By Blessing 
Last season, the Dallas Cowboys lacked urgency when it came to strengthening their running back unit. After Tony Pollard’s departure in free agency, the team reverted to old habits—bringing back an aging Ezekiel Elliott and leaning on the still-developing Rico Dowdle.
While Dowdle held his own and eventually moved on to Carolina, Elliott remains unsigned. Still, the overall rushing attack in 2024 was far from a strength and left much to be desired. That underperformance triggered a complete overhaul of the backfield this offseason.
So, did the Cowboys finally approach things with a greater sense of purpose?
They certainly made some notable moves. Dallas added veterans Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams during free agency, then turned to the draft to bring in rookies Phil Mafah and Jaydon Blue. On paper, that gives them depth and flexibility—but is it enough?
Apparently, some believe Dallas could still make one more move. Daniel Arwas of Heavy.com has proposed that the Cowboys consider trading for Los Angeles Rams rookie running back Blake Corum.
“Although Williams and Sanders are both recognizable names; both made their respective All-Rookie teams, and Sanders was a Pro Bowler in 2022; the two combined for less than 800 yards in 2024,” Arwas pointed out. “And that — in the case of Williams — was as the team’s designated starter.”
He adds, “Running back is, unfortunately for the pair, a young man’s game, and Corum certainly still has his youth.”
While Sanders and Williams bring experience, neither lit up the stat sheet last season, and that has left the door open to speculation. Mafah and Blue, though promising, weren’t considered top-tier prospects entering the draft. That makes it unclear whether either rookie can truly challenge for a starting role during camp.
Still, it’s worth questioning whether a trade for Corum would be worth the price—especially from the Rams’ perspective. While Corum isn’t currently in a featured role behind Kyren Williams, the situation could shift quickly. Given Williams’ heavy usage, the risk of injury is very real, and the Rams may be reluctant to part ways with Corum, who serves as crucial insurance.
For Dallas, the idea of adding Corum might just stir the pot unnecessarily. Yes, competition can bring out the best in players, but it could also muddy an already crowded picture. If the Cowboys can’t identify a clear starter or properly utilize their current talent, that speaks more to flaws in coaching and front office planning than anything else.
Right now, there’s cautious optimism. The belief is that at least two backs from the current group can step up and deliver consistently. With training camp on the horizon, Dallas has a chance to evaluate what it has before making any rash decisions.
In short, adding Corum is an intriguing idea—but it may be one the Cowboys don’t need to pursue. Not yet, anyway.