The Dallas Cowboys are looking to bounce back after a rough 2024 season in which they missed the playoffs. The return of franchise quarterback Dak Prescott should help after he missed more than half the year.
However, according to PFSN analyst Reese Decker, the Cowboys will need more than just Prescott to get back on track in September.
Cowboys Finish 7-10, Miss Playoffs for 1st Time in 4 Years
Since drafting Prescott in 2016, the Cowboys have had only two losing seasons — both of which came when Prescott missed nine or more games. His health clearly plays a major role in the team’s success. Still, Dallas hasn’t made it to the NFC Championship Game since Tony Romo’s breakout 2006 season.
That has to change. And after watching the offense stall out last year, that’s the logical place to start — especially in the run game, where Dallas struggled badly in 2024. Only two teams averaged fewer rushing yards per attempt, and no team scored fewer rushing touchdowns.
That drop-off came after the front office chose not to address the position in the 2024 offseason. The Cowboys let Tony Pollard walk without bringing in a real replacement — even with big names like Derrick Henry, Saquon Barkley, and Josh Jacobs available in free agency.
If fans were frustrated by that before the season, things only got worse. As the Cowboys floundered, Barkley put up huge numbers to help the rival Philadelphia Eagles win a Super Bowl. Now, Dallas has to be much more aggressive this offseason to avoid another disappointing finish.
So far, the signings of Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders haven’t done much to build excitement. But Decker believes Dallas could make its biggest move in April’s draft.
Dallas Selects Texas Receiver Matthew Golden in 1st Round
While not a running back, Texas product Matthew Golden could give the offense a major boost. Since trading Amari Cooper in 2022, the Cowboys have struggled to find a consistent No. 2 receiver behind CeeDee Lamb.
Prescott’s mobility has already taken a step back from his early years, and his most recent injury could limit that even more in 2025. If he’s going to spend more time in the pocket, he’ll need more help. According to Decker, Golden would be an ideal fit.
“The 6-foot, 195-pound receiver is an elite route runner who thrives in the slot. He’s comfortable in traffic, controls the middle of the field well, and has a great feel for space. The lightning-quick playmaker has reliable hands and adds another explosive element to a receiver room led by CeeDee Lamb.
“The Cowboys need more firepower on offense, and here they land a star who won’t even have to leave the Lone Star State.”
Whether Dallas decides to dip into the deep running back class later in the draft or hope that Williams and Sanders return to form, one thing’s clear: Golden would give the offense immediate help.
And until the Cowboys prove otherwise in September, fans have every right to be skeptical.