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Yahoo Sports NFL fantasy football takes on Phil Mafah
Every source-backed article insight STACKED has extracted from Yahoo Sports NFL about Phil Mafah.
79
Insights
27
Positive
17
Negative
Insight ledger
All Yahoo Sports NFL insights about Phil Mafah
NegativeDepth ChartSep 22, 2026
Running back on Giants practice squad roster.NegativeDepth ChartSep 16, 2026
The source reports that running back Phil Mafah was cut by the Cowboys during roster cuts, failing to make the 53-man roster alongside Israel Abanikanda and Jaydon Blue.NegativeDepth ChartSep 14, 2026
Mafah, a 2025 seventh-round pick of the Cowboys out of Clemson, was signed to the Giants practice squad. This represents a depth chart move and potential opportunity for the running back to develop within the organization.NegativeRoleSep 14, 2026
The source reports that Phil Mafah, a 23-year-old seventh-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2025, was signed to the Giants' practice squad after appearing in one game for Dallas with five carries for 18 yards and two receptions for 11 yards. Mafah was waived by the Cowboys at the end of August during the cutdown to the 53-man roster limit and participated in a Giants workout on Monday.NegativeUsageSep 2, 2026
Mafah finished the preseason with 13 carries for 61 yards and a touchdown, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. His longest run went for 15 yards and a score against the Cardinals on a play where he stayed calm and reversed course on a run that seemed stuffed, but the source notes these numbers 'weren't enough to separate him from the competition.'NegativeRoleSep 2, 2026
Mafah, a seventh-round 2025 draft pick, entered the 2026 offseason as a candidate to take over the No. 2 running back role but was released. The source states his physical running style was intriguing but 'the coaching staff ultimately decided that other backs offered more immediate value and reliability,' and he 'never completely forced the Cowboys to make room for him.'NegativeRoleSep 2, 2026
Running back Phil Mafah was released by the Cowboys as part of roster decisions emphasizing consistency and immediate contribution. Mafah was outworked during training camp and preseason by undrafted veteran Malik Davis, indicating the team opted for players who can contribute now rather than developmental prospects.NegativeDepth ChartAug 31, 2026
Released by Dallas Cowboys in roster cuts on Sunday; no longer on team depth chart.NegativeDepth ChartAug 31, 2026
Released by the Cowboys as part of an aggressive backfield reduction that also included Jaydon Blue and Israel Abanikanda.NegativeDepth ChartAug 30, 2026
Phil Mafah was waived by the Cowboys as part of their running back cuts, leaving only Javonte Williams and Malik Davis at the position.NegativeDepth ChartAug 30, 2026
Phil Mafah has been waived by the Cowboys, removing him from the running back depth chart ahead of the 2026 season.NegativeDepth ChartAug 30, 2026
Cowboys waived Phil Mafah as part of Sunday's 53-man roster moves, removing him from the depth chart behind Javonte Williams.NegativeDepth ChartAug 29, 2026
The source indicates that Mafah has 'done nothing to sway opinions' in the preseason, suggesting he has not made a compelling case for a roster spot over the established running backs.PositiveRoleAug 29, 2026
Mafah was the more productive runner in the preseason finale against the Saints, receiving primary work alongside Israel Abanikanda; however, his roster status remains uncertain as Dallas must decide whether to keep him on the 53-man roster given the team already carries four backfield players including fullback Hunter Luepke.PositiveUsageAug 29, 2026
Running back Phil Mafah received significant work in the Saints preseason game with 12 carries for 46 yards (3.8 yards per carry), running hard and getting a chance to showcase his abilities as the Cowboys evaluated their backup running back depth.NegativeUsageAug 29, 2026
Phil Mafah did a lot of the work on the Cowboys' first offensive possession in the preseason finale against New Orleans.NegativeRoleAug 28, 2026
Phil Mafah is competing for the RB2 role behind Javonte Williams alongside Jaydon Blue, Malik Davis, and Israel Abanikanda; Davis currently holds the edge in the competition.PositiveBreakoutAug 27, 2026
Mike identifies Mafah as a surprise name who could make the 53-man roster if Dallas decides the run game needs depth and variety; Mafah brings a downhill, physical runner profile different from the rest of the room, has not looked out of place when given chances, and could provide short-yardage ability and insurance behind Javonte Williams. However, Jess and Sean both predict Mafah will be practice squad bound, suggesting he doesn't do anything remarkably better than Williams or Davis in the ground-and-pound game or Blue in the pass game.PositiveRoleAug 27, 2026
Phil Mafah had only one carry in the last preseason game but made the most of it, avoiding a sure tackle for loss, changing direction, and racing past the Cardinals defense for a touchdown; he is competing with Israel Abanikanda for a potential fourth running back roster spot alongside Malik Davis, Jaydon Blue, and Hunter Leupke.PositiveRoleAug 26, 2026
