The Dallas Cowboys have acquired defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets in a high-profile trade finalized just hours before the 2025 NFL trade deadline. Williams, a three-time Pro Bowler and First-Team All-Pro, arrives in Dallas to reinforce a defensive line that has struggled since the preseason departure of Micah Parsons. The move is part of a broader Jets roster overhaul, which also included the earlier trade of cornerback Sauce Gardner. Williams joins the Cowboys under a team-friendly contract that runs through 2027.
On November 4, 2025, the Cowboys traded for Quinnen Williams in a deal with the Jets that included draft picks and defensive tackle Mazi Smith. The trade was executed at team headquarters in Frisco, Texas, and confirmed by league sources. The Cowboys sent a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 first-round pick (the better of two), and Smith to New York. The acquisition addresses Dallas’ defensive struggles and secures Williams on a manageable long-term contract.
Trade Package and Contract Terms
- Quinnen Williams:
- 3× Pro Bowl, 1× First-Team All-Pro
- Career earnings: $91M+
- Contract: 4 years, $96M (signed July 2023)
- Guarantees: $66M, including $24.5M signing bonus
- Team control: Through 2027, manageable cap hits in 2025–2026
- Trade Compensation:
- Jets receive: 2026 2nd-round pick, 2027 1st-round pick (best of two), DT Mazi Smith
- Cowboys receive: DT Quinnen Williams
Dallas effectively used draft capital from the Micah Parsons trade to secure Williams.
BREAKING: Jets trade DT Quinnen Williams to Cowboys in exchange for a 2026 1st-round pick and more. (via @RapSheet, @TomPelissero, @MikeGarafolo) pic.twitter.com/CGjs6luknu
— NFL (@NFL) November 4, 2025
Reactions: Insider Commentary and Team Strategy
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero called the deal “a win-now move with long-term upside.” Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stated, “Quinnen brings elite interior strength and leadership. He’s a cornerstone for our defense.” Jets insiders described the trade as part of a strategic rebuild, with ESPN’s Rich Cimini noting, “New York is resetting with cost-controlled talent and future picks.”
Defensive Outlook and Cap Strategy
Williams immediately upgrades Dallas’ interior line, which ranks near the bottom in rushing yards allowed and third-down efficiency. His contract structure—most guarantees already paid by the Jets—gives the Cowboys financial flexibility. The move also signals Dallas’ intent to remain competitive while building for the future. For the Jets, acquiring Smith and premium picks supports their long-term roster reset.
🔹 What’s Next: Williams’ Debut and Team Adjustments
Quinnen Williams is expected to debut in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons. Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus will integrate him into the scheme alongside Kenny Smith and DeMarvion Overshown. The Cowboys will monitor playoff positioning, while the Jets continue evaluating trade options and draft strategy.
