Former Dallas Cowboys running back Deuce Vaughn was released from the Houston Texans’ practice squad on Monday, ending his latest brief NFL stop and leaving the undersized back once again searching for a roster spot, the Texans announced.
Vaughn, the 5-foot-6, 176-pound dynamo out of Kansas State, remains a fond memory for Cowboys fans despite limited production in Dallas.
Selected in the sixth round (212th overall) of the 2023 draft, he instantly became a fan favorite.
His draft-night moment—receiving the call from his father, Cowboys scout Chris Vaughn—combined with electric preseason flashes and an underdog stature that made every carry feel like a statement, cemented his popularity.
He was one of the shortest running backs ever drafted, and Cowboys supporters embraced the Round Rock native as a feel-good story.
On the field in Dallas, the results never matched the affection.
Across 14 games in 2023 and 2024, Vaughn rushed 40 times for 110 yards (2.8 yards per carry) and caught 10 passes for 58 yards, often used sparingly behind a crowded backfield.
He showed occasional burst and versatility as a receiver and returner, but never carved out a consistent role. The Cowboys waived him during final cuts ahead of the 2025 season.
Since then, Vaughn has bounced around in search of an opportunity.
He spent the 2025 season on the Denver Broncos’ practice squad, played for the UFL’s Orlando Storm, and had two short stints with the Texans in 2026—signing briefly in August before being cut, then rejoining Houston’s practice squad in early October.
Monday’s release came alongside other roster moves, as Houston signed defensive tackle Naquan Jones to the active roster, waived defensive tackle Jaden Crumedy, and added running back Joshua Pitsenberger to the practice squad.
For Cowboys fans, the news stirs a mix of nostalgia and realism. Vaughn’s size and college production at Kansas State (where he was a consensus All-American and Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year) always made him a long shot to stick long-term in the NFL, yet his effort and the personal story made him easy to root for.
His career rushing total of just 110 yards reflects the challenge undersized backs face, even as players like Darren Sproles have shown what’s possible in rare cases.
At 25, Vaughn is still young enough for another chance, whether on another practice squad, in the UFL, or as a free-agent flyer.
Monday’s move simply continues a familiar pattern since he left Dallas: short stints, limited opportunities, and the hope that his speed and toughness can still find a home.
Cowboys supporters will keep an eye on where the fan favorite lands next.
