The start of the new league was a pivotal time for all 32 NFL teams that needed to rebuild their rosters for the 2025 NFL Season.
Many teams took serious risks to try out new stars, while some made mild signings. The Denver Broncos had arguably the best start to free agency, adding key players to both sides of the ball.
They also let some unneeded players walk to try out the free agency market. One of those players was running back Javonte Williams, who rushed for 513 yards and four touchdowns on 139 carries in the final year of his rookie contract this past season.
As a result of an underwhelming season, the Broncos didn't re-sign their starting running back. William signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Dallas Cowboys on Mar. 14.
Williams projects to be the first-string running back over former Carolina Panthers running back Miles Sanders. Williams got another to prove he can be a top-tier running back, while the Cowboys got younger in the backfield while not spending much.
Bleacher Report regards Dallas' move for Williams as one of the worst of this early offseason.
As if losing Rico Dowdle wasn't a big enough blow to the Dallas Cowboys' backfield, their decision to sign Javonte Williams as a replacement only salts the wound. While Williams is two years younger than Dowdle and set to earn a similar base salary in 2025, the former Denver Broncos back was far less productive last season.
The Cowboys decided to spend less by trading their reliable running back, Rico Dowdle, to the Carolina Panthers. Williams is less explosive and durable than the Cowboys' previous starting running back.
This highlights Dallas' lackluster effort to elevate its roster and spending on its remaining salary cap despite its commitment.
