How a call from an unknown number led to Javonte Williams signing with the Dallas Cowboys
For the first time in his four-year NFL career, running back Javonte Williams entered the offseason as a free agent.
While it was expected that he would find a landing spot, it was still new territory for the 2021 second-round draft pick as he navigated where he would play in 2025 after starting his career with the Denver Broncos.
While still sifting through options, he received a phone call from an unknown number in the early days of free agency last week. He didn’t answer.
“I thought it was spam,” Williams said.
The number called again. This time, he obliged. On the other end, new Cowboys running backs coach Derrick Foster had a sales pitch.
“He said he’s been watching me since I came out of college,” Williams said. “He made me feel welcome and that they wanted me. It’s ultimately why I signed, I’m just ready to get started.”
Williams burst onto the scene as a rookie in 2021 with the Broncos, accounting for over 1,200 yards and seven touchdowns as a backup to Melvin Gordon. In 2022, he took over as the starter before tearing his ACL in week four and missing the entirety of his sophomore campaign.
“I’m good, I feel completely healthy,” he said on Tuesday. “I’m ready to go and get started. I feel pretty fresh, just working out and staying in shape.”
Although his full production has not returned since the injury, Williams has emerged as one of the best pass-catching running backs in the NFL. In 2024, he notched 52 receptions, sixth-most among NFL running backs.
“I feel like catching the ball is something I’ve always been able to do,” he said. “I just like making plays. Running, catching, blocking, I just try to do it all.”
“I’m balanced. I can do a little bit of everything...I just want to help the team win, that’s all I want to do.”
Despite signing Williams and fellow veteran Miles Sanders in free agency, there is still an expectation that the Cowboys will use a premium pick on a running back in April’s draft. For Williams, it’s an opportunity to compete and also usher in a new face into the league.
“From what they’re telling me, we just want a competitive room,” he said. “Everybody go in and compete and may the best guy win...Just coming to work every day and being a professional. Showing the younger guys, whoever it is, the right way to carry yourself and to work hard.”
Still just 24-years-old, Williams is looking to keep his production going in his second NFL home. Whether it’s as a starter or as the backup on late downs, he’s ready to make an impact early on in Dallas.
“I’m just ready to get in there and work to show the team I’m a talented player and I can help them win games.”
