3 ways the Cowboys can exceed expectations in 2024
It’s safe to say that the Dallas Cowboys won’t be expected to contend much in 2024. Numerous weak spots on the squad have been caused by the executive office, and they have refused to extend some of their best players.
The front office is losing millions of dollars because they won’t extend some of their best players, leaving countless places on the team vulnerable.
Eric Kendricks, a seasoned linebacker, is the only outside free agent that Dallas has signed.
In the meantime, an excessive number of internal starters and depth players have defected to rival teams.
It is practically impossible to win the NFC East in consecutive seasons.
Since the Eagles from 2001 to 2004, no club has accomplished it.
The Cowboys may find it particularly difficult to leave 2024 wearing NFC East champion hats, given that they are the current champions.
Nevertheless, this season in Dallas, jobs are at stake.
Many coaches and players, particularly those nearing the end of their contracts, are aware that this may be their only opportunity to establish their value over the long run.
What then can the Cowboys accomplish in the 2024 season to rise above their low expectations?
Let’s discuss it.
Get MVP Season out of Dak Prescott
Some may find it difficult to accept, but 2023 was Dak Prescott’s best year ever.
In addition, he had the league’s finest statistical season of any quarterback, which helped him place second in the MVP voting.
Despite the unsatisfactory conclusion to the season, Prescott had a fantastic season in 2023, and the squad is in dire need of him to repeat it.
It is not at all unusual for the MVP vote runner-up to take home the trophy the following season.
While taking home the trophy shouldn’t be a predictor of the Cowboys’ 2024 success, Prescott must have a season that is either identical to or better than the previous one.
Whether the surrounding offense is strong enough to enable such is the question.
With massive openings at wide receiver, running back, and offensive line, that side of the ball is in disarray following free agency.
Fortunately, the team has an opportunity to address some of those shortcomings.
It appears likely that the team will select a running back and an offensive lineman with their first two picks in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Prescott will have a strong enough offense to push for the playoffs if they accomplish that.
For the seasoned quarterback, having a second straight career year is a big ask.
particularly considering how much poorer his supporting cast is.
But Prescott’s outstanding season (and postseason) might be the team’s best chance to counter the unfavorable perception of the organization.
I believe it is reasonable to state that the Cowboys in 2024 would surpass expectations if Prescott had a regular season similar to his in 2023 or even better.
2023 Draft Class Revival
In a season where their rookie draft class provides almost no contributions, it is difficult for any team to win.
In 2023, the Cowboys did precisely that.
A significant achievement was winning 12 games and the NFC East during a time when their finest rookies were UDFA kicker Brandon Aubrey and full back Hunter Luepke.
Mazi Smith, a first-round selection, only managed nine solo tackles, Luke Schoonmaker, a second-round selection, caught just eight passes, and DeMarvion Overshown, a third-round selection, injured his knee before the season ever got underway.
If Dallas’ 2023 class has a successful comeback season, the roster will appear much superior than it does currently.
Mike Zimmer Masterclass
The Cowboys appear to be unable to put their defense together, despite possessing all the necessary parts.
For Dallas to have a successful season, Zimmer must be able to accomplish that.
With Kendricks, he’s received one of his own, and Micah Parsons is a consistent contender for DPOY.
It’s safe to say the Cowboys have a strong defense on paper, especially with a few expected acquisitions made in the draft.
Zimmer might prove to be a successful hire if he can improve his team.
The Cowboys have a lot to show in 2024, and they still have work to do if they want to surpass predictions.
They can accomplish it without a doubt.
However, Prescott, their young guys, and the coaching staff will need to put in a lot of work.
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