Miles Sanders Slotted as No. 2 RB in Dallas — A Chance for Redemption
The Dallas Cowboys appear to have settled their running back pecking order for the 2025 season: Javonte Williams is firmly established as the lead back, while Miles Sanders takes on the role of RB2, bringing experience and versatility to the offense.
Why Sanders Is the Clear Second Option
Depth Chart Clarity After placing rookies Phil Mafah and Caelen Carson on injured reserve, the Cowboys’ backfield now rotates among Javonte Williams (RB1), Miles Sanders (RB2), and rookie Jaydon Blue, with Hunter Luepke providing additional support as a fullback/tight end option. Training Camp Standout Sanders has drawn attention during OTAs and minicamp for his reliability and adaptability—attributes that align well with new head coach Brian Schottenheimer’s vision for the offense. Injury Update & Availability After missing nearly two weeks due to a left knee bruise, Sanders returned to full practice and is expected to be available for preseason action, reinforcing his status as Williams’s primary backup.
Veteran Poise Meets Fresh Opportunity
Backfield Situation in Context The Cowboys’ running back room has long been viewed as a weakness, with inconsistent production plaguing the offense. Bringing in Sanders, a Pro Bowler from 2022 with strong prior output, injects experience into a previously thin group. Proven Resume Drafted by Philadelphia in 2019, Sanders burst onto the scene with the Eagles, totaling 3,708 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns over four seasons, plus nearly 1,000 receiving yards . Though his two seasons in Carolina were underwhelming—just 637 rushing yards and three touchdowns—Dallas could be the setting for a resurgence . Motivation to Prove Himself Sanders has stated his primary goal clearly: “I’m just trying to showcase that I can still be a starting RB in this league.” This ambition positions him as a high-upside secondary option if given enough opportunity.
What This Means for the Cowboys
Complementary Skillset As RB2, Sanders brings pass-catching ability and veteran savvy to complement Williams’s downhill, between-the-tackles style. His presence provides reliability and depth—essential in a long, grueling NFL season. Roster Implications With Williams facing real competition amid a crowded and recovering RB room, Sanders’s health and performance could quickly elevate his role or even challenge Williams, especially if the latter struggles, as noted by Dak Prescott’s emphasis on competition within the team. Preseason as the Proving Ground The final preseason game against the Falcons will be pivotal for Sanders and his RB counterparts. Strong showings could secure roster spots and determine who earns true workload in Week 1.
Summary Table
Role & Position
Detail
RB1
Javonte Williams—primary back, likely volume leader
RB2
Miles Sanders—veteran depth, pass-catching, and situational runner
Other Backups
Jaydon Blue, Phil Mafah (IR), Hunter Luepke as fullback/TE option
Outlook for Sanders
Chance to revive career and potentially flex into a larger role
Miles Sanders’s journey—from Pro Bowl success to a downturn in Carolina, and now to a fresh start in Dallas—is one of high stakes and opportunity. As RB2, he’s positioned to reclaim relevance. A strong preseason and consistency in camp could make him more than just a backup—instead, become a pivotal piece in Dallas’s short- and medium-term offensive strategy.
