The Dallas Cowboys are facing a challenging task as they prepare for the 2026 season. With the departure of Demarcus Lawrence to the Seattle Seahawks and the trade of Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers, the team is missing a key component of their pass rush. Additionally, the trade of Osa Odighizuwa to the San Francisco 49ers and the free agency of Jadeveon Clowney leave the Cowboys without a clear standout pass rusher. However, head coach Brian Schottenheimer believes that the team's depth and collective effort can make up for the loss of a single star player.
Schottenheimer's philosophy is rooted in the idea that some of the most successful pass-rushing teams don't rely on a single standout player. He argues that it's easier to shut down one elite rusher, and that a well-rounded unit can be just as effective. This approach is evident in the team's strategy for the 2026 season, which will be led by a group of edges including Rashan Gary, Donovan Ezeiruaku, Malachi Lawrence, James Houston, and Sam Williams.
While Gary, a 2024 Pro Bowler and 2019 first-round pick, is expected to lead the charge, his past performance raises questions. Gary has never reached double-digit sacks in a season, and his individual performance last year with the Packers mirrored the team's overall struggles. The Cowboys' defense, which finished 31st in points allowed in 2025, will need to improve significantly to meet their goals.
The team's pass rushers face a challenging task, as the production has been lacking. Malachi Lawrence, a surprising selection at No. 23 overall, has yet to live up to expectations. Houston, who had a strong rookie season with eight sacks in 2022, has struggled to maintain that level of performance. Williams, who missed all of 2024 due to injury, had just one sack last season. Ezeiruaku, a 2025 second-rounder, also had a modest rookie campaign with only two sacks.
Despite the potential, the Cowboys' pass rushers are yet to demonstrate their full capabilities. However, the arrival of Christian Parker as defensive coordinator offers a glimmer of hope. Parker's experience with the Philadelphia Eagles, who achieved success with a pass rush by committee, could be a game-changer for the Cowboys. Over the past two seasons, Parker helped the Eagles win back-to-back NFC East titles and Super Bowl LIX, proving that a well-rounded unit can be just as effective as a single standout player.
The Cowboys' 2026 season will be a test of their collective effort and depth. With a strong defensive coordinator and a group of pass rushers with potential, the team has the opportunity to improve upon their lackluster performance from the previous season. The challenge will be to harness their collective strength and translate it into on-field success, proving that a pass rush by committee can be just as effective as a single star player.
