With the Cowboys trimmed to 53 players and their practice squad finalized, the roster’s overall depth looks stronger than it has in recent years. Last season’s weaknesses have largely turned into strengths, positioning the team for a legitimate push back into the postseason. Optimism peaks at this time of year as key contributors prepare for the opener. Still, every season brings surprises—breakout performers who exceed expectations and others who fall short. Here are the players primed to emerge
as welcome additions in 2026 and those most likely to regress.
Duds
Jake Ferguson
Ferguson opened the 2025 season on a tear, averaging eight receptions across the first five games. That production faded sharply afterward, and he never regained the same rhythm. Don’t expect a return to those early numbers. The Cowboys’ offense simply has too many high-priority targets for Ferguson to command a consistent share. CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens headline the receiving corps, while Ryan Flournoy is poised for an expanded role. Brevyn Spann-Ford is also earning more snaps as a blocker and could see additional targets in two-tight-end packages. Ferguson is unlikely to approach his career-high reception total from last season. Compounding the issue is limited explosiveness after the catch—he posted his lowest yards-after-catch figure despite a relatively strong average depth of target. Limited opportunity and diminished playmaking after the catch make Ferguson a candidate for disappointment in Dallas.
The right tackle position
Credit the Cowboys for addressing right tackle proactively. Last week they acquired former first-round pick Broderick Jones from the Pittsburgh Steelers, with Coach Schottenheimer stating that Jones will compete directly with Terence Steele. Competition can elevate performance, yet both players have shown significant limitations recently. Steele has struggled in pass protection the past two seasons, particularly against speed rushers. Jones, meanwhile, ranked 80th out of 89 qualifying tackles in run blocking according to PFF. Neither option inspires confidence. The Cowboys will need to manage what looks like a challenging situation at the position. Conor Riley has significant work ahead.
Camden Brown
Put the pitchforks down. As impressive as Camden Brown was in earning a roster spot, a meaningful role in 2026 remains unrealistic. Consider Ryan Flournoy’s solid but modest 35-reception season as the team’s third receiver last year. On game days, Lamb, Pickens, Flournoy, and KaVontae Turpin will occupy the active roster when healthy. Jonathan Mingo also brings greater special-teams value and reliable receiving contributions. Brown would need to prove himself against starting-caliber defenders rather than camp competition fighting for the final roster spots. He remains a worthwhile developmental piece for the future, but he is far from ready for anything approaching a supporting role this season.
Studs
Jaishawn Barham
The Cowboys’ 2026 draft class offers genuine excitement, with Caleb Downs expected to make an immediate impact. Jaishawn Barham, however, is positioned for a strong rookie contribution within Christian Parker’s defense. He will not start right away, and that is fine. When he sees the field, his power and athleticism will strengthen the run defense as he consistently defeats blockers at the line of scrimmage. Barham also displays sharp instincts, frequently finding himself in the right place at the right time. Expect him to carve out a productive rotational role at linebacker and post solid statistical production. The Cowboys will challenge the former Michigan standout, and he is ready to respond.
Tyler Guyton
Bet on Tyler Guyton’s third-year leap. Once informed he would compete for the starting left tackle job, Guyton quickly separated himself from Nathan Thomas and locked down the position early in camp. Thomas was later traded to Houston, leaving Guyton free to develop without looking over his shoulder. Now healthy, his technique has improved steadily throughout the offseason. He held up well against the Los Angeles Rams’ talented front during joint practices. With his draft pedigree and the high standards expected of Cowboys offensive linemen, a strong season could rapidly elevate Guyton’s trajectory and put him in Pro Bowl conversations.
Shavon Revel Jr.
Like Guyton, Shavon Revel enters the year healthier and further removed from his knee injury. His rough rookie season is behind him, and the arrival of defensive coordinator Christian Parker should accelerate his growth. Parker has a strong record of developing cornerbacks, and Revel’s size and athletic profile fit the scheme well. Early signs are encouraging—Revel has already performed solidly in matchups against CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. Although he is not currently listed as a starter, DaRon Bland’s history of inconsistent availability makes it likely Revel will see starting snaps. His continued improvement could shape the secondary’s overall performance this season.
