Quincy Williams Disappointed but Determined

New York Jets linebacker Quincy Williams has confirmed he was benched during Wednesday’s practice after his coaches cited underperformance since training camp. In an interview with ESPN's Rich Cimini, Williams expressed his feelings on the matter, stating he was 'not thrilled' but also 'not mad', as he aims to reclaim his starting role.

With the NFL trade deadline approaching, Williams also reflected on the possibility of a trade, noting, 'I came in on Monday and was the two, so I didn't really understand what was going on.' He added that he had hoped to stay with the Jets long term despite speculation surrounding his future in New York.

Trade Rumors and Team Dynamics

Adding to the drama, Quincy Williams' brother, Quinnen Williams, was traded from the Jets to the Dallas Cowboys. The Jets received a substantial return, including a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 first-round pick, and defensive tackle Mazi Smith. Interestingly, reports indicated that the Cowboys had explored a trade for Quincy as well, but negotiations fell through, leading them to acquire linebacker Logan Wilson from the Cincinnati Bengals instead.

As for Quincy, the Jets had set their asking price at a fourth-round pick for the linebacker, who is on the final season of his three-year, $18 million contract signed in March 2023. Despite remaining with the team beyond the trade deadline, Williams isn't expected to start and will now serve in a reserve role.

Since joining the Jets in 2021, Williams has been a key part of the defense, achieving his best performance in 2023 with an impressive 15 tackles for loss, 10 passes defended, and two sacks, earning him a First Team All-Pro selection. However, this season has been challenging for him due to a shoulder injury, limiting him to just four appearances and tallying 22 tackles, four passes defended, and 1.5 sacks.