"It’s probably a little late in the game":Jerry Jones sounds off on Cowboys’ playoff hopes despite 33-16 win vs. Raiders

Jerry Jones isn’t ready to sell the idea of a late-season surge, even after the Cowboys rolled past the Raiders 33-16 on Monday in Las Vegas.

The team had an uneven first half of the season. It has not won consecutive games since early October, and postseason math has grown increasingly unfriendly.

Jones stressed after the matchup that Dallas faces a steep climb.

"It's probably a little late in the game," Jones said, via The Athletic. "But if not this season, our future is looking brighter."

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Despite Monday’s win, Dallas (4-5) is 10th in the NFC, still searching for its first victory over a winning team this year. The upcoming schedule offers little cushioning, featuring matchups with Philadelphia, Kansas City and Detroit.

Quinnen Williams’ arrival represents a shift in Jerry Jones team-building strategy

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Jerry Jones steered discussion toward long-term construction. He highlighted the acquisition of defensive tackle Quinnen Williams at the trade deadline as a step toward what Dallas intends to become.

Williams played his first snaps with the Cowboys on Monday and made an impact. His interior presence consistently forced the Raiders offense off schedule.

Jones praised the timing of the move, calling it essential for the franchise’s direction moving forward. He has maintained that the roster change, including trading Micah Parsons to Green Bay, was made with a broader defensive overhaul in mind.

"The timing of bringing in a player like that is right for us," Jones said on Monday, via The Athletic. "I do care if we get a shot at the playoffs (this season), but the main thing is we all need to be feeling good for the future. Our fans needed this."

Williams’ performance was supported by reinforcements returning from injury across the defensive unit. Safeties Malik Hooker and Donovan Wilson rejoined the lineup and newly acquired linebacker Logan Wilson debuted for the team. Rookie corner Shavon Revel Jr. also appeared in his first NFL game after a lengthy recovery. Linebacker DeMarvion Overshown suited up for the first time since suffering a knee injury in December.

Dak Prescott delivered 268 passing yards and four touchdown throws, while George Pickens erupted for 144 receiving yards. Javonte Williams powered the ground game with 93 rushing yards.