2025 NFL Season Preview: Dallas Cowboys
Football

2025 NFL Season Preview: Dallas Cowboys

July 9, 2025
Devon Gallant

Welcome to our 2025 NFL Team Preview Series, where we’ll dive deep into all 32 franchises ahead of the upcoming season. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a fantasy football manager, or just looking to get up to speed before kickoff, this series breaks down everything you need to know about each team’s trajectory.

For every team, we’ll cover:

  • Coaching Staff & Philosophy – Who’s leading the charge, and what kind of system are they running?
  • Offseason Recap – Key free-agent moves, trades, and draft picks that reshaped the roster.
  • Schedule Breakdown – Matchups to watch, tough stretches, and projected win-loss record.

From Super Bowl contenders to rebuilding rosters, we’ll assess where each team stands and what lies ahead in 2025.

Dallas Cowboys

Coaching Staff: A Complete Overhaul Signals New Direction

The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2025 season with a dramatically retooled coaching staff, signaling a decisive shift in philosophy after another frustrating end to their season. The organization has made bold moves to redefine its identity, focusing on a more disciplined, physical, and run-first approach under new leadership.

Brian Schottenheimer has been promoted to Head Coach, stepping into the top role after serving as the offensive coordinator. Schottenheimer is expected to implement a more ground-and-pound, complementary offensive philosophy that aligns with the team’s re-emphasis on physicality.

The most significant changes are on the defensive side and special teams. Former Bears head coach Matt Eberflus takes over as the new Defensive Coordinator, bringing his renowned “HITS” principle (Hustle, Intensity, Takeaways, Smarts) to a talented Cowboys defence. Eberflus was let go as the head coach for the Chicago Bears after an underwhelming tenure there, but has proven himself to be a talented defensive coach and might be better suited in the coordinator role. Nick Sorensen is the new Special Teams Coordinator, completing a major overhaul designed to instill a new culture of accountability across all three phases of the game.

These widespread changes across the coaching staff suggest a concerted effort to reset the team’s identity and maximize the talent on the roster under a new strategic vision.

2025 Offseason Recap: Rebuilding Trenches Amidst Key Departures

The Cowboys’ 2025 offseason was characterized by key re-signings, impactful external additions, and some significant, high-profile departures, particularly along the offensive line and the running back room.

Key Extensions:

  • Osa Odighizuwa (DT): Signed a four-year, $80 million deal, solidifying a cornerstone of their defensive front for the long term.
  • KaVontae Turpin (WR/Returner): Re-signed on a three-year extension, retaining his explosive return abilities and depth at receiver.
  • Other re-signings included punter Bryan Anger, long snapper Trent Sieg, and defensive backs C.J. Goodwin, Markquese Bell, and Juanyeh Thomas, as well as defensive end Tyrus Wheat and guard Brock Hoffman.

Key Free-Agent Signings & Trades:

  • George Pickens (WR): Acquired in a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pickens immediately provides a dynamic, contested-catch threat and a strong complement to CeeDee Lamb.
  • Kenneth Murray Jr. (LB): Traded from the Tennessee Titans, bringing an athletic, versatile presence to the second level of the defence.
  • Kaiir Elam (CB): Acquired via trade from the Buffalo Bills, adding valuable depth and potential to the cornerback room.
  • Joe Milton III (QB): Traded from the New England Patriots, joining as a developmental quarterback prospect with immense arm talent and a high ceiling.
  • The Cowboys significantly revamped their running back corps with veteran additions Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, both seeking bounce-back seasons in Dallas’s new run-focused scheme.
  • Other notable signings include offensive linemen Robert Jones, Hakeem Adeniji, and Saahdiq Charles, defensive tackle Solomon Thomas, linebacker Jack Sanborn, edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr., and wide receiver Parris Campbell.

Notable Departures:

  • Zack Martin (OG): The future Hall of Famer shocked the league by announcing his retirement, creating a massive void on the offensive line and a leadership loss.
  • Tyron Smith (OT): Also retired, marking the end of an era for Dallas’ dominant left tackle. The simultaneous loss of both Martin and Smith demands a complete overhaul of the interior offensive line.
  • DeMarcus Lawrence (DE): Signed with the Seattle Seahawks, a significant departure from the defensive line’s pass-rush and run-stopping capabilities.
  • Brandin Cooks (WR): Joined the New Orleans Saints, leaving a veteran receiving role open.
  • Trey Lance (QB): Traded to the Los Angeles Chargers, consolidating the quarterback room.
  • Cooper Rush (QB): Signed with the Baltimore Ravens, officially ending his tenure as Dak Prescott’s primary backup.
  • Other departures include Jourdan Lewis (CB) to the Jaguars, Rico Dowdle (RB) to the Panthers, Chauncey Golston (DE) to the Giants, Chuma Edoga (OL) to the Jaguars, Carlos Watkins (DT) to the Titans, and Amani Oruwariye (CB) to the Titans.

