Stephen A. Smith predicts Dallas Cowboys playoff exit despite roster upgrades

The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2026 season with a heavily revamped roster, including major additions to their defensive unit. Following a season that saw the team allow a league-worst 30.1 points per game, owner Jerry Jones hired defensive coordinator Christian Parker and signed defensive tackle Quinnen Williams to a $105.9 million extension. The team also acquired linebacker Rashad Gary and veteran Von Miller while drafting Caleb Downs and Malachi Lawrence. Despite these changes and a star-studded offense led by quarterback Dak Prescott and receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith maintains that the team will struggle in the postseason. While NFL insider Adam Schefter suggests the team is positioned for a deep run, Smith expects the club to secure 12 or 13 regular-season wins before falling short in the playoffs, citing their lack of a conference championship appearance since the 1995 season.

• 8:10 PMYahoo Sports — Stephen A. Smith Spells Doom For Franchise Despite “Impressive” Roster