Mafah turned his only carry into a touchdown in the preseason game against Arizona, earning consideration for a roster spot in the backup running back competition alongside Jayden Blue and Israel Abanikanda.NegativeRoleAug 25, 2026
The source identifies Phil Mafah as a potential backup running back candidate for the Cowboys in 2026, suggesting the team needs to find a runner capable of a 60/40 split on carries early in the regular season to manage Javonte Williams' workload.NegativeUsageAug 24, 2026
Phil Mafah ran 9 routes across two preseason games, accumulating 6 receiving yards for a 0.67 yards per route run (YPRR), showing minimal route involvement and below-average efficiency for a running back.NegativeProjectionAug 24, 2026
Mafah earned a 71.0 PFF grade in the Cardinals game at running back, showing solid backup performance.PositiveUsageAug 23, 2026
Mafah scored a touchdown on his one carry of the night, a 15-yard score where he cut back and reversed field to the end zone. The source notes this was not the designed play but still represents a nice highlight for the second-year back in the battle for carries.NegativeRoleAug 23, 2026
Phil Mafah received only one carry in the preseason game but scored a touchdown on that carry; however, the source notes this limited usage is 'telling' and indicates his chances of securing the RB2 spot 'dissipated a while back,' though he can still contribute in other ways.PositiveRoleAug 23, 2026
The second-year running back posted the most impressive individual run late in the fourth quarter, changing direction for a 15-yard touchdown to close out the game. The source notes 'Just when you thought he might be the odd man out, he put himself back into the mix,' indicating his preseason performance re-established his roster candidacy.PositiveUsageAug 23, 2026
Phil Mafah scored a touchdown late in the fourth quarter when the Cowboys seemed to be running out the clock, demonstrating his ability to capitalize on opportunities and contribute in the running game.NegativeRoleAug 22, 2026
Second-year running back Phil Mafah, known for Marshawn Lynch-type runs, has been a major topic in the Cowboys' RB2 competition during training camp, though veteran Malik Davis has emerged as a potential surprise winner of the backup role.NegativeDepth ChartAug 21, 2026
Second-year RB Mafah was expected to make a big jump this offseason and was a focal point of Cowboys RB depth conversation, but is now limited in practices with injuries heading into week two preseason, which opens the door for Malik Davis to compete for the RB2 role.NegativeInjuryAug 18, 2026
Exited the preseason game against Seattle with a rib injury after four carries. Limited in Monday's practice due to the same rib injury, which has caused his arrow to point down as camp grinds on. Despite showing real year-two development with plus burst and decisiveness between the tackles earlier in camp, he now has to fight his way back into the RB competition mix.NegativeInjuryAug 17, 2026
Phil Mafah was limited in practice after being banged up in the preseason game with a rib injury.NegativeUsageAug 17, 2026
Mafah saw only four carries in preseason Week 1 compared to Jaydon Blue's eight, suggesting Blue is emerging as a threat to Mafah's backfield role with the Cowboys.NegativeInjuryAug 16, 2026
Mafah impressed in camp with improved pass protection and ball security but struggled in live action against Seattle, unable to cut out of congested backfields and getting stuck; he also suffered a chest injury early in the second half of the preseason game and was ruled out for the remainder.NegativeUsageAug 16, 2026
Second-year running back underperformed in preseason with longest run of just four yards; finished with nine yards on four carries (2.3 yards per carry); backup running backs Malik Davis and Israel Abanikanda outperformed him, suggesting RB2 job is firmly up for grabs.NegativeRoleAug 15, 2026
Physical runner competing for the backup running back job behind Javonte Williams; eager to showcase what he can do in preseason action as the backup spots remain wide open.NegativeDepth ChartAug 15, 2026
Mafah has had some moments in camp but the source indicates Dallas still wants to see more from the backs behind Williams in the preseason; he is competing with Jaydon Blue and Jashaun Corbin for depth roles.NegativeDepth ChartAug 15, 2026
Phil Mafah is competing with Jaydon Blue in a tight battle for the backup running back role behind Javonte Williams. According to Brian Schottenheimer, both players are closely matched in the competition, though Blue currently holds the edge on the unofficial depth chart.NegativeDepth ChartAug 14, 2026
Cowboys RB is behind Jaydon Blue on the backfield depth chart based on preseason Week 1 action.NegativeDepth ChartAug 13, 2026
Mafah is third on the Cowboys running back depth chart behind Javonte Williams and Jaydon Blue. He is the more powerful, downhill mauler like Williams, which gives him an edge over Malik Davis. However, Mafah needs to stack together a few really good games in the preseason to hold his spot ahead of Davis, though he looks very much ahead right now.NegativeRoleAug 5, 2026
