“Whatever the team needs me to do”: Cowboys’ Williams on his new chapter in Dallas

The Dallas Cowboys made a decisive move to strengthen their defense before the 2025 NFL trade deadline. One of their marquee acquisitions was defensive tackle Quinnen Williams.

The Texas franchise sent a 2027 first-round pick and defensive tackle Mazi Smith to the New York Jets in exchange for the veteran’s services. Now, the seven-year pro believes he’s ready to start against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 11.

“Easy to catch up”

Williams said learning the Cowboys’ system was a smooth process. The Alabama product has faith in his football intelligence to adapt quickly and feels confident he’s retained enough of the playbook to suit up this Sunday at Allegiant Stadium.

“It was definitely easy to catch up,” Williams said after Friday’s practice, per The Athletic’s Jon Machota. “When it comes down to football, I really trust in my football IQ, and the things I can do, especially when it comes down to remembering the playbook, remembering what they want me to do.”

For Williams, picking up defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus’ scheme was straightforward. The 6-foot-3, 302-pound lineman said it took him just a matter of days to grasp what he needs to execute when facing the Raiders’ offensive line.

“It probably took me one or two days to get the whole playwork down and to come out here and just fit right in,” he said. “I say this all the time, whatever the coaching staff, whatever the scheme, whatever the team needs me to do to win football games, I’m willing to do and I’m going to do. Because at the end of the day, I just want to win.”

Williams logged 32 tackles, three forced fumbles, and one sack with the Jets in 2025. Now, he’ll look to bring the experience that earned him consecutive Pro Bowl selections over the past three seasons.

Related stories

Cowboys

How the Cowboys are trying to move forward after tragedy: “You don’t escape grief”

NFL

There’s a ‘Spaniard’ in the NFL: the story of Jake Ferguson

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.