Cowboys Could Trade Up in NFL Draft to Land Star RB Ashton Jeanty

After a disappointing season on the ground, the Dallas Cowboys are in dire need of a new lead running back. With the 2024 NFL Draft approaching, they may look to make a bold move to fix their backfield issues.

Ashton Jeanty is widely regarded as the top running back prospect in this year’s draft class. However, if Dallas wants to secure his talent, waiting until their current 12th overall pick may be too risky. Other teams, including the Las Vegas Raiders and Chicago Bears, are also reportedly showing interest in Jeanty.

According to Luke Easterling of Athlon Sports, the Cowboys could move up a few spots to select Jeanty before another team beats them to it.

“If Jeanty’s still available at that point, the Cowboys may not be able to resist trading up slightly to grab the NFL’s next star running back,” Easterling wrote. “By giving up a third-round pick, Dallas would land a dynamic, three-down playmaker who could instantly revitalize their struggling ground game. If the Saints are confident they can trade down and still secure Shedeur Sanders, it could be a win-win for both teams.”

The biggest challenge for Dallas would be ensuring Jeanty gets past the Raiders, who hold the No. 6 overall pick. But if they spot an opening to move up and grab him, the Cowboys may not hesitate to act.

Dallas ranked sixth-worst in rushing yards last season and was tied for the fewest runs of 20+ yards. Jeanty, meanwhile, was the Heisman Trophy runner-up and delivered one of the most impressive college football seasons in history—rushing for over 2,000 yards and coming close to breaking Barry Sanders’ long-standing single-season rushing record.