Quincy Williams reveals brutal truth after Jets benching: “My coaches told me I was underperforming”

The New York Jets ’ season of chaos took another dramatic turn this week, as linebacker Quincy Williams found himself unexpectedly benched ahead of the team’s Week 10 matchup against the Cleveland Browns. What stunned many wasn’t just the move itself, but how swiftly it followed the Jets ’ trade of Quincy’s brother, star defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, to the Dallas Cowboys. For a franchise sitting at 1-7, the series of roster shake-ups signals a deep restructuring — and Quincy’s demotion has become the latest headline in a turbulent campaign.

When speaking to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, the 28-year-old linebacker didn’t shy away from revealing how he learned the news. “My coaches told me I was underperforming, that I've been underperforming since training camp,” Williams said. The words cut deep, especially for a player once viewed as a cornerstone of the Jets’ defense. He admitted he was “not thrilled” with the decision but “not mad”, showing a level of composure and professionalism as he hopes to fight his way back into the lineup.

Quincy Williams’ bench decision sparks questions for the Jets

Head coach Aaron Glenn ’s decision to bench Quincy Williams reportedly came after evaluating his recent performances. While Williams has recorded 22 tackles and 1.5 sacks in four games this season, his struggles in run defense have been a major concern. The Jets’ defensive unit has been inconsistent, and coaches believe Jamien Sherwood and rookie Kiko Mauigoa could provide more stability at linebacker.

Quincy Williams is asked if he thought he would be traded by the Jets leading up to the deadline:

"I don't know. I came in on Monday and was the 2, so I didn't really understand what was going on. I kinda had those thoughts also, but it was one of those things where I told the… pic.twitter.com/CDYdvKbEVR

— Jets Videos (@snyjets) November 5, 2025

Williams acknowledged the uncertainty that came with the timing, especially as trade rumors swirled around him. “I don't know,” he admitted when asked about a possible trade. “I came in on Monday and was the two, so I didn't really understand what was going on. I kinda had those thoughts also, but it was one of those things where I told the Jets I wanted to be a Jet for the long term.”

Meanwhile, his brother Quinnen Williams’ high-profile trade to the Cowboys for multiple draft picks added emotional weight to the situation. The Jets also dealt cornerback Sauce Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts, collecting a strong package of first-round selections in return.

For Quincy, this benching marks a defining moment in his career. Whether he can regain his starting role remains uncertain, but his determination to stay in New York shows a player unwilling to back down. As the Jets navigate a rebuilding phase, Williams’ response — both on and off the field — may well determine how his future with the team unfolds.

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