The Dallas Cowboys already feature an explosive offensive unit, but their new-look defense is putting the rest of the NFC East on notice. Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb and the offense normally receive significant attention during Cowboys games. However, the NFL team’s offensive output was overshadowed in 2025 by how poor the defense turned out to be. MORE: ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky calls Cowboys’ Von Miller signing ‘meaningful’ In 2026, that narrative is expected to shift for Dallas after making sweeping changes on that side of the football. The Von Miller move Sunday could be the cherry on top as the Cowboys aim to close the game with the Philadelphia Eagles and the rest of the NFC’s elite. Meanwhile, recent changes to the Dallas defense point to a reason for fans to be excited before the 2026 NFL season. MORE: Is everyone too low on Travis Kelce? Jerry Jones and the Cowboys have invested in their defense even with the Micah Parsons trade that shocked the league. Parson’s exit has led to an influx of youthful talent, which was something that Dallas severely lacked. Can the Cowboys return to contention? Dallas Cowboys safety Caleb Downs during the first half against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) The big piece last season for Dallas was the arrival of Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets after acquiring Kenny Clark in the Parsons trade. Meanwhile, many Cowboys fans are hyped about 2026 NFL Draft standout Caleb Downs from Ohio State. MORE: Dave Portnoy ranks his top 10 NFL QBs ahead of the 2026-27 season Draft insiders and college football fans are convinced that Downs might’ve been the most talented player in his 2026 class. However, it’s the collective that Dallas is putting together that shows the franchise is serious about fixing things.
The Cowboys' defense with the addition of Von Miller 👀 pic.twitter.com/CLfdwxFnvn — NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) August 17, 2026 Nobody’s worried about how many points the offense will put up this season. Prescott’s weapons are immense with Lamb, George Pickens, Jake Ferguson and Javonte Williams. That team’s season will succeed or fail depending on how the defense shows up in September, especially with a challenging early-season slate of games. — Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —