Why a Former NFL Edge Rusher Believes the Dallas Cowboys Are Legitimate 2026 Contenders
The Dallas Cowboys enter the new NFL season determined to end a three-decade Super Bowl drought. With a revamped defense, a star-studded offense and renewed confidence in Dak Prescott, Dallas is viewed as a legitimate NFC championship contender.
After finishing 7-9-1 and missing the playoffs last season, the Cowboys begin the year healthy and with one of the deepest rosters in the conference. Expectations are especially high for Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, Javonte Williams, Jake Ferguson, Quinnen Williams, Demarvion Overshown and Kenny Clark.
Cowboys build around Dak Prescott and a deep roster
The Cowboys have also focused on team chemistry, with the coaching staff taking Dak Prescott and the other quarterbacks Greek dancing in an unusual team-bonding move.
CBS analyst Leger Douzable believes Dallas has the personnel needed to win the Vince Lombardi Trophy for the first time since the 1995 season, with the offense serving as the team’s biggest strength.
“The Dallas Cowboys, I know every year people say, ‘This is our year!’ This legitimately could be the year,”
Douzable said.
“The offense is gonna be there. They literally retained everybody who was on offense, which is unheard of. They were able to do that.”
New additions aim to strengthen Cowboys defense
Dallas’ defense was the team’s biggest weakness last season. However, the additions of Rashan Gary, Caleb Downs and Malachi Lawrence, along with the return of Quinnen Williams, could significantly improve the unit.
“I really like what they have done. They refortified and revamped that defense, and just like the (Cincinnati) Bengals, we don’t need you to be in the top five (on defense). We need you to be in the middle of the pack because your offense is explosive,”
added Douzable, who played 10 seasons in the NFL.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer has also expressed confidence in the Cowboys’ overall depth and talent. After missing the playoffs in each of the last two seasons, Dallas knows there is little room for another disappointing campaign.
The pressure is immense, and expectations from a fan base that has waited 30 years to celebrate another championship have never been higher.
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