Around the NFC East: Javonte Williams Impresses in Dallas, Eagles Stand by Jake Elliott, and Wan’Dale Robinson Eyes 1,000-Yard Milestone
As the regular season winds down, the NFC East is buzzing with storylines that go beyond the playoff picture. From emerging stars playing for new contracts to coaches doubling down on their guys, there's no shortage of intrigue. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key developments in Dallas, Philadelphia, and New York.
Dallas Cowboys: Javonte Williams Making His Case for a Return
Javonte Williams came to Dallas on a one-year deal, and he’s made the most of it. The physical, downhill running style that made him a fan favorite in college has translated well in this Cowboys offense. And it hasn’t gone unnoticed by team owner Jerry Jones.
“He’s had an outstanding season. I love the way he brings the wood, so to speak, when he runs,” Jones said.
That’s classic Jerry - colorful, but also a clear vote of confidence. He added that the team’s cap-conscious moves earlier this year were made with flexibility in mind, particularly at positions like running back.
Translation: they’ve kept the door open to bring Williams back.
Given the way Williams has run the ball this year - with purpose, power, and consistency - it’s easy to see why Dallas would want him back in the fold. He’s been a tone-setter, the kind of back who wears down defenses and keeps the offense balanced. In a league where running backs often get overlooked, Williams is reminding teams what a difference-maker a physical runner can be.
On the disciplinary front, the Cowboys had a handful of players fined for various infractions in recent weeks. Safety Markquese Bell was hit with an $11,593 fine for a facemask, while linebacker James Houston was fined $5,722 for a hit to the quarterback’s head/neck area.
Fullback Hunter Luepke was fined $8,537 for using his helmet improperly. While these fines won’t derail the team, they’re a reminder that discipline - especially in critical games - can’t be overlooked.
Philadelphia Eagles: Confidence in Jake Elliott Remains Strong
Kicker Jake Elliott has had his share of ups and downs this season, but head coach Nick Sirianni isn’t wavering in his support. Sirianni made it clear this week: there are no plans to bring in competition at kicker.
“He’s had such a great career with so many highs,” Sirianni said. “All I’ve ever seen him do is get up out of [struggles] and rise from that.”
It’s a strong endorsement, especially in a league where kicker turnover can be swift and unforgiving. Sirianni pointed to Elliott’s clutch performances in last year’s NFC Championship and Super Bowl as proof of his resilience.
Elliott, for his part, understands the stakes. “It’s a production-based business,” he said.
“All I can do is kind of put my head down and keep pushing.” That’s the mindset you want from a veteran specialist - no excuses, just focus.
On the injury front, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said linebacker Nakobe Dean is “iffy” for Week 17 due to a hamstring issue. Dean’s absence would be a blow to a defense that’s already been juggling personnel in the second half of the season.
New York Giants: Wan’Dale Robinson Closing In on 1,000 Yards
Wan’Dale Robinson is quietly putting together the best season of his young career - and he’s doing it when the Giants need him most. With Malik Nabers sidelined and the team navigating the fallout from the firing of head coach Brian Daboll, Robinson has stepped up in a big way.
He’s now within striking distance of the 1,000-yard receiving mark - a milestone that still carries weight in the NFL. “I think it’d mean a lot,” Robinson said.
“Every receiver wants to hit that 1,000-yard mark.” He credited his offseason work for the breakout, saying he didn’t take any breaks and came into the year knowing he needed to elevate his game.
What’s even more notable? Robinson is doing all this in a contract year. He’s set to hit free agency after the season, and while he wouldn’t comment on whether extension talks have started, his play is doing plenty of talking.
“I’m going to let my agents and my team handle that part of the business,” he said. “Just trying to do everything that I can to be great.” That’s the kind of focus front offices love to see - and the kind of production that gets rewarded.
As for the Giants’ future on the sidelines, there’s some quiet buzz about Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman. There’s said to be mutual interest between Freeman and the organization, though there’s no indication anything is imminent. Still, it’s a name worth keeping an eye on as the Giants sort through their coaching options.
Bottom Line
From Javonte Williams’ bruising runs in Dallas to Wan’Dale Robinson’s breakout in New York, and Jake Elliott’s resilience in Philly, the NFC East continues to deliver compelling storylines. These aren’t just footnotes - they’re foundational pieces that could shape the direction of each franchise heading into 2026. Whether it’s contract decisions, coaching changes, or late-season momentum, every snap still matters.