Full Breakdown
Cowboys Waive RB Jaydon Blue Amid 53-Man Roster Cuts
8/31/2026, 11:28:56 AM
Core Event: Cowboys Cut Running Back Jaydon Blue
The Dallas Cowboys announced the waiver of second-year running back Jaydon Blue as part of their effort to meet the NFL’s 53-player roster deadline on Sunday. Blue, a fifth-round pick from the 2025 draft, had entered training camp as the projected No. 2 back behind Javonte Williams but was passed by veteran Malik Davis during preseason competition. If he clears waivers, the team may retain him on the practice squad.
Background & Context
Blue arrived in Dallas after being selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He saw limited action as a rookie, appearing in five games with 38 carries for 129 yards and one touchdown. Entering the 2026 offseason, Blue publicly stated he felt ready to contribute, but the Cowboys’ evaluation concluded otherwise. The running-back depth chart also featured Phil Mafah, Israel Abanikanda and fullback Hunter Luepke, all of whom were either waived or left off the initial 53-man roster.
Data & Statistics
- Preseason (2026): 23 carries for a team-high 94 yards; 2 receptions for 15 yards.
- Rookie season (2025): 38 carries, 129 rushing yards, 1 touchdown.
- Javonte Williams (2025): 1,201 rushing yards, 11 touchdowns (career highs).
- Malik Davis (2025): 52 carries, 250 yards, 2 touchdowns; also contributed on all four special-teams units.
These figures illustrate the competitive landscape that left Blue without a clear role.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer repeatedly highlighted Blue’s improvement during the offseason, noting his grasp of the offensive scheme and increased mental focus. The Cowboys’ official roster move list confirmed the waiver of Blue alongside other backs and the trade of offensive tackle Nate Thomas to the Houston Texans for a 2027 seventh-round pick. The organization indicated that players cleared on waivers could be signed to the practice squad, preserving depth at the position.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think he came back, and I’ve said this before, I think he came back with a different mentality, which is great. He’s always been extremely bright and picked up the scheme very, very well,” — Schotty
- “Source: Cowboys are waiving RB Jaydon Blue,” — Adam Schefter
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Name spelling: Some outlets refer to the player as “Jaydon Blue,” while others use “Jayden Blue.” Both refer to the same Dallas Cowboys running back.
- Future status: Sources agree that Blue is eligible for the practice squad if he clears waivers, but no official confirmation of a practice-squad signing has been provided.
What’s Next
The waiver period runs until noon Central Time on Monday, after which any of the remaining 31 NFL teams may claim Blue. Should he clear, the Cowboys are expected to evaluate him for a practice-squad spot, maintaining a backup option behind Malik Davis. The final depth chart for the running back group will feature Javonte Williams as the starter and Malik Davis as the primary backup heading into the regular-season opener.
