Head coach Mike McCarthy of the Dallas Cowboys
As the Dallas Cowboys look ahead to the future, questions are looming about the long-term answer at running back. While Rico Dowdle may hold onto the RB1 spot for the rest of the season, his upcoming free agency and Ezekiel Elliott’s uncertain future mean the Cowboys will likely need to address the position during the 2025 NFL Draft.
Dowdle has performed admirably this season, but with his contract expiring next offseason, there’s no guarantee that he or Elliott will return. Dowdle could potentially be re-signed, but Elliott’s replacement will be necessary as Dallas continues its quest to bolster the backfield.
Enter Quinshon Judkins, an Ohio State transfer widely regarded as the second-best running back prospect in the 2025 draft class. With college football standout Ashton Jeanty of Boise State climbing draft boards, Judkins presents a more realistic target for the Cowboys. Judkins, who first made his mark at Ole Miss, has proven himself as one of the most talented ball carriers in college football.
Judkins’ combination of size (215 pounds), strength, and contact balance makes him an intriguing prospect for Dallas. As Bleacher Report noted, “Judkins is among the most talented ball carriers in college football. He presents an NFL-ready frame with the contact balance to match.” A violent runner who overpowers defenders, Judkins is the type of back who fits the Cowboys’ need for toughness and durability.
During his time at Ole Miss, Judkins posted stellar numbers, rushing for 1,567 yards as a freshman and 1,158 yards as a sophomore, with a total of 34 touchdowns. Now splitting carries at Ohio State, he’s still managing to make an impact, averaging 93.6 yards per game and scoring five touchdowns through five games.
Judkins, ranked as the No. 31 overall prospect by Pro Football Focus, could be a strong option for the Cowboys in the second round of the draft. If Dallas decides to address other needs, such as wide receiver or defensive line, in the first round, Judkins may still be available to provide the boost the Cowboys need in their backfield.
While other positions remain a priority, running back is a critical spot Dallas must address. If the team can land a player like Judkins, they may just secure their running game for years to come.
