Dak Prescott's Cowboys Can Contend For NFC East With Major 'If'

As we turn for training camp, the Dallas Cowboys' hope train is full steam ahead to Oxnard after an offseason that you could make the case has been one of the better ones in recent memory.

There's no contract drama, the franchise nailed the draft (at least in the early stages), and made a handful of outside free agent signings, coupled with the hiring of Christian Parker, which, for most, is a home run.

Now, there are some unknowns, like Parker's ability to call a game as he hasn't before in the NFL, plus how long it will take for his scheme to take shape and how well his players adjust.

But for the most part, there is every reason to think the Cowboys "should" be a better prospect than they were a year ago under Brian Schottenheimer.

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Some even think the playoffs are well within reach, which could mean a division title is also forthcoming, with the Cowboys not having won the NFC East since 2023.

For Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, the Cowboys have the tools to claim the division, with one big if attached.

"One of the biggest position battles in any camp is Tyler Guyton vs. Nate Thomas to be the Cowboys’ left tackle," Breer wrote. "If Brian Schottenheimer and Klayton Adams can make that spot a strength, then the line can be the team’s foundation, and Dak Prescott will have everything he needs around him to have a career year.

"And with Christian Parker a potential difference-maker as defensive coordinator, Dallas would be positioned to take advantage of a wide-open NFC East."

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There's no denying that the left tackle position, and even right tackle as well, are big storylines to watch in Oxnard, but the offensive line was serviceable last season, so if it can get a little uptick in improvement, Dak Prescott should be able to do what he does best.

But for me, the pressure is all on Parker and his defense.

He and Caleb Downs are nearly seen as the saviors for Dallas, with the defense set to be improved from the debacle of a unit it was in 2025. 

Granted, that isn't exactly that hard to do, but with Parker's scheme, many are confident that the defense, while not expected to be a top unit, can be serviceable.

And with an offense like the Cowboys have, to be paired with a defense that doesn't get its doors blown off every week, Dallas could be in with a shot at the division.

But the left tackle spot has to improve, because I get the sense it could seriously hinder Dallas' chances of becoming something in 2026 if it struggles.