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Brian Schottenheimer: "We’re Not Desperate to Sign Another Running Back"

May 15, 2025

The Dallas Cowboys are heading into the 2025 NFL season with confidence, shrugging off concerns about their running back corps. In a recent press conference, head coach Mike McCarthy emphasized that the team isn’t "desperate" to sign a marquee running back, despite last season’s struggles.

Strategic Roster Building

ESPN’s Dan Graziano notes that the Cowboys have bolstered their backfield without chasing big names like Nick Chubb or J.K. Dobbins. Instead, they signed veteran starters Miles Sanders (from Panthers) and Javonte Williams (from Broncos) in free agency. Additionally, 2025 NFL Draft picks Jaydon Blue (Round 5, Texas) and Phil Mafah (Round 7, Clemson) are expected to bring explosiveness and versatility.

“We’re happy with our depth,” McCarthy said. “Blue’s got speed, Mafah brings power, and Sanders and Williams add experience. That’s our foundation.”

Prioritizing the Offensive Line

The Cowboys invested heavily in their offensive line, drafting Tyler Booker (guard, Alabama) in the first round to replace the retired Zack Martin. This move aims to pave the way for their running backs while supporting QB Dak Prescott and a receiving corps led by CeeDee Lamb and newcomer George Pickens (from Steelers).

Owner Jerry Jones added, “We’re keeping an eye on the market, but we’re not rushing. Our run game will shine if the line does its job.”

Challenges Ahead

In 2024, Dallas managed just 1,705 rushing yards (6th-fewest in the NFL) and 6 rushing touchdowns (league-low). Adopting a “committee” approach with multiple backs sharing duties, the team hopes to boost production. However, their Week 1 clash against defending champions Philadelphia Eagles will test this revamped backfield.

Conclusion

Under McCarthy’s leadership, the Cowboys believe their current running back group is sufficient to compete without splurging on a star. Can this strategy propel Dallas back to the top? Fans are eager for answers as the season kicks off.

Minnesota Vikings vs Dallas Cowboys Week 15 NFL 2025: Latest Odds, Injury Report & Score Prediction
The marquee Sunday Night Football matchup in Week 15 pits the Minnesota Vikings (5-8) against the Dallas Cowboys (6-6-1) at AT&T Stadium. Kickoff is set for 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, December 14, 2025. This is a must-win game for Dallas to keep playoff hopes alive. Quick Match Info (Updated Dec 10, 2025) Date & Time: Sunday, Dec 14, 2025 – 8:20 PM ET Venue: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX (retractable roof – weather not a factor) TV (US): NBC / Peacock Current Records: Vikings 5-8 | Cowboys 6-6-1 **Head-to-Head: Cowboys lead all-time series 19-15 and have won 5 of the last 6 meetings Latest Betting Odds (Consensus – BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel) Bet Type Vikings Cowboys Notes Spread +6.5 (-110) -6.5 (-110) Line moved from -7 to -6.5 Moneyline +240 -300   Total (O/U) Over 47.5 (-110) Under 47.5 (-110) Trending toward 47   Best value bets right now: Cowboys -6.5 or Under 47.5 Key Injury Report (as of Dec 10 evening)     Team Player Position Injury Status Cowboys CeeDee Lamb WR Concussion protocol Questionable (65-70% to play, may wear guardian cap) Cowboys Tyler Guyton OT High ankle sprain Doubtful Cowboys Jadeveon Clowney EDGE Hamstring Questionable Cowboys Trevon Diggs CB Knee soreness Questionable Vikings J.J. McCarthy QB Cleared concussion protocol Will start Vikings Justin Jefferson WR Healthy 100%   → If Lamb is limited or out, Vikings +6.5 becomes very playable. Key Stats & Trends Cowboys average 29.3 PPG at home (best in NFL) Vikings average only 16.8 PPG on the road this season 7 of Dallas’ last 9 home games went OVER the total Vikings are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as +6 or bigger underdogs Expert Score Predictions ESPN FPI: Cowboys 27 – Vikings 19 (73.2% win probability for Dallas) SportsLine 10,000 sims: Cowboys by 7.8 points USA Today: Cowboys 28–20 Bleacher Report: Cowboys 31–23 Our Final Prediction: Dallas Cowboys 30 – 20 Vikings → Cowboys cover -6.5 | Game goes slightly OVER 47.5