NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport ‘excited’ about Cowboys’ defense ahead of 2026 opener

The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2026 NFL season with one major question hanging over their playoff hopes: can the defense finally support their explosive offense?

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport thinks the answer could be different this year. Dallas opens its season against the New York Giants on Sunday night, with a rebuilt defense facing its first major test.

“We’ve spent the last year or more seeing this Dallas defense as a little bit of a punching bag,” Rapoport said. “A lot of it was deserved last year, you know, pretty bad.”

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The Cowboys finished 7-9-1 in 2025 despite ranking among the NFL’s top offenses. Their defense allowed 30.1 points per game, creating constant pressure on Dak Prescott and the offense.

That imbalance forced Dallas to make major changes. The team moved on from defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus and promoted 34-year-old Christian Parker to lead the unit.

Rapoport specifically highlighted Parker’s arrival and the addition of rookie safety Caleb Downs. “This year, they bolstered the personnel,” he said. “They got a young defensive coordinator that is really, really good in Christian Parker.”

Dallas Cowboys’ defense enters new era

Downs gives Parker an immediate decision-maker in the secondary. The 11th overall pick brings versatility and could play multiple roles within Dallas’ defensive structure.

Rapoport is particularly interested in seeing how those pieces work together. “They drafted Caleb Downs in a place where he can be an immediate decision-maker,” he said. “I cannot wait to see what it is going to look like.”

The Cowboys also added Rashan Gary, Quinnen Williams and Von Miller while reshaping their secondary. Those additions give Dallas more experience and talent across the front seven and defensive backfield.

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The changes must produce more than better individual numbers. Dallas needs its defense to create stops, improve third-down efficiency, and give Prescott shorter fields.

Rapoport summed up the renewed optimism clearly: “It’s been quite a while since I’ve thought about enjoying watching this Cowboys defense. That’s what I’m here for. I’m excited about it.”

Sunday’s opener against the Giants will provide the first indication of whether Dallas has finally fixed its biggest weakness.

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