The Dallas Cowboys are a franchise with a rich history, deep fanbase, and a long-standing tradition of being one of the most iconic teams in the NFL. However, as the 2025 season looms, there is a growing sense that the Cowboys’ current trajectory may not be enough to keep them competitive in an NFC that is becoming increasingly more difficult to navigate. Despite having a talented roster, the Cowboys have struggled to break through to the Super Bowl in recent seasons, falling short in key moments during the playoffs.
As it stands, the outlook for the Cowboys in 2025 is clouded with uncertainty, and the franchise may need to take significant risks and make bold moves to ensure they remain in the conversation as legitimate NFC contenders. From decision-making in the front office to personnel changes, the Cowboys may have to step outside their comfort zone to remain competitive and keep up with a growing list of NFC teams that are also trending upwards.
In this article, we will explore the current state of the Cowboys’ roster, the challenges they face in a competitive NFC, and why they must take risks in order to secure a path forward that puts them back in contention for an NFC championship and a Super Bowl title.
Current State of the Dallas Cowboys: Strengths and Weaknesses
At the outset of the 2025 NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys have a solid but imperfect roster. They possess one of the most well-rounded and talented defensive units in the league, led by stars like Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Trevon Diggs. Their defense has consistently been one of the league’s best in recent years, and if they continue their dominance, it could be a key factor in their success. The ability to generate turnovers, pressure the quarterback, and stop the run is a significant asset, and their defense is arguably one of the team’s greatest strengths.
On offense, however, the Cowboys face more question marks. Dak Prescott, the team’s longtime quarterback, is undeniably talented but has been inconsistent at times, especially in high-pressure playoff situations. Prescott has shown the ability to lead the team to success in the regular season, but his playoff performances have left fans and analysts questioning whether he can be the quarterback who delivers the Cowboys their first Super Bowl since 1995.
The Cowboys’ offensive line, once considered a dominant unit in the NFL, has also seen some decline. Injuries and aging players have taken their toll, and while there are still talented pieces in place, the offensive line is not the same juggernaut it once was. This lack of consistency in the trenches has impacted both the running game and Prescott’s ability to operate with sufficient protection.
Additionally, while the Cowboys have an elite receiving corps led by CeeDee Lamb, the depth behind him is concerning. Michael Gallup and Brandin Cooks have been effective at times, but the Cowboys are lacking a true second or third receiving option that can stretch the field and create mismatches. The offense is highly dependent on Lamb, and teams have been able to focus their defensive efforts on shutting him down in big games, limiting the Cowboys’ ability to move the ball effectively.
Lastly, the Cowboys’ special teams have been relatively solid, but they are not the game-changing unit they once were. Given the competitive nature of the NFC, special teams could play a more prominent role in tight matchups, and the Cowboys’ lack of an elite return game or kicker could hurt them in crucial situations.
Challenges in the NFC: A Highly Competitive Landscape
The NFC, in particular, has grown even more competitive in recent seasons. Teams like the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Minnesota Vikings are not only competitive, but they are also well-balanced teams with top-tier quarterbacks, elite defenses, and strong skill players. These teams are peaking at the right time and have the depth and talent necessary to make deep playoff runs.
The Eagles, for example, made it all the way to the Super Bowl in the 2024 season, where they came up short against the Kansas City Chiefs. Philadelphia boasts one of the best rosters in the league, and with quarterback Jalen Hurts playing at an MVP level, the Eagles have positioned themselves as the team to beat in the NFC. The Cowboys, despite a strong defense, struggled to keep pace with the Eagles last season, losing to them both in the regular season and the playoffs.
The 49ers, led by head coach Kyle Shanahan and a dynamic offense that includes players like Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, and a revamped running back committee, are another major contender in the NFC. Their defense is also one of the toughest in the league, led by Fred Warner and Nick Bosa, and their balanced attack poses a challenge for every team in the NFC, including the Cowboys.
