E.J. Smith Joins Dallas Cowboys’ Local Running Back Workout

The Dallas Cowboys invited a handful of Texas‑area prospects to an invite‑only session at The Star on Thursday, and the most talked‑about name in the room was E.J. Smith, son of Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith.

A Familiar Name at a Familiar Venue

E.J. Smith, a former Stanford transfer who finished his college career at Texas A&M, participated in the workout that does not count toward the league‑mandated 30‑visit limit for draft prospects. Coaches observed his vision, patience and elusiveness—traits highlighted by Pro Football Focus after he logged 14 broken tackles in 2021.

College Resume and Injury Hurdles

Across two seasons with the Aggies, Smith amassed 412 rushing yards on 98 carries and four touchdowns, plus 71 receptions for 470 yards. Persistent injuries limited his production, but his inclusion on the 2022 Doak Walker Award watch list underscored his upside.

Cowboys’ Roster Needs

Dallas enters the 2026 season seeking depth at running back. With free agency slowing and the draft approaching, the Cowboys are evaluating backup options such as Smith alongside other local talents like Wake Forest’s Demond Claiborne. While an undrafted contract remains a possibility, a strong showing at the workout could earn Smith a spot on the roster or practice squad.

The Smith legacy may soon intersect with the Cowboys’ future, pending the young running back’s performance in Dallas’s next evaluation rounds.