DALLAS — Even before Rico Dowdle completed the first 1,000-yard rushing season of his NFL career, the Cowboys were evaluating the running back who soon replaced him.

The Cowboys’ evaluation process involving Javonte Williams provides unique insight into how far in advance NFL personnel departments work to begin building rosters. In this case, it was the middle of last year. Before knowing Brian Schottenheimer would replace Mike McCarthy as head coach. Before Klayton Adams was hired as offensive coordinator primarily for his run-game expertise.

The Cowboys were determined to improve the running game in the offseason, regardless of the coach. Within the organization, Williams carried a high draft grade coming out of North Carolina. There were internal concerns about the serious knee inju

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