In the high-stakes world of NFL offseason maneuvering, the Dallas Cowboys are quietly positioning themselves for a game-changing splash. Whispers from inside the organization suggest that America’s Team is gearing up to lock down star running back Javonte Williams, the 1,200-yard beast who exploded onto the scene last season. This isn’t just another roster tweak—it’s a bold departure from Dallas’ penny-pinching past at the position, and the rest of the league better take notes. The Cowboys’ secret negotiations are already in motion, signaling a potential shift that could redefine their offensive identity.
This offseason feels different for the Cowboys. For years, Jerry Jones and his front office have played it safe, avoiding big-money deals for running backs in favor of bargain-bin finds and draft steals. But change is in the air. Head coach Mike McCarthy has ceded some power to offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, whose fingerprints are all over the team’s recent hires. Notably, Schottenheimer pushed for the addition of first-time defensive coordinator Christian Parker, a move aimed at bolstering a unit that hemorrhaged points last year.
Now, the focus turns to the backfield. Enter Javonte Williams, the workhorse who delivered a career-defining performance in 2025. Signed to a modest one-year, $3 million prove-it deal, Williams rewarded the Cowboys’ faith with a staggering 1,201 rushing yards—his personal best. In just 16 games, he ranked ninth in the NFL in rushing yards and tenth in carries with 252 totes. This wasn’t just production; it was dominance, evoking memories of Ezekiel Elliott’s prime years when Dallas had a true bell-cow back to grind out games.
Williams’ breakout wasn’t a fluke. He brought stability to an offense that had lacked continuity on the ground, pounding defenses into submission and opening up play-action opportunities for Dak Prescott. But with free agency looming, the question was: Would Dallas stick to their old ways and let him walk, or break the bank to keep him?
According to team vice president Stephen Jones, the Cowboys aren’t waiting around. In a recent interview with the Star-Telegram, Jones confirmed that preliminary discussions with Williams and his representatives from Klutch Sports are already underway.
“We’ve certainly visited with Javonte,” Jones said. “We haven’t had a lot of those visits—most of those happen at the combine. Obviously, we still have some time before free agency starts. We’re always visiting the representatives about our players.”
This “visit” might sound casual, but in NFL speak, it’s code for serious negotiations. With the Scouting Combine on the horizon and free agency set to kick off in March, Dallas is moving fast to secure Williams before he hits the open market. Spotrac projects his value at around $7.3 million per year, potentially leading to a three-year, $22 million contract. That’s a hefty raise from his bargain deal last season, but for a player who transformed the Cowboys’ run game, it could be worth every penny.
For too long, the Cowboys have treated running backs like disposable assets. Remember Tony Pollard? Franchised in 2023 for over $10 million, only to be shown the door after one season. Then there’s Rico Dowdle, a homegrown talent who racked up 1,000 yards but was allowed to bolt to Carolina in free agency. The logic was sound at the time: Why overpay when the league is flooded with cheap, effective backs via the draft or low-cost signings?
But that churn has come at a cost. Dallas’ offense has suffered from inconsistency, with no reliable anchor in the backfield to build around. Williams changed that narrative last year, providing the kind of bruising, every-down presence that wears down defenses and controls the clock. Re-signing him isn’t just about retaining talent—it’s about building continuity and sending a message that the Cowboys are serious about contending.
Critics might argue it’s risky to invest in a position that’s seen as devalued league-wide. Yet, in a copycat NFL, trends shift. Teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles have thrived with premium backs, and Dallas could follow suit. If the early talks are any indication, the Cowboys are ready to buck their own trend and pay up.
Williams isn’t the only star on Dallas’ radar. Star wide receiver George Pickens, known for his explosive playmaking, is also drawing early interest. Both Jerry and Stephen Jones have repeatedly name-dropped Pickens this offseason, hinting at a potential extension or re-signing to keep the aerial attack potent.
“Obviously, there’s guys that we want to keep from last year,” Stephen Jones added. “Whether it’s George Pickens or it’s Javonte [Williams], those are all guys that play into the free agency picture.”
Still, the priority remains the defense, which hit rock bottom in 2025, finishing dead last in points allowed. Jones emphasized that resources—whether through free agency or the draft—will be poured into fixing the unit. New coordinator Christian Parker is expected to play a key role, but expect Dallas to chase impact players like edge rushers or secondary help to pair with emerging talents.
The Cowboys’ secret move for Javonte Williams is more than a contract negotiation—it’s a statement. By prioritizing a 1,200-yard stud who’s proven his worth, Dallas is putting the league on notice: The days of skimping on the run game are over. If these talks culminate in a deal, it could be the spark that ignites a Super Bowl run. With free agency approaching, all eyes are on The Star. Will the Cowboys seal the deal, or will Williams slip away to a rival? One thing’s for sure—the offseason drama is just heating up.
