The Dallas Cowboys have made a major roster move ahead of the NFL trade deadline, acquiring three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets. The deal sends former first-round pick Mazi Smith, a 2026 second-round pick, and a 2027 first-round pick to New York. The trade was finalized shortly before Dallas’ 27–17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals on November 4, 2025. Williams is expected to anchor a struggling Cowboys defense that ranks near the bottom of the league in multiple categories.
On November 4, 2025, the Cowboys traded for Quinnen Williams in a deadline-day deal with the Jets. The transaction took place at team headquarters in Frisco, Texas, and was confirmed by NFL insider Tom Pelissero. The Cowboys sent Mazi Smith, a second-round pick in 2026, and a first-round pick in 2027 to New York. The move addresses Dallas’ defensive issues, particularly in run defense and third-down efficiency.
Main Details: Player Stats and Team Performance
- Quinnen Williams:
- 3× Pro Bowl selection
- 82.7 PFSN impact score (10th-highest in NFL)
- Signed through 2027
- Cowboys Defense (after 9 games):
- 143.0 rushing yards allowed per game (3rd-worst)
- 414.8 total yards allowed per game (2nd-worst)
- 30.8 points allowed per game
- 52.6% third-down conversion rate allowed (worst in NFL)
Williams joins a defensive unit led by Micah Parsons and newly acquired Kenny Smith, aiming to reverse the team’s downward trend.
Reactions: Insider Commentary and Team Strategy
Tom Pelissero tweeted, “Blockbuster: The Jets are trading three-time Pro Bowl DL Quinnen Williams to the Cowboys.” Cowboys owner/GM Jerry Jones hinted at a major move earlier in the week but withheld specifics. Analysts view the trade as a strategic pivot for Dallas, with ESPN’s Todd Archer noting, “This is a foundational move for a defense that’s been exposed all season.”
Roster Shakeup and Defensive Outlook
The departure of Mazi Smith marks a rare release of a first-round pick before completing his rookie contract. Smith played just 89 snaps this season and was a healthy scratch in four games. Williams’ arrival is expected to stabilize the interior line and improve run-stopping efficiency. He will be paired with young talents like Shavon Revel Jr. and DeMarvion Overshown, forming a new defensive core.
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 immediately. The Cowboys will continue to evaluate their playoff viability, while the Jets begin a full rebuild after falling to 1–7, having also traded Sauce Gardner for draft capital.
