Oh, Dallas Cowboys! America's Team! Always a topic of fervent discussion, isn't it? Whether you bleed silver and blue or love to hate 'em, everyone has an opinion. This year, 2025, promises to be particularly intriguing for the Cowboys, as they've undergone some significant changes. So, let's dive deep and figure out just how good the Dallas Cowboys are this year, and what to expect from them!
How Good Are the Dallas Cowboys This Year? A Comprehensive 2025 Outlook
The Dallas Cowboys are stepping into the 2025 NFL season with a lot of question marks, but also with the potential for a fresh start under new leadership. After a disappointing 7-10 record in 2024, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2020, the team is looking to rebound. This isn't just a tweak; it's a significant retooling, both on the field and in the coaching staff.
Step 1: Get Engaged - What's Your Gut Feeling About the Cowboys This Season?
Before we break down every aspect, take a moment. Close your eyes (figuratively, of course, you're reading this!). What's the first word that comes to mind when you think about the 2025 Dallas Cowboys? Optimistic? Skeptical? Hopeful? Nervous? Hold onto that feeling, and let's see if our detailed analysis confirms or challenges it.
Step 2: Unpacking the Coaching Shake-Up: A New Era?
One of the most significant changes for the 2025 Cowboys is the appointment of Brian Schottenheimer as the new head coach.
Sub-heading: The Schottenheimer Philosophy: Run-First Focus?
Schottenheimer, with his history as an offensive coordinator, is known for his run-focused schemes. This is a stark contrast to recent Cowboys offenses that often leaned heavily on Dak Prescott's passing. The new offensive coordinator, Klayton Adams, and offensive line coach, Conor Riley, also share this emphasis on a diverse run game, utilizing various blocking schemes like inside zone and counter plays.
What does this mean for the Cowboys? It suggests a renewed commitment to establishing the line of scrimmage and taking pressure off Dak Prescott. The question is, can they execute it effectively with their current personnel? The team has made investments in the interior offensive line, a clear sign of this strategic shift.
Sub-heading: Defensive Adjustments Under the New Staff
While the focus has been on the offensive changes, the defensive scheme is also expected to evolve. Reports indicate a "bend-but-don't-break" philosophy that will require an athletic 3-technique defensive tackle and strong linebackers. This new approach emphasizes takeaways and execution, aiming to improve upon a defense that ranked 31st in points allowed in 2024.
Step 3: Roster Rebuild and Key Departures: Who's In, Who's Out?
The offseason has seen a significant reshuffling of the roster, with both notable departures and new additions through free agency and the draft.
Sub-heading: High-Profile Departures: Big Shoes to Fill
The Cowboys said goodbye to some long-standing stalwarts:
Zack Martin (Guard): A pillar of the offensive line for years, his retirement leaves a massive void.
DeMarcus Lawrence (Defensive End): A key pass rusher and leader on defense, his move to Seattle impacts their defensive front.
Other notable departures include: Cooper Rush (QB), Rico Dowdle (RB), Brandin Cooks (WR), and Eric Kendricks (LB). These aren't just names; they represent significant snaps and contributions that need to be replaced.
Sub-heading: Offseason Additions: Filling the Gaps
To counter the departures and address areas of need, the Cowboys were active in free agency and trades:
George Pickens (WR): Acquired via trade, Pickens brings elite playmaking skills and a physical presence to complement CeeDee Lamb.
This should elevate the passing game significantly. Javonte Williams & Miles Sanders (RBs): The running back room was a clear area of concern, and these veteran additions aim to provide a more consistent ground attack.
Dante Fowler Jr. & Solomon Thomas (DEs): These additions are expected to help fill the void left by Lawrence and bolster the defensive line.
Kenneth Murray Jr. & Jack Sanborn (LBs): Reinforcements at linebacker indicate a desire to improve the overall defensive unit.
Kaiir Elam (CB): Added to bolster the secondary, which has seen significant changes.
Step 4: The 2025 NFL Draft Class: Immediate Impact or Long-Term Projects?
The Cowboys made some interesting choices in the 2025 NFL Draft, focusing heavily on the offensive and defensive lines.
Sub-heading: First-Round Focus: Bolstering the Trenches
Tyler Booker (OG, Alabama - 1st Round, 12th Overall): This pick sends a clear message: the Cowboys are committed to dominating the line of scrimmage.
Booker is expected to immediately step into Zack Martin's shoes at right guard. His ability to pass block and open lanes in the run game will be crucial. Donovan Ezeiruaku (DE, Boston College - 2nd Round, 44th Overall): Seen by some as a potential first-rounder, Ezeiruaku falling to 44th was a significant gain.
He's an athletic edge rusher who could be a strong complement to Micah Parsons, helping to replace DeMarcus Lawrence's production.
Sub-heading: Day 2 & 3 Selections: Depth and Potential
The Cowboys also added depth and potential with their later-round picks:
Shavon Revel Jr. (CB, East Carolina - 3rd Round): Despite injury concerns, Revel Jr. brings talent to a secondary that needs long-term solutions.
Jaydon Blue (RB, Texas - 5th Round): With his blazing speed, Blue could be a game-changer in open space and as a receiver.
Shemar James (LB, Florida - 5th Round): A fast and athletic linebacker, James could see early action on special teams and potentially fill in due to injuries.
Ajani Cornelius (OT, Oregon - 6th Round): Provides versatility on the offensive line, with the ability to play both tackle and guard.
Jay Toia (DT, UCLA - 7th Round) & Tommy Akingbesote (DT, Maryland - 7th Round): These late-round defensive tackles are seen as run-stuffers, further reinforcing the commitment to the defensive line.
