NFL Hall of Famer reveals real reason Jerry Jones paid Quinnen Williams instead of George Pickens

The Dallas Cowboys drew heavy criticism after trading away star pass rusher Micah Parsons, but team owner Jerry Jones has remained confident in how the roster has taken shape since the blockbuster move. The organization is also facing questions about its long-term commitment to George Pickens, who is set to play the 2026 season on the franchise tag.

Meanwhile, Dallas secured a major piece of its rebuilt defense by signing defensive tackle Quinnen Williams to a lucrative long-term extension. Cowboys chief operating officer and co-owner Stephen Jones said keeping Williams beyond his original deal had always been part of the plan when the team acquired him.

Following Williams' new contract, former Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher questioned the Cowboys' approach to Pickens. However, Pro Football Hall of Famer Cris Carter argued that the decision is about much more than talent.

“Might create some things outside of the organization, but it's not going to create anything in the locker room,” Carter said. “I've interviewed him a number of times, and he's been very consistent. High school stellar, student athlete, college, Alabama stellar student athlete, great technique.

“The reason why Jerry Jones and he talked about it at the signing of the leadership and Quinton Williams being the best player on his defense, he said he had to compensate him. And the type of man he is off the field is better than a football player. The NFL pays for leadership. They pay for good behavior. They pay if you can be the guy to say the thing that the coaches sometimes can't say to a guy.”

Williams' extension is worth five years and $153.15 million, including $101 million in total guarantees and $63.35 million fully guaranteed at signing. His average annual salary of $35.3 million ranks second among NFL defensive tackles, trailing only Philadelphia Eagles star Jalen Carter at $38 million per season.

As for Pickens, Dallas placed the wide receiver on the $27.3 million franchise tag for the 2026 campaign. Another productive season could significantly increase the value of his next contract.

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• Dak Prescott ‘definitely heard’ injured Myles Garrett from the sidelines at joint practice
• Quinnen Williams didn't celebrate his $153.15M deal—his bold Jerry Jones comment explains why
• J.J. Watt finally breaks silence after moving into Tony Romo’s spot on CBS’s top team