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Training camp is about more than getting back into football shape—it’s where teams answer the questions that will define their season. The Cowboys enter 2026 with a revamped roster and higher expectations entering Brian Schottenheimer’s second year as head coach, but four storylines stand above the rest.
Is Tyler Guyton the answer at left tackle?
Protecting Dak Prescott starts with Tyler Guyton. The former first-round pick has flashed his athleticism but hasn’t yet established himself as the long-term answer on the left side. With Nate Thomas and rookie Drew Shelton pushing for opportunities, training camp is Guyton’s chance to prove Dallas can trust him to protect Prescott’s blind side.
Who claims the RB2 job?
Javonte Williams is expected to lead the backfield again in 2026, but the battle behind him is wide. Jaydon Blue brings game-breaking speed and receiving ability, but he’ll need to show he can handle pass protection and a larger workload. Finding a dependable second running back would give the Cowboys more balance and keep Williams fresh throughout the season.
Blue won’t be handed the job, though. Veteran Malik Davis and second-year running back Phil Mafah are also expected to compete for touches. Davis brings familiarity with the offense and reliability in pass protection, while Mafah’s physical running style could make him a valuable short-yardage option.
The Cowboys don’t necessarily need another feature back behind Williams, but they do need someone capable of providing consistent production if Williams needs a breather— or misses time.
Can Caleb Downs lead the defensive turnaround?
The Cowboys made rebuilding the defense their biggest offseason priority.
After trading Micah Parsons last summer, Dallas reshaped the unit by drafting Caleb Downs and Malachi Lawrence in the first round. Then, they added veterans like Rashan Gary, Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark and Cobie Durant. Now the focus shifts to whether those additions can quickly come together.
Downs is expected to be more than just a safety. His versatility allows him to play deep, cover the slot, stop the run and quarterback the secondary. His presence should also give defensive coordinator Christian Parker more flexibility to disguise coverages and create turnovers.
Has Brian Schottenheimer’s team taken the next step?
Schottenheimer enters Year 2 with far greater expectations than he had as a first-year head coach.
The Cowboys don’t just need better results—they need to look more disciplined, physical and consistent. Training camp will reveal whether the offense has improved, whether situational football is cleaner and whether the culture Schottenheimer has built is translating into better execution on the field.
Dallas has the talent to compete in the NFC, but talent alone won’t guarantee success.
If these four questions are answered, the Cowboys will head into Week 1 looking much more like contenders than a team still searching for its identity.
