The Dallas Cowboys have secured running back Javonte Williams with a three-year contract extension worth $24 million, including $16 million guaranteed. This extension keeps Williams, who will turn 26 in April, in Dallas as he builds on a strong 2025 season in which he ranked as the No. 12 PPR running back, averaging 15.2 points per game.
Williams’ Performance Highlights and Challenges in 2025
During his first year with Dallas, Williams carried the ball 252 times for 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns, while also catching 35 passes for 137 yards and two touchdowns out of 51 targets. He was particularly productive early in the season, scoring at least 17.9 PPR points in six of his first eight games and averaging 18.6 points in that span.
However, his performance declined in the second half of the season, averaging just 11.8 PPR points across the last eight games and missing Week 18 due to a shoulder injury. Despite these struggles, the Cowboys viewed him as a valuable piece for their offense and rewarded him with the long-term deal.
Fantasy Outlook and Potential Workload in 2026
Fantasy football players should see Williams as a dependable No. 2 running back across various scoring formats, currently ranked No. 20 in early evaluations. He could be a worthwhile selection as early as the fifth round in drafts. Based on his workload, Williams ranked 10th in carries and 13th in total touches in 2025, suggesting he will continue to handle a significant role.
The Cowboys’ depth chart places Malik Davis and Jaydon Blue as the backup running backs, neither of whom present a major threat to Williams’ primary role when healthy. Additionally, Williams may see increased involvement in the passing game this year, after a dip in receptions and targets in the latter part of 2025 contributed to his reduced scoring.
Offensive Support and Factors Affecting Williams’ Usage
Dallas maintains a dynamic offense with many weapons. The possible return of George Pickens in 2026, even under the franchise tag, combined with key players like CeeDee Lamb and Jake Ferguson, means quarterback Dak Prescott has multiple options to distribute the ball. This could limit Williams’ target share but should not diminish his overall opportunities.
The Cowboys’ offense finished second in total yards per game (391.9) and seventh in scoring (27.7 points) last season. Running backs featured in such a strong offense often retain high fantasy value, which bodes well for Williams.
Implications for Fantasy Managers and What to Expect Next
While several notable running backs such as Kenneth Walker III, Breece Hall, and Travis Etienne enter free agency in 2026, none are expected to join Dallas. Williams’ contract extension provides certainty about his role with the Cowboys and presents a chance for him to emerge as a fantasy star over the next three seasons.
Fantasy managers will want to monitor other players’ offseason moves, but Williams’ established position and the Cowboys’ offensive firepower create an optimistic environment for his continued success.
