For the second consecutive year, the Dallas Cowboys missed the playoffs, and it was no surprise. The projection for 2025 was 7 to 8 wins, but even reaching that mark likely wouldn’t have been enough for the postseason. In the end, they finished with just 6 wins, something that felt inevitable after parting ways with Micah Parsons, which further weakened the defense.
The Cowboys had an offense that clearly deserved to make the playoffs. Dak Prescott played well alongside CeeDee Lamb and a productive George Pickens. However, the major issue was the defense, which was a major disappointment-it became the worst in the league in points allowed, making it extremely difficult to compete.
Now, the Cowboys have brought in a new defensive coordinator, Christian Parker, who will be taking on this role for the first time. Slowly but surely, new pieces are being added to try to make this unit competitive and contend in an NFC East where the Philadelphia Eagles are once again favorites, and where the New York Giants appear to be on the rise.
Cowboys to further reinforce defense in the Draft
During the season, the Cowboys allowed 511 points, the most in the entire NFL. On top of that, they were also among the worst pass defenses. That’s why, with the No. 12 pick in the draft, head coach Brian Schottenheimer could lean toward Jermod McCoy, a cornerback from the Tennessee Volunteers.
“Jermod McCoy has the potential to be one of the best players in this draft class and certainly the top cornerback, but he was injured all season,” wrote Josh Edwards of CBS Sports.
As Edwards notes, McCoy’s main issue was his injury. In January 2025, he suffered a torn ACL in his knee, which sidelined him for the entire 2025 season with the Volunteers. Even so, in 2024 he was an All-American and one of the best cornerbacks in the country, which is why he is still expected to be a first-round pick-it’s a risk worth taking.
It’s also worth noting that the Cowboys will pick again at No. 20, a selection acquired in the trade involving Micah Parsons. Edwards projects Makai Lemon, wide receiver from the USC Trojans, and if that happens, the offense could become explosive.
While it may seem like the final decision would belong to Brian Schottenheimer, it will ultimately remain in the hands of Jerry Jones.
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