The Dallas Cowboys' defensive lapses have again proved costly. This time, however, it's off the field, in the ESPN rankings.

The Cowboys took the No. 16 spot in ESPN's NFL Nation power rankings, which came out last Tuesday, and they show the Cowboys have only gained two places since last time. It was their defense that saw them at the bottom, in 32nd place with the most points allowed (30.1 per game).

These defensive gaps single-handedly have ruined the Cowboys' chance to find a higher ranking despite a delectable offense. To make things right, the Cowboys have made some additions to their defense.

The likes of Jalen Thompson, P.J. Locke, and Caleb Downs have been made to address these problems. Locke and Thompson have been picked to make upgrades in the secondary.

Then we also have cornerback, where the jury is still out on what DaRon Bland and Shavon Revel will be. The Cowboys also have a good linebacker with DeMarvion Overshown, whose knee injury is keeping everyone on the fence.

Christian Parker has been brought in just for this as a defensive coordinator. Parker will be overseeing everything that goes on and will also help the rookies find their footing.

While the defense looks to get back in order, Parker will be the key to unlocking it all for the Cowboys. But what steps do they take to ensure their defense gets better?

What Can The Cowboys Do To Improve Their Defensive Ranking?

Last season, the Cowboys ranked dead last in the NFL in pass defense, allowing a staggering 251.5 yards per game through the air. 

For this season, they have a clear opportunity to improve their defensive ranking in 2026, and the blueprint appears straightforward. They must strengthen the run defense, enhance communication in the secondary, and bring consistency from their young linebackers and edge rushers.

Analyst Cody Warren of Inside the Star believes the Cowboys now have the personnel to make it work, specifically naming three athletes as the foundation.

“With Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark as the big defensive ends and Otito Ogbonnia in the middle, Dallas finally has some real beef on the line of scrimmage.” 

If the Cowboys can successfully implement Parker’s 3-4 front and get consistent production from their revamped secondary and linebacker group, 2026 could finally mark the year they transform from a defensively challenged team into a legitimate Super Bowl contender.

Do you think the Cowboys' defense will get better this season?

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Written by

Sourav Ganguly

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi