The Cowboys' offense is set for the most part, meaning it's all up to the defensive improvement to help power the team to playoff football in 2026.
All eyes are on the Dallas Cowboys' defense in 2026, as Christian Parker takes over from Matt Eberflus and that train wreck of a unit.
With the front office giving Parker several nice pieces in free agency, highlighted by Rashan Gary and Jalen Thompson, all eyes are now on the draft.
Dallas has two first-round picks, and both are expected to be defensive players...if the draft board falls that way.
With still a glaring need for a linebacker, another EDGE, and a corner, the Cowboys have plenty of needs.
After Jerry Jones' "bust the budget" quote, it is fair to say Dallas hasn't done that.
Or at least in the way fans had hoped.
So it is easy to see why Cowboys Nation might be a little deflated at this stage of the offseason, even though it is still really early.
But what reason for hope is there in 2026?
For Sports Illustrated's Matt Verderame, it's all on the offense, with a big if for Parker's defense.
"Dallas has one of the more talented offenses in the game," Verderame wrote. "CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens are an elite combination, and Dak Prescott is always a top-10 quarterback. If the Cowboys can improve behind new defensive coordinator Christian Parker, they’re in business."
That is the big thing, isn't it? If the defense can improve.
Yes, Parker comes to Dallas amid a lot of fanfare and excitement regarding what he could do with the unit, but he's unproven as a coordinator.
Still, many think that he can't be worse than Eberflus was last year, right?
With the Cowboys' offense, if George Pickens does remain at The Star and isn't traded (don't snicker, you never know), maintains its level from last season, and Parker's defense improves from 32nd in football to 20th, then Dallas might have something.
But for that to eventuate, more players are needed to fill key holes.
We have mentioned several veteran options, such as Jordyn Brooks and Azeez Al-Shaair, and either would be a welcome addition.
With the two first-round draft picks, there is a good chance to lay a solid foundation for Parker as he looks to build a competent defense capable of playing complementary football that will lead to playoff success in 2026.
Well, that's the hope, anyway.