The Dallas Cowboys convening for their minicamp is another milestone on the journey back to NFL football. With every new season comes renewed hope across the league. That usually comes from the changes made either to the coaching staff or to the roster. For Dallas, it is a little of both.
The coaching staff part is represented by the overhaul of the defensive coaches with Christian Parker now leading the way. The roster side is represented by Caleb Downs and a solid draft, mixed with some competent
moves in free agency and through trades.
Much of the change came to the defense which is logical given their atrocious 2025 performance. But with all that change comes uncertainty – is it really fixed? Are we just deluding ourselves? We all still have some anxiety. So today we’ll focus that anxiety on a position group.
Below is a survey of four position groups that might have some fans worried. Three of them are on defense since that’s been the problem, but there is a problem on offense that could be a big issue. I’ll make the case for each group as the one tht should worry us the most, and then you can vote.
Edge rusher
The Cowboys are changing scheme to a 3-4 which brings its own uncertainty about players adapting, but they also lack proven sack guys. The leading sack guy returning from last year is James Houston at 5.5. The Cowboys are counting on a lot of ‘best years’ from players like Rashan Gary, Donovan Ezeriuaku or reserves like Sam Williams or rookie Malachi Lawrence. If you can’t pressure the passer consistently, it is hard to win in the NFL.
Linebacker
Specifically, inside linebackers. DeMarvion Overshown feels like he could be a star, but injuries have left us teased, not fulfilled. It almost feels like the success of this group depends on his knees. Dee Winters is a good pickup, but is he starter material? He did it last year in San Francisco, but was that a flash in the pan or the start of a solid career? The backups also feel thin with rookie Jaishawn Barham a hopeful addition. Teams ran on Dallas last year, the linebackers were a huge part of that problem.
Cornerback
Remember when DaRon Bland and Trevon Diggs made it feel like Dallas had cornerback covered? Injuries have decimated this position. Diggs is gone, Bland is having foot issues again, and backups like Caelen Carson and Josh Butler have fought injuries. And Shavon Revel Jr. has to show he is past the ACL. Cornerback is a very hard position to play and a major key to winning football.
Offensive tackle
Our lone offensive position is a very important one. Tyler Guyton and Terence Steele are the guys, and they have a lot to prove this year. Guyton needs to show he’s not a first-round bust after injuries and inconsistency have produced some sub-standard seasons. Steele needs to prove his time is not over as his play has been descending for a few years now. If the Cowboys can’t protect Dak Prescott, then forget about it.
So which one is it BTB? Vote then hit the comments. And if you think there is a group I didn’t mention here, let us know.
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Cowboys fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
