Here’s a rewritten version of the content:
Other NFL Team Previews:
- Titans | 31. Saints | 30. Browns | 29. Panthers | 28. Jets | 27. Giants | 26. Raiders | 25. Patriots | 24. Colts | 23. Dolphins | 22. Jaguars | 21. Falcons | 20. Steelers | 19. Cardinals
Jerry Jones was 53 when the Dallas Cowboys won their third Super Bowl under his ownership. Now 82, he remains tied to those three championships, with no new titles added in three decades. The Cowboys’ Super Bowl drought shadows them constantly, as they haven’t reached a conference championship since that last win 30 years ago. Despite Jones labeling the Cowboys as "everything" during the offseason, their failure to secure a championship leads to scrutiny, especially after repeatedly appointing Brian Schottenheimer as head coach without showing a sense of urgency.
The pressure extends beyond Jones, as star quarterback Dak Prescott aims not only for personal legacy but for the glory of the franchise. Prescott expressed his desire to win a championship, emphasizing its importance for both himself and the team’s identity.
The Cowboys showed strong regular-season performances from 2021 to 2023 with 12 wins each year but consistently struggled in the playoffs. Injuries like Prescott’s hamstring put the team behind early, and despite rallying, their overall record wasn’t enough to satisfy fans. The Cowboys lost ground in the NFC East, especially against rivals like the Eagles and Commanders.
After parting ways with coach Mike McCarthy, Jones’ search brought many names into the mix, including the popular but unavailable Deion Sanders. Ultimately, Jones made the controversial decision to promote Brian Schottenheimer, who had never been a head coach before, to lead the franchise’s high-profile and intense environment.
Jones acknowledged the risk, saying, “If you don’t think you can operate from my comfort zone, you’re so wrong.”
The Cowboys’ roster boasts talent, with Prescott a proven quarterback when healthy, and receivers Ceedee Lamb and George Pickens—the latter acquired in a trade with the Steelers—who could become one of the league’s best secondary targets if his attitude aligns. The defense struggled last season but hopes to improve under new coordinator Matt Evals and key defender Mika Parsons.
Despite a talented team that had 12-win seasons recently, genuine championship contention feels distant—partly due to the constant overreactions surrounding the Cowboys. Schottenheimer faces the tough job of managing high expectations for a team that hasn’t made an NFC Final Four appearance in three decades. When asked if the team could win the Super Bowl this year, Schottenheimer confidently replied, “I think so.”
Offseason Moves
The Cowboys’ biggest addition was wide receiver George Pickens, who fills a vital role after being welcomed in Pittsburgh. Dallas traded a 2026 third-round draft pick and swapped another with the Steelers to acquire Pickens, hoping to address a lack of offensive playmakers outside of CeeDee Lamb.
They also secured defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa on a four-year, $80 million deal, keeping a key free-agent. Other notable veteran signings included defensive linemen Solo Mo Thomas, Payton Turner, Dante Fowler Jr., cornerback Kyle Ellam, and linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr. On running backs, they added Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders but lost 1,000-yard rusher Rico Dowdle.
Dallas invested well in the draft with offensive lineman Tyler Booker, defensive end Donovan Ezel Ak, and cornerback Soapy Level Jr. Booker is expected to help replace retired Zach Martin, a Cowboys legend hampered by injuries in recent years. The success of the offseason largely hinges on Pickens’ performance.
Grade: B
Quarterback Outlook
Brian Schottenheimer’s tenure as an offensive coordinator highlights a conservative passing strategy, finishing just inside the NFL’s top half in pass attempts. Though the Cowboys have been in the top 10 passing attempts over the last two seasons, this was under Mike McCarthy’s playcalling.
Jones praised Schottenheimer’s respect for experience but noted instances where he held back dissent. It remains unclear if Schottenheimer will heavily rely on Prescott’s arm or favor the running game.
Schottenheimer emphasizes flexibility and making players work. The Cowboys are strong in passing, but their running back group, featuring Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, and rookie Jaydon Blue, might be among the league’s weakest. Prescott echoed the need to prioritize the run first to open up play-action passing.
BetMGM Odds Breakdown
Oddsmakers remain unenthusiastic about Dallas this season, favoring them to win only 7.5 games—their lowest total since 2003. The Cowboys have never finished below 10 wins from 2024-25 and are 4.5-point favorites to outperform last year.
Yahoo’s Fantasy Take
Dak Prescott’s recent injury history is concerning, having missed 25 games over five years. His performance annually fluctuates, making him a mid-tier fantasy quarterback. Given Pickens’ lower ranking by DVOA last year, target player Jake Ferguson may see ample targets.
Key Statistics
Under former defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, Dallas ranked consistently in the top five for defensive DVOA but fell to 24th last season after his departure. Injuries, especially to Mika Parsons, contributed to the drop. New coordinator Matt Evals, previously successful with the Colts, aims to restore defensive prowess. However, after ranking near the bottom in allowed points and yards last season, substantial improvement is necessary.
Hot Topic
Is the Offensive Line Improved?
The Cowboys’ subpar offensive line last year contributed to Prescott being sacked 21 times in eight games, marking a career-high sack percentage. Internal improvements are expected, especially from rookie guard Tyler Booker replacing the retired Zack Martin. Yet, tackles remain a weak spot, raising concerns about protecting Prescott and enabling effective passing.
Best-Case Scenario
Despite some slow starts and injuries, the Cowboys stayed competitive even in a down 2024 season marked by Prescott’s injury and coaching scrutiny. Jerry Jones’ trust in Schottenheimer, despite fan reservations, could pay off. Dallas remains a formidable NFC East team, even if they can’t surpass the Eagles yet. Fans should remember that the Cowboys have never had a full season with Prescott healthy.
Worst-Case Scenario
The Cowboys face roster challenges due to salary cap constraints and a top-heavy lineup. Failure to resolve defensive and offensive line issues could lead to a disappointing 2024. Meanwhile, rivals Philadelphia and Washington have pulled ahead, widening the competitive gap. Schottenheimer’s leadership may come under fire if the team regresses further.
Prediction
While the Cowboys will aim to bounce back, replicating a 12-win season seems unlikely. Defensive struggles and potential underperformance by key skill players like Pickens loom as risks. The team might secure a wildcard playoff spot but is unlikely to make a deep postseason run. Thus, the Cowboys’ championship drought could extend another year.
Fan Take
This update is essential for NFL fans monitoring one of the league’s most iconic franchises, highlighting the challenge of breaking a 30-year championship drought amidst high expectations and changes. What happens with the Cowboys this season could reshape the NFC East and influence coaching and player strategies league-wide.
