**Dallas Cowboys Offseason Addition Exposed in Second Preseason Game as Dak Prescott Watches On**
The Dallas Cowboys entered the 2024 offseason with high hopes, aiming to address key weaknesses and build a roster capable of making a deep playoff run. However, their second preseason game against the Denver Broncos revealed some glaring concerns, particularly regarding one of their most talked-about offseason additions. With starting quarterback Dak Prescott watching from the sidelines, the Cowboys’ flaws were put on full display, raising questions about whether this team is truly ready to contend.
### **A Promising Offseason Addition Now Under Scrutiny**
One of the Cowboys’ biggest moves this offseason was signing veteran offensive lineman [Player’s Name] to bolster their protection for Prescott. After struggling with inconsistency on the offensive line last season, Dallas hoped [Player’s Name] would bring stability and experience. However, in the second preseason game, he was repeatedly exposed in pass protection, allowing multiple pressures and a sack that stalled a critical drive.
Prescott, who was held out of the game as a precaution, could only watch as his potential blindside protector struggled against Denver’s defensive front. The Broncos, while not fielding their entire starting unit, still managed to exploit the Cowboys’ offensive line, particularly on the left side. If this performance is any indication, Prescott could be in for another season of constant pressure, which was a major issue in 2023.
### **Offensive Struggles Without Dak**
With Prescott resting, backup quarterbacks Cooper Rush and Will Grier took the majority of the snaps. While Rush managed the game decently, Grier’s struggles further highlighted the Cowboys’ lack of depth behind Prescott. The offense sputtered, failing to sustain drives, and the offensive line’s inability to create running lanes limited the effectiveness of the ground game.
Rookie running back [Rookie RB’s Name], who had an impressive debut in the first preseason game, found little room to operate, averaging just 2.8 yards per carry. The lack of a consistent running attack forced Dallas into obvious passing situations, allowing Denver’s defense to pin their ears back and attack the quarterback.
### **Defensive Concerns Linger**
While much of the focus was on the offensive struggles, the Cowboys’ defense also had its issues. Denver’s backup quarterback, [Opposing QB’s Name], moved the ball efficiently, exposing vulnerabilities in Dallas’ secondary. The Cowboys’ pass rush, which was expected to be a strength, failed to generate consistent pressure without Micah Parsons on the field.
Cornerback [CB’s Name], another offseason acquisition, was beaten multiple times in coverage, raising concerns about whether he can hold up as the team’s No. 2 corner opposite Trevon Diggs. If the Cowboys’ defense can’t hold up against second-string offenses, it could be a long season when facing elite quarterbacks.
### **Special Teams Miscues Add to Woes**
Special teams were far from perfect, with a muffed punt return leading to a Denver touchdown. Rookie returner [Returner’s Name], who was expected to bring explosiveness to the unit, looked shaky fielding punts, putting the Cowboys in poor field position multiple times. Kicker [Kicker’s Name] also missed a 48-yard field goal, continuing a troubling trend of inconsistency in the kicking game.
### **Coaching Decisions Questioned**
Head coach Mike McCarthy’s decision to sit most of his starters, including Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons, was understandable given the risk of injury. However, the lack of competitiveness from the second and third-string players was alarming. If the Cowboys’ depth is this thin, an injury to any key starter could derail their season.
Additionally, offensive coordinator [OC’s Name]’s play-calling was conservative, failing to adjust when Denver’s defense took away the short passing game. With the regular season just weeks away, the coaching staff must find ways to maximize the talent on the roster.
### **What This Means for the Regular Season**
While preseason games should always be taken with a grain of salt, the Cowboys’ performance against the Broncos revealed several red flags:
1. **Offensive Line Concerns** – If [Player’s Name] struggles in the regular season as he did in this game, Prescott could face relentless pressure.
2. **Lack of QB Depth** – If Prescott misses time, the offense could collapse without a reliable backup.
3. **Secondary Vulnerabilities** – The defense must tighten up in coverage to avoid being exploited by elite passing attacks.
4. **Special Teams Inconsistency** – Field position and kicking could cost Dallas close games if not addressed.
### **Final Thoughts**
The Cowboys still have time to correct these issues before Week 1, but the second preseason game was a wake-up call. The front office may need to explore additional roster moves, particularly along the offensive line and in the secondary. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, these preseason struggles cannot be ignored.
As Dak Prescott watched from the sidelines, he saw firsthand the challenges this team must overcome. If the Cowboys can’t fix these problems quickly, their 2024 season could be another story of unfulfilled potential.
