The Dallas Cowboys currently have one of the NFL’s weakest rushing attacks. Through six games, they’ve accumulated 463 yards, averaging 3.5 yards per attempt. Rico Dowdle leads the team in rushing, but his talent is just “fine.” Ezekiel Elliott, in his second stint with Dallas, has lost his explosiveness and struggled. Deuce Vaughn, expected to be an explosive change-of-pace option, has been outrushed by both Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. This may have been predictable. The Cowboys were expected to draft a running back but boldly chose not to. Now, Dallas can no longer ignore the need for a fresh runner, as the position requires new blood and a fresh start.

A new standout prospect has emerged as the college football season progresses: Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty. The junior from Jacksonville, FL, has exploded with 1,247 yards and 17 touchdowns in six games, positioning himself in the Heisman race. Cowboys fans have started campaigning to bring Jeanty to Dallas, but if he’s as good as advertised, many teams will pursue him, and the Cowboys might not be in range to draft him. Like the case with Bijan Robinson, fans might overlook other teams eyeing the same player. It’s worth exploring alternative options before getting too invested in one prospect.

Devin Neal has been on the radar for over a year. Last season, he ran for 1,280 yards and 16 touchdowns for the Jayhawks. However, Kansas’ struggles, including a 1-5 record and a defense allowing 30 points per game, have limited Neal’s impact. The senior, standing 5’11” and weighing 215 lbs, is a dynamic runner with long speed, toughness between the tackles, and is a reliable pass-catcher who can block blitzes. He’s an ideal fit for an outside zone running scheme.

Omarion Hampton will likely be the second running back taken off the board. Hampton blends patience and vision with excellent instincts to spot cut-back lanes. He’s a bruising, thick-framed runner who punishes defenses as the game wears on, requiring multiple defenders to bring him down. Hampton has rushed for 901 yards this season and is on track to set career highs in receptions. His physicality and workhorse potential make him a reliable three-down back, reminiscent of Ezekiel Elliott, and he could have an immediate impact behind the right offensive line.

Jonah Coleman, a transfer to Washington from Arizona, has impressive agility for a running back near 230 pounds. His lower body strength allows him to break arm tackles, while his balance and burst make him dangerous after contact. Coleman shows quick direction changes and soft hands as a receiver, making defenders miss in space. He could start as a two-down back but, with experience, develop into a three-down workhorse at the NFL level.