Training Camp Kickoff: Dallas Cowboys 2025-26 Season
The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for the 2025-26 NFL season, with training camp set to begin on Tuesday in Oxnard, California. Before the team hits the field, owner Jerry Jones, COO Stephen Jones, and head coach Brian Schottenheimer will address the media, setting the stage for what fans hope will be a resurgence following a disappointing 7-10 record last season. Let’s dive into key storylines as the Cowboys prepare for training camp and the challenges ahead.
New Coaching Staff
A significant shift in leadership defines this offseason, as the Cowboys seek to redefine their trajectory. Brian Schottenheimer, who was promoted from offensive coordinator after the departure of Mike McCarthy, has ambitious plans for the team. Following McCarthy’s contract expiration and failure to reach an extension, Schottenheimer has assembled a fresh coaching lineup.
He has enlisted Klayton Adams, formerly of the Arizona Cardinals, as his offensive coordinator and brought on Matt Eberflus, the former head coach of the Chicago Bears, to captain the defense. Additionally, Bick Sorenson, former defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, has taken the reins for special teams. These changes signal a bold move by the Cowboys to revitalize their game plan and reclaim competitive status.
Dak Prescott Returns
The Cowboys’ fortunes this season hinge significantly on quarterback Dak Prescott. After enduring a tumultuous 2024, where injury sidelined him for the final nine games, Prescott is back at the helm. His presence during the recent minicamp has been reassuring for fans and teammates alike, indicating he’s ready to lead the offense.
As the season approaches, the Cowboys have made adjustments to their quarterback depth. Gone is Cooper Rush, replaced by Joe Milton, a promising second-year QB acquired from the New England Patriots in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. The team has also re-signed Will Grier, providing a backup option in the event of injury or other unforeseen circumstances.
Enhanced Offensive Weapons
To support Prescott and elevate the offensive unit, the Cowboys have strategically boosted their receiving corps. The notable acquisition is George Pickens, a dynamic wide receiver previously with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Cowboys traded a combination of third and fifth-round draft picks to land Pickens, who, at 6’3″ and 200 pounds, brings a playmaking dimension that can complement the existing roster.
With the departure of veteran Brandin Cooks returning to New Orleans, the Cowboys opted not to dive into the draft for a wideout, instead securing a player with substantial upside in Pickens, who boasts career stats of 174 receptions for 2,841 yards and 12 touchdowns.
In the running back arena, the landscape has changed as well. Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle have moved on, replaced by Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, along with rookie Jaydon Blue from Texas. This infusion of talent aims to bolster the ground game and relieve some pressure from Prescott’s shoulders.
Filling Big Shoes: Zack Martin’s Replacement
One of the most significant changes on the offensive line can be felt with the retirement of Zack Martin, a perennial Pro Bowler and sure-fire Hall of Famer. The Cowboys wasted no time in addressing this gap at guard, using their first-round draft pick on Tyler Booker, a powerhouse from Alabama known for his leadership and physicality.
Bill Jones from CBS Sports Texas notes Booker’s ability to “anchor” against pass rushers while excelling in run blocking, making him a perfect fit alongside Tyler Smith on the line. The revamped offense line will be crucial in providing Prescott the protection he needs to thrive.
Micah Parsons’ Contract Situation
Amidst the changes, the management of star player Micah Parsons’ contract looms large over the offseason. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, Parsons has been a standout player since being drafted in 2020. His expectations for a lucrative extension are well-founded, particularly in light of recent contracts for elite pass rushers like T.J. Watt and Myles Garrett.
Parsons remains a focal point in the Cowboys’ defensive lineup, and with rumors swirling about pending negotiations, his future will undoubtedly affect team dynamics as he looks to solidify his position as one of the league’s premier defenders.
Key Defensive Overhaul
The Cowboys’ defense has been a significant focus during the offseason, particularly after a lackluster performance last year, which saw them ranked near the bottom of the league in points allowed. Changes to the coaching staff and roster aim to rectify this.
Notable departures include Demarcus Lawrence and Jourdan Lewis, while key additions such as Solomon Thomas and Kenneth Murray illustrate a clear strategy to fortify the defense. With fresh blood and innovative leadership, the Cowboys are keen to turn their fortunes around and make a statement this season.
How to Watch the Press Conference
Fans eager to catch the first glimpse of how the Cowboys’ leadership plans to navigate the upcoming season can tune into the introductory press conference:
- What: Media Address by Jerry Jones, Stephen Jones, and Brian Schottenheimer
- Date: Monday, July 21
- Time: 1 p.m. PT
- Location: Oxnard, California
- On TV: KTXA channel 21 in North Texas
- Online Stream: Live on CBS News Texas and streaming platforms
As the Cowboys prepare for training camp, excitement and anticipation abound. With a newly formed team, fresh talents, and an eye toward redemption, Dallas is poised for an intriguing season ahead.
