After a breakout 2025 campaign with the Dallas Cowboys, Javonte Williams is heading into free agency with plenty of momentum-and possibly a big payday on the horizon. The question is whether that next contract comes from the Cowboys or another team. If Dallas decides to let him walk, they’ll need a new lead back to keep the offense balanced and productive.
One name that’s already surfacing as a potential fit? Travis Etienne.
Could Travis Etienne Be the Answer in Dallas?
With Williams’ future uncertain, the Cowboys are being floated as a top destination for the Jacksonville Jaguars’ Travis Etienne, who’s set to hit the open market. And it makes a lot of sense.
Etienne just wrapped up another strong year in Jacksonville, rushing for 1,107 yards and scoring seven touchdowns. That marked his third 1,000-yard season in four years-a level of consistency that any team would love to plug into their backfield. Since being drafted in the first round back in 2021, Etienne has shown he’s more than just a speed threat-he’s a complete back who can handle a heavy workload and contribute in the passing game.
For Dallas, that kind of versatility could be a game-changer.
The Cowboys haven’t had true backfield continuity since Ezekiel Elliott’s departure after the 2022 season. Each year since, they’ve rolled out a new Week 1 starter, and while Williams gave them a spark in 2025, there’s no guarantee he’s back in 2026. That opens the door for a player like Etienne to step in and bring some long-term stability to the position.
Why Etienne Fits What Dallas Needs
This isn’t just about replacing a running back-it’s about reshaping the offense. Etienne offers a dynamic skill set that could take pressure off Dak Prescott, especially in high-leverage moments. With his ability to hit the edge, catch passes out of the backfield, and grind out tough yards between the tackles, Etienne could give Dallas the kind of offensive balance that keeps defenses guessing.
And let’s not overlook the bigger picture here: if the Cowboys want to stay competitive in a loaded NFC, they’ll need more than just elite quarterback play. They’ll need a ground game that can control tempo, move the chains, and close out games. Etienne has shown he can do all of that-and do it at a high level.
Etienne’s Future Still Unclear
For now, Etienne isn’t tipping his hand about what’s next. After Jacksonville’s playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills, the Clemson product was understandably reflective and not ready to talk about free agency.
“I’m really not even focused on that right now, honestly,” Etienne said. “Really just gotta soak this one in, man. It’d be crazy if I did [play my last game as a Jaguar], though.”
He may not be ready to talk about the future, but the reality is this: Jacksonville’s loss could become Dallas’ gain. If the Cowboys move on from Williams, Etienne is exactly the kind of proven, high-upside back who could step in and make an immediate impact-not just as a replacement, but as a foundational piece of the offense moving forward.