Cowboys Add Jaydon Blue, Shemar James in Draft

The Dallas Cowboys selected Texas running back Jaydon Blue with the 149th pick in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, targeting his elite speed and versatility as both a runner and receiver. Blue ran a 4.38-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and reached a top speed of 22.3 MPH in college, but is projected mainly as a change-of-pace or receiving back due to limited carries and some ball security issues. Last season, he recorded 730 rushing yards, eight rushing touchdowns, and 42 catches for 368 yards and six receiving touchdowns. Blue will join a backfield featuring Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, and Deuce Vaughn after last year's leading rusher, Rico Dowdle, left in free agency. The Cowboys also traded up to select Florida linebacker Shemar James to strengthen their defense. Recent investments in the offensive line may help integrate Blue into the offense.