Full Breakdown
Dallas Cowboys 2025 Season Outlook: Key Players and Challenges
8/26/2025, 6:36:23 PM
Cowboys' Recovery and Ambitions
Following a disappointing 2024 season, the Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for the 2025 NFL season with hopes of returning to the playoffs. Central to this effort is quarterback Dak Prescott, who has fully recovered from a hamstring injury that sidelined him during the latter part of the previous season. Prescott, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, had previously led the Cowboys to playoff appearances in each of the three seasons before his injury. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has expressed a desire for more than just playoff participation; he aims for another Super Bowl victory.
2025 Schedule Overview
The Cowboys' 2025 schedule includes a series of preseason games against the Los Angeles Rams, Baltimore Ravens, and Atlanta Falcons, followed by a regular season that kicks off on September 4 against the Philadelphia Eagles. The regular season features matchups against notable teams such as the New York Giants, Chicago Bears, and Green Bay Packers, with games broadcasted on major networks including NBC, CBS, and ESPN.
Preseason Schedule
- Week 1: Aug. 9 at Rams (Loss: 31-21)
- Week 2: Aug. 16 vs. Ravens (Loss: 31-13)
- Week 3: Aug. 22 vs. Falcons (Win: 31-13)
Regular Season Schedule
- Week 1: Sept. 4 at Eagles
- Week 2: Sept. 14 vs. Giants
- Week 3: Sept. 21 at Bears
- Week 4: Sept. 28 vs. Packers
- Week 5: Oct. 5 at Jets
- Week 6: Oct. 12 at Panthers
- Week 7: Oct. 19 vs. Commanders
- Week 8: Oct. 26 at Broncos
- Week 9: Nov. 3 vs. Cardinals
- Week 10: BYE
- Week 11: Nov. 17 at Raiders
- Week 12: Nov. 23 vs. Eagles
- Week 13: Nov. 27 vs. Chiefs
- Week 14: Dec. 4 at Lions
- Week 15: Dec. 14 vs. Vikings
- Week 16: Dec. 21 vs. Chargers
- Week 17: Dec. 25 at Commanders
- Week 18: TBD at Giants
Injury Concerns
The Cowboys are also facing injury challenges as running back Phil Mafah is set to miss time due to a shoulder injury, leading to his placement on Injured Reserve (IR). Although this move is not season-ending, it complicates the team's depth at the running back position. Additionally, rookie running back Jaydon Blue is dealing with a low-ankle sprain, raising questions about his availability for the season opener against the Eagles.
Micah Parsons Contract Negotiations
Star pass rusher Micah Parsons has been at the center of offseason drama due to ongoing contract negotiations with Jerry Jones. Parsons, who has not participated in training camp or preseason games, is seeking a new deal before becoming a free agent at the end of the season. The situation has drawn criticism, with commentators suggesting that the Cowboys are becoming a "joke" due to the media frenzy surrounding Parsons' absence from practice.
Official Statements & Responses
Jerry Jones has publicly stated his commitment to Parsons, claiming to have made an offer that would make him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. However, the negotiations have been contentious, with Parsons' agent denying claims of disrespectful communication.
Conclusion
As the Cowboys prepare for the 2025 season, they face a mix of optimism and challenges. With key players recovering from injuries and ongoing contract disputes, the team's ability to navigate these issues will be crucial in their pursuit of a successful season and a return to championship contention.
