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Cowboys could augment RB room with Dallas Day bruiser from JUCO to SEC
TL;DR
As the 2026 NFL Draft nears, the Dallas Cowboys are considering former Oklahoma running back Seth McGowan, who has shown promise after overcoming legal issues and transferring from Texas College to Butler. McGowan's recent performances have caught the attention of NFL scouts.
With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching and less than two weeks away, teams are putting the finishing touches on their 30-day visits. There is a general agreement among Dallas Cowboys fans that defense is prioritized during the first two days.
Day 3 of this draft holds the potential for discovering some hidden talents. One such prospect is DFW native and former Mesquite Poteet alum, Kentucky Wildcat running back Seth McGowan. His journey exemplifies the essence of redemption.
McGowan was a highly regarded, four-star recruit from Poteet High School in Mesquite, Texas, prior to his commitment to the Oklahoma Sooners. In 2020 he accumulated 58 carries for 370 yards and three touchdowns, in addition to 13 receptions for 201 yards and one touchdown. But in May 2021 McGowan faced legal issues, arrested on robbery and other charges, which led to a three-month incarceration and his subsequent dismissal from Oklahoma.
Determined to pursue his football career, he enrolled at Texas College, where he trained but did not participate in any games. In 2023, he transferred to Butler, where he rushed for 125 yards and scored four touchdowns on 38 carries for the Grizzlies. His performance attracted the attention of the New Mexico State Aggies football team, and upon his return to FBS, McGowan made a significant impact.
He concluded the 2024 season with 823 rushing yards, three rushing touchdowns, and 23 receptions for 277 yards, along with three more scores, earning All-Conference recognition. He subsequently transferred to Kentucky, where he recorded 725 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, and 19 receptions for 126 yards in 2025. He received invitations to the Senior Bowl, where he had the longest run of the game, and NFL Combine.
Seth Gowan Combine measurements
HT: 6-foot-0
WT: 223 pounds
Arm length: 31 3/8"
40 yard dash: 4.49
10 yd. split: 1.60
Broad Jump: 10'11"
Vertical Jump: 42.5"
20 yd. shuttle: 4.50
Seth McGowan Scouting Overview
Games watched: Florida (2025), Toledo (2025) , Eastern Michigan (2025)
2025 Stats: 165 carries, 725 rush yards, 12 rush TD, and 19 catches for 126 rec yards
Round Grade: Late 5th to Early sixth round
Strengths
McGowan is a robust running back — tipping the scales at over 200 pounds — who embraces contact and is determined to power through defenders, persistently driving his legs for additional yards. Although he may not be the most elusive of runners, he has sufficient agility to dodge occasional defenders.
He is a quick decision-maker and skilled at recognizing gaps to take advantage of. He adds value in the receiving game when necessary. His playing style is particularly well-suited for short yardage and goal line scenarios, as evidenced by his performance at Kentucky, where he tallied 12 touchdowns.
Weaknesses
McGowan did not exhibit the optimal long speed for the Wildcats. Out of his 165 carries, only 13 resulted in gains of over 10 yards, with his longest run measuring 20 yards. Over the last two seasons at New Mexico State and Kentucky, he has accumulated a total of five fumbles. To succeed at the next level, he must address this issue. Additionally, some teams may consider his age, turning 25 in October, as a potential drawback.
Summary
Overall, McGowan possesses significant value as a short-yardage and goal-line running back at the next level. His physicality and strength, along with his ability to fall forward when tackled, are assets for a team in search of a backup running back who may serve as a more agile starter. McGowan would be the ideal complementary RB2, RB3 in a team's system.
Cowboys fit
Earlier this offseason, the Cowboys re-signed running back Javonte Williams to a three-year extension. However, there is a need for a potential backup. Last year, the most effective reserve was Malik Davis, who was brought in later in the season due to lack of confidence in rookies Phil Mafah and Jaydon Blue. Williams possesses a blend of compact power, speed, and shiftiness. McGowan could serve as a bruiser back to secure those short yards and goal line situations, thereby keeping Williams fresh and also assisting in the flats and wheel routes within the receiving game.
This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Kentucky RB Seth McGowan could augment Cowboys depth after tedious run
Q&A
What happened to Seth McGowan during his time at Oklahoma?
Seth McGowan faced legal issues in May 2021, resulting in his arrest for robbery and other charges, which led to his dismissal from the Oklahoma Sooners.
How did Seth McGowan perform after transferring to Butler?
At Butler, Seth McGowan rushed for 125 yards and scored four touchdowns on 38 carries, showcasing his potential for a return to FBS football.
What are the Dallas Cowboys' priorities for the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Dallas Cowboys are generally prioritizing defense during the first two days of the 2026 NFL Draft, but they are also exploring potential offensive talents like Seth McGowan.
What is Seth McGowan's background as a high school recruit?
Seth McGowan was a highly regarded four-star recruit from Mesquite Poteet High School in Texas before committing to the Oklahoma Sooners.
