Quinnen Williams Trade Reportedly Explored by Jaguars Before Cowboys Deal at Deadline

The Jacksonville Jaguars made a "strong push" for star defensive tackle Quinnen Williams before the New York Jets traded him to the Dallas Cowboys ahead of Tuesday's deadline, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz.

The Jets ultimately dealt Williams to the Cowboys in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 first-round selection and defensive tackle Mazi Smith.

The Jaguars were still active on the trade market prior to the deadline, acquiring wide receiver Jakobi Meyers from the Las Vegas Raiders while sending out a 2026 fourth-round pick and 2026 sixth-round choice.

Jacksonville has opened the 2025 season with a 5-3 record, but the need for help on its interior defensive line was evident.

Jaguars head coach Liam Coen previously discussed the team's lack of production from its defensive tackles.

"We need it," Coen told reporters on Oct. 27 (via Paul Bretl of Jaguars Wire). "We've looked at how do we help them on early downs, create more of an edge, and get some favorable match ups? We've looked at in the known passing situations, where are we putting these guys and how can we put them in better positions to be successful and get more ops on the quarterback?"

The Jaguars have amassed a mere 10 sacks in eight games this season, the fewest among all teams. Their 27 percent run-stop win rate also ranks No. 29 in the NFL, via ESPN.

Williams would have been a major addition to Jacksonville's front seven, as he's recorded 29.5 sacks over his prior four seasons. This year, he's compiled 32 tackles, seven tackles for loss, three forced fumbles and one sack.