As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for their 2025 training camp in Oxnard, California, the battle for roster spots intensifies. With a revamped roster and new head coach Brian Schottenheimer at the helm, several players are on the bubble, fighting to secure their place on the 53-man roster. Injuries, underwhelming performances, and fierce competition at key positions put these five Cowboys at risk of being cut before the season begins. Here’s a closer look at who’s on the chopping block and why.
Players on the Roster Bubble
Jonathan Mingo: Wide Receiver
Jonathan Mingo, acquired at the 2024 trade deadline, was expected to bolster the Cowboys’ receiving corps. However, his minimal impact last season raises concerns. With CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, Jalen Tolbert, and KaVontae Turpin locked in, Mingo must outshine competitors like Parris Campbell to stay. His second-round pedigree offers hope, but he needs a standout camp to avoid the cut.
Why He’s at Risk
Mingo’s lackluster performance in 2024, coupled with a crowded receiver room, puts him in a precarious position. He must prove his worth in a pass-heavy offense led by Dak Prescott.
Miles Sanders: Running Back
Miles Sanders, one of four new running backs, faces an uphill battle. After a promising minicamp, his lack of production since leaving Philadelphia casts doubt on his role. Competing against Javonte Williams, rookies Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, and versatile players like Hunter Luepke, Sanders must dominate in camp to secure a spot.
Why He’s at Risk
Sanders’ inability to replicate his Eagles success and the depth at running back make him expendable unless he outperforms expectations in Oxnard.
Deuce Vaughn: Running Back
Deuce Vaughn, a fan favorite, is also on shaky ground. Despite the arrival of his former Kansas State playcaller Conor Riley, Vaughn’s 2.8 yards per attempt last season and limited opportunities put him at risk. He’ll need to show significant improvement to fend off competitors in a crowded backfield.
Why He’s at Risk
Vaughn’s small stature and lack of breakout performances make it challenging to justify his roster spot over more productive backs.
Donovan Wilson: Safety
Veteran safety Donovan Wilson’s experience is an asset, but his performance may not match his salary. With Juanyeh Thomas potentially stepping up as a starter and rookie Alijah Clark vying for a role, Wilson could be a surprise cut if the Cowboys prioritize cost and youth.
Why He’s at Risk
Wilson’s solid but unspectacular play and the emergence of younger, cheaper alternatives threaten his roster security.
Parris Campbell: Wide Receiver
Parris Campbell, signed to a one-year, $1.3 million deal, brings speed and experience but faces stiff competition. Frequent injuries and a lack of guaranteed money in his contract make him a likely candidate to be cut if he can’t outshine Mingo or others in camp.
Why He’s at Risk
Campbell’s injury history and the depth at wide receiver put him on the outside looking in unless he delivers a stellar camp performance.
Roster Competition Overview
| Player | Position | Key Competition | Risk Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jonathan Mingo | Wide Receiver | Lamb, Pickens, Tolbert, Turpin | Limited 2024 impact |
| Miles Sanders | Running Back | Williams, Blue, Mafah, Luepke | Lack of recent production |
| Deuce Vaughn | Running Back | Sanders, Williams, Blue, Mafah | Low yards per attempt |
| Donovan Wilson | Safety | Thomas, Clark | High salary, average play |
| Parris Campbell | Wide Receiver | Mingo, Lamb, Pickens, Tolbert | Injury history, no guarantees |
Conclusion
The 2025 Dallas Cowboys training camp will be a proving ground for these five players. With new coaching strategies and a competitive roster, Mingo, Sanders, Vaughn, Wilson, and Campbell must deliver exceptional performances to secure their spots. The battles at wide receiver, running back, and safety will shape the team’s final 53-man roster, and only the strongest will survive the cuts. As camp unfolds in Oxnard, all eyes will be on these players to see who rises to the challenge and who falls short.