Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Cowboys' Pro Bowl voting leaders include unexpected rising player

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Tyler Browning | Last updated Dec 7, 2023 1:09 PM ET

When you think of the current Dallas Cowboys and Pro Bowl caliber players only a select few come to mind.

Mainly the likes of Tyron Smith (of old), Zack Martin, Micah Parsons, CeeDee Lamb, Trevon Diggs, and even Dak Prescott has been selected to a few.

This year, as the Cowboys advance with a 9-3 record, there are bound to be new names.

Cornerback DaRon Bland would be an all-time snub if he were to not be selected following his year with five pick sixes (and counting?), even despite a rough night against the Seattle Seahawks last week.

But there is one name that is currently second in voting that might cause quite a surprise amongst Cowboys nation.

Cowboys defensive end/ linebacker Sam Williams is second in the category labeled "Special Teams Player," behind Terrell Burgess from the Washington Commanders.

Fans might have noticed Williams has been getting more and more responsibility on special teams lately.

No need to adjust your monitor. That is Cowboys DE Sam Williams, listed at 6-4 and 262 pounds, working at gunner in punt coverage. He reached max speeds of 19.27 and 19.74 mph on a tackle and forced fair catch, respectively, per Next Gen Stats. Also blocked a punt for safety. pic.twitter.com/LKSj25Rl8L
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) October 30, 2023

He has been doing so well in his role on special teams, he was even named captain one of the weeks. The Cowboys rotate their captains on a weekly basis, with one for offense, defense, and special teams.

Williams has made his impact on special teams, getting reps as a gunner and even having a punt block on the year. He's third on special teams snaps this season as John Fassel has trusted him with many assignments.

Sam Williams with an amazing punt block!

(via @NFL) pic.twitter.com/aRznyXLFVp
— RJ Ochoa (@rjochoa) October 29, 2023

With the stable the Cowboys have on the defensive line, it was always going to be hard for Sam Williams to have a meaningful impact. It's nice to see him embrace having an impact in other areas of the game. Special teams play a crucial part in games, as silly as it may seem. And Williams is providing crucial reps for the Cowboys on that unit.