The Dallas Cowboys are facing significant transformations this season. With a revamped coaching team and new players joining the roster, fans can expect a different look this year. This change is necessary given their poor performance last season, which marked their first losing record since 2020.
So, how much change can fans anticipate? Focusing on the starters, what positions might see improvements, declines, or remain unchanged? Today, we’ll assess the offense and project expectations for each starting position.
QB – Dak Prescott
Dak Prescott struggled last season, missing half of it due to a torn hamstring. Even prior to the injury, his performance was subpar, with completion percentages and yards per attempt dropping to their lowest since 2017. His touchdown-to-interception ratio of 1.4 was the worst of his career.
Fortunately, last year’s performance is not indicative of Prescott’s typical play. Throughout his career, he has experienced fluctuating seasons, heavily influenced by the surrounding talent. Last year’s offense was chaotic, marked by a weak running game, insufficient receiving options, and poor offensive strategies from former coach Mike McCarthy.
Fortunately, improvements have been made. The Cowboys have made considerable efforts to enhance Prescott’s situation, focusing on ensuring he stays healthy, as he has faced significant injuries in three of the last five seasons. Maintaining his health could lead to a much stronger season for Dak. If not, it will present a serious concern.
Status: Big Improvement
RB – Javonte Williams
There’s a desire for an improved rushing attack, and while there are reasons to be optimistic, talent-wise, the difference between Javonte Williams and Rico Dowdle may not be significant. Dowdle performed well last season; Williams, now further recovered from a knee injury, could provide similar performance with some potential upside.
Key coaching hires, such as offensive coordinator Klayton Adams and offensive line coach Conor Riley, are expected to greatly improve the rushing game. They are highly regarded for training linemen and developing effective rushing strategies, and changes to the interior offensive line also bode well. Thus, Williams’ play is likely to surpass Dowdle’s from last season.
It’s important to note that running backs rely on teamwork, and rookie Jaydon Blue’s addition should strengthen the Cowboys’ backfield. Given Ezekiel Elliott’s low average contribution last season, improvement should be attainable.
Status: Slight Improvement
WR1 – CeeDee Lamb
CeeDee Lamb is an outstanding player, but even top performers require support. While his production has been significant, the absence of a secondary receiving threat has hindered his potential. Over the last three seasons, Lamb’s performance varied dramatically depending on who played as WR2.
- 80 yards per game (2022) with Noah Brown as WR2
- 103 yards per game (2023) with a healthy Brandin Cooks as WR2
- 80 yards per game (2024) with Jalen Tolbert (Cooks was injured) as WR2
This variance highlights the need for a reliable partner alongside Lamb. With George Pickens joining the team, his presence should positively impact Lamb’s performance this upcoming season.
Status: Slight Improvement
WR2 – George Pickens
This position shows the most promise for improvement. George Pickens’ talent can substantially enhance the receiving corps. The primary question is the extent of his impact: will he replicate his previous 1,100-yard season, hit a floor of 800 yards, or prove to be a disappointment? Given his talent and motivation, especially in a contract year, a favorable outcome is expected.
Status: Big Improvement
WR3 – Jalen Tolbert
The former third-round pick has yet to meet expectations but has improved incrementally each year. Although an even better season is possible, current insights suggest a stable prediction for Tolbert. His past statistics as a WR3 are commendable, and with Pickens added to the roster, Tolbert should comfortably fulfill the WR3 role—whether he or another player, like Jonathan Mingo, takes on that position remains to be seen.
Status: No Change
TE – Jake Ferguson
The Pro Bowl tight end’s production dipped by 35% last season due to various issues, including injuries and suboptimal quarterback play. With better health and the potential of a contract year on his side, Ferguson has the chance for a more productive season.
Status: Slight Improvement
FB – Hunter Luepke
Luepke’s role seems stable but will be evaluated as options are explored. The coaching staff holds him in high regard, and his utilization under the new offensive scheme may change, but we anticipate no current shifts.
Status: No Change
LT – Tyler Guyton
Although some are critical of Guyton’s performance, it’s crucial to recognize that he had the rookie experience typical of many players, affected by injuries. The coaching staff holds high expectations for him moving into year two, especially with improved coaching support.
Status: Slight Improvement
LG – Tyler Smith
News flash: Tyler Smith is exceptionally talented. As he enters his fourth year in the league at just 24 years old, he’s improving. With coaching assistance from Riley, Smith might reach new heights, but expectations remain high.
Status: No Change
C – Cooper Beebe
Beebe is worth watching this season. After transitioning to the center position last year, he performed well despite limited experience. With former college coach Conor Riley guiding him, Beebe may become one of the league’s top centers.
Status: Slight Improvement
RG – Tyler Booker
Although dealing with the challenges of being a rookie, Booker, the top college guard, has considerable potential, which makes him a slight upgrade over last year’s struggling Zack Martin.
Status: Slight Improvement
RT – Terence Steele
Steele has faced scrutiny for his perceived weaknesses, yet his capacity for quality play remains evident. Rebounding from his injury should allow him to reaffirm his worth this season.
Status: Slight Improvement
In summary, the Dallas Cowboys’ offense shows promise for enhanced performance. This optimism is especially welcome after last season’s output, which fell outside the top 20 in points after consistently ranking in the top five for three years. Look for a rejuvenated offense this season.
