The Dallas Cowboys, one of the NFL’s most beloved teams, are entering the 2025 season with high expectations and notable roster changes. According to the latest from Sports Illustrated, the Cowboys’ projected starting lineup has sparked surprises, particularly at running back (RB), where the team is rebuilding after losing key players. Let’s break down this projected lineup and explore why it’s considered “shocking.”
Context: Cowboys Restructure Offense
The 2024 season was lackluster for the Dallas Cowboys, especially in their ground game. Running back Rico Dowdle, who made history as the first undrafted Cowboy to rush for 1,000 yards, departed to the Carolina Panthers in free agency. His exit left a significant gap, prompting the team’s management to act decisively in the 2025 NFL Draft and free agency.
The Cowboys had an active offseason, described as “selective but aggressive.” They not only added rookies through the draft but also made high-profile moves, such as acquiring wide receiver George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, the spotlight is on the running back position, where the projected starter is stirring excitement among fans.
Running Back: Big Surprise with Rookie Jaydon Blue
According to Sports Illustrated and related sources, rookie Jaydon Blue, a former Texas Longhorns running back selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, is emerging as the frontrunner for the starting RB role. This is a major surprise, as Blue, a Day 3 pick, was expected to be a backup or situational player. However, NFL draft analyst Chad Reuter ranked Blue as the top Day 3 pick with the potential to secure a starting role in 2025.
Blue is praised for his speed, explosiveness, and ability to evade pressure, drawing comparisons to Detroit Lions star Jahmyr Gibbs. Coach Tashard Choice, who coached Blue at Texas, noted that if Blue maintains his form and proves himself at the NFL level, he could become a “special weapon” for the Cowboys.
In addition to Blue, the Cowboys brought in other running backs, including Phil Mafah from Clemson (a seventh-round pick), and there were rumors of targeting Breece Hall from the New York Jets. However, Blue’s projected role as the lead RB reflects significant confidence from offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer and the coaching staff in his potential.
Projected Offensive Starting Lineup
Based on Sports Illustrated and X posts, here is the Cowboys’ projected offensive starting lineup for the 2025 season:
Quarterback (QB): Dak Prescott – The irreplaceable leader, expected to make history with the Cowboys this season.
Running Back (RB): Jaydon Blue – The promising rookie, competing with Javonte Williams and other RBs on the roster.
Wide Receiver (WR): CeeDee Lamb (WR1), George Pickens (WR2), Jalen Tolbert (WR3) – A trio offering a balance of power, speed, and technique.
Tight End (TE): Jake Ferguson – A reliable player, crucial in short-yardage situations.
Offensive Line (OL): LT Tyler Guyton, LG Tyler Smith, C Cooper Beebe, RG Tyler Booker, RT Terence Steele – A young, promising line expected to protect Prescott and pave the way for Blue.
Blue’s presence as the starting RB is the most shocking element, especially given the team’s other options like Mafah and their consideration of more experienced players. This signals a bold bet on the explosiveness of young rookies.
Other Positions: Balance and Challenges
Beyond the offense, the Cowboys’ defense is noteworthy, led by edge-rusher Micah Parsons, who has recorded at least 12 sacks in each of his four seasons. The defense ranks in the NFL’s top 10, bolstered by additions like Donovan Ezeiruaku and Dante Fowler Jr., though the cornerback position remains a weak point due to injuries.
The balance between offense and defense, combined with a grueling schedule (including an NFL-record four Thursday games), poses a significant challenge for the Cowboys. Notably, the season opener against the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles will be a chance for Blue and other rookies to prove their worth.
Why Is This Lineup “Shocking”?
The Cowboys’ projected starting lineup is considered shocking for several reasons:
Rookie Leading the RB Corps: A fifth-round pick like Jaydon Blue starting over veterans or higher-drafted RBs is rare.
Rapid Restructuring: After a disappointing 2024 season, the Cowboys swiftly rebuilt their roster with new faces, particularly in key offensive roles.
Challenging Schedule: With six primetime games and four Thursday matchups, the Cowboys will rely on a young roster to face tough opponents like the Eagles, adding an element of surprise and risk.
Conclusion
The Dallas Cowboys’ projected starting lineup for the 2025 season blends experience with the explosiveness of rookies, with Jaydon Blue as the focal point. While questions remain about the integration of young players and the roster’s durability against a tough schedule, the Cowboys are undeniably presenting a fresh and ambitious look. Fans have reason to be hopeful but should brace for more surprises from “America’s Team.”
Stay tuned for OTAs and minicamp to see if Jaydon Blue and his teammates can turn these projections into reality!