OXNARD, CA — The Dallas Cowboys' decision to sign defensive tackle Quinnen Williams to a three-year, $105.9 million contract extension was part of the organization's long-term plan after acquiring him at last season's trade deadline.
In an interview with the Cowboys' official website, Cowboys chief operating officer and co-owner Stephen Jones said the team never viewed Williams as a short-term addition after sending a first-round pick, a second-round pick and defensive tackle Mazi Smith to the New York Jets in exchange for the four-time Pro Bowler.
“When you make a trade like that, you're not looking for one- and two-year fixes,” Jones said. “You want to get some things that are the foundation of your future. Certainly, now that solidifies that he's a part of our foundation here for the next five years.”
Jones said the extension completes the organization's efforts to reshape its defensive front under first-year defensive coordinator Christian Parker. Williams joins fellow additions Kenny Clark, Rashan Gary and rookie Malachi Lawrence as key pieces of the unit.
“I think this kind of, at the end of the day, puts a bow on top in terms of knowing that we're going to have Q here for the next five years long term,” Jones said.
Beyond Williams' production on the field, Jones praised the veteran defensive tackle's leadership and character, noting he serves on the Cowboys' leadership council.
“He's a great football player,” Jones said. “But then on top of that, he's just such an amazing individual. He's a great man off the field and he's a leader. He's a leader in that room, he's a leader of the defense.”
Jones added that Williams' desire to remain in Dallas made negotiations easier.
“I do think it's the case more times than not that players want to play here, they want to be here,” Jones said. “Certainly it's great to see it, and certainly his actions spoke louder than words.”
The Cowboys have a history of reaching contract extensions with key players during training camp in Oxnard. Last year, the team signed tight end Jake Ferguson to a long-term deal while in California.
Jones said Dallas continues to discuss extensions with other players.
“We've got guys that we'd like to talk to,” Jones said. “Sometimes it's a fit and they want to dance, and then sometimes some people want to wait. There's multiple guys that we communicate with and see if there's anything that makes sense.”
Jones also addressed the future of wide receiver George Pickens, who is not eligible for a contract extension until after the 2026 regular season because of league rules. Jones said the organization hopes to keep Pickens in Dallas beyond his current contract.
“That's the ultimate goal,” Jones said. “So it's just a lot of moving parts that we've got to obviously keep playing option quarterback and we'll see where it takes us.”
This interview was conducted by the Dallas Cowboys organization.
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