Cowboys Cut Williams, Browns Quickly Sign Pass Rusher
After being released by Dallas, Sam Williams agreed to join the Cleveland Browns' active roster. The Cowboys' decision to cut him was surprising given they kept six edge rushers and had guaranteed him $2 million. Williams will help fill a need for the Browns after Alex Wright's season-ending injury.
The Cowboys' decision to release Williams came despite a crowded edge rusher room that already included recent additions like Von Miller and rookie Donovan Ezeiruaku, plus a trade for Rashan. Dallas kept six players at the position, with Tyrus Wheat securing the final spot over Williams. The team had guaranteed Williams $2 million in his re-signing, and no trade partner emerged before the cut deadline.
Williams now joins a Cleveland defense that lost Alex Wright for the season, giving him an immediate path to playing time. His standout performance in the preseason finale against New Orleans was not enough to sway the Cowboys' coaching staff, who cautioned against overvaluing late preseason games. Cleveland adds a proven pass rusher with starting experience to fill a critical roster hole.
This roster move may provide Williams with a clearer opportunity to establish himself as a consistent NFL contributor, while the Browns gain experienced depth at a position weakened by injury. For the Cowboys, absorbing the guaranteed money without compensation could raise questions about their roster management. Fans of both teams may feel the ripple effects, as the move reshapes defensive rotations and could influence game outcomes in a competitive AFC.