After evaluating a number of free agents, the Dallas Cowboys chose to sign wide receiver Seth Williams and pass rusher Luiji Vilain.
During an October 8, 2024, workout, the Cowboys opted for Williams over other free agents, including former second-round pick Denzel Mims.
“The Cowboys are signing WR Seth Williams and DE Luiji Vilain to the practice squad following a workout Tuesday,” ESPN’s Todd Archer reported on October 8, via X.
“The team also worked out WRs Denzel Mims, Dante Pettis, Chad Cota, QB Max Duggan, and DE Shaka Toney. DE Carl Lawson will be promoted to the 53-man roster from the practice squad.”
Here’s what to know about Williams and Vilain.
Seth Williams Brings Size to the Cowboys at 6-Foot-3
Williams provides the Cowboys with a large wide receiver, standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 211 pounds. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Coming out of Auburn, NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein emphasized Williams’ potential as a red zone threat.
“The lack of urgency and inconsistency as a big pass catcher can be frustrating during film study,” Zierlein noted in his pre-draft evaluation. “Williams transforms in the red zone, where his size and length offer major advantages in jump-ball situations.
However, between the 20s, his route running lacks finesse, he struggles to create separation, and he fails to utilize his size effectively.
“Although he shows flashes of potential, he doesn’t possess the competitive edge typical of NFL-caliber players. His physical traits justify a Day 3 selection, but he needs to display more passion to succeed long-term in the league.”
The signing comes with starting receiver Brandin Cooks currently on Injured Reserve. Unfortunately, Williams has seen limited success in the NFL, while Pettis or Mims were more prominent names due to their higher draft status.
Denver cut Williams in August 2022 as they trimmed the roster to 53 players. He later had brief stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Luiji Vilain Was Praised for His ‘Explosiveness & Upside’ Ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft
Vilain, meanwhile, has played for both the Minnesota Vikings and Carolina Panthers. After going undrafted in 2022, Vilain entered the league from Wake Forest. Here’s how Zierlein described him leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft.
“Vilain might be labeled a ‘project’ or a ‘diamond in the rough,’ but he deserves more attention from teams,” Zierlein wrote in his pre-draft assessment. “He didn’t meet expectations during his time at Michigan and had limited playing time, but his explosiveness and potential were evident on his 2021 tape at Wake Forest.
“He’s not a natural playmaker and struggles with consistency in run defense, but Vilain’s physical attributes, athleticism, and upside as a pass rusher make him worthy of a Day 3 selection.”
