How would you grade each position heading into training camp?
The Dallas Cowboys are going to Oxnard, California for training camp. The Cowboys have two main objectives to accomplish in Oxnard. Install the playbook for both the offense and defense, and figure out who fits where to fill out the league mandated 53-man roster. Sounds simple, right!?
Accomplishing those two goals is easier said than done. Installing the playbook is probably the easier of the two right now considering all the unanswered questions at each position currently on the roster. There are a lot of things that still need to be figured out to fill out the depth chart to determine if more outside additions may be needed.
Today, we’re assigning positional grades to see where the Cowboys stand heading into training camp and where they may need to improve still.
Quarterback
Grade: B+
With the weapons surrounding him, Dak Prescott has a chance to return to his 2023 form where he finished runner-up in the MVP race, that is if he can stay healthy. And due to his youth, athleticism, and arm strength, Joe Milton could be an upgrade over Cooper Rush.
Running back
Grade: C
Dallas’ group of RBs leaves much to be desired heading into training camp. They may not have a true RB1 on the roster. Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders looked to be the favorite to start with Jaydon Blue backing them up. This position is one of the weaker spots on the roster.
Wide receiver
Grade: A
The trade for George Pickens changed the entire dynamic of the Cowboys WR position for the 2025 season. He not only complements CeeDee Lamb perfectly, but his addition also allows Jalen Tolbert and others behind him fit better into their roles on the depth chart.
Tight end
Grade: B+
The Cowboys didn’t make any significant changes at the TE position, but adding Klayton Adams to the coaching staff, a healthy Jake Ferguson, and George Pickens’ addition should result in more production this season from the entire group from top to bottom.
Offensive line
Grade: B
With Tyler Booker replacing Zack Martin and Tyler Guyton’s hopeful improvement in Year 2, there’s too much unknown right now about Dallas’ starting OL heading into training camp to give them a better grade. However, there’s a chance they could be really good this year.
Defensive tackle
Grade: C-
The Cowboys made the right choice re-signing Osa Odighizuwa and adding Solomon Thomas to play the 3-tech, but did next to nothing to upgrade the 1-tech this offseason. Unless Mazi Smith significantly improves, the 1-tech position remains a position of need.
Defensive end
Grade: A-
Dallas may have lost DeMarcus Lawrence to free agency, but they did a tremendous job filling out the depth chart by drafting Donovan Ezeiruaku and signing former first-round draft picks Dante Fowler and Payton Turner. This group could be among the best in the league.
Linebacker
Grade: B
The Cowboys signed Jack Sanborn and traded for Kenneth Murray Jr. to hopefully upgrade their LB position, but the overall depth from top to bottom remains a concern. This is a solid group and could be even better if/when DeMarvion Overshown returns to the field.
Cornerback
Grade: B-
Until we know more about how players bounce back from season-ending injuries and who replaces Jourdan Lewis, Dallas’ CB position remains a major concern. They seem to have all the pieces to make it work, but until we know more we can’t assign them a better grade.
Safety
Grade: B-
The Cowboys safety position looks much the same as it did a season ago. The only question about this group is how they will fit into Matt Eberflus’ defensive scheme and if someone can unseat Donovan Wilson as a starter. This unit should be good, but unspectacular.
Special teams
Grade: A
No changes here. Brandon Aubrey is one of the better kickers in the league, Bryan Anger is a Pro Bowl-caliber punter, and Trent Sieg is a reliable long snapper. No need to worry about this group.