The Dallas Cowboys need to make a move at running back. Are they ready to make a strategic pick that could change their fortunes in the 2025 season?
A significant void has opened up at the running back position following the cutting of veteran Ezekiel Elliott and the impending NFL free agency of Rico Dowdle. With the Cowboys facing a pivotal decision, the NFL draft appears to be the most viable avenue to strengthen this critical position.
Cowboys Positioned for Strategic Drafting in 2025
In numerous mock drafts, experts project the Dallas Cowboys to select Ashton Jeanty, the dynamic running back from Boise State, with the No. 12 pick. This move could provide Dallas with the boost they need to stay competitive in the fiercely contested NFC East. Jeanty, known for his impressive agility and speed, fits well into the modern NFL offensive schemes. The Cowboys have the perfect opportunity to inject fresh talent into their backfield that could aid in their quest for a deep playoff run.
A Look at Ollie Gordon: A Potential Buy-Low Candidate
An intriguing option beyond Jeanty is the fallen star Ollie Gordon II from Oklahoma State. Once heralded as a top prospect in this year's draft class, Gordon’s performance dipped considerably in 2024, marking a stark contrast to his phenomenal 2023 season where he accumulated 1,732 yards on 285 carries. His extraordinary run from the previous year also had him claiming multiple accolades, including All-American and Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year.
Despite the drop in production — a meager 880 yards off 190 carries this past season — Gordon's capabilities remain promising. With only 4.6 yards per carry, his performance might not reflect his stunning potential, marking him as a potential buy-low candidate for the Cowboys, particularly in the sixth round.
Many analysts, including K.D. Drummond from USA Today, project the Cowboys to snap up Gordon in the sixth round, at pick No. 188. His earlier successes juxtaposed against recent struggles present an opportunity for Dallas to capitalize on his upside without the risk associated with a higher draft pick.
Assessing Ollie Gordon's Attributes
In evaluating Gordon, several characteristics can influence his fit within the Cowboys' scheme
- Finesse Running Style: Gordon is recognized for his finesse, an asset that allows him to evade defenders, although this has been criticized as he often opts for avoiding contact rather than driving through tackles.
- Physical Build: Standing at 215 pounds, he is well-built but runs lighter than his weight suggests. This running style could be beneficial in maintaining durability throughout the grind of an NFL season.
- Potential Upside: Despite his decline in production, Gordon's upside as a player could make him a considerable asset for the Cowboys looking to realize his full potential.
Free Agency Dilemma: What Lies Ahead for the Cowboys?
As Dallas gears up for the draft, the team’s front office remains cautious regarding potential free agency options. Reports indicate a reluctance to make significant moves in the free-agent market, especially for standout players like Saquon Barkley, who recently joined the Philadelphia Eagles. Analyst Jon Machota references the Cowboys' need to adopt a more aggressive approach to catch up to the Eagles while suggesting that selecting Jeanty could be a practical solution.
The hesitation to engage in high-profile free agency could be due to financial constraints, strategic focus on the draft, or a combination of both. Whatever the reasons, it’s clear Dallas is at a crossroads that could determine the effectiveness of their rushing game in the upcoming seasons.
The Path Forward for the Cowboys
The decision-making process surrounding the running back position is critical for the Dallas Cowboys. They face a high-stakes scenario as they look ahead to the 2025 season. While many eyes are on Ashton Jeanty with the No. 12 overall pick, the potential acquisition of Ollie Gordon II later in the draft adds depth and a chance to double down on a promising prospect at a reasonable cost.
Given the substantial opportunities that lie ahead, fans and analysts alike will be eagerly monitoring how the Cowboys address their running back dilemma in the months leading to the draft. As Dallas hopes to turn their fortunes and secure a standout performance in 2025, the execution of a well-thought-out strategy in this year’s draft could play a pivotal role in their success.
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