A blueprint for fixing the Dallas Cowboys’ mess in time for the 2025 season reveals the need for immediate action. During the offseason, Jerry Jones declared his intention to go “all in,” yet the team continued to struggle with a roster full of gaps, failing to present itself as a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
The current season has spiraled into unforeseen chaos.
“Have we had rough seasons? Yes,” said Cowboys owner Jerry Jones last week. “And this one, we didn’t anticipate the record. And the way we’re playing right now, we wouldn’t have anticipated that. But you all have heard me tell these old stories until you’re sick: You stay in this league long enough, you’ll have times like this.”
It’s been a long time since the Cowboys have faced a season as bleak as this one, even after their thrilling 34-26 victory in Washington on Sunday. With a 4-7 record, their chances of salvaging the season are slim. They remain winless at home, where fans were outnumbered by Houston Texans supporters last Monday night. Starting quarterback Dak Prescott is sidelined for the remainder of the season, and head coach Mike McCarthy finds himself under scrutiny, despite leading the team to three consecutive 12-5 records.
The situation for the Cowboys is dire.
For Jones and the Cowboys organization, the most pressing question is: What steps can be taken to restore the team’s success?
1. Avoid rash decisions regarding Mike McCarthy’s future
While many Cowboys fans may call for McCarthy’s dismissal, there are compelling reasons to consider renewing his contract. McCarthy has delivered three consecutive 12-5 seasons, and this year’s challenges stem from a combination of offseason inactivity and significant injuries. As a Super Bowl-winning coach who is well-respected by his players, it would be unwise to dismiss him after just one difficult season.
What alternatives exist? Hiring an inexperienced assistant coach or bringing back a familiar face like Doug Pederson could lead to further instability. College coaches, despite their appeal, often struggle to transition to the NFL. The Cowboys should think carefully before making any coaching changes.
2. Secure a contract extension for Micah Parsons
Jones has a tendency to wait until the last moment to negotiate contracts with star players, which can lead to unnecessary complications. The Cowboys should prioritize extending Parsons’ contract before free agency begins. By doing so, they can avoid inflated costs and free up cap space for other needs.
For example, Nick Bosa’s recent contract with San Francisco reduced his first-year cap hit, allowing the 49ers to manage their finances more effectively. The Cowboys could benefit from a similar strategy.
3. Restructure contracts to create cap space
In recent years, the Cowboys have been overly cautious about future salary cap implications, leading to missed opportunities in free agency. However, with the voidable years included in Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb’s contracts, there is potential for restructuring that could yield substantial cap space. This would allow the team to be active in free agency, addressing critical gaps in the roster.
The championship window remains open, and the Cowboys should seize the opportunity to strengthen their roster.
4. Acquire a reliable running back
The free agent market for running backs may not be as promising as in previous years, but there are still capable players available. The Cowboys need to pursue a proven running back, rather than relying on untested options from the draft. Candidates like Aaron Jones, James Conner, and Nick Chubb could provide the stability the team requires.
While Rico Dowdle may serve as a backup, the team cannot afford to make him the starter again.
5. Strengthen the offensive and defensive lines
The Cowboys have made strides in bolstering their lines through recent drafts, but more work remains. With key players like guard Zack Martin approaching the end of their careers and defensive linemen DeMarcus Lawrence and Osa Odighizuwa facing free agency, the team must continue to invest in these critical positions.
Diving into free agency for interior linemen or defensive ends can further enhance the team’s performance. The Cowboys have a solid secondary and improving linebacker corps, but they need to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks and stop the run.
In today’s NFL, games are often determined by the effectiveness of the lines. The Cowboys recognize this reality, and it’s time to back that understanding with financial commitment.
