The Dallas Cowboys received great news on Wednesday when it was reported that the salary cap for 2025 is expected to see a $22.1-26.1 million increase. The projected increase in salary cap is higher than most NFL executives thought it would be. As a result, Jerry Jones now has more cash to extend big names and add players in free agency.
One position Cowboys fans are intent on fixing is the running back position. Last season, Dallas' leading rusher was Rico Dowdle, who recorded 1,079 yards on 285 attempts and scored two touchdowns. While Dowdle isn't a bad hand to have in the backfield, another back needs to pick up some slack.
This has led to much speculation that Dallas could select Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty with the 12th pick in the 2025 draft. However, that could mean passing up on other needs such as offensive line and defensive tackle. Therefore, signing a running back in free agency with their increased cap space may be a more realistic option.
In a USA Today article, Tyler Dragon suggests that the Cowboys should sign pending Denver Broncos free agent Javonte Williams. Let's examine if Williams would be a good addition to Dallas with the increased cap space.
Is Javonte Williams the Right Fit For Dallas?
Williams was selected with the 35th pick in the 2021 NFL draft by the Denver Broncos. Coming out of college, Williams was built as a power back with great vision who lacked speed.
As a rookie, he rushed for 903 yards and four touchdowns while averaging 4.4 yards a carry. Although Williams didn't display it often, he did prove to have breakaway ability, recording five 20+ yard wushes as a rookie.
Unfortunately, Williams suffered a torn MCL and LCL four games into his second season. Before suffering the injury he had rushed for 204 yards on 47 carries, putting him on pace to match his rookie production. That said, Williams has struggled to regain his rookie form since returning.
Despite looking good before the injury, Williams hasn't had the same success since returning. In 2023, he played in 16 games, rushing for 774 yards on 217 carries and scoring three touchdowns. That's an average of 3.6 yards a carry, which is nearly a full yard down from where he was as a rookie.
This past season was the 24-year-old's least productive, rushing for just 513 yards on 139 carries and scoring four touchdowns. Nevertheless, a change in scenery might be exactly what Williams needs to regain his success from his rookie season.
Currently, Spotrac has Williams projected to sign a three-year contract worth $20,57 million. That would average out to Dallas paying $6.9 million a year for him. While that does seem a bit expensive for a player who hasn't produced much since his rookie season, Dallas should at least explore Williams as an option at running back.