Overview
- Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said the team is giving third‑round pick Jaishawn Barham extensive work at inside linebacker after rookie minicamp reps, and the 6‑foot‑3.5, 240‑pound rookie said he is comfortable playing either role.
- New defensive coordinator Christian Parker is building a flexible scheme that leans on a playmaking nickel, and Dallas traded up one spot using two fifth‑rounders to draft Ohio State safety Caleb Downs to anchor that role.
- Despite adding Rashan Gary and first‑round edge Malachi Lawrence, ESPN’s Aaron Schatz and The Athletic’s roster ranking at No. 13 point to defensive end as a lingering weak spot.
- Bleacher Report graded the Cowboys’ offseason an A‑, citing the coaching change to Parker, the trade‑up for Downs, and a rebuilt front with Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams and other additions.
- The Cowboys will open the 2026 season on Sunday Night Football against the Giants, which gives an early look at how Parker’s defense and the rookie roles translate on the field.