This is a PREDICTION, not a REPORT
Running back has been a position of need for the Dallas Cowboys for quite some time. Rico Dowdle was thrust into the starting role and he was much more productive than I expected.
Dowdle is a 27-year-old back who is set to hit free agency in 2025. Rather than paying up for Dowdle, it would make a ton of sense for the Dallas Cowboys to sign Nick Chubb.
Nick Chubb Set to Hit Free Agency
Coming off a torn MCL and ACL at 29 years old, Nick Chubb took a huge step down in 2024. Chubb only played eight games in 2025 and ran for a career-low 3.3 YPC. At 29 years old, Chubb likely has one to two more years in the NFL at most.
The Browns hold the number two overall draft pick and just went 3-14. Chubb has been loyal to the Browns for his entire career, but the two timelines don’t match anymore. It would make too much sense for Chubb to hit the open market in 2025.
Joining the Dallas Cowboys
I’m not expecting Chubb to sign with the Cowboys as the team’s number-one feature back. It would make perfect sense for the Cowboys to let Dowdle walk, draft a rookie and sign a number two back for the cheapest amount possible. That’s where Chubb comes in.
Assuming the Cowboys draft a rookie, it will be extremely helpful for him to learn under Chubb. Even though his days of being an elite back are gone, I expect Chubb to be a great mentor to his successor.
Not only would this make sense for the Cowboys, but they’re much closer to contention than the Browns. The Cowboys went 7-10 in 2024, but keep in mind that Dak Prescott was injured and only played in eight games. As much hate as Prescott gets, he helps elevate the team and makes them better.
While I wouldn’t consider the Cowboys Super Bowl contenders by any means, they have a good shot to make the playoffs in 2025. Chubb isn’t valued as highly as he once was, but the Cowboys are getting a solid number two back nonetheless.