The Dallas Cowboys' 2025 season under Brian Schottenheimer ended with a 7-9-1 record, and the team missed the playoffs for the second straight season.
An offense that was one of the best in football, and a defense that was one of the worst, meant the Cowboys couldn't be trusted in any game.
Another Dak Prescott season was wasted, as Schottenheimer ended his first year in charge with a lot to figure out this offseason.
And for CBS Sports' Pete Prisco, in his latest power rankings before the playoffs begin, Dallas lands at No. 19.
"They were fun to watch on offense, but the defense was the issue for much of the season," Prisco writes. "I would expect changes there."
More: Cowboys sign former Ohio State 2nd-round WR to new contract
Cowboys waste no time in coaching change
We knew the Cowboys weren't going to take the 10-12 days to evaluate the season.
Matt Eberflus was given his marching orders after a horrific season at the helm of the defense.
Now, attention turns to who Schottenheimer, not Jerry Jones, will choose to be the next defensive coordinator, and it is one Dallas has to get right.
With Dak not getting any younger and the offensive pieces Schotty has, the defense has to at least be average in 2026.
If they are, this Cowboys team could surprise a few people next season.
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