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The Dallas Cowboys have one of the best passing games in all of football, but the run game was part of what made them such a formidable unit in 2025. The addition of Javonte Williams gave this offense an extra dimension in Brian Schottenheimer’s first season as head coach.
Williams put up gaudy numbers in his first year wearing the star. He finished the year with 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns on 252 carries, all career-highs.
That’s why it came as a bit of a surprise when Williams was seen on the sidelines during Dallas’ mandatory minicamp during team drills. The former Broncos running back did take part in individual drills, but the team portion was left to some of his younger backups.
Schottenheimer was asked about that after practice on Thursday, and he quickly eased any concerns about Williams’ availability, via Joseph Hoyt of the Dallas Morning News.
“Brian Schottenheimer was asked about Javonte Williams not participating in team drills,” Hoyt reported on X, formerly Twitter. “He said it was about giving more opportunities to both Phil Mafah and Jaydon Blue with the starters. The first two plays were tailored for both Mafah and Blue.”
It makes sense that the Cowboys would want to give Williams, a veteran back with a history of knee injuries, some extra rest. He put a lot of wear and tear on his legs last season and the Cowboys need him to be at his best this fall in order to reach their goal of winning a Super Bowl.
Both Mafah and Blue could factor into the running back rotation this season, so it’s good to see they’re already earning Schottenheimer’s trust during minicamp. Blue never found a consistent role during his rookie season, but he has the talent to be one of the most explosive backs in the league if he can find his groove.
All in all balance will be a big key for Dallas this season. While Dak Prescott and the passing game will set the ceiling for this group, Williams and the run game will be necessary to reach it.
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