2025 NFL Draft Class: Rebuilding the Foundation

The Dallas Cowboys’ 2025 NFL Draft strategy focused heavily on rebuilding the offensive line following several retirements, while also injecting talent across the defensive line, secondary, and a revamped running back room.

  • Round 1, Pick 12: Tyler Booker, IOL, Alabama Addressing the critical loss of Zack Martin, Booker brings immediate plug-and-play talent, power, and an “alpha” mentality to the interior offensive line. He’s expected to step into a starting role from Day 1.
  • Round 2, Pick 44: Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College An athletic and disruptive edge rusher, Ezeiruaku can help fill the void left by DeMarcus Lawrence and provide a rotational pass-rushing threat early in his career.
  • Round 3, Pick 76: Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina A talented cornerback with good instincts, size, and ball skills, adding competition to the secondary.
  • Round 5, Pick 149: Jaydon Blue, RB, Texas Adding to the revamped running back room, Blue offers speed and potential as a versatile playmaker in both the run and pass game.
  • Round 5, Pick 152 (from ARI): Shemar James, LB, Florida An athletic and rangy linebacker to bolster the corps, expected to contribute significantly on defence and special teams.
  • Round 6, Pick 204 (from Bills): Ajani Cornelius, OT, Oregon Another offensive line investment, providing crucial depth and developmental potential at tackle as the team rebuilds its front.
  • Round 7, Pick 217 (from Patriots): Jay Toia, DT, UCLA A sturdy, run-stuffing defensive tackle to add to the interior rotation and provide depth.
  • Round 7, Pick 239 (from Titans): Phil Mafah, RB, Clemson Further emphasizing the run game and physicality, Mafah is a powerful, downhill back who adds to the competition for carries.
  • Round 7, Pick 247 (from Panthers): Tommy Akingbesote, DT, Maryland Another late-round defensive line prospect, offering raw potential in the new defensive scheme.

The draft class reflects the new coaching staff’s desire for a more physical, run-oriented identity, particularly with significant investments along the offensive and defensive lines.

Key Draft Storyline: Rebuilding the Offensive Line and Injecting Physicality

The dominant storyline of the Dallas Cowboys’ 2025 NFL Draft was the immediate and urgent need to rebuild their offensive line following the retirements of future Hall of Famers Zack Martin and Tyron Smith. These departures left colossal voids at both guard and left tackle, positions that have been strengths for the Cowboys for over a decade.

General Manager Stephen Jones and Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer wasted no time addressing these losses, making Tyler Booker, an interior offensive lineman from Alabama, their top selection at No. 12 overall. Booker isn’t just a replacement; he’s a statement pick. Known for his power, physicality, and “alpha” mentality, Booker embodies the tough, ground-and-pound identity Schottenheimer aims to instill. His ability to step in immediately and provide stability on the interior offensive line will be paramount to the success of the new offensive scheme.

Beyond Booker, the Cowboys continued to invest in the trenches, later drafting Ajani Cornelius, an offensive tackle from Oregon, in the sixth round. While a later pick, Cornelius provides much-needed depth and a developmental prospect at a position suddenly devoid of its long-time anchor. The challenge for the new offensive line coach, Conor Riley, will be to rapidly integrate these new talents and find cohesion after losing two of the league’s best at their respective positions.

The draft wasn’t solely about the offensive line, however. It also underscored a broader commitment to injecting physicality and competition throughout the roster. The team doubled down on running backs, drafting Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, signalling a clear intention to establish a dominant run game to complement their new offensive philosophy. On defence, early picks like edge rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku and cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. provided immediate infusions of athleticism and playmaking ability, fitting well with new Defensive Coordinator Matt Eberflus’s aggressive scheme.

Ultimately, the Cowboys’ 2025 draft was a direct response to unprecedented roster challenges. By prioritizing immediate needs on the offensive line and doubling down on a more physical, run-first identity, Dallas attempted to quickly pivot into its new era. The success of this draft will largely determine how quickly the Cowboys can regain their footing in the NFC East and contend for a playoff spot.

Offseason Summary: A New Era Forged Through Turnover

The Dallas Cowboys’ 2025 offseason has been nothing short of transformative, ushering in a new era defined by a complete coaching staff overhaul and significant roster turnover. The promotion of Brian Schottenheimer to Head Coach and the hiring of Matt Eberflus as Defensive Coordinator signals a philosophical shift towards a more disciplined, physical, and run-oriented approach, addressing perceived shortcomings from previous seasons.

The most glaring challenge emerged from the retirements of offensive line stalwarts Zack Martin and Tyron Smith. This necessitated an immediate rebuild upfront, addressed with the first-round selection of Tyler Booker and veteran free-agent signings like Hakeem Adeniji. On the skill positions, the trade for George Pickens promises to add a dynamic receiving threat, while the veteran additions of Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, alongside rookie draft picks, completely revamped the running back room, aligning with Schottenheimer’s desired offensive identity.

