The Dallas Cowboys confirms deal for a running back in the 2025 NFL season, but the timing of when they’ll make that move remains a major question heading into April.
At one point, Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty was a popular projection for Dallas, but his draft stock has been on the rise, with many now expecting him to be taken within the top 10 picks.
Fortunately for the Cowboys, there’s another highly regarded running back prospect who many view as being on par with Jeanty in terms of talent and potential.
North Carolina standout is increasingly being projected to the Cowboys at No. 12 in mock drafts, and Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox believes selecting him would be a smarter move for the franchise.
Knox highlighted his “best and worst fits” for the top running back prospects, naming the Cowboys as an ideal landing spot for Hampton. The key factor behind this fit is new head coach Brian Schottenheimer and his offensive system.
“Although Jeanty is widely projected as the first running back to be drafted, North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton is a close second and could still leapfrog him as RB1,” Knox explained.
Knox outlined his “best and worst fits” for the top running back prospects, identifying the Cowboys as a prime destination for Hampton to thrive. The driving factor? New head coach Brian Schottenheimer and his offensive philosophy.
“Jeanty is widely projected to be the first running back selected, but North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton trails him closely as RB2,” Knox noted. “There’s still a chance Hampton could be the first back taken off the board.”
“Hampton doesn’t have top-tier lateral quickness and is likely best utilized in a downhill, gap-based running scheme,” Knox explained. “Fortunately, new Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer has experience with both gap and inside-zone concepts and seems open to adjusting his system to fit his players.”
Knox also pointed out that Hampton has the potential to develop into a true three-down back for Dallas, much like Ezekiel Elliott was during his peak years — something the Cowboys’ offense could certainly use.
Dallas has already strengthened its backfield by signing Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders in free agency, but Hampton could be the final piece that completes the puzzle and serves as the Cowboys’ long-term answer at the position.
The 2025 NFL Draft is set to take place in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The first round will kick off on Thursday, April 24, followed by Rounds 2 and 3 on Friday, April 25. The draft will conclude with the final rounds on Saturday, April 26.