The Dallas Cowboys have made significant changes to their running back roster, releasing 2025 draft picks Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah. Coach Brian Schottenheimer noted the difficulty of these decisions, emphasizing the potential both players had shown. He pointed out the strong performance of Malik Davis, who has solidified his position on the team.
To enhance their roster, the Cowboys have added running back Emari Demercado, who was claimed off waivers from Kansas City. Schottenheimer highlighted Demercado's versatility, especially in special teams, as a crucial factor in this acquisition. The coach also mentioned that offensive coordinator Klayton Adams' past experience with Demercado influenced the decision.
While discussing the future of Blue and Mafah, Schottenheimer was cautious, indicating that there were no guarantees for their return to the practice squad. The Cowboys have already signed 13 players to their practice squad, including running back Israel Abanikanda.
An NFL team can have a maximum of 16 players on the practice squad, and the Cowboys have an exemption for one additional player as part of the International Player Pathway program, which features defensive tackle Dayo Odeleye.
Schottenheimer expressed confidence in the current group of running backs, aiming to build a competitive roster that reflects their philosophy of daily competition.
