Source: Dallas Cowboys
Summary
Quinnen Williams said the Dallas Cowboys’ defense has shown significant growth under new coordinator Christian Parker, with progress starting in OTAs and training camp. The Cowboys ranked last in opponent passing yards and points in 2025 under Matt Eberflus. They moved on from Eberflus, hiring Parker, who previously worked with the Eagles. Williams, signed to a $105.9 million extension, said the defense is on the right track. The Cowboys made several defensive additions, including Jalen Thompson and Rashan Gary, and drafted Caleb Downs and Malachi Lawrence.
Our Reading
This one felt recognizable early.
Williams says growth is night and day, but the defense still had its issues last year.
Parker’s first year as coordinator, and the Cowboys are already talking up the progress.
They moved on from Eberflus, but the same problems kept showing up.
The defense is getting new faces, but the same old excuses are already coming out.
Author: Evan Null
Quarterback Questions
The Cowboys are still trying to figure out who will be their starting quarterback in 2026. Dak Prescott is still the favorite, but the team has been looking at options in free agency and the draft. There’s no clear answer yet, and the uncertainty is starting to show.
Defensive Overhaul
The Cowboys made a big change on defense, bringing in Christian Parker as the new coordinator. They also signed several new players, including Jalen Thompson and Rashan Gary. The hope is that these additions will help the defense improve, but it’s still early in the process.
Williams’ New Deal
Quinnen Williams signed a three-year, $105.9 million extension with the Cowboys in August. The deal makes him one of the highest-paid interior defensive linemen in the league. He’s been a key part of the defense, and the team is counting on him to lead the way.
2025 Struggles
The Cowboys’ defense struggled in 2025, finishing last in opponent passing yards and points. They also ranked near the bottom in total yards allowed. The team is hoping that the changes they’ve made will help them turn things around in 2026.
2026 Draft Moves
The Cowboys made some big moves in the 2026 draft, including trading up to select Caleb Downs with the 11th pick. They also took Malachi Lawrence with the 23rd pick. These selections are seen as key steps in rebuilding the defense.
