Sign veteran running back Nick Chubb, pair him with rookie Jaydon Blue, and watch the Cowboys offense become the most dangerous unit in the NFL.
On the surface, it sounds far-fetched. After all, Dallas has already made a number of changes to its backfield this offseason. But Bryant’s vision, while optimistic, raises valid questions about the current state-and long-term viability-of the Cowboys’ running game.
Chubb, once the centerpiece of the Cleveland Browns offense, remains a free agent after two injury-riddled seasons. A torn ACL and MCL ended his 2023 campaign early, and a broken foot later hampered his return in 2024. Though he’s been posting workout footage and signaling he’s close to full recovery, teams have understandably been cautious. As of now, no deal has materialized.
Still, Dez Bryant is convinced that the Cowboys are making a mistake by not seriously considering the 28-year-old bruising back.
Dallas’ backfield revamp leaves questions
Since parting ways with Rico Dowdle at the end of the 2024 season, the Cowboys have completely overhauled their running back group. They’ve brought in two veterans – Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams – and drafted two rookies, Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, to compete for carries this summer.
On paper, it’s a versatile mix. Sanders has starting experience, and Williams has shown flashes of promise. Meanwhile, Blue and Mafah offer youth and potential upside. However, none of these players are proven game-changers at this point in their careers. That uncertainty leaves room for speculation-like the kind Bryant is stirring.
“If the Cowboys get Chubb and combine him with Jaydon Blue, the Cowboys offense will be the most dangerous in the NFL,” Bryant tweeted.
He followed that up by highlighting how valuable Chubb’s experience could be to Blue’s development.
“That’s how you mold a young promising running back.”
From a mentorship standpoint, it’s a compelling argument. Chubb has long been regarded as one of the most technically sound and hardworking backs in the league. Even if he’s not ready to carry a full workload, his presence could elevate the performance of the younger backs around him.
However, team sources have indicated that Dallas has already made its decision. They opted to pass on Chubb during free agency in favor of younger, healthier options. With limited cap space and a roster built to win now, the Cowboys are clearly betting on their current group to deliver.
For Dez Bryant, that gamble doesn’t sit well. He sees opportunity where others see risk. And while it’s unlikely Dallas makes a late move for Chubb, Bryant’s proposal has sparked meaningful conversation about how the team is building its backfield.
In the end, it’s not about just adding talent-it’s about finding the right mix. Whether the Cowboys already have it, or whether a player like Nick Chubb still belongs in that equation, remains to be seen.
