Dallas Cowboys Eye Winning Season with Revamped Defense in 2026 Schedule Preview

Dallas Cowboys Eye Winning Season with Revamped Defense in 2026 Schedule Preview

The 2026 Dallas Cowboys offseason focuses on transforming the NFL's worst scoring defense, a crucial move for the team. Under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Christian Parker and the addition of Caleb Downs, the Cowboys' revamped unit faces significant challenges ahead. Despite the defensive overhaul, the Cowboys maintain their offensive prowess from the previous season, averaging 27.7 points per game, which ranked seventh in the NFL. Quarterback Dak Prescott leads a talented group of skill players, ensuring the offense remains a formidable force. 2026 Schedule Predictions: Week 1: Sept. 13 at Giants - 35-24, Cowboys (1-0) Week 2: Sept. 20 vs. Commanders - 35-24, Cowboys (2-0) Week 3: Sept. 27 vs. Ravens (Brazil) - 31-27, Ravens (2-1) Week 4: Oct. 4 at Texans - 24-20, Texans (2-2) Week 5: Oct. 8 vs. Buccaneers - 26-20, Cowboys (3-2) Week 6: Oct. 18 at Packers - 30-27, Packers (3-3) Week 7: Oct. 26 at Eagles - 24-23, Eagles (3-4) Week 8: Nov. 1 vs. Cardinals - 38-27, Cowboys (4-4) Week 9: Nov. 8 at Colts - 34-20, Cowboys (5-4) Week 10: Nov. 15 vs. 49ers - 27-24, Cowboys (6-4) Week 11: Nov. 22 vs. Titans - 35-26, Cowboys (7-4) Week 12: Nov. 26 vs. Eagles - 24-20, Cowboys (8-4) Week 13: Dec. 7 at Seahawks - 20-17, Seahawks (8-5) Week 14: Dec. 13 BYE - N/A (8-5) Week 15: Dec. 20 at Rams - 31-28, Rams (8-6) Week 16: Dec. 27 vs. Jaguars - 34-31, Jaguars (8-7) Week 17: Jan. 3 vs. Giants - 45-24, Cowboys (9-7) Week 18: TBD at Commanders - 29-20, Cowboys (10-7) Key Schedule Insights: Toughest stretch: Weeks 12-16, featuring critical matchups against NFC East rivals and defending champions. Logistical challenges: Weeks 3-7 include an international game and three games in 11 days. Easiest stretch: Weeks 8-12, with a favorable home game schedule. With a mix of primetime games and a Thanksgiving showdown, the Cowboys aim to prove their mettle in the upcoming season. Prescott expressed optimism, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus during this demanding schedule.

Source: CBS Sports - 2026-05-19