Cowboys RB Jaydon Blue named as a rookie that could “exceed expectations” in 2025

What are your expectations for Jaydon Blue in 2025?

By all accounts, the Dallas Cowboys had an extremely successful 2025 draft. Dallas added multiple talented players at positions of need, and getting potential first-round talents with their first three picks.

While those selections stole the show, the Cowboys made some moves in the later rounds that could really help their football team this upcoming season. One of those moves was selecting speedy Texas running back Jaydon Blue in the fifth round.

At the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, Blue posted an unbelievable 4.38-second 40-yard dash time. The Cowboys desperately needed someone to bring some game-changing speed to their running back room, and Blue can do just that.

The rookie was also one of the best pass-catching running backs in the entire draft class, giving him another way to make an impact in Dallas’ offense next season.

The Cowboys have received plenty of praise for drafting such a rare talent in the fifth round, and many have sky-high expectations for what Blue can potentially achieve in Dallas’ offense. Pro Football Network echoed that sentiment this week, naming the Texas running back Dallas’ “Rookie Who Could Exceed Expectations” this upcoming season.

Here’s what they had to say about the talented 21-year-old.

The Dallas Cowboys’ ground game was among the NFL’s worst last season, ranking 30th in yards per carry (4.0) and last in touchdowns (6). The front office addressed the glaring need in free agency, adding Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders. While they should be upgrades, neither profile as a lead back. Their lack of recent production leaves the door open for their newest addition to earn opportunities early.

Jaydon Blue brings explosive, big-play potential to the Cowboys’ backfield and could become a dynamic weapon in a complementary role. Though he never served as Texas’ primary back, Blue consistently flashed high-level speed, agility, and receiving upside that make him an intriguing fit in today’s NFL. He comes in with fresh legs, and his development down the stretch showed clear growth.

At 5’9″, 196 pounds, Blue is a slashing runner who thrives in space. He’s a threat to hit the edge and turn upfield in a hurry, with a 4.38-second 40-yard dash confirming his track-level acceleration. Where he truly separates himself is as a receiving threat, creating mismatches for linebackers. With unreliable veteran options, Blue has a lane to at least be part of the committee in Dallas.

When you see the kind of traits Blue possesses, it’s hard not to get excited thinking about how much he could help the Cowboys’ offense. While there are some things he needs to work on, mainly ball security, it would not be shocking if Blue is Dallas’ RB1 by the middle of the 2025 campaign.

It’s safe to say the Cowboys may have gotten themselves a game-changer with one of their fifth-round selections.