The Dallas Cowboys are entering the 2025 season with a revamped running back room after adding veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, along with rookies Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah.
Dallas also appears to be exploring the potential of explosive return man and wide receiver KaVontae Turpin as an option at running back after taking reps with the tailback group at minicamp.
It’s a good story … in context.
“Turpin remains an option out of the backfield under Brian Schottenheimer," wrote the Fort Worth Star-Telegram's Nick Harris. "He saw multiple snaps at RB today and took a carry outside left."
Numerous websites have taken that quote and - pun intended -are running with it.
But clarity is needed.
Turpin, 28, is a two-time Pro Bowler as a return specialist and has played three seasons for the Cowboys. During that time, he has recorded 44 receptions for 556 yards and five touchdowns as a receiver, along with 30 carries for 219 yards and one rushing touchdown.
Turpin stands 5-9, 153 pounds, and the Cowboys would be wise to utilize Turpin as gadget player on creatively designed running plays.
So where’s “the clarity needed”?
Last year’s Cowboys already did that with him.
Says Cowboys insider Mike Fisher: “Nick’s observation is correct. But people are misinterpreting what he’s reporting. … look at 2024, especially in the second half of the season: Turpin literally lined up at running back.”
Turpin isn’t the ideal heavy-workload option at running back but is a threat to hit his head on the goal post every time he touches the ball.
"I'll say to just be available," Turpin said of his plan. "I gotta be trustworthy so they know when they call my number, I'll go out there and make a play. Kickoff returns and punt returns, I'll be me and try to make a Pro Bowl again.
"But, on offense, I'll let them believe in me and trust in me to go out there and be the playmaker I can be."
Turpin is a true threat, and finding ways to get him the ball in space will give the offense another explosive weapon that opposing defenses must account for.
But … no, Turpin is not “changing positions.”
