Few running backs have made the kind of impact Saquon Barkley has since entering the NFL. A dynamic playmaker with elite vision, agility, and power, Barkley has been a game-changer at every level. His presence on the field shifts defensive schemes and elevates his team’s offensive potential. But as the NFL landscape continually evolves, new stars rise to take the mantle. As the Dallas Cowboys evaluate their draft strategy, the prospect of selecting a running back with Barkley’s level of talent looms large—potentially altering the balance of power in the league.
The Barkley Blueprint: Setting the Standard for Elite RBs
Saquon Barkley entered the NFL in 2018 as the No. 2 overall pick by the New York Giants, immediately proving why he was considered a generational talent. His rookie campaign saw him amass over 2,000 yards from scrimmage, showcasing a rare combination of breakaway speed, agility, and power. He solidified himself as a player who could single-handedly tilt the field in his team’s favor.
While injuries have occasionally slowed his production, Barkley’s ability remains unquestioned. His skill set is what franchises crave—a three-down back who can be a threat in both the running and passing game. As the Cowboys look to reinforce their offense and build for the future, finding a running back who mirrors Barkley’s strengths could be a defining move in the 2024 NFL Draft.
The Cowboys’ Backfield Dilemma
Dallas has long been a team that thrives on a strong rushing attack. From the days of Emmitt Smith dominating the 1990s to Ezekiel Elliott’s prime years, the Cowboys have consistently invested in elite running back talent. With Tony Pollard departing in free agency, the Cowboys find themselves in need of a new bell-cow back who can provide both reliability and explosive playmaking ability.
The team could turn to the draft to fill this void, especially given the recent trend of finding high-value running backs outside of the first round. However, if the Cowboys are serious about making a statement and reigniting their ground game, they could target a prospect with a skill set reminiscent of Barkley—someone who can immediately take pressure off quarterback Dak Prescott and open up the offense.
Potential Successors: RB Prospects Who Could Be the Next Barkley
Several running backs in the upcoming draft class have the potential to be game-changers. The Cowboys could consider any of the following elite prospects:
1. TreVeyon Henderson (Ohio State)
Henderson has the vision, speed, and power to be a dominant NFL running back. His ability to make defenders miss in open space, paired with his proficiency as a pass-catcher, makes him an ideal fit for a team looking for a versatile weapon. He possesses the breakaway speed and field awareness that Barkley displayed coming out of Penn State.
2. Blake Corum (Michigan)
A tough, physical runner with excellent balance and vision, Corum has been the heart and soul of Michigan’s rushing attack. His ability to run between the tackles and burst into the open field makes him a potential workhorse for the Cowboys’ offense.
3. Raheim Sanders (Arkansas)
Nicknamed “Rocket” for a reason, Sanders brings an explosive element to the running back position. His size-speed combination is rare, and his ability to churn out yards after contact could make him a valuable asset in Dallas’ offense.
4. Will Shipley (Clemson)
Shipley’s dual-threat capability as a runner and receiver gives him a dynamic edge. His acceleration and footwork allow him to break plays wide open, much like Barkley does when he gets to the second level.
How a Barkley Successor Would Transform the Cowboys’ Offense
If the Cowboys manage to secure one of these elite backs, the impact would be immediate. A strong running game would:
- Take pressure off Dak Prescott: A premier running back would force defenses to stack the box, opening up opportunities for CeeDee Lamb and the Cowboys’ receiving corps.
- Enhance play-action efficiency: With a legitimate rushing threat, defenses would have to respect the run, creating more space for Prescott to attack downfield.
- Provide a long-term offensive identity: Establishing a dominant ground game would give the Cowboys a sustainable offensive formula for years to come.
Final Thoughts: A Franchise-Altering Decision
The Cowboys stand at a pivotal juncture, and their draft strategy could determine their trajectory in the coming seasons. If they find the right successor to Saquon Barkley’s level of playmaking, the league might have to brace itself for a dominant Dallas ground game once again. The draft is unpredictable, but one thing is certain—if the Cowboys strike gold with a running back of Barkley’s caliber, they will have the firepower to burn through the competition for years to come.