When the Dallas Cowboys' defense takes the field coming out of the team's bye week, they will be completely unrecognizable. And for fans of the team, that is some of the most exciting news of the year.
Not only did the Cowboys add linebacker Logan Wilson and stud defensive lineman Quinnen Williams in deals at the NFL trade deadline, but they are about to get some serious reinforcements from within. The Cowboys welcomed back safeties Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker to the practice field this week, and after already activating linebacker DeMarvion Overshown and cornerback Shavon Revel, it's almost like the good news refuses to stop coming.
The Cowboys last had Wilson on the field on October 19, but Hooker has been sidelined for a lot longer. He hasn't played since the tie against the Packers on September 28.
Cowboys getting major reinforcements for the defense at the absolute perfect time
Malik Hooker, Donovan Wilson were both back at practice — the #Cowboys having lost Juanyeh Thomas for at least four games (IR) with migraines.
— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) November 13, 2025
Hooker’s 21-day window opens now, but front office indicated he has a chance to play vs. Raiders. pic.twitter.com/lySIVktmzh
So, to recap, the players who are going to potentially be making their debut or return to the field for the Cowboys against the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday Night Football are:
- DL Quinnen Williams
- LB Logan Wilson
- LB DeMarvion Overshown
- CB Shavon Revel
- SAF Donovan Wilson
- SAF Malik Hooker
A lot of times, it's easy to blame the week to week in the NFL on the "Xs and Os" when teams have rosters full of guys who get paid to play. But the list above proves that the Cowboys were missing a few too many "Jimmys and Joes" to really be a competitive enough outfit.
And they have struggled worse than most NFL teams. Through the first half of the season, the Cowboys allowed an average of 30.8 points per game, and they rank 31st in the NFL in total yards allowed despite already having the bye week.
Even if it takes some of these players some time to reacclimate after injuries, their respective additions to the defense give the Cowboys a much-needed talent boost on that side of the ball.
Of course, the defense will also be playing with heavy hearts and added motivation after the tragic passing of young pass rusher Marshawn Kneeland. Defensive lineman Solomon Thomas gave an incredible answer when asked about playing with that grief of losing a teammate in such a tragic way:
#Cowboys DE Solomon Thomas was asked how he and his teammates can escape the grief of losing Marshawn Kneeland last week.
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) November 13, 2025
The short answer: they can't, and they shouldn't try.
The long answer is worth your time, too. pic.twitter.com/BP45KyNeCY
The Cowboys already have a lot to play for, and it's going to be borderline surreal to see this unit out there with so many new faces and how they respond to all that's transpired in recent weeks.
With the lineup of players coming back from injuries and coming on board via trade, it really feels like optimism for this Cowboys defensive unit turning things around is as high as it's been all season.