The Dallas Cowboys entered the 2024 offseason with thunderous intentions, as owner Jerry Jones publicly committed to an aggressive push towards ending the franchise’s Super Bowl drought.
This declaration of determination set a hopeful tone, but as the offseason unfolded into organized team activities (OTAs), skepticism crept in. Observers and analysts are now questioning the effectiveness of the Cowboys’ strategic moves—or the lack thereof.
Dallas Cowboys Shifting Sands in the Roster
At the heart of the concern is the Cowboys’ offense, which, on paper, appears significantly weakened compared to the previous season. The departure of dynamic running back Tony Pollard and the aging Ezekiel Elliott stepping up as his replacement is particularly alarming.
Elliott, entering his age-29 season, carries the burden of over 2,500 career touches, raising doubts about his ability to sustain peak performance. Further exacerbating these roster issues are notable losses in the offensive line.
The Cowboys waved goodbye to center Tyler Biadasz and All-Pro left tackle Tyron Smith—an upheaval that left gaping holes in what was once considered a formidable line.
Dallas Cowboys Draft Decisions and Doubts
In response to these challenges, Dallas aimed to rejuvenate its line through the 2024 NFL Draft. The Cowboys made strategic moves, trading down in Round 1 to pick up offensive tackle Tyler Guyton and securing guard Cooper Beebe in Round 3. Beebe is pegged as a ready-to-start asset, but Guyton is generally viewed as a developmental project, ill-prepared for immediate starting responsibilities.
NFL analyst Gregg Rosenthal voiced his concerns, highlighting the fragility of the revamped line: “The offensive line hasn’t looked this shaky in years. Tyler Guyton would have been better off with a redshirt year.
The guard spots are as good as any in football, but the other three starting jobs have major questions and the depth isn’t amazing,” Rosenthal noted, emphasizing the precarious situation Dallas finds itself in.
Wide Receiver Woes and Dak Prescott’s Pressure
Compounding the offensive woes is the uncertainty at the wide receiver position. Beyond the reliable CeeDee Lamb, the talent pool seems shallow, with veteran Brandin Cooks showing signs of decline in 2023. This scenario places an immense burden on quarterback Dak Prescott, who is entering a contract year after performing at an MVP level during the regular season.
Prescott’s ability to replicate his previous success is crucial for the Cowboys, especially given the less formidable supporting cast around him for 2024. The stakes are high, and the pressure is mounting, not only on Prescott but also on the strategic direction of the team as a whole.
Dallas Cowboys Looking Ahead with Cautious Optimism
As the 2024 season approaches, the Dallas Cowboys face a landscape filled with more questions than answers—a stark contrast to the confident outset of their offseason. With key positions in flux and strategic gambles yet to prove their worth, the Cowboys’ journey toward NFL supremacy appears fraught with challenges.
The team’s ability to adapt and overcome these hurdles will be pivotal in defining their season—and perhaps the future of their key players and management.
