Dallas Cowboys fans hoped for a splash at running back, but Jerry Jones had other plans. Despite the team’s glaring need in the backfield, the Cowboys’ front office gambled instead, digging for diamonds in the rough rather than investing in proven talent.
Jones drafted two rookies late in the 2025 NFL Draft and signed a free agent with a spotty track record. That free agent addition didn’t impress one NFL analyst.
Dallas Cowboys’ New Addition Doesn’t Help Their Red-Zone Troubles
In a June 3 ESPN article, NFL analyst Bill Barnwell expressed doubts about Javonte Williams, a running back who might not help with what has become a major issue in Dallas: Scoring touchdowns.
“Dallas’ biggest problem on offense last season was in the red zone, where it ranked 31st in conversion rate,” Barnwell wrote. “I’m not sure Williams really helps there, as he generated minus-7 FDOE over the past two years. Since 2021, the only back with at least 600 carries to post a worse success rate than Williams is Harris.”
Barnwell also pointed to Williams’ injury history and suggested the back might not make it through August. Williams said this offseason he’s “back and better” after the ACL injury, but he was just average before the tear and hasn’t topped his rookie-year production of 900 yards and four touchdowns.
With only $1 million guaranteed on his $3 million deal, there’s a real chance Williams doesn’t make the Week 1 roster. He arrived in Denver with high hopes and showed flashes at times, but the 2022 ACL injury came early in what was supposed to be a franchise-turning season for the Broncos and Russell Wilson.
Williams’ Rookie Competition Guarantees Nothing for Cowboys RB
According to Spotrac, Williams’ $3 million contract expires after the 2025 season unless he earns a long-term look from Jones. But before that happens, he’ll need to prove he belongs in a crowded running back room.
Both rookies — Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah — were late-round picks in April, but they each have a shot to beat out Williams, who is still chasing his first breakout season five years into his NFL career.
HOW 🤯
📺: CBS pic.twitter.com/W7o8k6VI5b
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) October 3, 2021
Despite being drafted in the seventh round, Mafah has a sneaky strong case. He racked up at least 960 rushing yards and eight touchdowns in each of his final two seasons at Clemson. His total yardage rose steadily across all four years.
Blue also improved every year in college, raising the bar even more for Williams. With veterans Miles Sanders and Deuce Vaughn still in the mix, nothing is promised for the former Bronco.
Will he survive camp and be in a Cowboys uniform come Week 1?
