The Dallas Cowboys are poised for a potential breakout in the 2025-26 NFL season. After a challenging 7-10 campaign in 2024, the team has made significant changes to its roster, coaching staff, and overall approach. Here are the top 10 reasons why the Cowboys have a legitimate shot at reaching Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, on February 8, 2026.
1. Dak Prescott’s Health and Leadership
Dak Prescott’s return to full health is a game-changer for Dallas. After a season-ending hamstring injury sidelined him for nine games in 2024, Prescott is back and ready to lead. His career stats—averaging 30 touchdown passes and over 4,000 yards per 17-game season—demonstrate his ability to elevate the offense. With a 62% win rate over 122 starts, Prescott’s experience and leadership could drive the Cowboys to 11 wins in 2025, a mark often sufficient for a playoff berth.
2. Revamped Coaching Staff
The Cowboys’ new head coach, Brian Schottenheimer, brings fresh energy and discipline. Supported by defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, offensive coordinator Klayton Adams, and special teams coordinator Nick Sorensen, the staff emphasizes accountability and competitive drills to rebuild team chemistry. Eberflus, a former Bears head coach, aims to restore Dallas’ ball-hawking defense, while Adams’ focus on the run game and play-action could unlock new offensive dimensions.
3. Elite Offensive Weapons
The addition of George Pickens via trade, paired with All-Pro wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, gives Dallas one of the NFL’s most dynamic receiving duos. Lamb, coming off a 2024 season with 101 receptions for 1,194 yards, remains a Pro Bowl lock, while Pickens adds a deep-threat dimension. Jalen Tolbert (Or even Traeshon Holden), as a WR3, and tight end Jake Ferguson further bolster an offense that can stretch defenses in multiple ways.
4. Strengthened Offensive Line
Despite the retirement of legendary guard Zack Martin, the Cowboys’ offensive line is poised to shine. First-round draft pick Tyler Booker, an All-American, steps in as an immediate upgrade, providing protection for Prescott and opening lanes for the run game. The unit’s continuity, youth, and toughness could make it one of the NFL’s best, reminiscent of the Travis Frederick era.
5. Micah Parsons’ Defensive Dominance
Micah Parsons, a perennial All-Pro and Defensive Player of the Year candidate, anchors a formidable defense. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses with speed and power makes Dallas’ front seven one of the league’s best. Paired with a deep defensive line led by Osa Odighizuwa, the Cowboys are built to pressure quarterbacks and stop the run, critical for playoff success.
6. Ball-Hawking Secondary
The return of Trevon Diggs from injury, alongside 2023 First-Team All-Pro DaRon Bland, gives Dallas a secondary capable of game-changing turnovers. Under Eberflus’ guidance, the Cowboys aim to increase takeaways with disguised coverages, addressing their 2024 defensive struggles where they allowed 27.5 points per game (31st in the NFL). A return to their ball-hawking ways could tilt close games in their favor.
7. Elite Special Teams Unit
Dallas boasts the NFL’s best special teams trio: kicker Brandon Aubrey, a 2023 Pro Bowler with record-setting accuracy; punter Bryan Anger, a two-time Pro Bowler with elite placement; and returner KaVontae Turpin, an electrifying playmaker. This unit’s ability to flip field position or score on returns provides a significant edge in tight playoff matchups.
8. Favorable NFC Landscape
The NFC is winnable, with the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders potentially facing slumps after deep 2024 playoff runs. Historically, teams coming off conference championship appearances can falter the following season, opening the door for Dallas to capitalize on dropped games in the NFC East and beyond.
9. Aggressive Roster Management
The Cowboys have shifted from their “draft and develop” philosophy to a more aggressive approach, blending savvy veteran additions with homegrown talent. Trades like George Pickens and potential mid-season signings, combined with young stars like Jaydon Blue, show Dallas’ commitment to filling roster gaps. This flexibility could address depth concerns that plagued them in 2024.
10. Soft Mid-Season Schedule
While Dallas faces a tough slate with eight 2024 playoff teams, including the Eagles, Chiefs, and Lions, their mid-season stretch is relatively soft. Avoiding the NFC’s top-tier teams like the 49ers in key weeks could allow the Cowboys to build momentum and secure crucial wins, positioning them for a wildcard spot or even the NFC East crown.
Conclusion
The 2025-26 Dallas Cowboys are a team in transition but far from a rebuild. With a healthy Dak Prescott, a revamped coaching staff, elite playmakers on both sides of the ball, and the best special teams in the NFL, they have the tools to compete in a wide-open NFC. If they capitalize on their talent, navigate their challenging schedule, and maintain health, the Cowboys could finally break their 30-year Super Bowl drought and hoist the Lombardi Trophy in February of 2026.
