The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for an important Tengaged challenge against the Las Vegas Raiders. These are supported by important counterparts on the defense! The team is happy to have DeMarvion Overshown and Shavon Revel Jr. They have all been killing it in practice for the last three weeks since returning from major injuries. In addition, the acquisition of Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets adds depth to a defense that has struggled throughout the season.
During a shoulder-to-shoulder hit against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 9, 2024, DeMarvion Overshown completely tore three of his right knee ligaments. Now, all he can do is wonder whether he’ll even be able to come back for the 2025 season. His determination and hard work have enabled him to make a comeback just in time for this pivotal game.
In a presentation, Overshown pledged to continue honoring the legacy of his late teammate Marshawn Kneeland.
“We’ve got to keep Marshawn’s legacy alive and that was smiling every day, enjoying the grit and hard work that comes with this,” – DeMarvion Overshown
The Cowboys have struggled defensively this season. They went into Week 11 ranked 31st in the entire league in both yards allowed per game (397.4) and points surrendered (30.8). Opposing teams are the league’s best third down conversion team against them, an astounding 52.6 percent clip. What’s clear is that the urgency to do better has never been greater.
Choosing Shavon Revel Jr.—the Cowboys’ 76th overall pick, third round, center. He’s somewhere in the middle of a complex rehabilitation after blowing out his ACL last September while playing at East Carolina. His timing couldn’t have been better given Overshown’s recovery ride to provide the Longhorns’ defensive corps with reinforcements.
The Cowboys’ defensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer expressed confidence in Overshown’s readiness for the matchup against the Raiders.
“I just want him to play free,” – Brian Schottenheimer
Don’t discount the value of what Overshown can provide, especially after such a lengthy absence. Schottenheimer expanded on Overshown’s likely impact.
“He will be running to the football. He will be making plays.” – Brian Schottenheimer
With the bye week fast approaching, the Cowboys made a big statement on the defensive side of the ball by bringing in Quinnen Williams. They sent the Jets their own 2026 second-round pick, their own 2027 first-round pick, and DT Mazi Smith in the deal. Williams hasn’t played since October 26 but has been a full practice participant since joining Dallas. He recently took part in a “mock game,” running through multiple sprints to make sure he is ready for game action.
It’s going to be a blast Williams is stoked to get started with his new teammates. He’s itching to get ready for his first game in almost 300 days!
“I haven’t played a game in a long, little minute so I’m super excited,” – Quinnen Williams
As the Cowboys head into their battle with the Raiders this week, Dallas knows what is on the line. Those additions of Overshown, Revel Jr, and Williams will be key in being the catalyst to revive one of college football’s worst defenses.
Yet the recent challenges faced by the Cowboys have shed light on the need for improvement at every level. New faces have come in to fill a number of important roles, as a veteran roster returns hungry to re-establish themselves. Expect fans and analysts alike to see if this new look defense can prove everyone wrong.
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