The Kansas City Chiefs are considering a significant upgrade at the running back position, with Javonte Williams emerging as one of the top free agents this offseason. Reports suggest that a move to Kansas City could be a strategic fit for both parties.
Caleb James from Arrowhead Pride highlighted Williams as a prime target for the Chiefs in his analysis of potential free agent running backs. He noted, “If the Chiefs want to land somewhere between Kenneth Gainwell and Breece Hall on the financial side of things, Williams is a good player to look at.” Over The Cap estimates his annual market value at just over $9 million. Williams is recognized not only for his power running but also for his ability to gain momentum after breaking through the first line of defenders, making him a valuable asset for any team. The Chiefs might find this projected salary a worthy investment.
During the 2025 season, Williams played for the Dallas Cowboys and is now poised to enter the free agency market. His impressive performance could entice the Chiefs to make a move.
Javonte Williams” Career Highlights
Williams began his football journey at Wallace-Rose Hill High School in Teachey, North Carolina, where he had an outstanding senior season, rushing for 2,271 yards and scoring 27 touchdowns. He then took his talents to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In 2020, his final season with the Tar Heels, he tallied 1,140 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns, earning a spot on the All-ACC Second Team.
In the 2021 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos selected Williams in the second round. His rookie season showcased his potential as he accumulated 903 rushing yards and four touchdowns, along with 43 receptions for 319 yards and three touchdowns, earning a place on the PFWA All-Rookie Team. Unfortunately, an injury in Week 4 of the 2022 season sidelined him, but he rebounded in 2023, leading the Broncos with 774 rushing yards.
In 2024, he again topped the rushing charts for the Broncos, amassing 513 yards and finishing second on the team in receptions with 52. Last offseason, the Cowboys signed him to a one-year contract worth $3.5 million, where he outperformed Miles Sanders to secure the starting role. This past season, he enjoyed a breakout year, rushing for a career-high 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Chiefs” Running Back Situation
The Chiefs” running back rotation struggled during the 2025 season, ranking 25th in total rushing yards with 1,812 and 22nd in yards per carry at 4.2. They finished at the bottom in both 20-plus yard and 40-plus yard carries, with only three and no successful attempts, respectively. The rotation included Isiah Pacheco, Kareem Hunt, and Brashard Smith, with Hunt leading the group with 611 yards. Currently, Smith is the only running back under contract for the 2026 season.
Acquiring Javonte Williams could significantly enhance the Chiefs” offense. Known for his ability to break tackles and gain extra yards, he would complement the skills of superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes. After Mahomes” injury late in the 2025 season, he is expected to return next year, and surrounding him with talent like Williams could be crucial for the Chiefs” success moving forward.
