Dallas Cowboys (Last Year: 12-5)
Season Summary:
Another year, another disappointing finish. The Cowboys looked like they could do some serious damage when they destroyed the Eagles on national TV late in the year, but that turned out to be more false hope for the fanbase.
2024 NFL Season Preview:
Veteran Additions:
RB Ezekiel Elliott, LB Eric Kendricks.
Early Draft Picks:
OT Tyler Guyton, DE Marshawn Kneeland, G Cooper Beebe, LB Marist Liufau. Cowboys Rookie Forecast
Offseason Losses:
RB Tony Pollard, WR Michael Gallup, OT Tyron Smith, C Tyler Biadasz, DE Dorance Armstrong, DE Dante Fowler, DT Johnathan Hankins, LB Leighton Vander Esch, CB Stephon Gilmore, S Jayron Kearse.
2024 Dallas Cowboys Offense:
When everything is perfect around Dak Prescott, he can play perfectly. However, it’s been apparent that when things start breaking down, his level of play drops dramatically. For evidence of this, consider his 2022 season. Because of offensive line injuries, he threw for 23 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. His touchdown-to-interception ratios in the prior and next seasons were 37:10 and 36:9, respectively.
Prescott will once again have to endure offensive line woes, in all likelihood. Dallas had an incredible blocking unit last year, but two starters on the front are gone, as Tyron Smith and Tyler Biadasz signed with the Jets and Redskins, respectively. These are two colossal losses. The Cowboys used a first-round pick on a replacement for Smith, selecting Tyler Guyton. The Oklahoma product has potential, but he’s seen as a raw prospect who will need to be developed a bit. Biadasz’s replacement could be Cooper Beebe, who was chosen in the third round.
The Cowboys will return three starters on the offensive line. The most prominent of the bunch is Zack Martin, who was considered the best guard in the NFL for several years. However, Martin will turn 34 during the season, and he has shown signs of slowing down. It’s a good thing for Dallas then that Tyler Smith has picked up the slack. Smith has gotten off to a great start in his 2-year career thus far. Meanwhile, right tackle Terence Steele will be looking to rebound from a dreadful 2023 campaign after performing well in 2022.
Though the offensive line saw some departures, at least Prescott’s receiving corps remained intact. However, an upgrade was needed across from the prolific CeeDee Lamb, as Brandin Cooks struggled in that role last year. The Cowboys still have Jake Ferguson, who enjoyed a terrific 2023, but as far as downfield options are concerned, it’s just Lamb and the inconsistent Cooks.
The running game is also a big question mark. Tony Pollard didn’t meet expectations last year because he was coming off a broken leg he suffered in the preceding January. Pollard is expected to rebound in 2024, but he’ll be doing that in Tennessee. Rico Dowdle is the favorite to handle the majority of the workload. The other option is the decrepit Ezekiel Elliott. Either way, Dallas does not project to have a strong ground attack in 2024.
2024 Dallas Cowboys Defense:
Dallas’ defense is known for its impressive pass rush and pretty sack numbers, but the unit as a whole finished just 23rd in EPA last year. Thus, it was no surprise that the Packers scored 48 points against them in an opening-round playoff blowout.
The Cowboys will still have their great pass rush from a year ago. Micah Parsons, who recorded 14 sacks, is one of the top defensive players in the entire league. Dallas lost its No. 2 pass rusher, Dorance Armstrong, but still has quality players in reserve. DeMarcus Lawrence has slowed down a bit as a 32-year-old, but he was still able to perform at a high level last year. There’s also a pair of second-round picks in Sam Williams and rookie Marshawn Kneeland. Williams recorded 4.5 sacks in 2023 despite playing about a third of the snaps, so he has the potential to make a big leap in production this year.
While Dallas has incredible edge rushers, there isn’t much happening in the interior of the defense, which is a huge reason why Dallas had no answer for Green Bay. While the Cowboys can rush the passer exceptionally well and also defend the pass adequately, they are horrible versus the run. The interior duo of Mazi Smith and Osa Odighizuwa was expected to be upgraded, but that did not occur. Odighizuwa had a fairly decent 2023 season, but Smith was incredibly lackluster. Smith was chosen in the opening round of the 2023 NFL Draft, so there’s some potential, but he was widely considered a reach when the pick was made.
The linebacking corps needed a boost as well. The sole defensive veteran the Cowboys signed is Eric Kendricks, who would have been a terrific addition several years ago. Kendricks, however, is past his prime. He can still be a quality player, but at 32, his best days are clearly behind him. He’ll replace the retired Leighton Vander Esch and start alongside Damone Clark, a mediocre player. Perhaps third-round rookie Marist Liufau will be able to break into the starting lineup at some point.
It’s not all bleak for the Cowboys outside of their edge rush. They had some excellent play from their cornerbacks last year even though Trevon Diggs managed to play only two games. DaRon Bland came out of nowhere as a former fifth-round pick to enjoy an incredible season. Veteran Stephon Gilmore also played well, but he’s no longer on the team. His departure won’t mean much if Diggs can remain healthy. Diggs and Bland could form one of the top cornerbacking duos in the entire league. On the other end of the spectrum, there’s slot corner Jourdan Lewis, who struggled last year.
