The Dallas Cowboys are coming off a disappointing NFL season and are looking to improve their record in hopes of making a postseason run next year. To achieve that, team owner Jerry Jones has been active in the market, acquiring players to strengthen key areas and avoid another underwhelming 7-10 finish. His first major move to bolster quarterback Dak Prescott’s offense is the signing of running back Javonte Williams.
According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, Williams is officially joining the Cowboys. “Former Broncos RB Javonte Williams is signing a one-year, $3 million deal with the Cowboys, per sources. Max $3.5M with incentives,” Pelissero reported via X (formerly Twitter).
Williams, is coming off a 2024 season in which he recorded 513 rushing yards over 17 games, along with 346 receiving yards. The North Carolina native found the end zone four times and averaged just over 50 total yards per game. His 52 receptions ranked seventh among running backs, showcasing his reliability as a weapon in the passing game, particularly on screen plays.
Is Williams the right fit?
Williams’ signing is unlikely to be the Cowboys’ final move to upgrade a rushing attack that ranked 27th in total yards last season. Lead back Rico Dowdle (1,079 rushing yards, 4.6 yards per carry) is a pending free agent and could sign elsewhere. Even if he returns, Dallas may still look to add another difference-maker in the backfield to support Prescott.
Javonte Williams #33 of the Denver Broncos runs the ball against the Los Angeles Chargers
Williams is coming off two underwhelming seasons in Denver, averaging just 3.6 to 3.7 yards per carry. Additionally, his 2.4 yards after contact ranked 48th among the top 50 running backs in total carries last season.
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What’s next for Dallas?
It’s clear that the Cowboys didn’t bring in Williams to be their featured back, but rather to split snaps with another addition yet to be made. That player? Likely a rookie running back selected in the first two rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft.
