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One of the best and most comprehensive features we offer every year is our Footballguys Preseason Updates. Every week this month, Bob Henry, Jason Wood, Clayton Gray, and their team of Footballguys Staffers cover every player that matters from every NFL team. It's 32-plus pages of some of the most comprehensive coverage you'll find. It's probably worth the Footballguys Premium Subscription by itself.
Updates from Week 4
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Dak Prescott was held out for the entire preseason, but there are no concerns about his readiness after a summer in which he controlled practices and continued to build chemistry with CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. Even with new head coach Brian Schottenheimer emphasizing a more run-heavy approach, the reality is that the Cowboys' difference makers remain in the passing game, putting the offense squarely on Prescott's shoulders. The real intrigue came behind him. Joe Milton III, acquired via trade in the offseason, had an uneven start but closed camp with his best showing, flashing the arm strength, mobility, and poise that made him a developmental bet. He still needs polish. But his upside is clear, and he looks set as the primary backup. Will Grier, a vested veteran, was never in true competition for the No. 2 job, but his knowledge of the system and steady preseason work make him a strong candidate to return via the practice squad once roster gymnastics shake out. The structure of the room is straightforward: Prescott entrenched, Milton locked in as his understudy, and Grier hanging around as insurance.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
No position on the roster is more unsettled than running back. Javonte Williams projects as the starter after consistently handling first-team reps, but he did not play a single preseason snap, leaving real questions about his readiness and workload. Miles Sanders appeared roster-secure based on his preseason usage, but his one outing produced just 15 yards on seven carries and drew skepticism about whether he has more left than what he showed in Carolina. Rookie Jaydon Blue finally debuted in the finale after missing two games with an ankle injury, flashed burst and toughness, then sprained the same ankle. The staff expects him back for Week 1, and his extended run late into the game was explained as makeup reps, not an indictment of his role. Blue has the potential to take on a larger share of the carries as the season wears on, but the early weeks may see him eased in. Rookie Phil Mafah has been physical but looks like a practice-squad candidate, while Deuce Vaughn has been the surprise of the summer, stringing together strong performances that have some beat writers speculating he could push his way onto the 53 despite a crowded room. Fullback Hunter Luepke rounds out the unit as a versatile piece who also helps at tight end. After all three preseason games, the rotation is no clearer than when camp began, and Schottenheimer will need to settle roles on the fly.
