Who Should I Start? Javonte Williams or James Cook

Wednesday, December 31, 5:12 PM

Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (shoulder) was initially expected to be limited in Wednesday's practice. However, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports that Williams isn't included on the Week 18 injury report, suggesting he put in a full practice on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Malik Davis (calf, eye) was a non-participant. Williams has been a top-10 fantasy RB in his first year in Dallas as their unquestioned lead back. However, the 25-year-old former Denver Broncos running back could be much riskier for starting lineups this weekend in a meaningless Week 18 regular-season finale against the division-rival New York Giants. Williams appears to be healthy enough to play on Sunday, but Dallas could give rookie Jaydon Blue some run with an eye towards next season. We should have a clearer picture of how Dallas' backfield will shake out later this week.

Saturday, December 27, 10:18 AM

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook was dominant in Week 16's win over the Cleveland Browns, totaling 134 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns on just 17 touches. Cook has ascended once again in the 2025 season, jumping from 79.2 scrimmage yards per game in 2024 to 121.3 this season. He currently leads the NFL in rushing yards and ranks RB6 in PPR formats. The Bills host the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 17, who have allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to running backs this season. While star defensive tackle Jalen Carter will be active this week for the Eagles, Cook and the Bills are running the ball with ease, so fantasy managers should expect more dominance from the fourth-year back.