Javonte Williams parlayed a 1,338-yard, 13-touchdown season into a hefty raise from the Dallas Cowboys. After playing 2025 on a one-year deal for $3 million (just $1 million guaranteed), the former North Carolina Tar Heel responded with the best season of his five-year career.

Williams rang the bell today to the tune of three years and $24 million ($12 million GTD), taking him off the free agent market before it opens. He set career highs last season in carries (252), rushing yards (1,201), total touchdowns (13), yards/game, and yards/carry. Williams also had 67 first downs and a long run of 66 yards. He did not suit up for the final game of the season.

After breaking out as a rookie for over 900 yards despite starting only one game, Williams tore his ACL, LCL, and PLC in Week 4 of his second season. Various coaching philosophies and scheme changes occurred over the next two years. Williams had not realized his full potential until 2025. After the Broncos let him walk in free agency, he was a bright spot for the Cowboys, who had many questions at the position prior to the season.

Fantasy lowdown: Williams will return as the incumbent starter, providing stability at the position. Jaydon Blue dynasty managers already suffered through the growing pains of the rookie’s first season and will have to wait longer. It’s fair to assume Blue will compete with Malik Davis for the backup/handcuff role to Williams. The good news for those managers is that Blue just turned 22 in January, and Davis’ contract expires after 2026.

As for Williams, this shoots him back up the board in redraft and best ball leagues, where he currently sits around RB21. He should be an RB2 with RB1 upside as drafts get into full swing. Prior to the contact, Williams was coming off the board 60th overall in FastDraft best ball.

Author: Sam Schneider (@BuyAndSellYou)