In addition, the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions are on the rise with talented rosters that could make waves in the NFC North. The Vikings have an explosive offense led by quarterback Kirk Cousins and wide receiver Justin Jefferson, while the Lions are building something special under head coach Dan Campbell.
This fierce competition means that the Cowboys need to take calculated risks to ensure that they do not get left behind. While the Cowboys are capable of being competitive, their current roster and approach may not be enough to take them over the hump and into the Super Bowl. The NFC is filled with dynamic, well-rounded teams, and the Cowboys cannot afford to be complacent if they want to remain in contention.
Taking Risks in Free Agency and Trades
To remain competitive, the Cowboys need to take a more aggressive approach in both free agency and trade negotiations. While they have made some solid moves in recent years, the upcoming season will require them to take calculated risks by targeting key players that can provide immediate upgrades.
- Quarterback Situation: Although Dak Prescott has been the face of the franchise for years, there are growing concerns about his ability to perform in the playoffs. While he remains a top-tier quarterback in the regular season, his inconsistency in the postseason could lead the Cowboys to explore other options at quarterback. The team could explore acquiring a veteran quarterback with a proven playoff track record, either through a trade or signing. A player like Jimmy Garoppolo, for example, could bring stability to the position and allow the Cowboys to maintain a high level of competitiveness.
Another risk the Cowboys could consider is exploring the possibility of drafting a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. This move would create long-term stability and competition at the quarterback position, especially as Prescott enters the later stages of his career. While it would be a bold move, securing a future franchise quarterback could be the key to future success.
- Offensive Line: The Cowboys’ offensive line has been a pillar of the team for years, but age and injuries have started to catch up with it. Moving forward, the Cowboys need to address this issue, and they might need to take risks in free agency to shore up the line. A bold move would be to target elite offensive linemen who are available in free agency or through trade, such as Orlando Brown Jr. or Laremy Tunsil. Adding an elite tackle could help stabilize the line and allow Prescott to have more time to find his playmakers, improving both the passing and running games.
Additionally, drafting young, athletic offensive linemen in the 2025 NFL Draft could help solidify the future of the line and add depth. However, the Cowboys would need to be strategic, selecting players who have the potential to contribute immediately.
- Wide Receiver: While CeeDee Lamb is a superstar in the making, the Cowboys’ lack of a reliable second option at wide receiver remains a significant concern. This is an area where the Cowboys must take risks to remain competitive in the NFC. There are multiple avenues the Cowboys could pursue: a trade for a proven No. 2 receiver or a bold move in free agency for players like DeAndre Hopkins or DJ Moore, who could make an immediate impact in the Cowboys’ passing game.
The Cowboys could also look to the draft for an explosive wide receiver who could complement Lamb’s skill set and stretch the field. With a dynamic receiving duo, Prescott would have more options, and the offense could be much harder to defend.
- Defensive Playmakers: The Cowboys have one of the best defenses in the league, but even the most elite units need a spark. The addition of a playmaking linebacker or a ball-hawking safety could elevate their defense to the next level. With players like Bobby Wagner and Jamal Adams potentially available, the Cowboys should consider taking a risk on an established player who can make a difference in key moments. Even a young, high-upside defensive back could add a new dimension to an already talented defense.
Risks Are Necessary for the Cowboys to Stay Competitive
The Dallas Cowboys are a proud franchise with championship aspirations, but their current trajectory suggests that they need to take risks to remain competitive in the NFC. With other teams in the conference improving and intensifying the competition, the Cowboys must be willing to push the envelope, whether by acquiring new players through trades, free agency, or making bold moves in the draft.
While taking risks comes with inherent uncertainty, the Cowboys cannot afford to rest on their laurels or continue with a business-as-usual approach. With a talented but inconsistent roster, they need bold decisions to propel them back to the top of the NFC. The 2025 season could be a defining moment for the Cowboys, and if they are to reach their full potential, taking calculated risks is essential to staying relevant and, ultimately, competitive for a Super Bowl.