He’s established himself as one of the New York Jets’ best players, and he has done it without much help around him.
Quinnen Williams is undoubtedly a star defensive tackle, coming off his third consecutive Pro Bowl appearance. One cannot help but wonder, though, how much more impactful he could be with a better supporting cast.
Since breaking out with 12 sacks in 2022, Williams has recorded 11.5 sacks over the last two seasons combined. His overall impact has not changed much, whether it’s his consistent pressure or his activity against the run. But without a consistent No. 2 threat on the interior, Williams is constantly double-teamed, hurting his ability to rack up sacks.
The Jets were aware of this issue entering the 2025 offseason, but they elected not to address it in a significant way. Instead, they are hoping that a surprising contributor can emerge from a collection of unheralded pickups.
One of the best candidates to emerge from that group? Byron Cowart.
Of the Jets’ non-Williams defensive tackles, Cowart arguably had the most productive season in 2024. Playing a situational role for the Bears (35% of defensive snaps), Cowart recorded 2.5 sacks, five tackles for loss, and 26 total tackles in 15 games.
Amidst an unproven group of competitors, is Cowart the Jets’ best option to start next to Quinnen Williams?
Only the film can answer that question.
Below is Blewett’s Blitz’s full Byron Cowart scouting report (strengths and weaknesses) and film review, which features 27 plays.
Strengths:
Plays with good leverage in run game (mostly)
Anchor for size
Can be explosive off of snap
Lateral explosion
Stacks well (at times)
Has some pop in his hands
Good bull rush (when he has proper technique)
Effort
Some reps showing good snap timing
Powerful club
Strong core
Overall strength for size
Gets hands inside in run game
Weaknesses:
Change of direction
Tackle radius
Lacks pass rush variety
Pads can be high as pass rusher
Stacking moves with consistency
Counters
Inconsistent anchoring vs. combos
Needs more consistent hand usage vs. run
Needs to play with more control
Bull rush can stall because of pad level and hand placement
Lacks consistent rush plan
Needs to be more linear in bull rush
Balance
On ground too often