Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams looks on before the game against the Denver Broncos. Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Cowboys Remain Best Fit for Breakout Star Ahead of NFL Free Agency

Originally posted on Dallas Cowboys on SI
By Randy Gurzi | Last updated Feb 17, 2026 10:10 AM ET

After letting Rico Dowdle walk in free agency following a 1,000-yard campaign, the Dallas Cowboys turned to free agent running back Javonte Williams.

Originally selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft, Williams began his career with the Denver Broncos. Injuries slowed him down following a strong rookie campaign, but Williams had under four yards per attempt over his last two seasons.

Despite his struggles in Denver, the Cowboys believed he was a perfect fit in Brian Schottenheimer’s scheme and their gamble paid off. Williams ran for 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns with an average of 4.8 yards per attempt.

That performance set Williams up for 2026 free agency, and he could potentially make more money outside of Dallas. That said, ESPN’s Matt Bowen believes the Cowboys are his best fit and says a return makes sense.

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”Williams returning to Dallas makes sense after he rushed for a career-high 1,201 yards in coach Brian Schottenheimer's offense,” Bowen wrote.

“With his explosive movement ability and north/south power, Williams can keep his role as the Cowboys' lead back and contribute as a pass catcher for quarterback Dak Prescott.”

Cowboys won’t get into a bidding war for Javonte Williams

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Dallas has made it clear that they value Williams and want him back on a multi-year deal. That doesn’t mean they’re going to overpay.

Williams was the third different back in as many years to top 1,000 yards for the Cowboys, with Tony Pollard doing so in 2023, followed by Dowdle in 2024.

Dallas didn’t re-sign either player, believing they could find better value elsewhere. That was the case when they turned to Williams, but the offense was just as effective on the ground when he wasn’t running the ball.

Malik Davis, who wasn’t even on the team when the season began and hadn’t had a rushing attempt since 2022, averaged 4.8 yards per carry, running for 250 yards on 52 attempts. Even Miles Sanders looked strong before a knee injury took him out. Sanders gained 117 yards on 20 attempts, which is an average of 5.9 per carry.

Those stats will give the front office the confidence to say no if Williams’ price tag gets too high.