​Dallas Cowboys: Who needs to elevate their game the most this season
Tyler Guyton, left tackle: The left tackle position is the biggest question mark for Dallas’ offense. The Cowboys invested the 29th overall pick in Guyton in 2024, but consistency and health have been elusive over the last two years. He started 11 games in 2024 and 10 last season, and this year’s training camp will pit him against Nate Thomas for the starting spot. If neither can hold down the role, All-Pro left guard Tyler Smith may have to slide to left tackle, which would weaken the interior of Dallas’ line.
DeMarvion Overshown, inside linebacker: Inside linebacker remains a major uncertainty on defense. Overshown and veteran Dee Winters are expected to start in Dallas’ new 3-4 scheme. Overshown has flashed talent over three seasons but has missed significant time, sitting out 32 games. In a contract year, health is critical for him to stay on the field for a full season and address a position that plagued the team last season.
DaRon Bland, cornerback: Bland is among Dallas’ highest-paid players at $22.5 million per season, a figure that ranks seventh among all NFL corners. The Cowboys need him to be a dependable starter, but foot issues have been a lingering concern. He says he’s fully healed from January surgery and is expected to participate fully at the start of training camp after working with trainers during OTAs and minicamp. Bland started strong with 14 interceptions over his first two seasons, but he has just one in the last two.
The Running Back 2 question: Who will emerge behind Javonte Williams? As the Cowboys prepare to depart for training camp in Frisco, Texas, all eyes will turn to Oxnard for closer looks at Brian Schottenheimer’s second season with the revamped roster. The coaching staff will be searching for answers about the depth at running back behind Williams as the team readies for the 2026 season. One early favorite: Jaydon Blue, the Texas product entering his second year, who could emerge as RB2 and bolster the backfield.