The Dallas Cowboys spent the offseason reshuffling the pieces after a disappointing 7-10 finish in 2024.
The team parted ways with Mike McCarthy and promoted offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer to his first NFL head coaching role.
Alongside coaching changes, the Cowboys aggressively addressed roster needs, including revamping their backfield.
Dallas brought in Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders as part of their free agency overhaul, hoping to bolster a rushing attack that lacked consistency last year.
However, as training camp approaches, not every addition is guaranteed to stick-and Williams may already find himself on the roster bubble.
Javonte Williams could be odd man out
According to Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report, the Cowboys might consider cutting Williams if he fails to emerge as one of the top performers in their running back corps.
The 24-year-old signed a one-year, $3 million deal, but cutting him would save the Cowboys $2 million in cap space-an appealing option if younger backs show more promise.
“The Dallas Cowboys signed running back Javonte Williams to a one-year, $3 million deal this offseason but could easily move on if he doesn’t outperform Miles Sanders, Deuce Vaughn and/or rookies Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah in training camp,” Knox wrote.
Williams’ production last season with the Denver Broncos didn’t inspire much confidence. He carried the ball 139 times for 513 yards (3.7 yards per carry) and scored four touchdowns.
As a receiver, he caught 52 passes for 346 yards, showing versatility but lacking explosiveness.
Youth movement and competition raise stakes
The competition in Dallas’ backfield is stiff. Miles Sanders brings starting experience and could be the early favorite to lead the group.
Meanwhile, Deuce Vaughn, despite his size, showed flashes as a rookie and offers a dynamic change-of-pace role. Rookies Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah are both intriguing prospects with upside, eager to prove themselves during camp.
If Williams doesn’t separate himself from the pack, Dallas could lean toward younger, cheaper options that align with their long-term roster-building philosophy.
Schottenheimer’s offense may also prioritize explosiveness and pass-catching ability from the backfield, putting further pressure on Williams to perform at a high level.
Though his path to the roster isn’t impossible, the reality is that his signing was low-risk for the Cowboys. A strong preseason could solidify his role, but anything less could lead to an early exit.
The Cowboys have shown they aren’t afraid to make bold moves this offseason-from changing coaches to acquiring George Pickens in a post-draft trade. Whether Williams remains a part of that revamped identity remains to be seen.
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