How is the Dallas Cowboys defensive rebuild coming? They seem happy

Dallas Cowboys’ 2026 outlook hinges on whether a revamped defense under coordinator Christian Parker can climb from last season’s struggles toward “mediocrity” and playoff contention. The team has one preseason game left, Friday, Aug. 28, against New Orleans. Inside camp, linebacker DeMarvion Overshown said Parker’s approach is helping Dallas “play fast,” emphasizing correct assignments in meetings and on-field structure. Overshown also said his two knee surgeries are behind him and he’s fully healthy. A key positive moment came when top draft pick Caleb Downs recorded his first NFL practice interception. Betting markets frame Dallas as roughly average for a playoff berth, with DraftKings placing the Cowboys at 16th at -105.