Key Highlights
- Javonte Williams had a 1,000-yard rushing season and is expected to be retained by the Dallas Cowboys.
- Malik Davis provided complementary play but faces uncertainty with expiring deals and new options in free agency.
- The Dallas Cowboys are considering multiple running back options for the upcoming season, including Rico Dowdle and Travis Etienne.
Javonte Williams: The Resurgent RB
Three years after a devastating knee injury, Javonte Williams is once again at the top of his game. His performance in 2025 was nothing short of spectacular, making him one of the best running backs in the league last season.
The Bellcow Back
Williams not only delivered a 1,000-yard rushing season but also scored 11 touchdowns—double the number the Cowboys had combined for as a team. His ability to block and play downhill, coupled with his quickness and finesse, makes him an indispensable part of Dallas’s offense.
Malik Davis: The Complementary Option
Malik Davis turned out to be another revelation in 2025, helping Williams establish the rushing attack. While Davis’s contract is expiring, he remains a valuable asset with his explosiveness and ability to stave off the rookie Jaydon Blue for most of the season.
Blue’s Showstopping Finale
The regular season finale saw Blue steal the spotlight from Davis, but this doesn’t mean the Cowboys will let him go. They are in talks with both Williams and Davis to keep them on board, recognizing their immense value.
New Options in Free Agency
With Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah vying for reps, Dallas is looking at other options in free agency. Breece Hall and Super Bowl LX are off the table due to price considerations, leaving the Cowboys with a few intriguing choices.
Rico Dowdle’s Return
Carolina Panthers’ Rico Dowdle could be an attractive option for the Cowboys, given his breakout season in 2025. He is open to returning to Dallas and has shown he can challenge Williams in practice sessions.
Travis Etienne: High-Ceiling Option
The former Jaguars player brings a high ceiling with three 1,000-yard seasons under his belt. His ability to catch out of the backfield and being durable make him an appealing choice for Dallas, though he is expected to have a higher price tag.
Concluding Thoughts
The Dallas Cowboys are in for another interesting offseason as they navigate free agency with multiple options at running back. Whether it’s retaining their current stars or signing new ones, the competition will be fierce—and so will the negotiations.