Dallas Cowboys defensive end Sam Williams will miss the upcoming season due to a torn ACL and MCL in his left knee. The injury occurred during practice on Sunday, and Williams will undergo orthoscopic surgery as confirmed by the Cowboys. This news is a significant setback for the team’s pass rush and for Williams, who had been showing promise in his career.
Williams, a second-round pick out of Mississippi in the 2021 NFL draft, had a solid rookie season with four sacks and 22 tackles in 15 games. He was even considered for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award. Last season, Williams continued to make an impact as a reserve, recording 4.5 sacks and 26 tackles in all 17 Cowboys games. His performance earned him a key rotational role in the team’s pass rush.
With the departure of key defenders in free agency, including Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler, the Cowboys were counting on Williams to step up and fill the void. Armstrong Jr. had seven sacks last season, while Fowler contributed four sacks. Their absence created an opportunity for Williams to take on a more significant role in the defense.
Unfortunately, Williams’ season-ending injury will force the Cowboys to look for other options to bolster their pass rush. The team will need to adjust their game plan and find ways to compensate for the loss of a key player like Williams. It’s a tough blow for both Williams and the Cowboys as they head into the new season.
According to the Cowboys, Williams sustained the injury while participating in a special teams drill where he was blocking. The severity of the injury was evident as he couldn’t put weight on his left leg and had to be helped off the field. Williams will now focus on his recovery and rehabilitation as he starts the long road back to full health.
Injuries are a harsh reality in the world of professional sports, and the Cowboys will need to regroup and rally together in the absence of Sam Williams. The upcoming season will present new challenges for the team, but they will undoubtedly come together to face them head-on. The resilience and determination of the Cowboys will be put to the test as they navigate through this setback and strive for success on the field.