Difficulty of Cowboys roster cuts signifies they're back to contention
Key Points:
- The Dallas Cowboys' 2026 roster shows significant improvement over 2025, especially on defense, with nine new starters and key acquisitions like Von Miller and Quinnen Williams enhancing the lineup.
- Notable defensive departures include edge rusher Sam Williams, cornerback Trevon Diggs, safety Donovan Wilson, and defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, with the defensive coordinator also replaced after one season.
- The Cowboys addressed offensive concerns by trading for tackle Broderick Jones and retaining a strong wide receiver group, including sixth receiver Camden Brown who also contributes on special teams.
- Special teams received increased focus, with new players added and coach Brian Schottenheimer emphasizing its importance alongside defense to help win games.
- Overall, the Cowboys are viewed as a playoff-contending team in 2026, showing more talent and stability compared to last year, though a title run remains uncertain given competition like the returning Aaron Donald.