There's typically never a dull moment in a Dallas Cowboys offseason, but things have been uncharacteristically -- and pleasantly -- quiet since April's draft. The dormancy is about to end, though, as organized team activities (OTAs) get underway on Monday.
There are storylines around every corner, including at running back, where there will be a competition for the backup job behind Javonte Williams. Keeping Williams is paramount, making RB2 one of the more important unheralded roles on the team.
While the Cowboys likely want former Texas star Jaydon Blue to seize the opportunity, 2025 seventh-round pick Phil Mafah is healthy again and shouldn't be written off.
Phil Mafah shouldn't be written off in Dallas Cowboys' RB2 battle
Anytime the RB2 battle is mentioned, Malik Davis and Jaydon Blue are the first names out of everyone's mouth. On one hand, that's understandable.
Davis held the title last year and is the de facto leader, and Blue's explosiveness and pass-catching chops are a perfect complement to Williams on paper. But Mafah shouldn't be treated as an afterthought. He and Blue are on a level playing field, and OTAs, minicamp, and training camp will give him every opportunity to force his way into the conversation.
It's easy to forget that Mafah impressed in Oxnard and the preseason before a shoulder injury wiped out most of his rookie year. His stat line of 15 carries for 59 yards is pedestrian, but box scores don't always tell the full story.
Playing behind third-string offensive linemen, Mafah rarely had much room to operate. Still, he ran hard and showed an ability to break tackles and fall forward through contact.
While Williams brings those same traits to the table, Brian Schottenheimer and offensive coordinator Klayton Adams have made it clear they value physical runners. Who's to say they won't keep Mafah if he outplays Davis and Blue?
Part of Williams' value, beyond his rushing efficiency, is his ability as a pass-catcher and pass protector. That's why he rarely came off the field, but the heavy workload appeared to take its toll, as he wasn't nearly as explosive down the stretch.
For Mafah to earn his keep, he'll have to show he can handle those responsibilities. He had reliable hands at Clemson as a check-down option, and while he was a willing pass blocker, his technique and blitz recognition left something to be desired.
Mafah might be the forgotten man in the RB room, but just because he's viewed as fourth on the depth chart doesn't mean anything. It's an open competition, giving him a golden opportunity to steal a roster spot.
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