The Dallas Cowboys have certainly gotten their money's worth with running back Javonte Williams this season.
Williams' career was on the down slide after an unsuccessful stint with the Denver Broncos, which led to the Cowboys signing him to a cheap one-year, $3 million contract during the offseason.
That has proven to be one of the biggest bargains of the 2025 free-agent class, with Williams ripping off 1,113 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, ranking sixth and tied for fifth in both categories among running backs. Those totals are also far and away career-highs for the fifth-year rusher.
Williams has set himself up for a nice payday. Spotrac projects Williams to receive a three-year, $21.6 million contract, which works out to about $7.2 million annually.
That's a nice raise from what he's making now, and it's possible this price tag could go even higher depending on how many teams show interest in the veteran back.
But there is a world where Williams might be willing to take less just to stay with the Cowboys. We know that because the 25-year-old running back said money won't be the only factor in where he ends up in 2026.
“Just finishing strong right now is my main goal. But I love it here," Williams told reporters on Thursday, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic. "I love my teammates. I love everybody."
"You don’t always want to just follow money and things like that," he added. "You want to go somewhere where you can succeed and be a part of something that’s special. I feel like it’s very special here.”
This is good news for the Cowboys, who are projected to be $47.9 million over the cap in 2026.
Also bear in mind, Dallas has to make what could be an expensive decision on wide receiver George Pickens, also, and the Cowboys need improvements all over the defense, which should be the top priority.
The Cowboys have made it quite clear they want to bring Williams back, but price is ultimately going to dictate if that happens.
The fact that Williams might be willing to take a hometown discount only increases the chances he stays in Dallas.
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