As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for training camp in Oxnard, California, early roster projections are beginning to surface, and one in particular has stirred conversation. In his way-too-early 53-man roster projection, The Athletic’s Jon Machota made a striking prediction regarding second-year running back Deuce Vaughn. It’s a call that may surprise some but highlights the intense competition in the Cowboys’ backfield.
Dallas Cowboys RB Deuce Vaughn Omitted in Early 53-Man Roster Forecast
The Cowboys’ running back room appears to be one of the most tightly contested spots on the roster. According to Machota’s projection, Dallas will carry five players: Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, Jaydon Blue, Phil Mafah and fullback Hunter Luepke. The notable exclusion is Vaughn. As Machota explains:
“That leaves Phil Mafah and Deuce Vaughn competing for the final running back spot. The edge goes to the recent seventh-round pick.”
This suggests a clear shift in priorities for the Cowboys’ offense. Williams and Sanders, both established veterans, handled the first-team work throughout OTAs and minicamp.
Meanwhile, Blue, selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, is firmly projected to make the roster. Luepke’s value goes beyond being a fullback, contributing as a runner and blocker, and being an additional option in the passing game who can also line up like a tight end. That versatility supports keeping only three traditional tight ends on the roster.
Vaughn’s competition for the final spot, Mafah, is a recent draft pick, and draft capital often carries weight in early roster decisions. Machota’s projection does not imply that Vaughn has underperformed. Instead, it reflects the reality of depth and positional versatility working against him as the Cowboys aim to maximize roster flexibility.
Adding further pressure on Vaughn’s chances is the potential expanded role of wide receiver KaVontae Turpin. Already recognized for his impact on special teams, Turpin is expected to take on more snaps out of the backfield this season, which may further reduce the need to keep another conventional running back.
Training camp begins July 20, and the Cowboys’ first padded practice is set for July 27. Preseason performances and injuries could still shift the equation. But at this point, Machota’s projection sends a strong message: Vaughn will need to outperform Mafah to secure a roster spot.
Vaughn is not out of the running yet. But with roster dynamics working against him, the margin for error has become razor thin.
