Cowboys Moving to Lock In Williams, but the Linebacker Room Is Still a Problem

Jerry Jones said Tuesday that the Cowboys are ready to pursue a Quinnen Williams extension, which is the right call. Williams was the only defensive tackle who logged meaningful snaps last season — the depth behind him never materialized — and letting him walk into free agency would leave a position that's already thin by count in genuine crisis. Getting this done before camp hardens into routine is the sensible move.

The linebacker room is a different story, and nobody has a clean answer for it yet. Rashan Gary carried the position essentially alone in 2025; the names behind him on the depth chart didn't produce meaningful playing time. Charles Snowden, who figures into the pass-rush picture, is suspended for the first three games. DeMarvion Overshown has drawn recognition as a capable off-ball option, and the team has looked at Bobby Wagner as a veteran addition, but neither move closes the gap the way a Williams extension closes the one at tackle.

Two problems, two very different timelines. The Williams situation looks like it has momentum. The linebacker situation looks like something Dallas is still hoping resolves itself.