The Dallas Cowboys are juggling a growing injury list as Week 5 approaches. On Wednesday, ESPN’s Todd Archer reported that Miles Sanders, KaVontae Turpin, CeeDee Lamb, Tyler Booker, Tyler Guyton, Tyler Smith, and Malik Hooker all missed practice. With games against the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers looming, Dallas can’t afford setbacks if they want to stay in wildcard contention.
If Sanders sits out, rookie running back Jaydon Blue might finally see his NFL debut. The Texas product has been waiting in the wings behind Sanders and standout starter Javonte Williams. Now, the Cowboys could give Blue a chance to be the secondary rusher and make an impact in Brian Schottenheimer’s offense.
Drafted 149th overall in April, Blue impressed at Texas with over 1,000 scrimmage yards and 14 touchdowns in his final season. Concerns over his size and system had scouts skeptical, but the Cowboys clearly saw potential. Blue’s speed and ability to create space could give Dallas a spark, especially with his pass-catching skills—he caught 42 passes for 368 yards and six touchdowns in 2024.
Sanders hasn’t been producing at peak levels, making this the perfect opportunity for Jaydon Blue to shine. Fans have been eager to see the former Longhorn in action, and Sunday’s game against the Jets might be the ideal stage.
New York ranks 12th in run defense according to Pro Football Focus but still allows 130.5 rushing yards per game, leaving openings for a talented back like Blue. A strong showing could shake up Dallas’ backfield plans, even when Sanders returns.
With injuries mounting, Jaydon Blue could be the Cowboys’ secret weapon in Week 5.
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