Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams goes through a drill during practice at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility Chris Jones-Imagn Images

Dallas Cowboys starting RB competition has favorite emerging?

Originally posted on Dallas Cowboys on SI
By Josh Sanchez | Last updated Aug 11, 2025 2:51 PM ET

We are entering the second week of the NFL preseason, and the Dallas Cowboys' running back competition appears to be taking shape. While rookie Phil Mafah and recent signee Malik Davis were the top backs in Week One, it's a free agent addition who seems to have the inside track.

Early in free agency, the Cowboys signed veterans Javonte Davis and Miles Sanders, and Jon Machota of The Athletic says one of the reliable vets is getting more first-team work.

According to Machota, Williams "continues to see the most reps with the starters."

Another rookie, Jaydon Blue, is also expected to carve out a role in the offense, but he has been slowed by injuries. However, he is expected to be healthy enough for the team's Week 2 showdown against the Baltimore Ravens.

Javonte Williams "continues to see the most reps with the starters", per @jonmachota.

The RB1 spot is getting clearer in Dallas pic.twitter.com/f0Q9SGCOh7
— Yahoo Fantasy Sports (@YahooFantasy) August 11, 2025

Ahead of practice of Monday afternoon, head coach Brian Schottenheimer praised Williams for "having a terrific camp."

Schottenheimer would not commit to naming a starter, but Williams is the current favorite for the gig.

Brian Schottenheimer said Javonte Williams is “having a terrific camp” when asked if he is the #DallasCowboys starting running back. Schottenheimer declined to officially name a starting running back at this time. It definitely sounds like Williams is trending toward the role pic.twitter.com/4mjPUKia8x
— Garrett Podell (@garrettpodell) August 11, 2025

Throughout his four seasons in Denver, Williams recorded 2,394 yards and 11 touchdowns, but he was never fully back to form following his rookie year, when he rushed for 903 yards before injuries began to plague his career.

Let's see if Williams' fresh start will lead to a career resurgence.