Cowboys Contract Talks Stall with Javonte Williams, Focus Shifts to George Pickens
The Dallas Cowboys face crucial contract decisions this offseason as they navigate negotiations with key offensive players, including wide receiver George Pickens and running back Javonte Williams. Although both players are priorities, talks with Williams have hit a snag due to a change in his representation, shifting the immediate focus to securing a deal with Pickens.
Williams’ Contract Talks Stalled by Agent Change
Following a successful 2025 campaign where he rushed for 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns on 252 carries, the Cowboys initiated contract discussions with Javonte Williams. Still, these talks were halted when Williams decided to change agents and is currently without representation. As reported by Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News, the Cowboys front office has faced criticism for slow negotiations with star players, but in this case, the pause is directly linked to Williams’ representation situation.
Valuing Williams in a Competitive Market
Determining a fair contract for Williams presents a challenge. He earned $3 million last season, and at least nine running backs currently average $10 million per season. The Rams’ Kyren Williams recently signed a three-year extension worth $33 million with $23 million guaranteed, potentially serving as a benchmark for negotiations.
Pickens Negotiations Capture Priority
The Cowboys are as well focused on securing a long-term deal with wide receiver George Pickens. The team is expected to apply the franchise tag on Pickens if contract talks don’t yield an agreement, with Pickens seeking a contract of at least $30 million per season. Discussions are slated to begin at the NFL Scouting Combine, with the Cowboys aiming to present a formal contract offer.
Potential Implications for the Cowboys’ Offseason
If the Cowboys apply the franchise tag to Pickens, they won’t be able to use it on Williams. This could lead to Williams testing free agency, potentially leaving the Cowboys to address the running back position similarly to last offseason, when they signed Williams and Miles Sanders after letting Rico Dowdle depart. The Cowboys recognize Williams’ value and may attempt to retain him within their budgetary constraints.
Looking Ahead
The Cowboys’ decisions regarding Williams and Pickens will significantly shape their offseason strategy. Successfully negotiating with both players would allow the team to focus resources on strengthening the defensive side of the ball. However, the stalled talks with Williams and the priority given to Pickens suggest a potential shift in priorities, leaving the future of the Cowboys’ running game uncertain.