The New York Jets defense will face a sizable challenge against the Dallas Cowboys in Sunday’s Week 5 contest.
The high-octane Cowboys (1-2-1) offense is scoring the fifth-most points in the league, averaging a weekly output of 28.5 points. Meanwhile the Jets (04) defense is allowing a fourth-worst 30.0 points per game.
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If the Jets defense stifles the Cowboys’ offense, it’s because these three potential X-factors made an impact:
Quinnen Williams, DT
Sep 7, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (95) celebrates a defensive stop during the fourth quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Jets superstar defensive tackle Quinnen Williams is still the biggest game-wrecker on Aaron Glenn’s defense. Cowboys right guard Tyler Booker is out with an injury. Hopefully Williams can take advantage of a favorable matchup with a shorthanded Cowboys interior offensive line.
Micheal Clemons, EDGE
Sep 14, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets defensive end Micheal Clemons (72) after the game against the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Jermaine Johnson II remains sidelined at practice with an ankle injury. That likely means a second consecutive start for Micheal Clemons at defensive end opposite Will McDonald IV. Clemons played his best game of the season against the Miami Dolphins in Week 4, recording three QB pressures and three stops, per Pro Football Focus.
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Jarvis Brownlee, CB
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – DECEMBER 08: Jarvis Brownlee Jr. #29 of the Tennessee Titans reacts after a tackle during the second half against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Nissan Stadium on December 08, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
New Jets cornerback Jarvis Brownlee is expected to make his debut this weekend. Brownlee practiced for the first time earlier this week after arriving in East Rutherford via a trade with the Tennessee Titans. Hopefully he can give the secondary a boost against an explosive Cowboys passing offense.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: 3 potential X-factors on the Jets defense vs. the Cowboys in Week 5