While the Dallas Cowboys are confident with their roster and defensive overhaul this offseason, Cowboys analysts are not buying the prediction of the Cowboys being in a Top 10 defense for the 2026 season.

During the June 19 episode of 'DLLS Cowboys podcast', hosts Jeff Cavanaugh and Jesse Holley shut down the prediction of the Cowboys having a top 10 defense as they believe that the team lacks dominant talent in the defense unit. 

“I would say that if you're predicting them to have a top 10 defense, I think you're real optimistic,” Cavanaugh said. "I'll settle for 18 to 20. I'll be thrilled at 12 to 15. If the Cowboys have a top 10 defense, we're winning the Super Bowl. I'm a believer in the staff. I don't see the horses on the roster for a top 10 defense.”

Cavanaugh argued that while the coaching staff and the new defensive coordinator, Christian Parker, deserve confidence, he remains less confident about the roster in the defense unit.

"Because if you're going to be top 10, you got to tell me based on which part," Cavanaugh added. "Like, I think they'll be capable of stopping the run. I think if things go right at the corner - if the safety play is good and the corner play is average - I guess you could call that a good secondary."

The analyst believes that the Cowboys could have a solid secondary if the safeties perform well and the cornerbacks provide stable play. Nickelback Caleb Downs, CB DaRon Bland, CB Cobie Durant, and safety Jalen Thompson are expected to play key roles.

"I don't think you can have a great pass rush," Cavanaugh said. "I just don't think you have the players for it unless it's like a giant leap from Ezeiruaku, big rookie impact from Malachi Lawrence."

Though Cavanaugh was optimistic about the secondary, he was less convinced about the roster at pass rush. He believes the pass rush play relies on Donovan Ezeiruaku's development and an immediate impact from Malachi Lawrence as a rookie.

While Cavanaugh remains skeptical about the Cowboys' defense unit reaching the top 10 elite ranks, head coach Brian Schottenheimer expressed confidence in the Cowboys' defense heading into the 2026 season.

Brian Schottenheimer's Confidence Counters Analyst Skepticism

Schottenheimer voiced confidence in his team, especially the roster, citing that they are good human beings, rather than assessing them based on their talent.

"I love our roster," Schottenheimer said, per Tommy Yarrish of DallasCowboys.com. "I love the changes that we've made on defense. My confidence is rooted in the people that we have, not just the type of player or coach they are, the talent level, but the way they are as human beings."

He also expressed confidence in the offseason additions like CB Cobie Durant and pass rusher Rashan Gary. He was satisfied with the development of other defensive players like Donovan Ezeiruaku, defensive tackle Kenny Cark, and DT Quinnen Williams.

Schottenheimer sees a defense capable of taking a major step forward, citing both the roster's talent and the culture being built within the team.

What as your thoughts on Cowboys defense for the 2026 season? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Archana Ramakrishnan

Edited by

Rudra Dubey