A prediction for RB2 and more behind lead dog Javonte Williams

Javonte Williams received a three-year, $24 million contract with $16 million guaranteed, positioning him as the centerpiece of the Cowboys’ backfield. The running back room is not settled because the RB2 spot remains competitive. Malik Davis, Jaydon Blue, and Phil Mafah are the main internal options, with Davis listed second, Blue third, and Mafah fourth. Davis has produced when used, totaling 52 carries for 250 yards and two touchdowns in 2025. His case centers on reliability, protection awareness, ball security, and keeping the offense on schedule. The RB2 role also needs to add more than stability, potentially changing the offense’s explosiveness and early-down effectiveness.

"Williams got a three-year, $24 million deal with $16 million guaranteed, effectively making him the centerpiece of the backfield for the next phase of the offense. But that doesn't mean the running back room is settled. In fact, the more interesting question may be what happens behind Williams. Dallas has a clear RB1, but RB2 is still up for grabs. That battle could shape how Brian Schottenheimer manages Williams' workload, how much explosiveness the Cowboys can manufacture on early downs, and whether the team feels compelled to add another veteran before training camp becomes serious."

"Right now, the top internal candidates are Malik Davis, Jaydon Blue, and Phil Mafah. The current depth chart lists Williams first, Davis second, Blue third, and Mafah fourth, which makes sense from a conservative offseason standpoint. Davis is the experienced, steadier option, Blue is the upside play, and Mafah is the bigger-bodied changeup who brings a different profile to the room."

"The Cowboys' own recent production also gives Davis a real case. He finished 2025 with 52 carries for 250 yards and two touchdowns, good for 4.8 yards per carry. That is not a massive sample, but it is enough to show he can function in the offense when called upon. Davis' argument is simple, trust. Coaches like backs who know where to be, can handle protection rules, do not put the ball on the ground, and keep the offense on schedule."

"Davis is not the most explosive player in the group, but he has been around the building, has produced when given touches, and gives Dallas a cleaner floor if Williams needs a breather for a series. The problem for Davis is that RB2 should not just be about survival. The Cowboys need someone who can alter the offense. That is where Jaydon Blue becomes the most intriguing candidate. Blue's rookie season was quiet sta"

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