top competition.
While not the fastest back, Skattebo’s hard work should secure him a significant role in the league. With 506 receiving yards in 2024, he is expected to quickly establish himself, similar to former NFL backs Alfred Morris and James Robinson.
Brashard Smith has burst, acceleration, and pass-catching skills which suggest Day 2 draft potential in a spread offense. His one-cut ability is well-suited for inside zone and duo concepts, while his receiver background allows for mismatches from empty sets. His kick return skills also add valuable versatility for early career contributions.
While there will be several more running backs in the draft, these are some of the big names with potential. Some may be best suited for a committee backfield.
Luckily, the Cowboys can resign Rico Dowdle.
The combination of Rico Dowdle and any of these backs will pay dividends for the run game, and having a young back potentially take over the lead role is a must for the Dallas Cowboys.
Unless the Cowboys get a running back in the first round, look for all these running backs to be on the radar.