GS. Big Surprise for the Jets: Cowboys’ “Robbery Train” Officially Returns to the Field in Week 5.
The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for a pivotal Week 5 matchup against the New York Jets, but they’ll be without two key offensive players: star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and running back Miles Sanders, both sidelined by injuries. Lamb, who suffered an ankle injury last week, missed the Cowboys’ Week 4 tie against the Green Bay Packers and has been ruled out for Sunday’s game, with reports suggesting he could miss one or two additional games. Similarly, Sanders, the team’s No. 2 tailback, will also sit out this weekend’s contest. While these absences are significant blows to Dallas’ offense, the Cowboys are poised to unleash a secret weapon that could catch the Jets off guard: rookie running back Jaydon Blue, dubbed the “Robbery Train” for his explosive playmaking ability.
Dallas Cowboys rookie RB Jaydon Blue will make his NFL debut in Week 5
Blue, a fifth-round draft pick out of Texas, has yet to see the field this season, but with Sanders sidelined, the former Longhorns star is set to make his NFL debut. The Cowboys’ coaching staff and front office have high expectations for the young running back, who brings a dynamic skill set to the backfield. “I’m very excited; I’ve waited my time,” Blue said after practice on Friday, as reported by CBS Sports. “I stayed patient, and I was told to trust the process. I knew eventually if I was to stay consistent and work hard that time would come.”
Blue’s opportunity comes at a critical moment for the Cowboys, who have relied heavily on their running game to complement their passing attack. Through the first four games, Sanders has been a key contributor, racking up 117 yards and a touchdown as the team’s second-leading rusher behind starter Javonte Williams, who has amassed 312 yards and three touchdowns. However, Blue isn’t just a typical depth player stepping in for a handful of carries. According to Cowboys VP of player personnel Will McClay, Blue was drafted in April specifically for his game-changing potential. During his final two seasons at Texas, Blue tallied an impressive 1,128 yards rushing, 503 yards receiving, and 18 total touchdowns, showcasing his versatility as both a runner and a pass-catcher.
“At the end of the day in the NFL, you’re looking for explosive playmakers, and he’s an explosive playmaker,” McClay said. “You put him in the backfield with what we’ve built on the line, and he has a chance to be explosive. … An explosive player that can flip the field for you on carries. Can also win you some matchups in one-on-one coverage vs. linebackers. He’s an explosive playmaker. It’s a different speed that he plays at.”
Despite his immense potential, Blue’s journey to this moment hasn’t been without challenges. During the preseason, questions about his work ethic landed him in head coach Brian Schottenheimer’s doghouse, delaying his integration into the Cowboys’ game plan. However, with Sanders out, Blue has a golden opportunity to prove his doubters wrong and showcase the electrifying talent that earned him the “Robbery Train” nickname. Many within the organization believe that if Blue seizes this chance, he could not only fill Sanders’ shoes but potentially challenge for the RB1 role in the near future.
For the Jets, preparing for Blue presents a unique challenge. His combination of speed, agility, and receiving ability makes him a matchup nightmare, particularly against linebackers in pass coverage. With the Cowboys’ offensive line providing solid protection and creating running lanes, Blue has the potential to flip the field and deliver the kind of explosive plays McClay described. As Dallas looks to rebound from their tie against Green Bay and make a statement in Week 5, all eyes will be on the rookie running back to see if he can live up to the hype.
The “Robbery Train” is officially back on the tracks, and the New York Jets might not be ready for what’s coming.
