At Cowboys camp (July 2025), new DT Milton Williams shines in drills while owner Jerry Jones's comments stir controversy. Get the latest on the action in Oxnard.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Just another quiet Wednesday in Cowboys camp? Not a chance. While newly-acquired defensive tackle Milton Williams put on a one-man wrecking crew performance on the practice field, the familiar sound of owner Jerry Jones's voice sent ripples through the media landscape, proving once again that in Dallas, the action is never confined to the gridiron.
Even recently retired superstar J.J. Watt weighed in on social media, questioning the timing of Jones's remarks on player availability at the very start of training camp.
The buzz of the day belonged to defensive tackle Milton Williams. Acquired in the offseason to bolster the defensive interior, Williams was reportedly a nightmare for the Cowboys' offensive line during team drills. Coaches lauded his disruptive presence and quick penetration, a welcome sight for a team with lingering questions about its run defense. His performance seemed to energize other veterans, as the coaching staff put a heavy emphasis on evaluating depth and fostering intense competition along the defensive front and in the secondary.
Meanwhile, the 'Hangin' with the Boys' podcast dissected owner Jerry Jones's latest comments regarding player injuries and availability. The panel debated whether the remarks were a motivational tactic or thinly veiled criticism, a classic Cowboys training camp storyline. The conversation gained national traction when J.J. Watt posted on social media, adding his perspective on the unique pressures of playing under an owner who is never shy with the media. It's a reminder that in Dallas, every word from the owner's box is analyzed as much as any play on the field.
While Williams was a bright spot, the 'Cowboys StoryLine' podcast highlighted that key concerns remain. The cornerback group is still operating without Trevon Diggs, putting the spotlight on the depth chart's unproven commodities. More concerning, however, were discussions around former first-round pick Mazi Smith. Hosts noted his continued struggles with weight management and finding a consistent role, a worrying trend for a player the team needs to rely on. The contrast between his camp and Williams's is becoming a major storyline.
Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer took to the podium to confirm the high level of competition across the board. He specifically mentioned heated battles for backup roles along the offensive line and at wide receiver, praising the energy and effort from the entire squad. Schottenheimer's comments paint a picture of a team focused on building quality depth, knowing that every roster spot is being earned, not given, in the Oxnard heat.
While talk is cheap in July, the early returns on Milton Williams are undeniably exciting. However, the real test begins when the pads come on next week. Will Williams' dominance translate to full-contact drills? Can Mazi Smith answer the bell? And will the offense find its rhythm amid fierce competition for backup roles? One thing is certain: between the on-field battles and the off-field chatter, this Cowboys training camp is already shaping up to be a must-watch.
