Cowboys believe they have improved on defense enough to get back to the playoffs with Dak Prescott

The Dallas Cowboys believe their defense has improved sufficiently to potentially return to the playoffs, thanks to new head coach Brian Schottenheimer. After going 13 years without a playoff appearance and more than 20 years without three consecutive losing seasons, the Cowboys have made strides in strengthening their roster. Quarterback Dak Prescott had one of his best seasons last year, thanks in part to star receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, a standout running back in Javonte Williams, and a promising tight end in Jake Ferguson.

The Cowboys also added Christian Parker, a 34-year-old defensive coordinator, replacing Matt Eberflus, who had a rocky tenure. Parker's team boasts better personnel and doesn't have to worry about trading away key defensive players, as they did with edge rusher Micah Parsons last year. New defensive talent includes Edge Von Miller, CB Trevon Diggs, and LB Jaishawn Barham, among others, who could bolster the defense.

The offensive line, led by Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark, could help Dallas dominate against the run. The Cowboys have struggled with run defense for years, which has prevented them from reaching an NFC championship game in 31 years. With two first-round draft picks and the signings of safeties Locke and Thompson, along with edge rushers Gary and Miller, the Cowboys hope to drastically improve their defense.

However, the offensive line's performance, particularly right tackle Terence Steele and left tackle Tyler Guyton, remains uncertain as they navigate their third seasons.