OXNARD, Calif. — A new NFL season begins this week for the Dallas Cowboys, and training camp could set the tone for a franchise determined to end a two-year playoff drought.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer enters his second season with a roster that looks much different, especially on defense. New defensive coordinator Christian Parker inherits a revamped unit featuring several new starters, making chemistry and execution early in camp a top priority.
Offensively, the spotlight remains on quarterback Dak Prescott, who returns with a veteran group and an offense expected to carry the team. Wide receiver George Pickens adds another dynamic weapon, while the running back rotation and offensive line depth will be closely watched throughout camp.
Several position battles are expected to shape the final 53-man roster, including cornerback, linebacker and key reserve roles in the backfield. Young players such as Shavon Revel Jr. and rookie safety Caleb Downs will have opportunities to earn significant snaps as Dallas evaluates its revamped defense.
With practices beginning in Oxnard, the Cowboys know improvement must come quickly. If the new-look defense develops as expected and the offense performs to its potential, Dallas could re-enter the NFC playoff conversation in 2026.
