Two second-year backs, Jaydon Blue (a fifth-round pick) and Phil Mafah (a seventh-round pick), sit behind Williams. Last year, neither played much. Blue faced issues with attitude and work ethic, while Mafah dealt with a shoulder injury. Veteran backup Malik Davis has been in the mix for five seasons as a solid emergency option, though he isn’t viewed as a primary contributor.
There are two ways to view Blue’s spring progress: some see a genuine uptick in his approach and professionalism, while others wonder if the coaching staff is simply trying to project a more favorable version of him. Regardless, there’s potential depth a notable veteran could add: former NFL touchdown leader Austin Ekeler.
Ekeler, who is coming off an Achilles tear that limited him to two games last season with Washington, is currently a free agent. At 31, he remains interested in continuing his career, though he has indicated he does not expect to be a starter. He is known for his reliable pass-catching out of the backfield and solid running between the tackles. If brought in, Ekeler would likely accept a supporting role and provide valuable experience and versatility.
Ekeler’s production includes multiple seasons with high yardage from scrimmage and leading the NFL in touchdowns from scrimmage in 2021 (20) and 2022 (18). While he might not win a primary job in camp, he could still be a strong option to push Blue, provide a mentorship presence, and add a veteran floor to the Cowboys’ backfield.
Looking at Jaydon Blue’s development, the goal is to see him win the RB2 job. Mafah’s running style mirrors Williams’ bruising approach, while Blue offers a smaller, faster option with big-play potential. The coaching staff appears to be laying the groundwork for Blue to contribute as a change-of-pace back and as a multi-use contributor, including potential involvement as a receiver out of the backfield and on special teams. Head coach Liam Schottenheimer has publicly discussed Blue’s improved focus and work ethic and stressed that Blue will need to handle multiple roles even if he isn’t the featured back.
In short, the Cowboys are counting on Javonte Williams to carry the load, with Blue and Mafah competing for the secondary role behind him. Ekeler represents an intriguing potential addition, offering seasoned versatility and leadership if the team chooses to pursue a veteran presence to accelerate Blue’s development and add depth to the backfield.
This overview reflects the current discussion around the Cowboys’ backfield, focusing on Williams’ established role, the developmental trajectory of Blue and Mafah, the veteran option in Ekeler, and how these pieces could fit together to create a balanced and effective rushing attack.