Lewis is the only liability in Dallas’ secondary. The two safeties are also a quality tandem, with Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker returning as the starters. Hooker has a very extensive injury history, so it wouldn’t be surprising if he missed action in 2024.
2024 Dallas Cowboys Schedule and Intangibles:
Brett Maher kicked very well for the Cowboys in 2022, but missed four extra points in the playoff battle against the Buccaneers. Dallas had to make a change, and it worked brilliantly. Brandon Aubrey was incredible last year, hitting 36-of-38 tries, including all 10 attempts from beyond 50.
Bryan Anger maintained the league’s No. 2 net punting average in 2023, though he wasn’t very good at pinning the opposition inside the 20.
The Cowboys have a mixed schedule. They have to take on the AFC North and the Eagles twice, but they also get the NFC South and the Giants twice.
2024 Dallas Cowboys Rookies:
Go here for the Cowboys Rookie Forecast, a page with predictions like which rookie will bust and which rookie will become a solid starter.
2024 Dallas Cowboys Positional Rankings (1-5 stars):
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2024 Dallas Cowboys Analysis: Based on the Super Bowl odds, the Cowboys are an overrated team heading into 2024. Their offensive line took an enormous hit, while their defense lost some personnel and didn’t receive the necessary upgrades that were needed to avoid another disaster like the blowout loss to Green Bay. Dallas may have trouble making the playoffs this year.
Projection: 9-8 (2nd in NFC East)
2023 Projection: 10-7. 2023 Actual Result: 12-5.
2022 Projection: 8-9. 2022 Actual Result: 12-5.
2021 Projection: 6-11. 2021 Actual Result: 12-5.
2020 Projection: 8-8. 2020 Actual Result: 6-10.
2019 Projection: 7-9. 2019 Actual Result: 8-8.
2018 Projection: 5-11. 2018 Actual Result: 10-6.
2017 Projection: 11-5. 2017 Actual Result: 9-7.
2016 Projection: 10-6. 2016 Actual Result: 13-3.
Goals Entering the 2024 NFL Draft: The Cowboys’ top priority is finding a left tackle in the wake of Tyron Smith’s departure for the Jets. They also have some other glaring holes, including receiver (No. 2 option across from CeeDee Lamb), defensive tackle, and linebacker. Dallas also needs a new running back with Tony Pollard now in Tennessee.
2024 NFL Draft Accomplishments: Dallas was criticized for failing to find a running back or a No. 2 receiver to help Dak Prescott, but I thought the team had a strong draft overall. The excellent drafting began right away when the Cowboys traded down from No. 24 to 29 to acquire a needed left tackle in Tyler Guyton, who easily could have been chosen at Dallas’ original pick. The Cowboys then bolstered their blocking again with Cooper Beebe in the third round. Beebe was expected to go in the second frame, so this was a solid value pick.
The Cowboys also made sure to address their defense at every level. They began with defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who was a fine option at No. 56. While Kneeland wasn’t a great bargain, Marist Liufau and Caelen Carson were in the third and fifth rounds, respectively. Linebacker and cornerback were needs, so Liufau and Carson will help in those areas.
Of Dallas’ eight picks, five scored A- or better, and the worst grade given to them was a “B.” It’s odd that the Cowboys didn’t take a shot at a running back at all, and that they didn’t explore drafting a receiver until the sixth round, but they did well to improve the rest of their roster.
Season Summary:
Another year, another disappointing finish. The Cowboys looked like they could do some serious damage when they destroyed the Eagles on national TV late in the year, but that turned out to be more false hope for the fanbase.
Offseason Moves:
Team Needs:
2024 NFL Free Agent Signings:
Dallas Cowboys Free Agents:
Salary Cap: TBA.
NFL Free Agent Tracker:
QB | RB | FB | WR | TE | OT | G | C | DE | DT | OLB | ILB | CB | S | K/P | FA Grades | FA Rumors
2025 NFL Mock Draft - May 21
NFL Power Rankings - Feb. 22
NFL Picks - Feb. 12
Projection: 9-8 (2nd in NFC East)
2023 Projection: 10-7. 2023 Actual Result: 12-5.
2022 Projection: 8-9. 2022 Actual Result: 12-5.
2021 Projection: 6-11. 2021 Actual Result: 12-5.
2020 Projection: 8-8. 2020 Actual Result: 6-10.
2019 Projection: 7-9. 2019 Actual Result: 8-8.
2018 Projection: 5-11. 2018 Actual Result: 10-6.
2017 Projection: 11-5. 2017 Actual Result: 9-7.
2016 Projection: 10-6. 2016 Actual Result: 13-3.
NFL Draft Team Grade:
A- GradeGoals Entering the 2024 NFL Draft: The Cowboys’ top priority is finding a left tackle in the wake of Tyron Smith’s departure for the Jets. They also have some other glaring holes, including receiver (No. 2 option across from CeeDee Lamb), defensive tackle, and linebacker. Dallas also needs a new running back with Tony Pollard now in Tennessee.
