Who's Worse Off, Struggling Cowboys Or Crumbling Eagles? NFC East Update

The Philadelphia Eagles are facing significant changes to their offensive line, potentially giving the Dallas Cowboys an opportunity for elbow room in the NFC East.

With Lane Johnson retiring and Cam Jurgens being traded, Philadelphia is losing two important pieces this week up front while attempting to overcome a slower start to the 2026 season.

Johnson's retirement represents a major loss for an offensive line that has helped establish the Eagles as one of the NFC's toughest teams. The veteran right tackle has been a reliable presence in pass protection and an important part of Philadelphia's physical running game for years. Replacing his experience and consistency will be a difficult challenge, particularly as the Eagles attempt to get their offense back on track.

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These developments come at an interesting time for Philadelphia, which has struggled to reach its usual level of production early this season. The Eagles entered the campaign with high expectations, but their performances have raised questions about whether the offense can consistently deliver against quality competition.

Saquon Barkley has been one of the most noticeable examples of Philadelphia's struggles. After producing a historic 2024 season, the running back has not been nearly as productive through the opening weeks of 2026. Through four games, Barkley has recorded 182 rushing yards on 36 carries without a rushing touchdown. He also suffered a hamstring injury against the Los Angeles Rams, adding another concern for an offense that needs him to be a difference-maker.

And he's been ruled out for Sunday's 8:30 am CT game against the Jaguars in London ... where the Jags are 7-5-point favorites.

For the 2-3 Cowboys, these developments could provide a valuable opening in the NFC East.

In a sense, the issue is, which team is worse off? The struggling Cowboys or the crumbling Eagles?

Dallas still has its own challenges to overcome, but a division rival dealing with significant offensive line turnover and inconsistent production presents an opportunity to gain ground. (Starting with a chase of the Giants, who are 3-1 witn a Week 1 win over Dallas on their belts.)

Of course, 2-2 Philadelphia has too much talent to be dismissed, and the team has time to make the necessary adjustments. Still, losing two important offensive linemen while Barkley and the offense search for health and consistency is far from ideal.

If the Eagles cannot quickly resolve those issues, the Cowboys - struggling as they are - could benefit from their rival's struggles and make the NFC East race more competitive as the season progresses.