Just before the 2024 NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys locked in their franchise stars, quarterback Dak Prescott and receiver CeeDee Lamb, with record-breaking contracts. Prescott’s extension, worth $60 million annually, made him the highest-paid player in NFL history, while Lamb secured a lucrative deal after a brief holdout. Coming off three consecutive 12-win seasons, the Cowboys aimed to finally end their Super Bowl drought, now stretching nearly three decades.
But Dallas’s high expectations have been met with disappointment. The team is currently struggling with a 3-5 record after losing its third consecutive game to the Atlanta Falcons, 27-21. The Cowboys’ problems have been exacerbated by injuries to both Prescott and Lamb, who were forced to exit the game prematurely. Head coach Mike McCarthy’s seat is now hotter than ever as the Cowboys stumble through a season that has gone off the rails.
High Costs and Tough Cuts
While Prescott and Lamb’s contracts secured two foundational players, the Cowboys’ hefty payroll has constrained their ability to retain other key players. In free agency, Dallas chose not to re-sign stalwart offensive linemen Tyron Smith and Tyler Biadasz, weakening what had been a longtime strength. Prescott, who was sacked at a higher rate this season, has struggled behind a less experienced line, throwing for 11 touchdowns and eight interceptions. With these changes, Prescott’s efficiency has fallen to its lowest level since his rookie season.
Another casualty of Dallas’s financial crunch was running back Tony Pollard, who left for the Tennessee Titans. Pollard thrived with 128 rushing yards in Tennessee’s win over New England, while Dallas has struggled to find rhythm on the ground, ranking last in the NFL in rushing yards per game.
A Cap Conundrum
The Cowboys’ financial challenges are expected to grow as contract costs balloon in future seasons. Prescott’s salary cap hit, already substantial at $44.6 million, is projected to double next season. Lamb’s cap number will also soar from $8.8 million to $35.5 million, putting even more pressure on the team to make difficult choices.
Among those looming decisions is how to retain star defender Micah Parsons, whose elite play has established him as a top-tier talent. If Dallas wants to keep him, it’s likely Parsons could become the NFL’s highest-paid defensive player. The Cowboys face the risk of losing him if they can’t make the numbers work.
Missing Defensive Leader and Mounting Penalties
Dan Quinn’s departure to coach the Washington Commanders has left a gaping hole in the Cowboys’ defense. Once considered one of the NFL’s best units, the defense has struggled with a lack of discipline, piling up penalties and missing key tackles. The absence of Quinn’s strategic guidance has been keenly felt, as Dallas has been unable to maintain the defensive consistency they achieved in recent seasons.
Jerry Jones Remains Hopeful
Despite the challenges, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones remains confident in his team’s potential. “I really regret this for all of our Dallas Cowboys fans,” Jones said. “That room is full of guys that can get it done. I believe in ’em—coaches and all.” Jones also hinted at the possibility of pursuing trade options before the upcoming NFL trade deadline, signaling his commitment to turning the season around.
Around the League
Lions on Fire
Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff is on a historic streak, completing 82.8% of passes over the last six games—the highest completion rate ever in that span. His favorite target, Amon-Ra St. Brown, has caught 30 straight targets, a nearly improbable feat with odds estimated at 1 in 780,000.
Colts Bench Young QB for Veteran
Indianapolis Colts benched second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson, opting instead for 39-year-old Joe Flacco. Richardson showed flashes of brilliance last year but struggled with consistency and accuracy this season. Flacco led the Colts to a few wins in Richardson’s absence earlier this year, but the team fell to the Vikings in his latest start.
Upcoming Trade Deadline
The Cowboys may not be the only team active ahead of the trade deadline. The Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and New York Jets have already made moves, acquiring receivers DeAndre Hopkins, Amari Cooper, and Davante Adams, respectively. The Cowboys could also be buyers, with Jerry Jones open to trades that could salvage their season.
The Cowboys’ season has been marked by financial gambles, coaching transitions, and disappointing performances. If they hope to turn things around, Dallas will need all hands on deck—and perhaps some help from the trade market—as they continue to chase their elusive Super Bowl dreams.
