The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2025 season with high aspirations but are confronted by a glaring issue that has plagued them for years: run defense. Despite boasting a star-studded roster, this vulnerability has consistently hindered their postseason ambitions.
In 2024, the Cowboys allowed the fourth-most rushing yards per game, exposing a lack of discipline and physicality in their defensive front. Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus has emphasized tackling and teamwork as the foundation for improvement, yet the unit remains unproven.
While Micah Parsons is a versatile defensive weapon, the team needs consistent contributions from its interior linemen and linebackers to address this weakness. The offseason saw minimal changes to the defensive personnel, raising questions about whether the Cowboys have done enough to fix this critical flaw.
While under-the-radar additions like Jack Sanborn and Kaiir Elam offer potential, they are far from guaranteed solutions. Eberflus’ emphasis on fundamentals and cohesive play will be tested early as the team faces run-heavy opponents.
NFL Analysis Highlights Dallas Cowboys’ Major Flaw Ahead of 2025 Season
Dallas will be entering the 2025 campaign with a major flaw. This is detailed more in an analysis by Alex Ballentine for Bleacher Report.
Biggest Weakness: Run Defense
The Cowboys were one of the worst run defenses in the league last season. They gave up the highest EPA per rush and more rushing touchdowns than anyone in the league last year.
Looking at what they did this offseason, it’s unclear what their plan is to improve the run defense. They re-signed Odighizuwa, but he’s more of a pass-rushing defensive tackle than someone who can hold a gap.
Their most notable interior addition was Solomon Thomas, a 256-pound defensive tackle. Trading for linebackers Kenneth Murray and Jack Sanborn might help, but they’ll have to prove it.
Offensively, the Cowboys have the firepower to compete, but their success is tied to how well the defense can hold up against the run. Even with a high-powered attack led by Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, prolonged defensive struggles could derail their momentum. To truly contend, the Cowboys must find a way to neutralize opposing ground games.
This season represents a make-or-break opportunity for Dallas to solidify its defensive identity. If their run defense falters again, it could lead to another disappointing campaign. However, if the team can overcome this glaring weakness, they may finally emerge as legitimate contenders in the NFC.
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