Running back is doing his best to challenge for the RB2 spot, but Jaydon Blue's strong early camp performance suggests Mafah may be falling behind in the competition; the source questions whether Mafah has done enough to be in serious consideration of pushing Malik Davis.PositiveRoleAug 4, 2026
Running back showing positive things during Cowboys training camp in the running game; part of the offensive weapons being developed.PositiveBreakoutAug 3, 2026
Mafah, entering his second year after appearing only in the season finale as a rookie, has shown clear improvement in explosiveness during camp—a focus of his offseason work—and has broken off a long touchdown; his similar build and running style to Javonte Williams positions him as a potential downhill ball carrier and short-yardage/goal-line option if he wins the backup role.PositiveBreakoutAug 2, 2026
Seventh-round pick Phil Mafah is showing increased explosiveness at Cowboys training camp after focusing his offseason work on burst and agility. At 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds, Mafah has displayed an extra gear and more shifty movements compared to his similar downhill running style to starter Javonte Williams. If he can consistently show this burst and stack good days, he could seriously challenge for significant playing time in the RB2 competition against Jaydon Blue.PositiveRoleAug 1, 2026
Mafah has already had a few highlights in practice and is seeing a lot more action than Malik Davis in the RB2 competition; the source notes his flexibility as a rookie contract holder gives the Cowboys long-term positional flexibility.PositiveRoleJul 31, 2026
The second-year draft pick emerged as a surprise on day one of training camp by getting RB2 carries, and this continued on day two with Mafah recording a big off-tackle run untouched. Mafah is competing with fellow second-year player Jaydon Blue for the RB2 role behind Williams, with the Cowboys looking to fill the 30% of carries not handled by their lead back.PositiveRoleJul 31, 2026
The second-year draft pick is competing for the RB2 role and has impressed in early training camp, getting RB2 carries on both day one and day two of practice, including a notable off-tackle run. Mafah is competing with Jaydon Blue for the backup role behind Williams, with the Cowboys looking to distribute the remaining 30% of backfield carries among their depth options.PositiveRoleJul 31, 2026
The second-year draft pick is competing for the RB2 role and has impressed in early training camp practices, getting RB2 carries on both day one and day two. The source highlights Mafah hitting a home run off-tackle run untouched, showing early promise in the backup running back competition against Jaydon Blue and other candidates.PositiveRoleJul 31, 2026
The second-year draft pick earned RB2 carries in both of the first two unpadded practices of training camp, a surprise from opening practice that continued on Thursday. Mafah is competing with fellow second-year player Jaydon Blue for the RB2 role behind Williams, and the source highlights Mafah hitting a home run off-tackle run untouched during Thursday's practice, suggesting early positive signs in the competition for the 30% of carries not going to the lead back.NegativeRoleJul 31, 2026
Identified as potential number two back; early camp action shows physicality in running style, including running through tackle attempts and absorbing contact from defenders like Malik Hooker.NegativeRoleJul 30, 2026
Running back Phil Mafah was featured in the Cowboys' first training camp practice on July 29, 2026, facing the first-team defense. He was involved in two notable plays: a forced fumble recovered by Caleb Downs and a hit by Malik Hooker.NegativeRoleJul 30, 2026
Competing for backup running back role behind Javonte Williams; was the first to rotate in during Day 1 of training camp but fumbled on a Rashan Gary punchout and was immediately subbed out, losing an early opportunity to make an impression.PositiveDepth ChartJul 29, 2026
Phil Mafah started training camp as the second option in RB reps, ahead of fellow 2025 draftee Jaydon Blue, suggesting he may be the primary backup to Javonte Williams in the RB2 role for 2026; however, he was subbed out after a fumble, allowing Blue to take advantage with a 45-yard TD.PositiveRoleJul 27, 2026
Mafah is heading into year two with the Cowboys, who appear very high on him; he is competing with Jaydon Blue and Malik Davis for the RB2 job in 2026.NegativeInjuryJul 27, 2026
Mafah missed most of the 2025 season due to a shoulder injury, limiting his opportunities to establish himself in the Cowboys' backfield. He did not see significant action until the season finale.PositiveRoleJul 27, 2026
Mafah, at 6-foot-1 and 232 pounds, is positioned to carve out an expanded role as the Cowboys' goal-line back in 2026. The source notes he missed most of last season with a shoulder injury but scored a goal-line touchdown in the season finale, establishing the type of role he needs to develop. Dallas aims to keep starting RB Javonte Williams fresh by handing more goal-line work to Mafah, who has the frame to punish defenders and move the pile in short-yardage situations, turning tough yards into touchdowns.PositiveRoleJul 26, 2026
