Jerry Jones told everyone he was going to be active at the NFL’s trade deadline. Though he never specified details, many including myself, were skeptical on what moves would actually be made.
Sure, we can trade for a player. But that doesn’t mean we don’t have to look up their Pro Football Reference page to figure out who they are. I thought that was the ballpark any trades would be in.
The blockbuster deal was made a few hours before the deadline. The New York Jets were cleaning house and sent away a couple of All-Pros. First Sauce Gardener to the Colts for two first rounders. Then a bit later they would deal Quinnen Williams to the Cowboys.
I was nervous about the deal as rumors began floating of what the compensation was going to be. I do not want to give up our 2026 1st, as it has a chance to be a fairly high pick.
Luckily the Cowboys were able to avoid giving up this years 1st, and instead gave up the 2027 pick. Though our 2nd rounder was included in this deal, leaving us with no pick on day-2 (3rd rounder to PIT for Pickens).
Also being able to throw in Mazi…nice
Trading for the #1 graded run stopping defensive tackle, per PFF, is something Dallas needs to strengthen their defense. His inside presence will free up the edge rushers to make plays.
Though Dallas is presented with a tricky problem, they are paying 3 DT’s: Kenny Clark, Osa Odighizuwa and now Quinnen Williams. The Cowboys will likely employ a 5-man front (pictured below).
You would have your DT’s all with their hand on the ground, OSA lined up more wide (like #90) with Williams in the middle and Clark next to him. Roll two edge rushers on the ends or replace one with a linebacker like Marist Liufau or the returning DeMarvion Overshown, and let’s boogie.
As Dak Prescott was asked to make a comment on the Williams trade, he proudly stated. “I’m fu**ing pumped. You can quote me on that.”
But this could all lead to an interesting offseason, as their is some significant money invested in the defensive tackle position now.
Before the big deal with Williams, the team added linebacker Logan Wilson early in the am. Just giving up a 7th rounder. Wilson was ready for a new start. Evident by him making it to Dallas for an interview 9 hours after the trade was announced.
Wilson told the media, the player Dallas is getting is “tough, physical, hard-nosed attitude. I try to find ways to make plays on the ball and get the ball back to our offense.”
Wilson is definitely an upgrade in the LB room, though a low bar, but his addition helps out with the recent move of Jack Sanborn going to IR.
I don’t think our linebacker position is saved just yet but can be built upon. Cowboys will add DeMarvion Overshown in their next game. But should also look towards the 2026 draft for some more linebackers.
Overall, along the lines with Coach Schottenheimer, I agree that these moves are really forward thinking. Both guys are signed through 2027. While I think the Cowboys can sneak into the playoffs still, there might be a few more holes to fill before a deep playoff run.
Brett's Cowboys Corner 
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