The Dallas Cowboys have reached an agreement with running back Javonte Williams on a new three-year contract. The deal, reportedly worth $24 million, was finalized before the official start of the NFL free agency period. This move ensures the Cowboys retain a key offensive player who had a strong performance in the previous season.
The agreement signals a priority for the Cowboys in maintaining their offensive core.
Deal Details and Player Performance
Javonte Williams has signed a contract that will keep him with the Dallas Cowboys for three years, with a total value of $24 million. Sources indicate that $16 million of this amount is guaranteed. A $6 million signing bonus is also part of the agreement.
Williams, who is 25 years old, joined the Cowboys on a one-year deal last season after spending his initial years with the Denver Broncos. His tenure with Denver was marked by significant injuries, including ACL and LCL tears in his second season.
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Last year, Williams emerged as a central figure in the Cowboys' offense:
He recorded 1,201 rushing yards, his career high, placing him among the top rushers in the NFL.
He scored 11 rushing touchdowns, also a career best.
His yards-per-carry average was 4.8.
He contributed 2 receiving touchdowns and 35 receptions out of the backfield.
Williams started in all 16 games he played, demonstrating durability and consistent contribution.
He also forced 54 missed tackles, ranking seventh in the league.
The Cowboys' offense, bolstered by Williams, ranked highly in several categories:
Second in the NFL in total yards and passing yards.
Seventh in scoring.
Ninth in rushing yards.
Williams' performance represents a significant return to form after previous injury setbacks.
Strategic Implications for the Cowboys
The signing of Williams is a clear indication of the Cowboys' strategy heading into the offseason. With the deal in place, the team can now focus on other pressing matters, notably the potential contract negotiations for wide receiver George Pickens. Pickens also had a career-defining season, leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns.

Retaining Williams alleviates immediate roster concerns and allows focus on other key free agents.
Player's Perspective
During the season, Javonte Williams expressed a strong desire to remain with the Dallas Cowboys. He indicated that he was not solely focused on maximizing financial gain in free agency but on finding a situation where he could succeed and be part of a successful team environment. This sentiment appears to have been a factor in reaching the agreement.
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"You want to go somewhere where you can succeed and be a part of something that's special." - Javonte Williams (as reported by multiple sources)
Williams' stated preference for team stability over maximum financial reward likely influenced the contract negotiations.
Background and Previous Contract
Williams' agreement with the Cowboys comes after his one-year contract in the previous season. His prior four-year rookie deal with the Denver Broncos was impacted by injuries, affecting his availability and effectiveness for a significant period.

Path to Agreement
The negotiations for Williams' new contract began soon after the previous season concluded. Club officials initiated discussions with his agent, Nicole Lynn. While a switch in agents by Williams reportedly caused some delay in talks, the core elements of the deal were seemingly agreed upon efficiently once discussions resumed.
"The Williams agreement started quickly and quietly. When the season ended, club officials started talks with his agent, Nicole Lynn." - Dallas News
The process involved timely engagement by club officials and adaptation to changes in player representation.
Broader Context and Free Agency Landscape
The timing of this agreement is significant, as it precedes the opening of the legal tampering period for free agency on March 9. By securing Williams, the Cowboys proactively address a key position and prevent him from exploring offers from other teams. This also impacts the team's potential need to find a replacement via the draft or trade, though those avenues remain options for other positions.
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Proactive contract extension preempts free agency competition and secures a vital offensive weapon.
Sources
CBS Sports: Cowboys running back Javonte Williams contract, free agency
ESPN: Sources: Cowboys agree to three-year deal with RB Williams
AP News: Cowboys and running back Javonte Williams agree on $24 million, 3-year contract
The Athletic (NYT): Javonte Williams, Cowboys agree to 3-year contract ahead of free agency: Sources
DallasCowboys.com: Cowboys, Javonte Williams agree to terms on 3 year, $24 million contract
Dallas News: Cowboys agree to 3-year contract with RB Javonte Williams
Cowboys Wire (USA Today): BREAKING: Cowboys, Javonte Williams agree to terms on 3-year deal worth $24M
Pro Football Rumors: Cowboys, Javonte Williams Agree To Three-Year Deal