Is Sam Williams replacing Micah Parsons in the opener vs. Eagles? Latest update on the Cowboys defense

Cowboys fans have been waiting all offseason to see how Dallas plans to replace Micah Parsons, and on Thursday night in Philadelphia, they’ll finally get their answer. According to the team’s most recent depth chart, defensive end Sam Williams will take over as a starter, lining up opposite Dante Fowler Jr.

in the Cowboys’ primetime opener against the Eagles.

Cowboys confirm Sam Williams as a starter in place of Micah Parsons

Coaches didn’t overcomplicate it, Williams is listed as a first-team defensive end, a major vote of confidence after the third-year pass rusher worked his way back from a serious knee injury last season. He’s flashed bursts of speed and strength in limited action before, but this will be his first true test as a cornerstone of the Dallas defense.

Williams tore his ACL and MCL during training camp in 2024, cutting short what was supposed to be his breakout season. Now healthy, he’s being thrown straight into the fire against Jalen Hurts and the reigning Super Bowl champion Eagles. Dallas believes he can help fill the massive void left by Parsons, bringing consistent edge pressure and keeping Hurts from controlling the game with his legs.

Sam Williams’ comeback sets the stage for Week 1 showdown

The Cowboys aren’t expecting Williams to be Parsons overnight, but his role is clear, set the edge, disrupt Hurts, and prove he can anchor this defensive line long-term. With Philadelphia boasting one of the NFL’s best offensive fronts, Williams’ debut as a starter could define how competitive Dallas looks right out of the gate.

For Cowboys fans, it’s not just about one player replacing a superstar, it’s about whether this defense can keep pace in a division race that might start being decided on opening night.

Sam Williams doesn’t just have big shoes to fill, he’s got an entire fan base watching to see if he can rise to the moment.

The Week 1 clash between the Cowboys and Eagles is set for Thursday, September 4, at 8:20 p.m. ET, live from Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. It’s the NFL’s season opener, meaning the spotlight will be brighter than ever as the reigning Super Bowl champion Eagles raise their banner against their biggest division rivals. With Jalen Hurts leading a stacked offense and Dak Prescott trying to prove Dallas can still compete at the top of the NFC East, this game isn’t just about bragging rights, it could set the tone for the entire season.Also read - Justin Jefferson and Suni Lee spotted together at Minnesota State Fair, fans light up social media