Jerry Jones, Cowboys owner, tries to convince fans to invest in costly defense after trading Micah Parsons

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones once again found himself in the spotlight during his weekly segment on 105.3 The Fan in Dallas. This time, he addressed concerns from critics who doubt the teams ability to retain all three key defensive linemen Quinnen Williams, Osa Odighizuwa, and Kenny Clark due to their substantial salaries.

Jon Machota of The Athletic reported: "Cowboys owner Jerry Jones on @1053thefan on those who say Dallas can't keep all three defensive tackles, Quinnen Williams, Osa Odighizuwa and Kenny Clark, because of their salaries: 'That's not right. We can. We can build from that.'"

Jones projects confidence in managing the contracts, but fans and analysts remain cautious, remembering the teams decision not to extend Micah Parsons just three months ago. Since acquiring Williams at the November trade deadline, the Cowboys have gone 3-0 and improved their record to 6-5-1, boosting their playoff hopes in the NFC.

Williams, who signed a $96 million extension with the Jets in 2023, has his rights with Dallas through 2027, though the team can opt out after next season. Kenny Clark, acquired from Green Bay before the season, is under a three-year deal averaging over $21 million per year, with two seasons remaining. Osa Odighizuwa extended his contract in March for four years at $80 million.

While Jones appears confident in keeping this defensive unit intact, questions may arise in the offseason, especially with star wide receiver George Pickens expected to seek a new contract. Pickens performance has been instrumental in the teams offensive success, making his retention a priority.

The Cowboys defense has seen significant improvement since the trade deadline. Once struggling against the run, the team has become one of the leagues most formidable over the past three games. Overall, Dallas has reduced points allowed from over 30 per game to just above 21 in recent contests.

If the Cowboys can manage to maintain this defensive core, it could mark a promising path forward. However, given the franchises recent history with high-profile contracts, skepticism remains among fans.

Author: Sophia Brooks