After the Dallas Cowboys practically stole Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Logan Wilson, only having to give up a seventh-round pick in the process, Jerry Jones set social media ablaze when he acquired three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets.
A combination of Williams, Kenny Clark and Osa Odighizuwa could make for one of the best DT groups out there. This also presents a great dilemma that the Cowboys will have to solve in the future. Odighizuwa already signed a four-year, $80 million deal in the offseason, assuring that he will be a long-term Cowboy.
The remaining question is whether Clark will only be a short-term project. Since Clark was the main piece involved in the Micah Parsons trade, fans have been expecting big things from him. In more times than not, the trade hasn't been that much worth it. Clark is obviously not going to make up for Parsons because both guys play entirely different roles.
However, it's safe to say that Clark's future is now in serious question following the blockbuster trade for Williams.
Cowboys might not be able to pay $64 million for three defensive tackles
With Williams making $21.75 million, Clark making $21.5 million, and Odighizuwa making $20.75 million, this brings a logjam to the DT position. This means that we might already be halfway to Clark's tenure in a Dallas uniform ending.
Getting out of Clark's contract would be the easiest route to go, because Odighizuwa's extension doesn't kick in until next season. Not only that, but there's an easy out in Clark's contract in 2026. According to Over The Cap, Dallas can save $21.5 million in cap space by cutting Clark with a post-June 1 designation without inheriting a dollar in dead money.
The Cowboys have obviously found their man of the future. Williams is a three-time Pro Bowler and a first-team All-Pro from 2022. They have a great problem on their hands, affording to shove at least Clark or Odighizuwa to the side next season.
Considering the Cowboys have already broken the bank for Dak Prescott, Tyler Smith, CeeDee Lamb, and DaRon Bland, it doesn't seem likely that the Cowboys will break the bank at $64 million for three defensive tackles.
The Williams trade creates a $64 million headache for the Dallas front office, but it comes with a simple solution: release Clark and invest the money saved on more defensive players.