Meet the Dallas Cowboys' Running Backs on the 2024 Roster

Fans of the Lone Star State are always curious about who’s shouldering the ball for the Cowboys each season. As of the latest roster update in July 2026, the Dallas Cowboys running backs represent a blend of proven talent and emerging prospects. Below, we break down the players officially listed on the active roster, the practice squad, and the roles each is expected to fill.

Current Depth Chart: Who Starts and Who Follows?

At the top of the depth chart sits Tony Pollard. After taking over the lead role following Ezekiel Elliott’s trade, Pollard has become the go‑to back in both the running and passing games. His blend of speed and pass‑catching ability makes him a versatile weapon for head coach Dave McCarthy’s offense.

Behind Pollard, the primary backup is D’Andre Swift. Acquired from Detroit in a 2025 trade, Swift brings a bruising style and a nose for the end zone that complements Pollard’s finesse. The two backs often share carries, allowing the Cowboys to keep both fresh late in games.

In the third‑string slot, the team has placed Jermar Jefferson, a former rookie who earned his spot through special teams contributions and a handful of short‑yard rushes. While his snap count is limited, Jefferson’s ability to break tackles in the red zone keeps him in the rotation.

Veteran Leadership and Its Impact

Even though the Cowboys have moved on from long‑time stalwart Ezekiel Elliott, they still benefit from veteran presence in the backfield. Tyler Scott, a former Pro Bowler now serving as a mentor, is listed on the reserve/retired list but frequently assists in the locker room, offering insights on route running and ball security.

This mentorship culture helps younger backs like Swift and Jefferson develop quicker. It also reinforces a professional work ethic that has become a hallmark of Dallas’ offensive unit.

Rookies and Recent Additions: Fresh Faces

The 2024 draft brought in two promising running backs: Jaxon Miller (Round 3) and Caleb Mason (Round 5). Both players spent the preseason adjusting to the Cowboys’ fast‑paced offense, and each has shown flashes of big‑play potential during preseason games.

• Jaxon Miller excels in open‑field runs and has a reputation for delivering hard hits after contact, a trait coaches love in a power back.
• Caleb Mason is more of a change‑of‑pace back, with crisp hands that make him a reliable option on third‑down passes.

While neither has cracked the regular‑season lineup yet, both are slated to see increased snaps on special teams and in goal‑line situations.

Practice Squad and Future Prospects

Beyond the active roster, the Cowboys maintain a robust practice squad that serves as a pipeline for future talent. Current members include:

• Marcus Gillespie – a versatile runner who also plays safety on special teams.
• Devin Baker – a speed‑focused back who excelled in the 2024 preseason scrimmages.
• Rashad Kelley – a power runner with a strong north‑south running style.

These players practice with the first team daily, learning the playbook and staying ready for elevation in case of injuries or roster moves. Their development is closely monitored by the coaching staff, who often promote a practice‑squad back to the active roster after just a few weeks of strong performance.

How Dallas Utilizes Its Running Backs

The modern Cowboys offense emphasizes a dual‑back system that leverages Pollard’s speed on outside runs and Swift’s ability to break tackles between the tackles. This approach allows the offensive line to stay fresh and keeps defenses guessing.

In the passing game, both backs are used as safety‑valve receivers. Pollard lines up in the slot on many third‑down plays, while Swift runs routes out of the backfield to exploit mismatches against linebackers. This flexibility has helped Dallas maintain a balanced attack despite occasional injuries to the offensive line.

Special teams also benefit from the running backs’ skill sets. Jefferson and Miller frequently return punts and kicks, using their vision and quick acceleration to improve field position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is the clear starter at running back for the Cowboys in 2024?

A: Tony Pollard holds the primary role, receiving the majority of carries and most passing‑down responsibilities.

Q: Are there any notable rookies the Cowboys are developing at running back?

A: Yes, third‑round pick Jaxon Miller and fifth‑round pick Caleb Mason are both on the roster and are getting reps on special teams and in limited offensive packages.

Q: How does the Cowboys' backfield depth compare to other NFL teams?

A: Dallas boasts a deep group, with a proven starter, a strong backup, and several young players and practice‑squad members who can step in without a drastic drop in production.

Q: What role do the practice‑squad running backs play during the season?

A: They practice with the first team, contribute on special teams, and are ready to be promoted if injuries or performance issues arise on the active roster.