Phil Mafah (RB, Clemson - 7th Round): Another running back, Mafah's power and contact balance add a different dimension to the backfield.
Step 5: Strength of Schedule: A Gauntlet to Navigate
The 2025 schedule for the Dallas Cowboys is not easy. In fact, it's ranked as one of the toughest in the NFL.
Sub-heading: Divisional Battles and AFC West Challenge
The NFC East remains a highly competitive division, with tough matchups against the Eagles and Giants right out of the gate.
Facing the entire AFC West means squaring off against teams like the Chiefs, Chargers, Broncos, and Raiders – a division known for its strong quarterbacks and potent offenses.
They also play the NFC North (Lions, Packers, Bears, Vikings), which includes some of the league's rising teams.
This challenging schedule means the Cowboys will need to be firing on all cylinders from Week 1 to have a successful season and contend for a playoff spot.
Step 6: Playoff Aspirations and Super Bowl Odds: Realistic or Dream?
As of early July 2025, oddsmakers are viewing the Cowboys as long shots for Super Bowl LX. Their odds for winning the Super Bowl are around +5000, and +600 to win the NFC East.
Sub-heading: The Path to Success: Key Factors
For the Cowboys to succeed and defy these odds, several factors will be absolutely crucial:
Dak Prescott's Health and Performance: His recovery from hamstring surgery and consistent play will be paramount.
Offensive Line Cohesion: Integrating first-round pick Tyler Booker and adapting to the new run-heavy scheme will dictate offensive success.
Defensive Improvement: The defense must improve from their 2024 struggles, particularly in stopping the run and generating consistent pressure. The new defensive coordinator's ability to implement a successful system will be key.
Early Momentum: A tough early schedule means securing divisional victories and building confidence quickly is vital to avoid a sluggish start.
Player Integration: How well the new free agents and draft picks integrate into the team and system will directly impact their overall performance.
Conclusion: A Season of Transition and Potential
The Dallas Cowboys in 2025 appear to be a team in transition. They've made significant moves to address weaknesses and shift their strategic approach, especially on offense. The new coaching staff, coupled with the infusion of talent through the draft and free agency, offers a glimmer of hope for a rebound season. However, the loss of key veterans and a brutal strength of schedule present substantial challenges.
Fans are understandably "jaded" given past disappointments, and for many, a successful season means more than just making the playoffs – it means winning a playoff game. While a Super Bowl run might be a stretch according to current odds, if Prescott stays healthy, the new offensive scheme clicks, and the defense shows marked improvement, the Cowboys could surprise and contend for a wild-card spot. It's a season that promises intrigue, development, and a true test of this new-look Cowboys squad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions about the Dallas Cowboys' 2025 season:
How to Assess the Impact of Brian Schottenheimer as Head Coach?
Brian Schottenheimer's impact will be assessed primarily by the Cowboys' ability to establish a consistent and effective run game, improve offensive efficiency, and reduce turnovers. His success will also be tied to how well he integrates new players and manages the team's overall chemistry.
How to Judge the Cowboys' Running Back Situation This Year?
The Cowboys' running back situation will be judged by the collective performance of newly acquired veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, along with rookies Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah. Success will mean improved rushing yards per game, goal-line efficiency, and taking pressure off Dak Prescott.
How to Expect Dak Prescott to Perform in 2025?
Expectations for Dak Prescott in 2025 are high, especially with new offensive weapons like George Pickens and a renewed focus on the run game. His performance will be measured by his accuracy, decision-making, ability to stay healthy after hamstring surgery, and efficiency in the new offensive scheme.
How to Evaluate the New-Look Offensive Line?
The new-look offensive line, featuring first-round pick Tyler Booker, will be evaluated on its ability to protect Dak Prescott, open running lanes, and reduce penalties. Their cohesion and effectiveness in the new run-heavy scheme will be a critical factor in the team's overall success.
How to Determine if the Cowboys' Defense Has Improved?
The Cowboys' defense will be deemed improved if they significantly lower their points allowed per game (which was 31st in 2024), generate more consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and increase their takeaway numbers. The performance of new additions like Dante Fowler Jr. and Kenneth Murray Jr. will be key.
How to Understand the Dallas Cowboys' Playoff Chances?
The Dallas Cowboys' playoff chances depend heavily on their ability to navigate a tough schedule, stay healthy, and for the new coaching staff and roster additions to gel quickly. Winning divisional games and maintaining consistency throughout the season will be crucial for securing a wild-card spot or contending for the NFC East title.
How to Predict the Impact of George Pickens on the Offense?
George Pickens is expected to have a significant impact on the offense by providing another elite receiving threat alongside CeeDee Lamb.
How to Follow the Dallas Cowboys' Training Camp Battles?
To follow the Cowboys' training camp battles, pay close attention to reports on the running back rotation, how the new offensive linemen are gelling, and which defensive players are stepping up to fill the voids left by departed veterans. Competition for starting spots at various positions will be fierce.
How to View the Dallas Cowboys' Strength of Schedule?
The Dallas Cowboys' strength of schedule is viewed as one of the toughest in the NFL for 2025. This means they will face many strong opponents, requiring them to perform at a high level consistently. It will be a true test of their revamped roster and coaching staff.
How to Define a "Successful" Season for the Cowboys in 2025?
For many fans, a "successful" season for the Dallas Cowboys in 2025 would involve making the playoffs and, ideally, winning a playoff game. Given the significant changes and a challenging schedule, consistent improvement and demonstrating clear progress under the new leadership would also be considered a success.
