Dallas Cowboys aim to revamp defense for 2026 season

The Dallas Cowboys finished the 2025 campaign with a 7‑9‑1 record and the league's worst defense, missing the playoffs for the second straight year. In response, the organization has undertaken a major overhaul for the 2026 season. New defensive coordinator Christian Parker was hired, and the front office traded for pass rusher Rashan Gary from Green Bay. The team also added veteran linebacker Dee Winters, drafted first‑round safety Malachi Lawrence and acquired additional depth such as Caleb Downs.

Analysts and former players have highlighted the urgency of the turnaround. Former linebacker Emmanuel Acho blamed quarterback Dak Prescott’s playoff play rather than front‑office decisions for past failures, while other commentators note the quick defensive improvements achieved by the Cowboys' NFC East rivals, the Washington Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles, as a template. The Cowboys are also rumored to be targeting veteran All‑Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner as a final piece to solidify the linebacking corps.

The combined roster moves and coaching changes are intended to shift the Cowboys from a bottom‑ranked defense to a contender capable of challenging for the postseason in 2026.