The Dallas Cowboys have signed defensive end Sam Williams to a one-year contract worth $3 million, according to Jordan Schultz. Williams, who was selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, will return to the Cowboys for the 2026 season, aiming to build on his recent success.
Williams’ NFL Journey and Performance Highlights
Williams has spent his entire NFL career so far with the Cowboys, appearing in three seasons since being drafted with the 24th overall pick. Despite missing a full season due to an ACL injury sustained during training camp, he has made notable contributions including 9.5 sacks, 22 tackles for loss, and four forced fumbles. His 2025 season marked a shift toward run defense, recording seven running back stops at the line of scrimmage after focusing on pass-rushing in previous years.
Transitioning Role and Growth on the Field
Early in his career, Williams excelled at pressuring the quarterback, totaling 8.5 sacks in 2022 and 2023 combined. Last season, he evolved into more of a run stuffer, showing his versatility and importance to Dallas’ defensive front. He registered 37 tackles—23 being solo—and two pass breakups in 2025, demonstrating his all-around defensive abilities.
Strategic Moves Amid Free Agency Developments
Williams’ re-signing is part of a series of decisions by the Cowboys as free agency unfolds. Alongside signing safety Jalen Thompson to a three-year contract, Dallas recently traded for Pro Bowl defensive end Rashan Gary in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick and restructured offensive tackle Terence Steele’s deal. These moves illustrate the Cowboys’ efforts to strengthen their roster heading into the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Aspirations and Team Outlook
After finishing the previous season with a 7-9-1 record and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2023, Dallas is eager to improve. Retaining Williams offers stability to their defensive line as the team hopes to return to postseason contention. With free agency officially beginning at 4 p.m. ET Wednesday, additional roster changes are likely in the coming weeks to support this goal.
Sources: The #Cowboys are re-signing DE Sam Williams to a one year deal worth $3M.
The former 2nd-round pick has 9.5 sacks, 22 TFLs and 4 forced fumbles during his tenure in Dallas so far. pic.twitter.com/jR7ODFVm4X
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 10, 2026
