The buzz surrounding the Dallas Cowboys and former Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty is palpable as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches. Jeanty, who played high school football in Texas, has made it clear that he dreams of donning the star on his helmet come April. With an impressive college career under his belt, including a staggering 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, Jeanty has certainly caught the attention of fans and analysts alike.
Mock Draft Predictions
Recently, NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks released his first mock draft for the opening round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and to no surprise, he has the Cowboys selecting Jeanty. This prediction only adds fuel to the fire of speculation surrounding the Cowboys’ potential interest in the talented running back. But what does this mean for the team and its current roster?
Emmitt Smith’s Concerns
Despite the excitement surrounding Jeanty, former Cowboys star Emmitt Smith has voiced his reservations about the team drafting him. In a conversation with Maggie and Perloff, Smith expressed his concerns regarding the Cowboys’ current mindset and commitment to utilizing a running back effectively. “If he comes to the Cowboys right now, he’s going to get beat up,” Smith stated. His words resonate with a sense of urgency, highlighting the need for the team to reevaluate its approach before making such a significant move.
The Need for Commitment
Smith’s skepticism stems from a broader issue within the Cowboys’ organization. He believes that the team has not demonstrated a consistent commitment to the running game. “OK, you’re trying to tell me Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle could not carry that team? No. There was no commitment to run the football,” he remarked. This lack of dedication to the ground game has left many fans questioning whether drafting Jeanty would be a wise decision.
Indeed, the statistics support Smith’s argument. Dowdle finished the 2024 season with 1,079 rushing yards, showcasing his potential when given the opportunity. He topped the 100-yard mark four times over the final six games after struggling earlier in the season. This inconsistency raises the question: if the Cowboys couldn’t maximize their existing talent, how could they effectively utilize a new star like Jeanty?
Jeanty’s Impressive Resume
There’s no denying that Ashton Jeanty has an impressive track record. Finishing as the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy last year speaks volumes about his abilities on the field. His combination of speed, agility, and vision makes him a formidable threat. However, as Smith points out, the key to unlocking Jeanty’s potential lies in the Cowboys’ commitment to a balanced offensive strategy.
The Importance of Balance
Smith emphasizes the need for balance in the Cowboys’ offensive game plan. “You need to do that the whole entire year,” he said, referring to the importance of a consistent running game. He urged the team to avoid following the trends of other franchises and instead focus on what works best for their roster. “Your quarterback is not Patrick Mahomes, he’s not Josh Allen, he’s not Joe Burrow. He’s Dak Prescott,” Smith pointed out, reminding fans that the Cowboys need to tailor their strategy to their strengths.
The reality is that the Cowboys have the talent to succeed on the ground. With the right mindset and commitment, they could create a dynamic rushing attack that complements Prescott’s abilities. So, if the Cowboys are serious about drafting Jeanty, they must first ensure they have the infrastructure in place to support him.
Looking Ahead
As the draft approaches, the Cowboys face a critical decision. Will they prioritize bringing in a player with Jeanty’s talent, or will they focus on addressing the underlying issues that have plagued their running game? The excitement around Jeanty is undeniable, but the team’s success hinges on their ability to adapt and commit to a balanced offensive strategy.
In the end, the Cowboys’ future may very well depend on how they approach the upcoming draft. If they can align their vision with the talents of a player like Jeanty, they could potentially transform their offense into a powerhouse. However, without the right mindset and commitment to running the football, drafting Jeanty could be a missed opportunity. As fans eagerly await the draft, the question remains: will the Cowboys seize the moment, or will they continue to struggle with their identity on offense?
