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Cowboys RB misses practice as backfield competition heats up

One Dallas Cowboys running back misses more time on the practice field as the competition in the backfield continues to heat up.
Tyler Reed|
Dallas Cowboys running back Miles Sanders goes through a drill during practice
Dallas Cowboys running back Miles Sanders goes through a drill during practice | Chris Jones-Imagn Images

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When the Dallas Cowboys released the first unofficial depth chart of the 2025 season, every fan pointed their attention to the situation at running back.

Javonte Williams is listed as the top running back in the backfield, with Miles Sanders and Jaydon Blue to follow.

Even though Williams is the current leader in the backfield, that doesn't mean he will be when the regular season begins in September.

MORE: Cowboys rookie ready 'to take somebody's job' in first season

The backfield competition is heating up as the Cowboys meet the Los Angeles Rams Saturday in their first preseason game. Unfortunately for Sanders, he may not get the opportunity to display his talents.

Dallas Cowboys running backs Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams participate in blocking drills during training camp
Dallas Cowboys running backs Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams participate in blocking drills during training camp | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Tommy Yarrish of the official Cowboys website snapped a photo of Sanders at practice on Thursday, and the veteran back was not dressed to participate.

Sanders is looking for a fresh start in Dallas after his former team, the Carolina Panthers, signed former Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle in the offseason.

MORE: When do Cowboys play Rams in Week 1 of NFL preseason?

It may feel like a fresh start for Sanders, but the former Pro Bowler missing time on the field during camp could really hurt his position with the team.

Blue is coming for a job, and Sanders could be on the chopping block if he's not available to show what he's got.

The pressure is on for Sanders to make a quick return.

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Tyler Reed
TYLER REED

Tyler is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, where he majored in communications. Aside from his roles with the Cowboys and Chargers on SI, Tyler also covers sports and pop culture for The Big Lead.

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