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By Cameron Kiszla
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The Dallas Cowboys are facing monumental expectations with their incredible passing attack returning from last season, but many believe the team's fortunes will be determined by the defense.
Fortunately for the Cowboys, one of their defenders is the best at his position, according to a recent ranking by Bleacher Report.
A Newly Acquired Defensive Star
Cowboys star Quinnen Williams joined Dallas midway through last season after a trade with the New York Jets, but he's already made an impact.
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In his seven games with a star on his helmet, he got 1.5 sacks and 21 tackles, including three tackles for loss.
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Granted, it's nowhere near his 2022 first-team All-Pro campaign when he got 12 sacks, but he was still a Pro-Bowler, the fourth such time he earned the honor.
Bleacher Report broke down why he's so effective in naming him the top defensive lineman in the league.
"Williams primarily lines up as a 3-technique (outside shoulder of the guard) but made plenty of plays from several alignments when splitting time between the New York Jets and Dallas Cowboys last season," the outlet wrote. "The four-time Pro Bowler consistently dictates the rep when working against the run regardless of where he is playing. When rushing the passer, Williams' strength, motor and active hands make it difficult for offensive linemen to anchor against his bull-rush. He did have a down year statistically, with a career-low 2.5 sacks, but his quickness and unique athleticism showed up more in Dallas and helped the 28-year-old win more frequently than he did earlier in the season."
Bleacher Report did add that Williams took "arguably the tightest race for a No. 1 spot of any position group" in their ranking, adding that he's ahead of "a pack of veterans all capable of unseating him at the top this season."
That said, when you're edging out players like Vita Vea, Jeffery Simmons, Dexter Lawrence and Cameron Heyward, you're doing something right.
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