In the world of college football, few narratives are as compelling as the journey of a hometown hero who captures the imagination of fans and franchises alike. For Boise State’s standout running back Ashton Jeanty, this narrative is particularly poignant as he finds himself in the conversation for the Heisman Trophy while also eyeing a potential return to his Dallas roots with the Cowboys. Having grown up in Frisco, Texas, and played high school football at Frisco Lone Star High School, Jeanty’s aspirations are firmly tied to the city that shaped his early athletic career.

As the NFL season unfolds, the Dallas Cowboys are grappling with a pressing issue: their struggling running game. Currently, they rank dead last in the league in total rushing yards, yards per carry, and rushing touchdowns. This dire situation has sparked criticism and questions about the Cowboys’ approach to their backfield. Following a lackluster offseason, where owner Jerry Jones opted not to re-sign Tony Pollard or pursue Derrick Henry—who, notably, resides in Dallas during the offseason and expressed interest in joining the team—the running back room has become a focal point of scrutiny.

In the wake of these decisions, the Cowboys have returned to former star Ezekiel Elliott for a second stint, pairing him with undrafted running back Rico Dowdle. However, this combination has not generated the production necessary for a team with Super Bowl aspirations. As the Cowboys continue to search for answers, the prospect of adding a talented local player like Jeanty has gained traction.

On a recent episode of 105.3 The Fan, Jones spoke about the team’s running back situation, including a mention of Henry. He reflected on his history as the team’s owner, humorously recalling a coin flip that determined his early decisions. Jones stated, “How do I make a decision? I go back to when I bought the team… I don’t know why I picked what I picked.” He acknowledged Henry’s impressive season but ultimately concluded that the star running back did not fit the team’s offensive scheme, citing salary cap concerns and the need to prioritize contracts for other players.

Despite the challenges faced by the Cowboys, Jeanty’s electrifying performance at Boise State has made him a player to watch. His statistics have been nothing short of phenomenal, reminiscent of video game numbers. Jeanty’s potential to make a significant impact in the NFL is drawing attention not only from fans but also from analysts and scouts. His accolades have positioned him as a leading candidate for the Heisman Trophy, a prestigious honor awarded annually to the most outstanding player in college football.

During a live stream, Jeanty expressed his admiration for the Cowboys and the Chiefs, mentioning, “Chiefs, you know what I’m saying? Be a Super Bowl contender every year, come on now. Dallas Cowboys, I’m not saying they’re not a good fit. I’m not saying that at all. I’m from Frisco, played in Frisco, I played in their practice stadium. I would be a hometown hero if I went there.” His connection to the Cowboys is deeply personal, and the idea of returning home to play for a franchise he grew up supporting is undoubtedly appealing.

The likelihood of Jeanty fulfilling this dream is becoming increasingly plausible, as various mock drafts project him being selected by the Cowboys in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. ESPN and CBS Sports have both speculated that Dallas could pick Jeanty around the No. 15 to No. 16 spots. This projection not only underscores his talent but also highlights the Cowboys’ need for a dynamic running back who can change the landscape of their offense.

Jeanty’s high school career laid the foundation for his current success. During his time at Frisco Lone Star, he was featured in a high-profile matchup against Denton Ryan, a game showcased on WFAA’s Friday Night Football in 2020. This exposure not only spotlighted his abilities but also endeared him to local fans who continue to follow his progress at Boise State. His journey from a promising high school athlete to a potential NFL star embodies the aspirations of many young players in Texas and serves as an inspiration to those who dream of making it to the professional level.

What makes Jeanty particularly intriguing as a prospect is not just his stats but also his versatility. He possesses a unique combination of speed, power, and agility, allowing him to excel as both a rusher and a receiver. This dual-threat capability is invaluable in today’s NFL, where offenses increasingly rely on running backs who can contribute in multiple ways. As the Cowboys seek to revitalize their running game, Jeanty’s skill set could provide the spark they desperately need.

In the context of the Cowboys’ current struggles, Jeanty’s addition could be a game-changer. The franchise has historically relied on strong running backs to carry the load, and integrating a player of Jeanty’s caliber could reinvigorate the offense. The ability to keep defenses guessing with a running back who can break tackles, make defenders miss, and catch passes out of the backfield would be a tremendous asset for the Cowboys, especially as they look to compete in a competitive NFC East.

As the NFL Draft approaches, the interest in Jeanty will only intensify. Scouts and analysts will continue to evaluate his performance, both in games and at potential combine showcases. The attention surrounding him will likely increase, especially if he maintains his Heisman candidacy and continues to perform at an elite level.

Moreover, the relationship between the Cowboys and their local talent could prove beneficial for both parties. Having a player who is already a fan favorite and has deep ties to the community can create an immediate connection between the team and its supporters. Jeanty’s presence in the backfield could foster a sense of pride among fans, especially those who watched him develop from a high school star into a collegiate standout.

While Jeanty’s dreams of playing for the Cowboys remain speculative, the alignment of his talent, personal history, and the team’s needs creates a compelling storyline that resonates with many. As he continues to navigate his collegiate career, there is no doubt that he will keep a close eye on the developments within the NFL and the Cowboys’ strategy moving forward.

however, the Dallas Cowboys are at a critical juncture as they look to revitalize their running game, and the potential addition of Ashton Jeanty represents an exciting opportunity for both the player and the franchise. As Jeanty chases the Heisman Trophy and prepares for the next steps in his career, the vision of returning home to Dallas and donning the Cowboys’ star is a tantalizing prospect. Whether this dream materializes will depend on many factors, including the Cowboys’ draft strategy, Jeanty’s continued development, and the evolving landscape of the NFL. Regardless of the outcome, Jeanty’s journey remains a testament to the power of ambition, hard work, and the enduring connection between a player and his hometown.