The Dallas Cowboys have secured one of their biggest offensive standouts from the 2025 campaign, agreeing to terms with running back Javonte Williams on a new three-year, $24 million contract, sources told CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones on February 20, 2026.
Dallas Cowboys Lock Up Javonte Williams with New 3-Year, $24 Million Deal: $16M Guaranteed After Breakout 2025 Season
The deal includes $16 million guaranteed, rewarding the 26-year-old for his career-best performance on a prove-it one-year contract last season. By extending Williams before he hit unrestricted free agency (March 11, 2026), Dallas avoided the risk of losing their lead back to the open market and ensured continuity in the backfield behind quarterback Dak Prescott.
Javonte Williams’ Breakout 2025 Season in Dallas
After signing a low-risk one-year deal with the Cowboys following his time with the Denver Broncos, Williams exploded in 2025:
- 1,201 rushing yards (career high)
- 11 rushing touchdowns (career high)
- 252 carries (career high)
- 35 receptions for 137 yards and 2 receiving touchdowns
His dual-threat ability gave Prescott a reliable check-down option and helped Dallas maintain one of the league’s more productive rushing attacks despite overall team struggles. Williams averaged 4.8 yards per carry and proved durable, starting 16 games and playing through minor injuries.
The contract averages $8 million per year — a solid but not top-tier running back deal in today’s market — reflecting both his breakout production and the current RB salary landscape.
Why the Cowboys Committed to Javonte Williams
Dallas entered the offseason with major cap challenges and uncertainty at several positions. Extending Williams early:
- Locks in a proven RB1 before the free-agent frenzy begins.
- Avoids the risk of overpaying in March or losing him to a higher bidder.
- Provides stability for an offense that leaned heavily on the run game in 2025.
The move comes amid ongoing speculation about other key pieces (e.g., WR George Pickens’ franchise tag status, potential cuts, and draft priorities). With Williams secured, the Cowboys can now focus on bolstering the offensive line, secondary, and depth.
No official announcement has come from the team yet, but the report from Jonathan Jones — one of the league’s most reliable contract insiders — is considered highly credible.
Cowboys fans: Smart move to lock up Javonte Williams long-term, or would you have waited to see free agency play out? How big a boost is he for Dak Prescott and the offense in 2026? Drop your thoughts below!