Defensively, despite losing DeMarcus Lawrence, the unit is expected to remain formidable under Eberflus, bolstered by the extension of Osa Odighizuwa and the acquisition of athletic linebackers like Kenneth Murray Jr. and Jack Sanborn. At quarterback, Dak Prescott remains the clear starter, with Joe Milton III and Will Grier providing experienced and high-upside developmental backups. The strategic moves reflect a clear intention to move past previous disappointments and establish a new, more physical brand of Cowboys football.

While the sheer volume of changes presents integration challenges, the offseason demonstrates a commitment to a new vision. The success of the 2025 Cowboys will hinge on how quickly the new coaching staff can implement their schemes and how effectively the revamped offensive line and running back corps can provide consistency for Prescott and the offence.

2025 Schedule Breakdown & Win-Loss Prediction

The Dallas Cowboys face a demanding 2025 schedule, including a Thanksgiving Day classic and multiple primetime games, that will test their new identity.

  • Weeks 1–4: Divisional Gauntlet & NFC North Tests
    • Week 1: at Philadelphia Eagles (TNF)
    • Week 2: vs. New York Giants
    • Week 3: at Chicago Bears
    • Week 4: vs. Green Bay Packers (SNF)

Outlook: A brutal start with a road divisional opener, followed by a home divisional game and two tough NFC North opponents. The Eagles and Packers games will be immediate litmus tests for the new regime.

Prediction: 2-2

  • Weeks 5–9: Road Trips & Primetime Showdowns
    • Week 5: at New York Jets 
    • Week 6: at Carolina Panthers
    • Week 7: vs. Washington Commanders
    • Week 8: at Denver Broncos
    • Week 9: vs. Arizona Cardinals (MNF)

Outlook: A mix of challenging road trips against potentially improved teams and a winnable home divisional game. The Cardinals game provides a primetime opportunity to showcase their new identity.

Prediction: 3-2 (Overall: 5-4)

  • Weeks 10–13: Post-Bye Gauntlet
    • Week 10: BYE
    • Week 11: at Las Vegas Raiders (MNF)
    • Week 12: vs. Philadelphia Eagles 
    • Week 13: vs. Kansas City Chiefs (Thanksgiving Day)

Outlook: A well-timed bye week leads into a tough stretch, including a cross-country trip, a critical home divisional rematch against the Eagles, and the perennial Thanksgiving Day challenge against the reigning Super Bowl Champions.

Prediction: 1-2 (Overall: 6-6)

  • Weeks 14–18: Late Season Push
    • Week 14: at Detroit Lions (TNF)
    • Week 15: vs. Minnesota Vikings (SNF)
    • Week 16: vs. Los Angeles Chargers 
    • Week 17: at Washington Commanders (TNF)
    • Week 18: at New York Giants

Outlook: A difficult road game in Detroit on a short week, followed by a primetime home game. Finishing with two divisional road games, including a Christmas Day showdown, will test their playoff mettle.

Prediction: 2-3

Final Record Prediction: 8-9

The 2025 Dallas Cowboys are a team in significant transition. The complete coaching staff overhaul and the dramatic changes on the offensive line create some significant challenges. While the defence, led by Micah Parsons under the aggressive scheme of Matt Eberflus, should remain elite, the success of the offence will hinge on Dak Prescott’s ability to adapt to a new scheme, and how quickly the revamped offensive line and running back room can establish consistency. The schedule is formidable, particularly early and late in the season. A 9-8 record would indicate progress in establishing their new identity, but the path to an NFC East title and a deep playoff run remains arduous and will require consistent offensive execution.

Final Take: A Bold Reimagining with High Stakes

The 2025 Dallas Cowboys are undergoing a fundamental transformation, marking a departure from past iterations. The complete overhaul of the coaching staff, led by new Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer and Defensive Coordinator Matt Eberflus, signals an intent to forge a more disciplined, physical, and run-first identity. This strategic shift is underscored by significant roster changes, most notably the retirements of offensive line cornerstones Zack Martin and Tyron Smith.

The immediate challenge for Dallas will be the integration of new personnel on the offensive line, spearheaded by first-round pick Tyler Booker, and the ability of Dak Prescott to thrive within Schottenheimer’s re-imagined offensive scheme. The additions of George Pickens and a completely revamped running back room suggest a commitment to balance and physicality. Defensively, led by Micah Parsons, the unit is poised to remain among the league’s elite under Eberflus’s aggressive guidance.

This season is a high-stakes gamble for the Cowboys. Their success hinges on the new leadership establishing a cohesive culture, the rebuilt trenches gelling quickly, and Prescott maintaining his high level of play within a new system. While the NFC East is always competitive, the Cowboys’ bold offseason indicates they aren’t willing to settle for mediocrity. This is a crucial year for Dallas, as they look to define their new era and finally achieve their elusive Super Bowl aspirations.

-Devon Gallant

Twitter: @DevGallant

Photo: Keith Allison. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license.