Cowboys likely to draft UNC's Omarion Hampton instead

The Dallas Cowboys struggled with their rushing game in 2024. Despite signing running backs Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, the team may still look to draft a running back in the first round of the NFL Draft. NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. predicts that the Las Vegas Raiders will select Ashton Jeanty, the top running back and a Heisman Trophy runner-up, with the sixth pick. Kiper believes the Cowboys will then choose Omarion Hampton from the University of North Carolina instead. Hampton impressed at the combine, running a 4.46-second 40-yard dash and jumping 10 feet, 10 inches in the broad jump. Kiper described Hampton as a "home run hitter" who could energize the Cowboys' struggling running game. Over the last two seasons, Dallas averaged only 4.0 yards per carry, tying for the fourth worst in the league. The team ranked sixth for the least rushing yards and had the fewest runs over 20 yards last season. Both Sanders and Williams faced disappointing seasons, making it uncertain if they can significantly improve the running game. Kiper suggests that drafting Hampton could provide the Cowboys with the game-changing player they need. Last season, Hampton rushed for 1,660 yards and 15 touchdowns, along with 373 receiving yards and two touchdowns. He could instantly make a difference for the team.