Cowboys RB Depth Chart: Elliott Leads Backfield In Snaps, Carries In Week 1 Win

Cowboys RB depth chart analysis from Week 1 against the Cleveland Browns. 

Coming out of the preseason, the Dallas Cowboys had one of the more interesting running back rooms. They lost RB1 Tony Pollard to Tennessee and readded former Cowboys star RB Ezekiel Elliot. Still, many were unclear how the running backs would be used in Dallas. After Week 1, we have a clearer picture of how the Cowboys might utilize their running backs moving forward.

Cowboys RB Depth Chart Breakdown

Despite Rico Dowdle’s preseason buzz, Ezekiel Elliott emerged as the Cowboys’ lead back in Week 1. In their 16-point victory over Cleveland, Elliott took ten carries for 40 yards and punched in a 3-yard touchdown, the team’s only rushing score. He also caught both of his targets for 9 yards. On the other hand, Dowdle managed 26 yards on eight carries and hauled in a single catch for 6 yards.

Interestingly, the numbers don’t fully reflect their roles, as Elliott and Dowdle alternated drives throughout the game. Elliott’s touchdown came at the end of the Cowboys’ longest first-half drive, while Dowdle was on the field for their first score—a 21-yard touchdown pass to Brandin Cooks. Elliott edged Dowdle in total snaps, 32 to 28, but their involvement remained close.

This rotation will continue until one of them solidifies a more significant role. Deuce Vaughn was barely a factor, playing just two snaps as the only other running back. Looking ahead to Week 2 against the Saints, both Elliott and Dowdle project to remain in the RB3 range.

It’s also worth noting the Cowboys favored the pass in Week 1, throwing the ball 59% of the time despite leading comfortably for most of the game.

Cowboys Depth Chart Statistical Breakdown