We know the sort of talent Quinnen is, but are we about to see the defensive tackle take his game up a level in 2026?
The Dallas Cowboys' defensive line has the potential to be one of the better units in football under Christian Parker, and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams is the centerpiece of that.
A four-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro, Williams has shown throughout his NFL career that he can be a monster, but we only saw it fleetingly in 2025.
Granted, a lot of that likely had to do with the fact he was a midseason trade acquisition and had to learn Matt Eberflus' system on the fly, while producing at a high level on the field as well.
So, it was always going to be an uphill battle for the Cowboys to see the true difference-maker Quinnen can be for the team.
But now, with the chance to have a full offseason to be with his teammates, develop chemistry, and learn Parker's scheme, many feel that Williams could be about to return to his All-Pro form.
We know how well Quinnen can clog up rushing lanes and make things difficult for an offense, but he also knows one area of his game that he can improve on this offseason.
“I think I can be better at pass rushing,” Williams said. “I think I can change up some of my game, change up some of my footwork. Having BT Jordan here is a blessing for sure because he’s one of the best in the business at perfecting pass rush. And I know I definitely need that.
“Just to be better at pushing the pocket, pass rushing, and getting the quarterback on the ground. I think I can take a better step this year doing so.”
Let's call that "adding to the tool box.''
While sacks for defensive tackles aren't the be-all and end-all, as Williams has had double-digit sacks just once in his career (12.0 in 2022), he only had 5.0 across the 2025 season.
The year before, was 6.0.
But that was in New York with the Jets, and Williams and the defense were rarely in a position where it was a pure pass-rushing scenario. In Dallas, with Dak Prescott and the offense, I'd imagine he'll see more of that as the season rolls on.
While Parker's defense isn't one to hone in on creating pressure on a quarterback, instead messing with his eyes post-snap, there is still value in having Williams push the pocket, wreak havoc, and pick up sacks.
It isn't the main feature of his game, but it's an area for improvement.
Could we see a different Williams in 2026? One that is more of a pass rush threat? It would certainly make him even tougher to stop.
