Brian Schottenheimer returns for his second year as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, looking to move up the standings in the NFC East. Klayton Adams returns as offensive coordinator. Dak Prescott returns at quarterback, and Javonte Williams returns as the top running back. The Cowboys return their top six pass catchers from last year, including George Pickens, CeeDee Lamb, Ryan Flournoy, and Jake Ferguson. They also return five offensive line starters from last season: Tyler Guyton, Tyler Smith, Cooper Beebe, Tyler Booker, and Terence Steele. Tyler Smith underwent thumb surgery and starts the season on injured reserve, with T.J. Bass taking over at left guard.
The Cowboys will have a new defensive coordinator as Christian Parker comes over from the Philadelphia Eagles. The Cowboys return six of their top eleven tacklers, but just two of their top five. Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams, DeMarvion Overshown, Donovan Ezeiruaku, and Shemar James return in the front seven. Rashan Gary joins the team from the Packers, Dee Winters comes over from the 49ers, and veteran Von Miller adds more experience to the pass rush. Overshown suffered a hamstring strain in Week 1 and missed Week 2. DaRon Bland and Malik Hooker return to the secondary, along with Cobie Durant from the Rams and Jalen Thompson from the Cardinals. Dallas has high hopes for Ohio State rookie Caleb Downs, who is expected to make an immediate impact. Hooker suffered a fractured forearm in Week 1 and underwent surgery, while Durant suffered a hamstring strain in Week 2 and could miss multiple weeks.
Nick Sorensen is back as special teams coordinator. Brandon Aubrey returns after connecting on 86% of his field goals last year, including 36 makes. Bryan Anger is back as punter after averaging 48.6 yards per punt. KaVontae Turpin will be the primary return man, with Caleb Downs providing another option on punts. Malik Davis suffered a serious hip injury before the season and was placed on season-ending injured reserve. The Cowboys’ offense looks ahead of schedule compared to the defense, with many new parts and a new coordinator implementing a new system.