Who Should I Start? Javonte Williams or Jaylen Warren

Saturday, February 21, 3:39 PM

According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, the Dallas Cowboys are signing running back Javonte Williams to a three-year, $24 million extension. Williams was set to become a free agent after signing a one-year deal with the Cowboys last offseason, but will now look to remain in Dallas for the next three seasons. With the Cowboys, Williams turned in a career season, totaling 1,201 yards with 11 rushing scores, both of which set career-highs. Through the air, Williams brought in 35 passes for another 137 yards and two touchdowns. He posted a stellar 4.8 YPC, a massive jump from the 3.7 YPC he averaged during the 2024 season with the Denver Broncos. Fantasy managers should expect Williams to maintain high-end RB2 upside playing in one of the most potent offensive units in the sport, which will continue to provide him with elite scoring opportunities.

Thursday, February 12, 1:19 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren had the best fantasy finish of his career in 2025, and he could take another step forward with less competition next season. Warren entered the 2025 campaign as the Steelers' preferred running back after Najee Harris departed in free agency. The expectation was that Warren would gradually lose touches to Kaleb Johnson, but instead, he found himself in a split backfield with Kenneth Gainwell. While sharing touches with Gainwell, Warren tallied 958 rushing yards, 333 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns. He finished as the overall RB17 in full-PPR leagues, while Gainwell was the RB16. Gainwell is expected to hit free agency this offseason, and early rumors indicate that the Steelers don't plan to re-sign him. Presumably, they'll bring in another running back or give more touches to Johnson. However, as the incumbent starter, Warren should maintain a heavy workload and fantasy relevance. He has shown an ability to produce as a ball-carrier and pass-catcher, and he flashed a nose for the end zone by doubling his previous career-high touchdown total. Warren is a solid hold in dynasty leagues, and he projects as a mid-range RB2 option in redraft leagues for 2026.