Elite offense shines as the training room falters. Discover the NFLPA grades that reveal the Cowboys' path to true contender status.
The latest organizational report card for the Dallas Cowboys from the NFLPA offers a revealing snapshot of where the franchise stands internally in the view of the Cowboys players themselves, highlighting elite strengths, noticeable weaknesses, and a few contrasts that could shape Jerry Jones' team’s future.
The highest mark on the sheet is the “A” awarded to the offensive coordinator, Klayton Adams, in his first season in that role.
An “A” reflects strong confidence in the scheme, preparation, and weekly adjustments. It suggests players believe in the system and trust the play-calling structure guiding them every Sunday. For a Dak Prescott-led franchise built around high expectations and star talent, having that level of buy-in on offense is a major positive.
At the other end of the spectrum sits the most concerning grade: a “D” for the training room. ... though in recent years we've learned that players don't have an issue with the facilities, but rather, with wanting more staffers available.
Contending teams invest heavily in state-of-the-art recovery technology and medical resources - and Dallas has done that at The Star.
If there’s one area that demands immediate attention, it’s ensuring players feel fully supported physically over the grind of a long season.
More staff bodies would solve that.
Leadership remains a steady point of optimism. Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer received an A-, after his first year in charge, reinforcing stability and confidence in the team’s overall direction.
However, a “C” for the defensive coordinator suggests there is room for improvement on that side of the ball. ... and of course, Matt Eberflus getting fired is the sign that the franchise agrees.
The team had a down year this past season - worst in the NFL, in fact.
They will be looking to be back to their old ways with new coach Christian Parker at the helm of the defense.
And then there is the grading for owner/GM Jerry Jones.
Players gave him a B for ownership (not surprising) and also gave Jerry (and his staff, we presume) a B as the GM.
A bit surprising, yes.