The Dallas Cowboys enter their second season under head coach Brian Schottenheimer with new defensive coordinator Christian Parker. They are set to face some tough AFC opponents as they get ready for two on the road and an international game in their five fixtures.

Lamar Jackson and the Ravens bring an early test, while Houston’s defense could make the Texans another difficult matchup.

Later, Dallas gets the Jaguars under the lights, with Trevor Lawrence coming off a strong 2025 campaign. Even the Titans and Colts could make things uncomfortable in what looks like a demanding AFC schedule.

Tommy Yarrish of DallasCowboys.com believes the Cowboys have plenty to prove after a disappointing 7-9-1 finish in 2025, when they allowed 30.1 points per game and ranked No. 30 in total defense.

The team is also set to travel the fourth-most miles in the league and face seven teams that made the 2025 playoffs, including two AFC opponents - Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans.

Baltimore Ravens

Week 3 - Maracaña Stadium (Brazil) - September 27, 3:25 p.m.

The Cowboys open the international play for the first time in 12 years, traveling to Rio de Janeiro to face the Baltimore Ravens led by head coach Jesse Minter, who takes over after former HC John Harbaugh’s 18-year run with the Ravens.

Tommy Yarrish of DallasCowboys.com wrote in his article that two-time MVP Lamar Jackson, the Ravens' QB, presents an early challenge for the Cowboys' revamped defense under DC Parker.

While Minter’s defensive background is anchored by safety Kyle Hamilton, linebacker Roquan Smith, and pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, it will test the Cowboys' potent offense. 

Houston Texans

Week 4 – NRG Stadium - October 4, 12:00 p.m.

The Cowboys will take a short flight heading south to face the Houston Texans just a week after their trip to Brazil.

The team is set to face another tough defensive test against the Texans, who finished the 2025 season allowing the fewest yards per game while ranking second in the league in takeaways. 

While quarterback CJ Stroud is expected to gain more time in the pocket after he was sacked 113 times over the past three years, Yarrish believes the additions of rookie guard Keylan Rutledge and veteran guard Wyatt Teller could strengthen the team’s offensive line. 

Indianapolis Colts

Week 9 – Lucas Oil Stadium – November 8, 12:00 p.m.

The matchup with the Indianapolis Colts adds a family angle, with Cowboys rookie safety Caleb Downs set to face his older brother, Josh Downs, the Colts' wide receiver.

Despite missing the postseason after injuries at key positions, the Colts started 8-2 last season, compared with the Cowboys' seven wins.

Tennessee Titans

Week 11 – AT&T Stadium – November 2, 12:00 p.m.

The Cowboys host the Titans team under first-year head coach Robert Saleh, facing former Cowboys defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton and defensive tackle Solomon Thomas on the opposite side.

Downs will also line up against Ohio State Buckeyes teammate and first-round pick (No. 4) wide receiver Carnell Tate, who is expected to be the top target for quarterback Cam Ward.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Week 16 – AT&T Stadium – December 27, 7:20 p.m.

The Jaguars' matchup against the Cowboys in Week 16 is only the ninth all-time meeting between the two franchises, pitting Schottenheimer against the Jaguars' second-year HC Liam Coen.

Tommy Yarrish of DallasCowboys.com believes that sixth-year quarterback Trevor Lawrence will look to build on one of the best seasons of his career against a Cowboys defense that is still finding its footing under defensive coordinator Christian Parker.

All in all, Yarrish identified the Ravens and Texans as the clearest AFC challenges for Dallas. Baltimore brings two-time MVP Lamar Jackson, along with Kyle Hamilton, Roquan Smith and newly added pass rusher Trey Hendrickson to test the Cowboys on both sides of the ball.

Houston could be just as demanding. The Texans had the NFL’s stingiest defense by yards allowed in 2025 and ranked second in takeaways, while C.J. Stroud and a revamped offensive line give their offense another chance to improve

The Cowboys' AFC slate features tough defenses, playoff-caliber opponents, and intriguing matchups. These games could test how far Schottenheimer's team has come after a disappointing 2025 season.

Written by

Archana Ramakrishnan

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote