Javonte Williams’ move to Dallas gives him an opportunity to shine as a lead back, but questions remain about his durability and efficiency
If he stays healthy and gets a high-volume role in Schottenheimer’s offense, he could be a fantasy star. However, lingering injury concerns and offensive line issues create risks that fantasy managers must weigh.
Overall, Williams is a solid fantasy option with upside, but he’s not without his drawbacks. If you draft him, make sure to have a contingency plan in case injuries or workload changes affect his performance.
Javonte Williams once showed promise as an elite running back, but his declining efficiency and injuries have raised concerns.
While his move to Dallas presents an opportunity for a fresh start, multiple factors work against him, including a rebuilding offensive line and potential competition in the backfield.
Fantasy managers should approach Williams with caution. He may provide some value as a mid-to-late-round pick, but he is unlikely to be a high-end fantasy asset in 2025. Those looking for a safe and consistent running back should consider other options.
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Javonte Williams Joins the Cowboys
Fantasy Outlook for 2025
The Dallas Cowboys made a significant move in free agency by signing former Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams.1
After a disappointing experiment with Ezekiel Elliott in 2024, Jerry Jones and new head coach Brian Schottenheimer have turned to Williams as their primary ball carrier.
With Dallas lacking depth at the running back position, the assumption is that Williams will be heavily utilized in the offense.
However, will that actually be the case? Below, we examine his potential workload, fit in Schottenheimer’s scheme, and fantasy football outlook for the 2025 season.
Offensive Line Considerations
A running back is only as good as his offensive line, and the Cowboys’ front five has been a mixed bag in recent years.
Dallas has long been known for its dominant offensive lines, but injuries and departures have weakened the unit.
Tyron Smith, the team’s longtime left tackle, is no longer with the team, and Zack Martin is aging. However, the Cowboys still have talent up front, particularly with Tyler Smith developing into a star at left guard.
Williams’ running style fits well with Dallas’ power-blocking schemes, but the effectiveness of the offensive line will play a major role in his success.
Comparing Williams to Other Running Backs
To put Williams’ value in perspective, let’s compare him to other running backs projected to be in similar fantasy tiers.
Javonte Williams vs. Rhamondre Stevenson (Patriots)
- Stevenson has proven himself as a solid dual-threat back, but New England’s offensive struggles could limit his upside.
- Williams has a higher touchdown ceiling due to playing in a better offense.
Javonte Williams vs. Najee Harris (Steelers)
- Both backs have similar power-running styles, but Harris has more competition with Jaylen Warren in Pittsburgh.
- Williams might have a clearer path to being a three-down back.
Javonte Williams vs. James Cook (Bills)
- Cook offers more in the passing game, but Buffalo is a pass-first offense that limits running back volume.
- Williams could see more carries, but Cook has the higher receiving floor.
Javonte Williams’ Journey to Dallas
Javonte Williams entered the NFL as a second-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, selected by the Denver Broncos out of North Carolina.2
He quickly made an impression as a powerful and elusive runner, sharing backfield duties with Melvin Gordon in his rookie season.
However, injuries hampered his development. In 2022, he suffered a torn ACL and LCL, which sidelined him for nearly a year.
Upon his return, he struggled to regain his pre-injury explosiveness, splitting touches with Samaje Perine and Jaleel McLaughlin in Denver’s committee approach.
Now, with a fresh start in Dallas, Williams has an opportunity to reclaim his status as a lead running back.
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— Javonte Williams (@javontewill33) August 9, 2022
Brian Schottenheimer’s Offensive Philosophy
One of the key factors in Williams’ potential success is how Brian Schottenheimer utilizes him. Schottenheimer is known for his run-heavy offensive schemes, dating back to his time with the Seattle Seahawks and New York Jets.
His system typically favors a physical running game with a featured back who can handle a high volume of carries.
This philosophy suggests that Williams could see a significant workload if he stays healthy.
Dallas currently lacks an established secondary running back, which puts Williams in prime position to be the team’s workhorse. The team’s depth chart includes younger players and journeymen who are unlikely to challenge Williams for the starting job.
While the Cowboys may add a backup in the draft or later in free agency, the lack of competition makes it clear that Williams is expected to carry the load.
How Javonte Williams Fits into the Passing Game?
While Williams is known for his powerful running style, he has also shown flashes as a receiving threat.3
In Denver, he was utilized as a check-down option but was never a focal point in the passing game.
Schottenheimer’s past offenses have involved running backs in the passing game to varying degrees. If Williams can prove reliable as a pass-catcher, it will only boost his fantasy value.
One of the biggest factors in Williams’ fantasy success will be his role in the red zone.
The Cowboys have a high-powered offense led by quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
If Williams becomes the go-to option near the goal line, he could rack up double-digit touchdowns.
However, Dallas could opt for a committee approach in short-yardage situations, which would limit his scoring upside.
Injury Concerns and Durability
Williams’ biggest red flag is his injury history.
The torn ACL and LCL he suffered in 2022 raised concerns about his long-term durability. While he played in 2023 and 2024, he wasn’t the same explosive runner he was before the injury.
If Dallas relies on him as a workhorse back, there is a risk that he could wear down over the course of the season.
Fantasy managers must factor in the possibility of missed games when drafting him.
Williams has the potential to be a low-end RB1 or high-end RB2 in fantasy football, assuming he remains healthy and gets the expected workload.
However, fantasy managers should monitor Dallas’ offensive line situation and any potential additions to the backfield before fully committing to him in early drafts.
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Javonte Williams’ Fantasy Outlook for the 2025 Season
Javonte Williams entered the NFL with high expectations, showcasing his potential as a dynamic running back for the Denver Broncos.
However, his production has declined in recent years, raising concerns about his future fantasy value, especially with his move to the Dallas Cowboys.
While some factors could work in his favor, others suggest a challenging season ahead. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of Williams’ fantasy outlook for the 2025 season.
Draft Strategy for Redraft Leagues
- Williams should not be considered a top-tier running back in redraft leagues. He is best suited as a late-round pick, preferably as an RB3 or flex option. Drafting him as a primary starter could be risky.
- In dynasty leagues, Williams’ value is highly volatile. If you already have him on your roster, it may be wise to trade him while he still has some value. If you’re considering acquiring him, proceed with caution.
- If you’re in an auction draft, Williams should not command a high bid. Spending too much on him could be a mistake, as he carries significant risk.
- In standard leagues, where touchdowns and total rushing yards are the most important factors, Williams’ value is highly questionable.
- With a declining yards-per-carry average and a Dallas offense that may struggle in the run game, he may not provide the consistent production fantasy managers seek.
- Williams has shown flashes as a pass-catcher, but he has never been a high-volume receiving back. With Dallas already having solid pass-catching options, his receiving upside remains limited.
- Unless Schottenheimer designs plays specifically for him in the passing game, his PPR value is likely to be moderate at best.
- For dynasty league managers, Williams’ long-term value is uncertain. While he is still relatively young, his declining efficiency and injury history raise red flags. If he fails to regain his explosiveness, his fantasy relevance may fade quickly.
Javonte Williams’ Career
Williams was selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft and made an immediate impact.
His rookie season saw him rush for 903 yards and four touchdowns while averaging 4.4 yards per carry. Many believed he was on the verge of becoming a top-tier running back in the league.
However, his sophomore season was derailed by injuries. He played only four games in 2022, rushing for just 204 yards. While injuries certainly played a role in his decline, his efficiency also dropped slightly, with his yards per carry falling to 4.3.
The 2023 and 2024 seasons were not much better. He recorded 774 rushing yards in 2023 and just 513 in 2024.
More alarmingly, his yards per carry fell to 3.6 and 3.7 in those respective seasons. This trend suggests that Williams is not the same explosive player he once was.
The Move to Dallas: A Fresh Start or a Risky Bet?
Williams’ move to the Cowboys has created intrigue, but whether it benefits his fantasy value is uncertain. Some factors suggest he could see an increase in workload, while others point to continued struggles.
One of the primary reasons for optimism is the possibility that Williams will receive more touches in Dallas. Sean Payton’s system in Denver relied heavily on a running back committee, limiting Williams’ workload.
In contrast, Cowboys offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer may be more inclined to feature him as a lead back. If that happens, his volume could increase, giving him more opportunities to produce.
Offensive Line Concerns
However, one major concern is the state of the Cowboys’ offensive line. With Zack Martin retiring, the unit is undergoing a rebuild.
A weaker offensive line could limit Williams’ effectiveness, especially since he has already shown signs of decline in efficiency.
Williams is expected to compete with other running backs on the roster. If Dallas drafts or signs another capable back, his workload could be shared once again. Even if he is named the starter, the possibility of a committee approach remains, which could hurt his fantasy value.
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