The Dallas Cowboys are primed to make significant changes to their running back position during the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, with strong recommendations to select two running backs. Despite recent additions of veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, experts argue the team's depth at the position remains insufficient.

Williams, though the presumed starter, has not surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in his career, primarily due to injuries. Meanwhile, Sanders' performance has tapered off since his standout season with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022. With solid but replaceable backups in Malik Davis and Deuce Vaughn, the Cowboys should seize the opportunity to draft top talent, taking advantage of the impressive depth in this year’s running back class. Picks could include North Carolina's Omarion Hampton or Iowa's Kaleb Johnson, and even later-round talents like Virginia Tech's Bhayshul Tuten or Kansas State's DJ Giddens could bolster their backfield.

The Dallas Cowboys are set to undergo significant changes in 2025, particularly with the introduction of a new coaching staff led by Brian Schottenheimer. Known for his run-oriented offensive strategies, Schottenheimer's approach could lead to a substantial roster overhaul as Dallas aims to improve its performance.

Several players are likely to see diminished roles, including defensive tackle Mazi Smith, who, despite some signs of improvement, finished at the bottom of the rankings among his position. Wide receiver Jonathan Mingo's underwhelming performance makes him a candidate for reduced snaps, while Deuce Vaughn's inconsistent usage raises questions about his future in the backfield. Jalen Tolbert, despite a solid year, may be more effective in a supporting role, and Donovan Wilson's standing in a revamped secondary could be at risk due to changes in the defensive scheme.

The Dallas Cowboys are set to strengthen their coaching staff by hiring Conor Riley, the former offensive coordinator at Kansas State, as their new offensive line coach. This move follows the recent hiring of Klayton Adams as offensive coordinator under head coach Brian Schottenheimer. Riley's arrival brings familiarity to the team, having previously coached Cowboys players Cooper Beebe and Deuce Vaughn.

During his tenure at Kansas State, Riley showcased his abilities by leading an offense that averaged an impressive 34.6 points per game over the last two seasons. Beebe, who was drafted by the Cowboys in 2024, earned accolades as the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year twice under Riley's guidance. Additionally, Riley's past experience includes a successful stint at North Dakota State, contributing to five national championships.

The Dallas Cowboys concluded their season in Week 18 against the Washington Commanders, showcasing a roster that resembled a preseason lineup. Despite the disappointing season, several players took advantage of their chances. Head Coach Mike McCarthy faced criticism for his late-season play-calling, which only seemed to align with the team's strengths during this final game. His struggles throughout the season left fans questioning his future with the team.

Jake Ferguson was another player whose performance disappointed; he struggled to stand out among tight ends on the Cowboys. Conversely, Trey Lance made a significant impact in his opportunity, completing 20 of 34 passes and showcasing the mobility that fans hoped to see. Deuce Vaughn also impressed with his dynamic running, while Micah Parsons delivered a strong performance despite the season's overall struggles.

The Dallas Cowboys and running back Ezekiel Elliott have parted ways for the second consecutive season as the team granted his release. Elliott, a three-time Pro Bowler, requested the move to pursue opportunities with playoff contenders. Head coach Mike McCarthy attributed the decision to the emergence of Rico Dowdle, who became the first undrafted player in Cowboys history to rush for 1,000 yards, significantly diminishing Elliott's role.

Since Week 11, Dowdle has excelled, amassing 633 rushing yards, ranking fifth in the NFL during that timeframe. In contrast, Elliott's performance plummeted, recording career lows in multiple rushing categories, including just 226 yards and three touchdowns this season. McCarthy acknowledged Elliott's past contributions but emphasized the competitive nature of the running back position, leading to Dowdle's ascendance.