Cowboy Country: Can Cowboys fix running game, Brandon Aubrey’s future

The Dallas Cowboys have long been one of the NFL’s most storied franchises. Throughout their history, they’ve earned a reputation for excellence, consistently contending for championships and producing star players. Yet, even the best teams face challenges, and for the Cowboys, one area of concern heading into the 2025 season is their running game. With a strong roster across many positions, the Cowboys’ ability to fix their running game may determine how far they can go in the postseason.

Along with the issues surrounding the running game, another key question looms: What is the future of Brandon Aubrey, the Cowboys’ kicker? While not as high-profile as the running game dilemma, Aubrey’s performance and role in the team will still be critical, especially considering the importance of special teams in close games. In this piece, we will explore these two significant storylines for the Cowboys: the potential for reviving the running game and the prospects of Brandon Aubrey’s future with the team.

The Struggles of the Cowboys’ Running Game

The Dallas Cowboys’ running game has been a central feature of the team for many years. Historically, they’ve prided themselves on dominating the line of scrimmage, controlling the clock, and using their running backs to take pressure off their quarterbacks. However, in recent seasons, the running game has not been as effective as it once was.

Inconsistent Play at the Running Back Position

The Cowboys have been fortunate to have a dynamic running back in Ezekiel Elliott, but in recent seasons, the production from the position has fluctuated. Elliott, once one of the league’s top running backs, has seen his numbers dip, partly due to age and wear-and-tear from years of heavy usage. In 2023, Elliott’s performance was far from the All-Pro form that made him a household name early in his career. The inconsistency in Elliott’s play, combined with injuries, raised questions about his future with the Cowboys.

To counteract these issues, the Cowboys have looked to Tony Pollard, who has shown flashes of brilliance. Pollard, who has been with the team as a complementary back to Elliott, has displayed big-play potential and versatility. He has a more explosive running style and is an effective receiving threat out of the backfield. In the 2023 season, Pollard emerged as the lead back, but even he faced challenges in providing consistent production throughout the season.

The Cowboys’ offensive line has also played a part in the decline of the running game. Once a dominant force in the NFL, the Cowboys’ offensive line has experienced injuries and a decline in overall performance. The line hasn’t been as effective at opening holes for running backs, which has limited the Cowboys’ ability to control the game on the ground. As a result, the Cowboys have been forced to rely more on their passing game.

While Pollard’s skill set is valuable, the Cowboys’ inability to establish a consistent running game has hurt their offensive balance. This is especially true when it comes to closing out games, managing the clock, and keeping opposing offenses off the field.

Addressing the Running Game in 2025

For the Cowboys to compete for a Super Bowl in 2025, they will need to revitalize their running game. While Pollard has the potential to be a dynamic force, the Cowboys will likely need to add depth and perhaps even another running back through the draft or free agency. Having multiple threats at the position would help alleviate the pressure on Pollard and allow for greater versatility in the offense.

Additionally, the Cowboys’ offensive line must improve its performance. If the line can return to its dominant form, it will make a world of difference for the running backs. The Cowboys must prioritize strengthening the interior of the line and finding ways to get back to their ground-and-pound identity.

Furthermore, the team must commit to the running game, even if it struggles in the early stages of the season. Successful teams in the NFL often have the ability to ground and pound when needed, and for the Cowboys, staying balanced offensively will be essential.

Another factor to consider is the involvement of Dak Prescott in the running game. Prescott is mobile enough to add a dimension to the offense by utilizing his legs to move the chains or create opportunities for play-action. While Prescott is primarily known for his arm, incorporating more design runs for the quarterback could add an additional layer of unpredictability to the offense.

The Future of Brandon Aubrey: The Kicker’s Role in 2025

While the running game is a high-profile issue for the Cowboys, the future of kicker Brandon Aubrey is an interesting subplot heading into 2025. Special teams often go unnoticed in the grand scheme of football discussions, but a reliable kicker can be the difference between a win and a loss — especially in close games or playoff situations.

Brandon Aubrey’s journey to the NFL is an intriguing one. A former soccer player, Aubrey made the transition to football, working his way through the professional ranks and eventually earning a spot with the Cowboys. In his early years with the team, Aubrey had his share of ups and downs but showed enough promise to retain his spot as the starting kicker.

Aubrey’s Performance in 2023

During the 2023 season, Aubrey had a solid year, making 28 of 31 field goal attempts, which is a respectable conversion rate. However, he had some struggles in pressure situations, missing a few key kicks in tight games. As a result, there were some questions about his consistency, particularly in situations where the Cowboys needed him to be clutch.

Kickers are often judged by their ability to make important field goals in critical moments. While Aubrey demonstrated accuracy during the regular season, his performance in the postseason was mixed. He missed a critical field goal attempt in a playoff game, which led to discussions about whether the Cowboys should look for another kicker in the offseason.

The Cowboys’ coaching staff has been patient with Aubrey, recognizing that he is still in the process of developing into a consistent NFL kicker. But with a championship window potentially open for the Cowboys, it’s possible they will need a more reliable and experienced kicker in the postseason.

Will Aubrey Stay with the Cowboys in 2025?

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Aubrey’s future with the Cowboys is uncertain. The team has shown confidence in his abilities, but they also know that kicker performance can be volatile from year to year. If Aubrey continues to struggle with accuracy in pressure situations, the Cowboys may explore other options in free agency or through the draft.

The team may choose to bring in competition for Aubrey during training camp to see if he can prove himself as a reliable option. Kickers who can consistently make field goals from 40+ yards, especially in late-game situations, are invaluable in the NFL. The Cowboys will need to assess whether Aubrey can rise to that challenge or if they need to look elsewhere for a more proven commodity.

What’s Next for the Cowboys?

The Cowboys have the talent to be Super Bowl contenders in 2025, but for that to happen, they must address both the running game and the kicking situation. The offense needs balance, and a revived running game would take pressure off Dak Prescott and allow the team to control the clock. If the offensive line can regain its dominance, the running backs, especially Tony Pollard, will have the opportunity to make a bigger impact.

On the other hand, the Cowboys will need to decide whether Brandon Aubrey is the long-term solution for their kicking needs. If Aubrey continues to miss key kicks or fails to perform in the clutch, the Cowboys may be forced to explore other options to solidify their special teams.

The Cowboys are in an interesting position heading into the 2025 season. They have a lot of talent, and with some adjustments, they have the potential to make a deep playoff run. But their ability to fix their running game and stabilize their kicking situation will be key to their success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team handles these challenges as they attempt to return to the Super Bowl.