Despite star power, can Cowboys defense outperform Rams in long run?

The Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Rams possess offensive firepower, but their defensive challenges required immediate attention this offseason. The two teams approached their defensive fixes differently. The Rams made significant moves, while the Cowboys took a more subtle approach that might prove more effective in the long run.

Despite the dramatic overhaul that the Rams implemented, the Cowboys' changes have positioned them to have a stronger defense in 2026. The Rams added stars like Myles Garrett, Trent McDuffie, and Aaron Donald, creating a formidable defense on paper. However, the Cowboys made substantial changes as well. Following the addition of defensive coordinator Christian Parker, the Cowboys replaced 70% of their defensive players from the 2025 season.

Parker's strategy focused on adding quality starters who fit specific roles within his defensive scheme and prioritized rebuilding depth at all three levels. This emphasis on depth could help the Cowboys withstand injuries better than the Rams, who lost depth players at every level and are counting on their star additions to make up for those departures.

The Cowboys' depth, built by Parker, includes a versatile secondary with young talent like Caleb Downs, Shavon Revel Jr., Ameer Speed, and Alijah Clark, as well as experienced defenders such as Jalen Thompson and Cobie Durant. On the defensive line, Dallas has an improved rotation featuring players like Rashan Gary, Donovan Ezeiruaku, Von Miller, James Houston, Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams, Jonathan Bullard, and Osa Odighizuwa.

While the Rams may have more star power at the top of their roster, the Cowboys' deeper and more balanced defense offers greater potential for a championship run.