DAL Phil Mafah
NFL player. Position: Running Back. Team: Dallas Cowboys.
Quick Facts
- Position: Running Back
- Team: Dallas Cowboys
- Draft: 2025 Round 7
- College: Clemson
2026 Outlook
Seventh-round pick with strong college pedigree (3,196 yards, 28 TDs in four seasons at Clemson). Performed well in preseason before injury sidelined him until season finale, where he scored a TD against the Giants. Tough, balanced runner similar to starting RB Javonte Williams. Cowboys optimistic about larger role in 2026. Competing with Jaydon Blue and Malik Davis for carries. (per second-year-jump-these-dallas-cowboys-have-a-chance-to-make-waves-in-2026-season-dallas-news)
July 20 — second-year opportunity in open RB2 battle: Fort Worth Star-Telegram lists Mafah as "ON THE BUBBLE" for the RB2 role, noting he "enters his second season fully healthy and with the momentum of a strong offseason in the eyes of his coaches." The competition for the backup spot is wide open with no clear favorite. Mafah's Clemson pedigree and health position him to compete, but he faces stiff pressure from Jaydon Blue (explosive speed and receiving ability) and veteran Malik Davis. The winner of this battle will provide meaningful complement to Williams and earn significant touches. (per Cowboys Depth Chart: Big role awaits winner of running back battle - Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Role / Depth Chart
Third option in backfield rotation behind Javonte Williams, competing with Jaydon Blue and Malik Davis.
Injury Status
Chest injury (August 16, 2026): Suffered chest injury during preseason Week 1 vs. Arizona, exited game and did not return. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer indicated Mafah should be okay, but further testing pending when team returns to Oxnard. Timeline for recovery and return to play still unclear (per Phil Mafah Headlines Dallas Cowboys' List of Injuries From Preseason Week 1 Win).
Recent News
- 2026-08-16 — Phil Mafah Headlines Dallas Cowboys' List of Injuries From Preseason Week 1 Win (Phil Mafah Headlines Dallas Cowboys' List of Injuries From Preseason Week 1 Win)
- 2026-07-08 — Cowboys optimistic about expanded role in 2026 after preseason flashes (second-year-jump-these-dallas-cowboys-have-a-chance-to-make-waves-in-2026-season-dallas-news)
Open Questions
- How long will Phil Mafah miss due to chest injury? Will he return for the regular season?