The Dallas Cowboys have made the uncharacteristic move of trading for wide receiver George Pickens following the NFL Draft, and there’s now talk of them possibly making a play for free agent running back Nick Chubb.
The Cowboys’ wideout acquisition has perhaps broken their new model of avoiding notable moves, leaving fans excited about additional big-name signings.
Although Chubb is on the market and the team’s running game was the sore point of their offense last season, it doesn’t appear he’s under consideration. According to NFL Network reporter Jane Slater, the Cowboys were “never in play” for the star RB, while moves for New York Jets RB Breece Hall and their former cornerback Stephon Gilmore have also been ruled out.
“For those Cowboys fans seeking more….I checked on anything additional in the works for instance ‘are guys like Nick Chubb or Stephon Gilmore still in play?’” Slater tweeted after the Pickens trade. “The response ‘they were never in play’. Adding Breece Hall. Also ‘never in play.’”
For those Cowboys fans seeking more….I checked on anything additional in the works for instance “are guys like Nick Chubb or Stephon Gilmore still in play?” The response “they were never in play” pic.twitter.com/quGVX07JXU
— Jane Slater (@SlaterNFL) May 7, 2025
The Cowboys Have A Solid RB Corps Heading Into Next Season, Nick Chubb Not Needed
The Cowboys added two running backs in the draft, selecting Jaydon Blue from Texas in the fifth round and Phil Mafah from Clemson in the seventh round 7.
Blue has impressed with his speed and completed the 40-yard dash in 4.38 seconds at the Combine. Mafah, who has drawn comparisons to Dallas fan favorite Marion Barber, is pure brute force.
The team also added Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams in free agency this year.
As for Chubb, the four-time Pro Bowler has played just 10 games over the past two seasons due to injury and has not gone past 400 rushing yards in that period, having previously recorded 1,000-plus campaigns in four straight years.
Given the above, the Cowboys’ lack of interest is understandable, but the 51-touchdown star could also offer them a low-risk option on a one-year deal at minimal wages.