The Dallas Cowboys have faced a long-standing need at the running back position, and their recent situation has only amplified that urgency. Rico Dowdle stepped into the starting role, and to the surprise of many, he delivered a performance that exceeded expectations. He showed flashes of potential that had fans and analysts alike taking note, but as the Cowboys look ahead, they’re faced with some tough decisions regarding his future.
At 27 years old, Dowdle is heading towards free agency in 2025, and while he certainly has talent, the Cowboys might want to consider a different route. Enter Nick Chubb, the powerhouse running back whose future is a topic of increasing intrigue as he approaches free agency.
Chubb is coming off a challenging season where he struggled significantly following a torn MCL and ACL. At 29 years old, he managed to appear in just eight games, averaging a career-low 3.3 yards per carry. With injuries taking a toll, it’s clear that Chubb may only have a couple more years left in the league, making this offseason a pivotal moment in his career.
The Cleveland Browns, who have recently endured their own struggles, hold the second overall pick in the upcoming draft and finished a disappointing 3-14 this past season. Given the disconnect between Chubb’s championship-ready mindset and the Browns’ ongoing rebuilding phase, the time might be right for him to explore the free-agent market in 2025.
Now, could Nick Chubb don the blue and silver of the Dallas Cowboys? While it’s unlikely he would come in as the feature back, there’s a strong case for this pairing. The Cowboys might choose to move on from Dowdle, leverage their draft picks to bring in a rookie, and seek a cost-effective option to complement their new ball-carrier. Chubb could fill that role perfectly.
The benefits of bringing in a seasoned player like Chubb wouldn’t just reside in his on-field contributions. His experience in the league could serve invaluable for any rookie that Dallas decides to draft. Even if he has lost a step, Chubb could provide mentorship and guidance, helping to develop the next generation of talent in the Cowboys’ backfield.
Moreover, the timing makes sense: the Cowboys, despite finishing 7-10 last season, were beset by injuries, particularly to quarterback Dak Prescott, who missed a significant portion of the year. With Prescott back and healthy, the Cowboys’ playoff aspirations could become a real possibility again. Joining a team that’s closer to contention than the Browns might be an appealing prospect for Chubb, allowing him to chase the elusive ring while mentoring his successor at the same time.
In summary, while the Cowboys’ running back situation is still evolving, the potential signing of Nick Chubb could be a strategic move that pays dividends in both the short term and the long run. A combination of veteran wisdom and youthful exuberance might just be the formula Dallas needs to elevate their ground game and make a serious playoff push.
