The Dallas Cowboys are set to have a competitive battle behind running back Javonte Williams this offseason. One analyst believes a former Clemson Tigers standout has a higher chance to carve out a bigger backfield role than initially expected.

During the latest Locked On Cowboys podcast by hosts Marcus Mosher and Landon McCool, they discussed the possibility of Phil Mafah securing the RB2 spot or a rotational role competing with Jaydon Blue. 

"He's a between-the-tackle grinder, but if you ask him to be creative or try to break off long runs, not really going to happen," Mosher said. "There's been a lot of success stories in the NFL of running backs who come in too heavy, lose 10 to 15 pounds... it unlocks their game. I wouldn't be surprised if that's the case with Mafah."

McCool also shared a similar sentiment, as he believes that Mafah can bring his power-based running style and his ability to break tackles as a tackle grinder to fill in for Williams for a game or two.

Mafah was drafted by the Cowboys in the seventh round (No. 239) of the 2025 NFL Draft. He had a breakout final year, recording 216 carries for 1,115 yards and 8 touchdowns in 2024 with Clemson.

He was placed on injured reserve last year due to a shoulder injury and did not appear until Week 18.

"You're going to give carries like a running back, but you're also going to have a package of plays, screens, receptions out of the backfield, that sort of thing," McCool said. "And Mafah can be that other guy, that third part of that, that is actually just your running back two."

He believes that Mafah is more suitable for the traditional RB2 role, as he's a physical, between-the-tackles runner who excels in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

While Mosher and McCool see Mafah as a contender for the RB2 role, another Cowboys analyst believes that Mafah could be overshadowed in the crowded running back room.

Analyst Casts Doubt on Phil Mafah's 2026 Roster Chances

In an article titled '4 Cowboys on the chopping block following the draft', LP Cruz of Blogging the Boys, noted that the competition would be high for Mafah to secure a spot on the roster squad.

"Seemingly, it comes down to Mafah beating not only Abanikanda for a spot but also the other numbers at other positions if he hopes to hang on to a roster spot," LP Cruz noted. "It’s very likely that Mafah is cut and the Cowboys look for a way to sneak him back onto the practice squad."

LP Cruz believes that Mafah might be pushed behind the room, which has Malik Davis and Jaydon Blue as potential RB2 behind Williams.

While Cruz considers Hunter Leupke as a versatile option for RB3, Mafah is expected to battle with Israel Abanikanda for the roster spot behind the other players.

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Written by

Archana Ramakrishnan

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote