Cowboys Acquire Quinnen Williams from Jets Ahead of Trade Deadline

Dallas, TX – The Dallas Cowboys have officially acquired Pro Bowl defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets just before the trade deadline Tuesday. The Cowboys traded a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 first-round pick, and defensive tackle Mazi Smith for Williams.

This move marks the culmination of the Cowboys’ long-standing interest in Williams, which was noted earlier this season. Reports indicated that the Cowboys attempted a summer trade that included defensive star Micah Parsons, but negotiations fell through.

Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer reported, ‘For the Quinnen Williams trade, the Dallas Cowboys, what people don’t know, actually all the way back in the summer, were trying to get Quinnen Williams.’ He further mentioned that Dallas was keen to include Parsons in the deal, but the Jets were unable to facilitate the trade. However, as the trade deadline approached, the Cowboys felt they had a shot at landing Williams.

Cowboys’ Executive Vice President Stephen Jones emphasized the importance of bolstering their defense, stating, ‘Kenny Clark was a big part of this. We feel like the frustration is we hadn’t been able to win the big game in the playoffs, and we think it is directly related to our inability to stop the run.’

The Cowboys previously traded Parsons to the Green Bay Packers in August for two first-round picks. While trading Parsons was not ideal, it followed a prolonged contract dispute.

Williams, selected third overall by the Jets in 2019, has been a standout player, earning three Pro Bowl selections and a First-Team All-Pro nod in 2022. He recorded a career-best 12 sacks that year and provides Dallas with a vital asset to strengthen their defensive line.

Despite the excitement surrounding Williams’ arrival, the Cowboys currently hold a disappointing record of 3-5-1 this season, leading to questions about the trade’s necessity and timing.

Williams is currently under contract through the 2027 season, bringing hope that he can help the Cowboys improve their defensive performance and become serious playoff contenders before the season concludes.