Jaydon Blue Earns First-Team Time with the Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys have featured a 1,000-yard rusher in five of their past six seasons, thanks to players like Ezekiel Elliott, Tony Pollard, and Rico Dowdle. This might be unexpected considering the team's recent emphasis on passing — they've actually relied more on throwing the ball than running it. 38.86 percent of plays In 2024, the team had the sixth-fewest points in the NFL.

However, without any of those players on the team anymore, the Cowboys now feature a mix of experienced veterans and first-time arrivals prepared to capitalize on the opportunities within new head coach Brian Schottenheimer's system.

This week during the Cowboys' training camp in Oxnard, California, ex-Texas Longhorn Jaydon Blue has appeared to gain Schottenheimer's attention, securing starting-team practice repetitions for the first time on Wednesday.

Schottenheimer on Blue

"I believe last spring he started off more slowly than we had anticipated. But that's not the case anymore. He's got it under control," Schottenheimer said regarding Dallas' fifth-round pick, through Jon Machota He's beginning to understand. He's one of those individuals who doesn't talk much, yet has a strong drive for competition. He aims to be outstanding. He aspires to be top-tier. He recognizes his own abilities.

Last season at Texas, Blue began the year as the starting running back under Coach Steve Sarkisian after CJ Baxter suffered a knee injury during training camp. However, due to some instances of fumbling by Blue, Quintrevion Wisner eventually took control of the primary ball-carrier role. Despite this change, Blue still managed to gain 730 rushing yards along with eight touchdowns on the ground, plus 42 catches for 368 yards and six touchdown passes in 2024.

Blue's energetic style was always evident and set him apart at the professional level. His ability to both run and pass from the backfield would be beneficial for Schottenehimer and his team as well.

"I believe he's coming to terms with, 'Okay, I'm truly skilled. I am very capable. But I'm in the NFL now. Most of these players are extremely good, so I need to focus on the aspects off the field—mentally preparing in the classroom, studying a bit more for the upcoming plays, and taking proper care of my physique.' It has been enjoyable to observe," Schottenheimer. said .

During Blue's participation with the starting unit on Wednesday, the Cowboys appeared to be evaluating his ability to maintain possession of the ball:

The fact that Blue is part of the starting unit is certainly good news for the former Texas player. However, since veteran players like Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams are also participating with the top squad during training camp, the Dallas Cowboys' running back position seems likely to follow a rotational system. Nevertheless, if these favorable reports continue, Blue's abilities might secure him a more defined role.

Blue will have opportunities to make an impression on the coaching staff during Dallas' three preseason games, starting with the opening match on August 9 against the Los Angeles Rams.

This piece first appeared on www.si.com/college/texas as Jaydon Blue Receives Top-Tier Practice Time During Dallas Cowboys' Summer Workout Jaydon Blue Earns Elite Playing Opportunities at Dallas Cowboys' Preseason Activities Jaydon Blue Secures Prime Roster Spot in Dallas Cowboys' Training Camp Sessions Jaydon Blue Gains Key Positions with Dallas Cowboys During Their Opening Practices Jaydon Blue Is Given Leading Role in Dallas Cowboys’ Early Season Drills .