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ESPN is known for being a Dallas Cowboys storyline hub and nobody enjoys attacking the NFL team more than Stephen A. Smith.
The longtime sports media star continues that trend heading into the 2026 NFL season based on Dallas’ lack of success in recent years. However, Smith is doubling down on his Cowboys distaste after recent comments were made by other ESPN employees.
MORE: ESPN’s Adam Schefter says Dak Prescott-led Cowboys ‘can be dangerous’ in 2026 NFL season
Smith is always one of the first media personalities to call out Dallas’ shortcomings. However, that continues this week as the Cowboys look to make a return to glory this season in the NFC East.
“Have you ever heard the saying, ‘crawl before you walk?’” Smith joked during Tuesday’s ESPN appearance. “Could you do that?”
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott practices at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images
ESPN star mocks Cowboys before 2026 season
The latest jab at the Cowboys comes after Adam Schefter and other media figures have been hyping up Dallas before this summer’s training camp.
“The defense was playing better,” Schefter said on ESPN’s “Get Up.” “Yeah, it was at the end of last year, which isn’t saying all that much, but they were better, and I think this team could be dangerous,” he said.
MORE: Ryan Clark addresses ESPN ouster in social media post
Dallas enters the 2026 campaign with many defensive changes after missing the playoffs a season ago. Christian Parker’s upgrade to defensive coordinator seems to be the biggest buzz around the team though.
The 31 year old spent recent seasons with in-division rivals, Philadelphia Eagles, before joining the Cowboys.
“Have you ever heard the saying, ‘crawl before you walk?’ Could you do that?”
Dissecting Dak Prescott’s recent statements ahead of the Cowboys’ season ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/pjYjY29U4C
— First Take (@FirstTake) July 21, 2026
Meanwhile, star quarterback Dak Prescott recently made headlines with his “Super Bowl or bust” claims. The Cowboys’ last Super Bowl appearance came back in 1996, three years after Prescott was born.
The optimism from Schefter and others isn’t enough to convince Smith about Dallas’ prospects. The hot take artist says the Cowboys Prescott’s prediction is simply way too bold to execute this season.
MORE: Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes slated to return from injury sooner than expected
Cam Newton, one of Smith’s “First Take” counterparts on panel, was revealed to be let go of by ESPN ahead of the 2026 NFL season.
