The Dallas Cowboys have successfully retained a vital component of their offensive lineup by reaching an agreement with running back Javonte Williams on a three-year contract. This deal guarantees Williams $16 million, as reported by ESPN”s Adam Schefter on Saturday.
The total value of the contract amounts to $24 million and includes a signing bonus of $6 million, according to sources. As the Cowboys prepare to head to Indianapolis for the upcoming NFL scouting combine, their focus will also shift toward Pro Bowl wide receiver George Pickens. The team is expected to franchise tag Pickens at an estimated cost of $28 million prior to the March 3 deadline, with hopes of negotiating a long-term contract thereafter.
During his first season with the Cowboys, Williams set personal bests in rushing yards, carries, and touchdowns. He recorded 1,201 rushing yards, which ranked him ninth in the NFL, despite missing the final game of the season due to a stinger that plagued him throughout the last month. Williams, who will turn 26 in April, had previously signed a one-year deal worth $3 million with the Cowboys after spending four seasons with the Denver Broncos. In his rookie year, the Broncos had selected him in the second round of the 2021 draft.
In addition to his impressive rushing stats, Williams also contributed significantly in the passing game, catching 35 passes for 137 yards and two touchdowns. His rushing total of 1,201 yards marked the highest for a Cowboys running back since Ezekiel Elliott achieved 1,357 yards in 2019. Prior to his successful 2023 season, Williams faced challenges, including a significant injury that kept him sidelined for most of the 2022 season as he recovered from a torn ACL and LCL in his right knee.
With this new contract, Williams looks to build on his successful campaign and solidify his role within the Cowboys” offensive strategy moving forward.
