With the NFL Draft approaching in less than two weeks, teams are increasingly conducting 30-day visits. As fans, we are analyzing which of our favorite teams might make selections. Regarding the Dallas Cowboys, there is a general agreement among fans that they hope to prioritize defense during the first two days of the NFL Draft. I believe that day three 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; let us delve into the NFL Draft profile of running back Seth McGowan.
Seth McGowan was a highly regarded four-star recruit from Poteet High School in Mesquite, Texas, prior to his commitment to the Oklahoma Sooners football team. Throughout the 2020 season, he accumulated 58 carries for 370 yards and three touchdowns, in addition to 13 receptions for 201 yards and one touchdown. In May 2021, McGowan faced legal issues, being 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 Steers, where he trained but did not participate in any games. In 2023, he made a transfer to Butler Grizzlies, where he rushed for 125 yards and scored four touchdowns on 38 carries. His performance attracted the attention of the New Mexico State Aggies football team. Upon his return to FBS, McGowan made a significant impact, highlighted by an impressive debut. He concluded the 2024 season with 823 rushing yards, three rushing touchdowns, and 23 receptions for 277 yards, along with three additional touchdowns, earning All-Conference recognition. He subsequently transferred to the Kentucky Wildcats football team, where he recorded 725 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, and 19 receptions for 126 yards in 2025. He is expected to receive invitations to the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine. McGowan’s journey has been one of trials and tribulations, as well as redemption.
Seth Gowan Combine measurement
HT: 6’0″
WT: 223
Arm length: 31 3/8″
Combine stats:
40 yard dash: 4.49
10 yd. split: 1.60
Broad Jump: 10’11”
Vertical Jump: 42.5″
20 yd. shuttle: 4.50
2025 Stats: 165 carries, 725 rush yards, 12 rush TD, and 19 catches for 126 rec yards
Games watched: Florida (2025), Toledo (2025) , Eastern Michigan (2025)
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 achieved 12 touchdowns.
Weakness
Last year, 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 RB 2/3 in a team’s system.
Cowboys fit
Earlier this season, the Cowboys re-signed running back Javonte Williams to a three-year extension. However, there is a requirement for a potential RB 2/3. Last year, the most effective backup was Malik Davis, who was brought in later in the season due to inconsistencies from 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.
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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Seth McGowan’s Journey to NFL Draft, Cowboys 30 Visit
Reporting by Kenneth Ball, Cowboys Wire / Cowboys Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
