In order for the Cowboys to sign the perfect, quick running back, the Dolphins release him.
The Dallas Cowboys have done a fantastic job of assembling a roster. To address critical deficiencies along the defensive line, they acquired defensive lineman Jordan Phillips through a trade last week and signed edge rusher Carl Lawson. Although it was viewed as a last-minute move, the Cowboys’ acquisition of cornerback Andrew Both appears to have paid off. Booth, a 2022 second-round selection, led Dallas in tackles (8) during the preseason victory over the Raiders on Saturday. It will be difficult to leave his talent off the 53-man roster.
Jerry Jones has made hints that the Cowboys plan to recruit more players to his defence, with a particular focus on defensive tackles. Fans, however, have been anxiously awaiting the addition of a new running back by the front office. To get their wish, they might have to wait a little while until the final cuts. Or do they? Salvon Ahmed was cut by the Dolphins on Monday amid a flurry of roster changes. Ahmed would provide much-needed speed to a Dallas backfield typically dominated by strong, physical running backs.
The Cowboys ought to test out former Dolphins running back Salvon Ahmed. Since the Dolphins selected Tennessee standout Jaylen Wright in the fourth round—a draft favourite of many Cowboys supporters—the writing has been clearly on the wall for Ahmed.
De’Von Achane, a 2023 third-round selection who averaged 7.8 yards per run as a rookie, and veteran Raheem Mostert, who carried for 1,012 yards and 18 touchdowns last season, led the Dolphins’ already impressive backfield. Although Ahmed’s expendability is understandable, it does not reflect poorly on Ahmed.
Ahmed spent four seasons with Miami, appearing in 38 games (four starts) after being claimed off waivers prior to the 2020 campaign. As an undrafted rookie, he gained attention with his 319 running yards, three touchdowns, and 4.3 yards per carry. Unfortunately for Ahmed, in the last two seasons, he has only seen 34 carries as the Dolphins have rebuilt their backfield. Although Ahmed’s reputation has faded, he would still be the Cowboys’ most explosive and quick rusher. According to Pro Football Focus (subscription required), he has a career rushing grade of 69.3. In his 163 career carries, he has also never fumbled.
Waiting for a more accomplished rusher to be released is something that many Cowboys supporters would prefer. In that regard, Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, Dameon Pierce, and Khalil Herbert are names to keep an eye on. Still, there’s no assurance that any of them will be selected. Additionally, nothing prevents the Cowboys from signing Ahmed and then going back to a bigger name once teams submit their 53-man rosters.
A roster lock is Ezekiel Elliott, Rico Dowdle, and (probably) Hunter Luepke. In the preseason game on Saturday, Deuce Vaughn finally looked like the player we saw at Kansas State, while Royce Freeman has excelled since signing. But there has been a noticeable lack of energy and explosiveness from the backfield. Ahmed contributes these two qualities. It’s worthwhile to give him a try.