Cowboys' contract-year edge 'ready' to return after brutal injury

It’s been a long road back for one of the Cowboys’ most promising young defenders, but it sounds like he’s almost there.

In the final post-draft presser of the draft weekend, owner and general manager Jerry Jones told reporters that DE Sam Williams is “ready” and will be eased into action during organized team activities (OTAs) before becoming a full participant in training camp. The 26-year-old pass rusher suffered a torn ACL and partially torn his MCL during the 2024 training camp, leading to a stint on injured reserve for the entirety of last season.

Williams, a second-round pick (No. 56 overall) out of Ole Miss in the 2022 NFL Draft, is entering a contract year in 2025. Over his first two NFL seasons, he showed flashes of his upside, posting 48 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 21 pressures, and two forced fumbles across 32 games.

Known for his explosive first step and disruptive ability off the edge, Williams was expected to take on a larger role last season before the injury. With the Cowboys looking to bolster their pass rush alongside All-Pro Micah Parsons, second-year defender Marshawn Kneeland, veteran Dante Fowler Jr., and Friday's second-round selection in rookie DE Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College, the former All-American's return comes just at the right time.

Training camp will serve as a key proving ground for Williams, not only in terms of his health but also as he seeks to earn a second contract in Dallas. For now, the team is optimistic that one of their young defensive talents is finally ready to return to the field.