Many were surprised when Javonte Williams announced himself as the Dallas Cowboys' starting running back by scoring two touchdowns in his team debut. However, he admittedly knew that was possible well before then, thanks to arguably the NFL's premier receiving duo, CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens.
It's no secret that Lamb and Pickens make life easier for everyone on Sundays. They're dominant players that put immense pressure on opposing defenses individually, let alone together. But if you ask Williams, their impact has gone beyond on-field schematics and production and predates the beginning of the 2025 campaign.
Williams pinpointed his "I'm back" moment to the offseason during an appearance on The Schultz Report. He credited the Lamb-Pickens tandem not just for giving him lighter boxes to run against but also for being an inspiration.
Javonte Williams credits CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens for his career revival with Cowboys
After recalling a specific Williams run in training camp that reminded him he's still physically capable of dominating, he shouted out his electrifying teammates. Being able to witness Lamb and Pickens' greatness and infectious spirit daily up close motivated him to match their energy from that moment forward:
""I think it happened in training camp. I had an inside zone play, and I kind of bounced it [outside] and did a little dead leg move. I was like, 'Oh, I can still do it. I'm good; I feel good. Then, just seeing [Lamb and Pickens] every day at practice, making plays, I'm like: 'I still got it too, I can do the same thing they're doing.'"'"Javonte Williams via The Schultz Report
Lamb and Pickens have ostensibly given their Cowboys comrades the confidence to be the best versions of themselves. They have a combination of chemistry, talent, and swagger that has driven everyone to try reaching their potential. Williams has become the prime example and isn't afraid to say it.
Lest we forget that Williams tripped and fell into the top spot on the Cowboys' depth chart. Reported work ethic concerns surrounding fifth-round rookie Jaydon Blue and Miles Sanders missing time in training camp with a bruised knee left Dallas little choice.
Nevertheless, Williams tripping and falling into workhorse duties was undeniably a happy accident for him and the Cowboys. He's proved to be one of, if not the biggest free-agent bargains of owner/general manager Jerry Jones' 36 years (and counting) of leadership.
Through Week 13, Williams leads all tailbacks with at least 50 carries in yards after contact per attempt (3.11) and total yards after contact (616). Moreover, he's fifth in rushing first downs (50), sixth in total rushing yards (955) and tied for third in rushing touchdowns (eight). His breakout has been a godsend for a Cowboys squad that caught flak for not addressing their backfield and a silencer to the skeptics.
Note: Stats courtesy of Fantasy Points' data suite.