Texans Lose Javonte Williams as Dallas Secures Star Running Back Extension

The Houston Texans have lost a potential free-agent target as the Dallas Cowboys and running back Javonte Williams agreed to a three-year extension worth $24 million, with $16 million guaranteed and a $6 million signing bonus, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Williams, who signed a one-year, $3 million deal with Dallas this offseason, had a breakout season, setting career highs with 1,201 rushing yards, 252 carries, and 11 touchdowns while remaining healthy, improving on injury setbacks from 2022 and 2023.4

Texans Must Explore Free-Agent Running Backs to Strengthen 2026 Offense

Houston faces a critical need at running back entering the 2026 season. Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon missed all of last season with a lower-body injury, and the only returning player under contract from last year’s roster is leading rusher Woody Marks, who is better suited as a secondary option rather than the primary back.

With Williams off the market, the Texans will need to pursue other free-agent running backs. The top available options include Seattle Seahawks’ Kenneth Walker, New York Jets’ Breece Hall, Jacksonville Jaguars’ Travis Etienne Jr., Carolina Panthers’ Rico Dowdle, and Atlanta Falcons’ Ty Allgeier. Any of these players could help address Houston’s rushing challenges as the team looks to strengthen its offense for the upcoming season.