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Cowboys Reveal One Key Attribute of ‘Dynamic’ Running Backs

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Jun 12, 2025 1:09 PM ET

It is no secret that the Dallas Cowboys' offense, now with George Pickens alongside CeeDee Lamb, is going to have some fun in 2025.

But that is only if the offensive line can protect Dak Prescott long enough for the Pro Bowler to deliver strikes.

However, it isn't solely on the offensive line, although Tyler Smith is taking it upon himself to be the leader of the unit and be the tone-setter for Brian Schottenheimer's offense.

It also falls on the running backs, with Schottenheimer making it clear at the start of his tenure that pass protection is a key trait he wants all his running backs to have.

Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams are the pick of the bunch in that aspect, but something that rookie Tyler Booker appreciates is that every back on the roster has a love for pass protection.

“The running backs are really dynamic and something I appreciate about our running backs that's very similar to what we had about Alabama, they take a lot of pride in pass protection,” Booker said. “They care about pass protection, so the more willing they are to block, the more that opens up things in the offense, and the more they get the ball eventually.”

This echoes what the coaching staff has said … and our insider Mike Fisher has also used the word “dynamic” to especially describe the practice look of Sanders and rookie Jaydon Blue.

Given that at times last season Prescott barely had time to throw, the onus is on the new-look front five to be a brick wall to allow Dak to distribute the ball to his weapons.

And if a pass rusher or linebacker gets through, then Sanders or Williams are there to stonewall them. Well, that's the plan anyway.

The running backs will play crucial roles in Schotty's offense, primarily by picking up yards and keeping the chains moving as the offensive line dominates the line of scrimmage.

But when it is time for Dak to drop back and get Pickens, Lamb or Jake Ferguson into the game, they might have to put their head in the hole and protect their butt off.

Which, going by Booker's words, all love doing.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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