Javonte Williams Shines Despite Injury in Cowboys’ Christmas Victory
The Dallas Cowboys delivered their most impressive rushing performance of the season on Christmas Day, securing a 30-23 victory over the Washington Commanders. The team showcased their ground game, amassing a remarkable 211 rushing yards during the contest.
Williams Leads the Charge Before Injury
Javonte Williams, the Cowboys’ leading rusher, was a pivotal figure in this triumph, carrying the ball 13 times for 54 yards and a touchdown. Unfortunately, his stellar performance was cut short when he aggravated a persistent shoulder injury in the first half.
In his absence, Malik Davis stepped up admirably, recording a career-high 20 carries for 103 yards. Davis’s performance was instrumental in maintaining the team’s momentum and securing the win against a tough opponent.
Milestone Achievement Amidst Adversity
Despite leaving the game early due to injury, Williams achieved a significant milestone in his contract, maxing out his incentives package for the season. His total earnings for the year now stand at $3 million, bolstered by an additional $500,000 from his incentives.
Williams earned $250,000 for hitting key benchmarks:
1,250 scrimmage yards: He surpassed this mark in Week 16, finishing the season with 1,338 scrimmage yards.
12 total touchdowns: Entering the Christmas game with 12 touchdowns (10 rushing and 2 receiving), he added his 13th during his limited action on the holiday.
Looking Ahead to Free Agency
As Williams prepares for the offseason, he will hit free agency at just 25 years old, having significantly outperformed his contract. Given his ongoing shoulder issues and the fact that he has maxed out his incentives, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Cowboys opted to hand the starting running back role over to Malik Davis for Week 18.
The Cowboys face a crucial decision in the offseason regarding Williams. His standout performance this year has showcased his potential as a bellcow back. Considering the franchise’s recent struggles to establish a reliable running game, retaining Williams could be a wise move for Dallas as they look ahead to 2026 and beyond.
A Bright Future for the Cowboys
As the Cowboys continue to build their roster, the impact of players like Javonte Williams cannot be overstated. His ability to excel even amidst challenges reflects his determination and skill. With the season nearing its end, fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how both Williams and the Cowboys navigate the upcoming offseason.
