Who Should I Start? Javonte Williams or Jaylen Warren

Monday, May 26, 9:42 AM

Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams was seen taking reps with the first team during the portion of last Tuesday's OTAs that was open to the media, according to Tommy Yarrish of DallasCowboys.com. Williams signed with Dallas during the offseason, and their crowded backfield now features Williams, Jaydon Blue, and Miles Sanders, among other depth pieces. While this update from Yarrish could provide some insight into the Cowboys' backfield dynamic, it's important to note that the regular season is still several months away and the depth chart is destined to change. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer echoed this sentiment, saying, "It's too early to tell. Last year, we went into it thinking it's going to be by committee and then at the end of the year, we changed that." He noted that Williams and Sanders got an early jump on the competition by signing during the offseason, but even Blue has made impressive progress in the few weeks since being drafted.

Monday, June 16, 3:13 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren recently noted via the team's website that he adjusted his training this offseason in anticipation of handling a larger workload in 2025. "I approached this offseason differently," said Warren. "I did a lot more things for longevity-wise...like they say, the best ability is availability." The Oklahoma State product enters his fourth season with the team and projects as the lead back for the first time in his career with former teammate Najee Harris' departure to the Los Angeles Chargers. However, he isn't the only show in town. Warren should play a substantial role in the backfield regarding touches, but rookie Kaleb Johnson projects to eventually fill the role vacated by Harris due to his similar frame. That isn't to say he'll overtake Warren, but it could mean he handles goal-line touches in time. Expect Warren to see an uptick in carries from previous seasons and play a significant role on third downs and passing situations.