2024 NFL Draft Accomplishments: Dallas was criticized for failing to find a running back or a No. 2 receiver to help Dak Prescott, but I thought the team had a strong draft overall. The excellent drafting began right away when the Cowboys traded down from No. 24 to 29 to acquire a needed left tackle in Tyler Guyton, who easily could have been chosen at Dallas’ original pick. The Cowboys then bolstered their blocking again with Cooper Beebe in the third round. Beebe was expected to go in the second frame, so this was a solid value pick.
The Cowboys also made sure to address their defense at every level. They began with defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who was a fine option at No. 56. While Kneeland wasn’t a great bargain, Marist Liufau and Caelen Carson were in the third and fifth rounds, respectively. Linebacker and cornerback were needs, so Liufau and Carson will help in those areas.
Of Dallas’ eight picks, five scored A- or better, and the worst grade given to them was a “B.” It’s odd that the Cowboys didn’t take a shot at a running back at all, and that they didn’t explore drafting a receiver until the sixth round, but they did well to improve the rest of their roster.
NFL Draft Individual Grades:
29. Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma – A+ Grade
This was a sharp move by the Cowboys. With Troy Fautanu gone, the Cowboys liked Tyler Guyton and Graham Barton the most as candidates for No. 24 overall. They could have taken either there, but they moved down five spots and acquired most assets, and yet they still got their man. This was excellent drafting after last year’s debacle.
56. Marshawn Kneeland, DE, Western Michigan – B Grade
I assume the Cowboys would have drafted Jonathon Brooks here if they could. Instead, they’ll take a running back in the third round. Marshawn Kneeland makes sense as a new edge rusher, as I expected him to go in this area. He wasn’t overly productive in college, but he made a name for himself during the pre-draft process.
73. Cooper Beebe, G, Kansas State – A- Grade
Any offensive lineman makes sense for the Cowboys, who lost some talented blockers this offseason. Cooper Beebe is a rock-solid interior lineman who can definitely improve the blocking unit. I thought he could have gone in the second round, so I like the value.
87. Marist Liufau, LB, Notre Dame – A Grade
The Cowboys lost Leighton Vander Esch, so they had to find a new linebacker. Marist Liufau is a potential solid replacement, as he has terrific athleticism, speed, and upside. I thought he’d go earlier than this, perhaps even the second round, so I love the value.
174. Caelen Carson, CB, Wake Forest – A- Grade
No receiver, no running back, but a great value at the end of the fifth round. Caelen Carson has some speed concerns, but was a prospect who could have been considered in the third round. He’s a tough and gritty cornerback who could emerge as a starter in Dallas.
216. Ryan Flournoy, WR, SE Missouri State – A- Grade
Finally, an offensive play-maker for Dak Prescott. Ryan Flournoy really helped himself with a strong Senior Bowl week to match his production at his small school. This is a solid pick, as Flournoy could have gone much earlier on Day 3.
233. Nathan Thomas, OT/G, Lousiana-Lafayette – B Grade
The Cowboys landing another lineman makes sense, though you’d think they’d draft a running back at some point. Nathan Thomas was projected around this area. He played tackle in school, but may have to move to guard in the pros.
244. Justin Rogers, DT, Auburn – B+ Grade
The Cowboys were poor versus the run last year, especially in the loss to the Packers in the playoffs. Adding a 346-pound nose tackle like Justin Rogers makes sense here in the seventh round.
Season Summary:
Another year, another disappointing finish. The Cowboys looked like they could do some serious damage when they destroyed the Eagles on national TV late in the year, but that turned out to be more false hope for the fanbase.
Offseason Moves:
Team Needs:
- Two Linebackers: Dallas had issues in the middle of its defense last season, especially when battling tougher opponents. Two new linebackers are needed. Signed Eric Kendricks
- Defensive Tackle: The Cowboys struggled to stop the run when they weren’t beating down far inferior opponents. Aaron Jones bulldozed through their defense, so a major upgrade is needed in the interior of the front.
- Two Offensive Linemen: Make it one offensive lineman if Tyron Smith is re-signed. If Smith leaves, Tyler Smith will move to left tackle, leaving a hole at guard. Meanwhile, right tackle was a liability last year.
- Running Back: Tony Pollard is an impending free agent. He’s coming off a down year, but was recovering from a broken leg.
- Cornerback: Stephon Gilmore is another player set to hit free agency. There will be a hole in the secondar if he leaves.
- Safety: Jayron Kearse will be entering free agency as well. He’s coming off a down year anyway.
- Wide Receiver: Dallas could stand to add a better No. 2 receiver than Brandin Cooks to complement CeeDee Lamb.
Follow me @walterfootball for updates.
2024 NFL Free Agent Signings:
Dallas Cowboys Free Agents:
Salary Cap: TBA.
NFL Free Agent Tracker:
QB | RB | FB | WR | TE | OT | G | C | DE | DT | OLB | ILB | CB | S | K/P | FA Grades | FA Rumors
Fantasy Football Rankings - May 23
2025 NFL Mock Draft - May 21
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NFL Picks - Feb. 12
