Despite two touchdowns from Javonte Williams and an explosive, albeit brief, performance from Miles Sanders, the Dallas Cowboys opened their season with a 24-20 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. While falling to the reigning Super Bowl Champions is hardly a cause for panic, the game highlighted questions in the backfield. Now, all eyes are turning to a rookie who might provide the spark the offense needs, as owner Jerry Jones knows the team could be in better shape if running back Jaydon Blue is on the field.
What Is Jaydon Blue’s Status for Week 2?
In the Week 1 loss, Williams led the rushing attack with 54 yards on 15 carries. Sanders, however, stole the show by averaging an impressive 13.3 yards on his four carries. While neither effort was enough to overcome a stout Eagles defense, which still allowed two rushers to gain over 50 yards, the focus has shifted to who else is in the running back room. KaVontae Turpin also received two carries in the game.
Currently listed as RB3, Blue is waiting for his opportunity to crack the lineup behind Williams and Sanders. The 21-year-old was a standout at Texas, where he surpassed 1,000 rushing yards over three seasons. He finished his collegiate career on a high note, recording 730 yards and eight touchdowns on 134 carries. His explosiveness is undeniable, with rushes of 69-plus yards in each of his final two seasons, a big-play ability the Cowboys would love to have.
During an appearance on 105.3 The Fan, Jones provided a critical update on the rookie who has yet to make his NFL debut. “His status may have him ready to go [in week two], but he still needs to crack that lineup,” Jones said.
Cowboys owner/GM Jerry Jones on @1053thefan on Jaydon Blue being inactive:
“His status may have him ready to go [in week two], but he still needs to crack that lineup.”
Jones said he expects Mazi Smith to remain inactive.
— Nick Harris (@NickHarrisFWST) September 9, 2025
However, other reports suggest Blue may have to wait. Emmy Award-winning journalist Patrik Walker noted, “Jerry Jones ‘suspects’ the Cowboys will have both Mazi Smith (and possibly Jaydon Blue) as inactive again vs. Giants, he told 105.3 The Fan. Schottenheimer said he wants to see more consistency.”
Jerry Jones “suspects” the #Cowboys will have both Mazi Smith (and possibly Jaydon Blue) as inactive again vs. Giants — he told 105.3 The Fan.
Schottenheimer said he wants to see more consistency.
— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) September 9, 2025
Beyond his rushing ability, Blue also proved to be a reliable pass-catching threat in college, hauling in 56 career receptions, including six for touchdowns last season. In total, Blue finished the 2024 season with a combined 1,098 yards and 14 touchdowns. In the post-Ezekiel Elliott era, Dallas is still searching for a clear RB1 they can trust.
While Blue is not expected to jump into the RB1 conversation immediately, he could effectively fill the role of a change-of-pace back. With the health of quarterback Dak Prescott being a top priority, it’s unlikely that offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer will encourage Prescott to use his legs often. Of the 22 rushing attempts in Week 1, Prescott ran just once for three yards.
Both Williams and Sanders are expected to be ready for Week 2, but the team will need a few more days to determine if Blue will join them. If he remains inactive, expect Sanders to see an increased workload, with Turpin serving as an emergency option.
