The Dallas Cowboys’ offense struggled to run the ball in 2024, and improving the backfield became a top priority. As part of that overhaul, the team brought in Javonte Williams, and he wasted no time becoming a difference-maker.
The veteran back has already scored nine touchdowns through his first 12 games in Dallas. With Week 14 on deck, here’s a refined look at when Williams arrived and what his contract and free-agency outlook look like moving forward.
Javonte Williams’ Free Agency Decision
Williams was selected in the second round by the Denver Broncos in the 2021 NFL Draft and put together a strong four-year run in Denver. Across 54 appearances, he totaled 2,394 rushing yards on 606 attempts (4.0 yards per carry) along with 11 scores on the ground. He also developed into one of the NFL’s more reliable receiving options out of the backfield.
Over his four seasons, the 25-year-old pulled in 158 receptions on 203 targets and scored five touchdowns through the air. He sports a 6.1 yards-per-attempt average and caught 77.8% of his targets.
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Last season was a struggle for Williams, as he managed only 513 rushing yards while averaging 3.7 yards per attempt in a crowded backfield rotation. Denver ultimately chose not to re-sign him. But in Dallas’ pass-first offense, the organization valued a back who could protect the quarterback, and that’s an area where Williams excels.
Javonte Williams’ Contract and Salary Details
Williams signed a one-year deal worth $3 million in March, giving the Cowboys a low-cost, short-term solution in the backfield while allowing him to rebuild his market value. The contract also includes several performance-based incentives:
- Per Game Active Bonus: $29,411 ($500,000
- Scrimmage Yard Incentive
1,250: $250,000 - Total Touchdown Incentive
12: $250,000
Through his first 12 games, Williams has looked like a bargain, positioning himself not only to cash in on those incentives but also to earn a more lucrative deal next offseason.
Based on PFSN’s RB Impact, Williams is currently ranked 10th among running backs. He’s proven he can pick up yards with both agility and power, and that’s made him the Cowboys’ bona fide starting running back.
On 198 carries this season, Williams has rushed for 955 yards and eight touchdowns. He also has 31 receptions for 128 yards and two touchdowns. According to PFSN’s Offense Impact metric, Dallas has the third-best offense in the league, and Williams is a huge part of it.
