Do the Dallas Cowboys have one of the 10 best running backs in the NFL? If you go by rushing yards (you shouldn’t) last season then they do. Javonte Williams finished ninth in the league in that respect, and his play was so impressive that the team rewarded him with a new deal this offseason. In fact, that was one of the first signs of proactivity that we saw from the Cowboys at large since they last played a game.
As stellar as Williams was in 2025 it seems fair to say that he is probably on the outside looking in from a top 10 standpoint. ESPN launched their annual rankings that are built upon what NFL executives, coaches, and scouts have to say and Williams was merely listed as “also receiving votes”, not even an honorable mention.
- Bijan Robinson, Falcons
- Jahmyr Gibbs, Lions
- Saquon Barkley, Eagles
- Christian McCaffrey, 49ers
- Jonathan Taylor, Colts
- Derrick Henry, Ravens
- James Cook III, Bills
- De’Von Achane, Dolphins
- Kenneth Walker III, Chiefs
- Breece Hall, Jets
It is fair to say that rankings are silly given that Williams’ production was what it was last season. Who cares if the Cowboys’ running back isn’t ranked as high as others if he is still producing better than some listed?
What’s more is the contract alluded to up top. Consider that Williams has an APY of $8M for this season. That is tied for 18th in the entire NFL. Of the top 10 listed by ESPN only Robinson and Gibbs have lower ones than Williams, and that is because they are still on their rookie deals. Those bills are coming due soon.
It is understandable to look at this list and feel somewhat slighted on Williams’ behalf. Perhaps he does individually.
But from a Cowboys fan’s perspective? This list corroborates that the front office and coaching staff have produced an incredible marriage relative to the running game right now. They identified a talent that was capable of producing at a high level and kept him around at a rate tha tmakes sense for everyone. As noted they got the deal done soon as well as they beat deals like Kenneth Walker, Breece Hall, and De’Von Achane. Proactivity! Finally!
Should Williams be ranked inside of the top 10? Where would you rank him at large? Let us know in the comments below.
