Cowboys Unofficial Depth Chart Reveals Offensive Line Stability and Positional Uncertainties

The Dallas Cowboys have released an unofficial depth chart for their upcoming preseason opener against the Seattle Seahawks, providing the first structured view of roster pecking orders following joint practices in Oxnard, California. Sourced from the team press room, the document outlines the starting offensive line configuration and highlights Jaydon Blue’s elevation to the second running back role, surpassing Phil Mafah. Significant positional competitions remain unresolved, particularly at backup quarterback, off-ball linebacker, and cornerback.

The starting offensive line is identified as Tyler Guyton, Tyler Smith, Cooper Beebe, Tyler Booker, and Terence Steele, with TJ Bass serving as the primary backup. The team faces decisions regarding roster composition, specifically whether to carry five or four tackles. Potential candidates for additional spots include Ajani Cornelius, Nick Leverett, Shiyazh Pete, and DJ Wingfield, with the coaching staff evaluating whether to retain five tackles given Tyler Smith’s ability to slide outside.

Running back Jaydon Blue is listed as the second running back (RB2), ahead of Phil Mafah. This ranking follows reports of improved focus in training camp, contrasting with previous concerns regarding work ethic during his rookie campaign. Mafah has also performed impressively, leading to speculation that the Cowboys may enter the season with four backs on the active roster, including fullback Hunter Luepke.

Undecided competitions remain at backup quarterback, where Joe Milton and Sam Howell are listed with an "or" between their names. Similar uncertainty exists at backup off-ball linebacker between Sam Williams and first-round rookie Malachi Lawrence, and at cornerback between Shavon Revel and Cobie Durant. The presence of "or" in the depth chart suggests the coaching staff is maintaining these competitions until the end of the preseason, though the order listed may reflect seniority rather than current performance superiority.

Rookie wide receiver Battle is noted to have a "wide berth" in the pecking order behind the top four wide receivers. The starting five for the offensive line is considered settled, but the broader roster implications for the offensive line and backfield remain subjects of ongoing evaluation as the team prepares for the exhibition game. The depth chart is unofficial and subject to change before the regular season.