FRISCO, Texas – Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer has treated his strategy for the upcoming season like a poker game, revealing little about his offensive plans for 2025. He mentioned maintaining a “vanilla offense” and has kept his intentions largely hidden as the Cowboys prepare to face the defending Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, in their season opener this Thursday.

Javonte Williams, a newly signed free agent and former second-round draft pick from the Denver Broncos, has been a standout during organized team activities, training camps, and practice warmups. He is the only running back on the roster to sit out the preseason entirely, which leads many to believe he has secured the starting RB1 role.

Head coach Schottenheimer confirmed Williams’ status, emphasizing his confidence in the young player’s capability to handle a lead running back position. Last season, Williams led the Broncos with 513 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 139 carries despite battling a major knee injury the previous year.

“I have no questions about it [Williams’ ability to carry a lead running back workload],” Schottenheimer assured. He praised Williams for his physical playing style and work ethic.

Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott also endorsed Williams, referring to him as “valedictorian-Tae,” a nod to his impressive academic background and quick grasp of the playbook.

In preparation for his first game post-injury, Williams expressed his eagerness to contribute to the team, signaling that he feels healthy and ready to go.

“I feel good, healthy. I feel like this is as good as I’m going to get. I’m just ready to go and ready to get out there,” Williams remarked, showing his enthusiasm for the upcoming season.