The Dallas Cowboys have a problem on their hands after running back Javonte Williams resurrected his NFL career in his first season with Dallas. Williams is an unrestricted free agent now, and while the team wants him back, it could be a chance for Jerry Jones to scour the RB market.
The market is set to include Jaguars starter Travis Etienne, a versatile back who can run and catch the ball at a high level. Alex Kay of Bleacher Report thinks that Etienne can be a long-term solution in Dallas.
"Etienne would be a sensible choice for a Cowboys team that should be feeling desperate for some backfield stability," Kay wrote. "The team hasn't fielded the same Week 1 starter in consecutive years since Ezekiel Elliott departed for the first time in 2022, but Etienne could fill that void and hold down Dallas' RB1 job for the next few years.
Cowboys could sign Travis Etienne in free agency if they can't bring back Javonte Williams
The Cowboys still have more questions than answers at the RB position. Even if EVP Stephen Jones said that keeping Williams is a top priority, players are aware that the league is a business. Williams was signed to a one-year, $3 million contract on a "prove-it" deal. The Cowboys can go the route of re-signing him, but it's also a chance for the Cowboys to find their long-term RB now.
The Cowboys still have more questions than answers at running back. Even with Stephen Jones calling Williams a top priority, players know the league is a business, especially on a one-year, $3 million prove-it deal. Dallas could re-sign him, but this offseason also offers a real chance to secure a long-term solution at RB.
Etienne has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in three of four seasons. He also proved to be a reliable outlet for Trevor Lawrence, catching a career-high six touchdowns this season.
Williams finished ninth in the NFL in rushing yards this year with 1,201. He surpassed all expectations, and then some, after struggling to find his bearings following a devastating knee injury. The Cowboys have every reason to keep him, but if Williams' camp wants to go another route, Etienne might be the best alternative.
Etienne will be 27 next season, and he's at the height of his career with Jacksonville now. The Cowboys' offensive line and run designs can help Etienne make his first Pro Bowl. He'd add an explosive element that Williams lacks, but he would cost more money.
The Joneses have a big decision on their hands.