Denver’s 2021 rookie pledge Javonte Williams was detailed by a gruesome sophomore season knee injury that took years to fully recover from. Last season, fully healthy in Dallas, Williams finally got back to the runner he looked like in the first contest, roaring over defenders and gobbling up big gains.
A year ago, the Cowboys saw Williams as a cheap replacement after letting Rico Dowdle walk in the offseason. Dallas got more than they could have hoped for, as Williams bulldozed his way to 1,201 yards and 11 TDs on 252 carries — his career. He also averaged a career-best 4.8 yards per carry. The Cowboys signed the veteran to a three-year, $24 million extension this offseason to keep him as a bell cow.
“It felt good, just knowing that all my work paid off and I got a little bit of security,” Williams said of his new contract, via the Dallas Morning News . “But I still have a lot more to prove. I want to at least go to the Pro Bowl and definitely want to go to the Super Bowl with the team. Just working hard, grinding and trying to be a better version of myself. That’s all I’m worried about.”
Williams credited her ability to stay healthy last year to a new routine that included a series of cold and hot tubs, massages and — at CeeDee Lamb’s suggestion — acupuncture. Williams plans to keep that routine in place.
“Same things,” Williams said. “I feel like if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Williams says he’s a safe quarterback in Dallas, and his fit in Brian Schottenheimer’s scheme ensures he holds down the vast majority of early-down reps. The question in Dallas is who will grab the backup role. Malik Davis is currently the top early down option if Williams goes down.
Dallas would love for Jaydon Blue to make a big leap in Year 2 after his rookie struggles, carving into a cornerback role that changes the pace of Williams’ rumbling style. The Cowboys could also look for Phil Mafah to take on a bigger role. Dallas spent the offseason giving two second-year quarterbacks more reps, hoping one would stand out. The club is likely to reduce Williams’ representation in training camp, allowing the youngster to take more snaps and see who can take a step forward.