Phil Mafah is a big back who plays with force and a blatant disregard for defensive players' safety. The source believes he could be the guy who helps solve the Cowboys' red zone woes, positioning him as a potential solution in the RB2 competition.PositiveRoleJul 26, 2026
Phil Mafah is big and plays with force and a blatant disregard for defensive players' safety; the source likes this approach and believes he could be the guy who helps solve the Cowboys' red zone woes. Mafah is competing for the RB2 role.PositiveRoleJul 26, 2026
Phil Mafah is big and plays with force and a blatant disregard for defensive players' safety; the source likes this and believes he could be the guy who helps solve the Cowboys' red zone woes. Mafah is competing for the RB2 job.NegativeRoleNo date
Fan favorite running back but Dallas may not carry five running backs to start the year; could be in a training camp battle with Malik Davis for a roster spot, with special teams contributions potentially being the deciding factor.NegativeRoleNo date
Fan favorite running back facing a training camp battle with Malik Davis; question is whether Dallas will carry five running backs (including Hunter Luepke) to start the year, with special teams contributions potentially deciding the roster spot.NegativeRoleNo date
Fan favorite running back facing a training camp battle with Malik Davis; question is whether Dallas will carry five running backs to start the year, with special teams contributions potentially deciding his roster fate.NegativeRoleNo date
Mafah is vying for the coveted backup spot behind Javonte Williams in Dallas alongside Jaydon Blue and Malik Davis.NegativeRoleNo date
Fan favorite running back but Dallas may not carry five running backs to start the year; his roster spot could depend on special teams contributions and he faces a training camp battle with Malik Davis.PositiveBreakoutNo date
The second-year running back is expected to take a big step in 2026 according to the Cowboys' optimism about his development. The team has been adamant about their confidence in Mafah's progression.NegativeRoleNo date
Mafah is vying for the backup spot behind Javonte Williams in Dallas alongside Jaydon Blue and Malik Davis in what will be a competitive battle for the coveted No. 2 role.NegativeRoleNo date
Fan favorite running back facing uncertainty about whether Dallas will carry five running backs to start the year; could be in a training camp battle with Malik Davis for a roster spot, with special teams contributions potentially being the deciding factor.NegativeRoleNo date
Mafah is vying for the backup spot behind Javonte Williams in Dallas alongside Jaydon Blue and Malik Davis.NegativeRoleNo date
Jorge Guajardo identifies the running back battle behind Javonte Williams as a key training camp battle, noting that each back, whether it's Jaydon Blue, Phil Mafah, or Malik Davis, brings a different skill set to the table. If one of the backs emerges behind Williams, the offense could take another leap forward.PositiveRoleNo date
Boasting an impressive physical frame, the sophomore running back serves as a direct stylistic backup to the starter and will look to command heavy backup snaps with a dominant summer.NegativeRoleNo date
Mafah is vying for the backup spot behind Javonte Williams in Dallas alongside Jaydon Blue and Malik Davis during training camp.PositiveBreakoutNo date
The second-year running back is expected to take a big step this season, with the Cowboys expressing optimism about his development. The team has been adamant about their confidence in Mafah's progression.NegativeRoleNo date
Mafah is competing for the backup running back role behind Javonte Williams. Each back in the competition brings a different skill set to the table, and if one emerges, the offense could take another leap forward.NegativeDepth ChartNo date
Mafah is one of the running back options competing for the RB2 role behind Javonte Williams, though the source does not provide specific analysis of his candidacy.PositiveBreakoutNo date
The second-year running back is expected to take a big step this season according to the Cowboys' optimism. The team has been adamant about their confidence in Mafah's development.NegativeDepth ChartNo date
One of the running back options competing for the RB2 role behind Javonte Williams if Williams remains healthy; exact role to be determined during training camp.NegativeRoleNo date
Phil Mafah is mentioned as a potential RB2 option behind Javonte Williams if Williams remains healthy for most of the 2026 season.NegativeDepth ChartNo date
Phil Mafah is one of the running back options the source identifies as potentially filling the RB2 role behind Javonte Williams if Williams remains healthy.NegativeDepth ChartNo date
Phil Mafah is one of the running back options competing for the RB2 role behind Javonte Williams if Williams remains healthy.PositiveRoleNo date
Mafah, a fan-favorite during preseason last year, spent most of his rookie campaign on the IR and will compete for the RB2 role this offseason.