Cowboys have no clear RB2 favorite after Brian Schottenheimer reveals backfield plan
Cowboys have no clear RB2 favorite after Brian Schottenheimer reveals backfield plan originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The Dallas Cowboys may not have settled their running back depth chart, but minicamp offered a strong indication of where the competition stands entering training camp.
According to Joseph Hoyt of the Dallas Morning News, rookies Phil Mafah and Jaydon Blue received first-team reps during offseason practices while veteran Javonte Williams handled a lighter workload. The extra opportunities allowed Dallas to evaluate both draft picks against higher-level competition before training camp began.
These two (and Malik Davis) are going to compete for the RB2 spot. That competition will carry out all offseason and likely into the season.
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) June 17, 2026
The fight for the No. 2 running back position has become one of the most closely watched battles on the team.
Blue and Mafah were selected in the 2025 NFL Draft and have reportedly made a positive early impression on the coaching staff. Their increased involvement with the starters gave the Cowboys additional information on two players who could factor into the offense this season.
The change in practice reps was not related to an injury concern involving Williams. Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer said Williams’ reduced workload was part of a deliberate effort to give Blue and Mafah more opportunities alongside the first-team offense. The approach allowed Dallas to accelerate the evaluation process while leveraging the offseason program.
Brian Schottenheimer was asked about Javonte Williams not participating in team drills. He said it was about giving more opportunities to both Phil Mafah and Jaydon Blue with the starters. The first two plays were tailored for both Mafah and Blue. https://t.co/kjOMznKemg
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) June 18, 2026
The competition extends beyond the two rookies. Hoyt reported that Malik Davis remains in the mix for the RB2 job, creating a three-man race behind Williams. That leaves the Cowboys with several weeks to sort through a crowded competition before preseason games begin.
The added reps for Blue and Mafah increased the spotlight on both players, but the battle remains unresolved. Offseason practices can help establish momentum, yet roster positions are rarely determined before players face live competition in training camp and the preseason.
For now, the Cowboys appear focused on gathering as much information as possible. Williams remains part of the backfield picture, while Blue, Mafah and Davis continue competing for a larger role.
Based on Hoyt’s reporting and Schottenheimer’s comments, Dallas has not identified a clear favorite for the RB2 spot. Instead, the organization appears willing to let the competition continue through training camp before making a final determination on the depth chart.
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