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Dallas Cowboys Cut Assistant Director's Son Before NFL Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Aug 26, 2025 2:39 PM ET

The Dallas Cowboys have had a running back problem since former Pro Bowler Tony Pollard departed following the 2023 NFL season. Rico Dowdle slid in nicely in his first season starting for the team, rushing for over 1,000 yards in 2024.

But Dowdle left for the Carolina Panthers over the offseason, leaving the Cowboys without a starting running back. They brought in multiple free agents, including Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, along with using a 2025 fifth-round pick to take Texas' Jaydon Blue.

One running back Dallas has had since 2023 was Deuce Vaughn, who hasn't been able to get much action throughout his career. However, it appears the Cowboys are done with the former Kansas State star.

Cowboys Release Vaughn

On Tuesday, ahead of the NFL’s 53-man roster deadline at 4 p.m. ET, the Cowboys waived Vaughn after two seasons with the team. He spent much of last year on the practice squad and could return there following his release.

"Cowboys had Vaughn on practice squad last year for a bit," wrote Dallas Morning News' Calvin Watkins. "Might return to that in 2025. RB room was top heavy with vets this year and the emergence of rookie Jaydon Blue."

Vaughn is also notably the son of Cowboys assistant director of college scouting Chris Vaughn. Chris joined Dallas in 2018, bringing some coaching experience from the Texas Longhorns as well. He also made the call to his son when the Cowboys selected Deuce with the No. 212 pick in 2023.

In his two seasons with Dallas, Vaughn appeared in just 14 games, totaling 40 carries for 110 yards and zero touchdowns. He is also a capable pass catcher, bringing in 12 balls for 58 yards. And, standing at 5-foot-6, Vaughn was the NFL's shortest player, making him extra elusive.

The Cowboys will open the regular season on Sept. 4, hitting the road to take on Jalen Hurts and the Philadelphia Eagles.

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

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