NFL power rankings: Training camp edition
By Brad Weiss
Dallas Cowboys
, NFC East
Last season, the Dallas Cowboys were the surprise story of the NFL, shaking off a potential devastating injury in the preseason, and finishing with the best record in the NFC. Starting quarterback Tony Romo broke his back during the preseason, leaving the door open for rookie Dak Prescott to take over under center. All Prescott did was lead the team to a 13-3 record, although the season would end in disappointment with a Divisional Round loss at home.
Joining Prescott with an incredible rookie season was running back Ezekiel Elliott, who led the entire league in rushing yards. News this offseason is that Elliott may be suspended for a bit in 2017, due to the league’s investigation on a domestic violence allegation. However, team owner Jerry Jones says there is no evidence to support the allegations, and the team does have Darren McFadden and Alfred Morris if they are without their star second-year back.
The defense lost a bunch of starters this offseason, especially in the secondary. However, they did do a nice job filling those roles via the NFL Draft, bringing in cornerback Chidobe Awuzie from Colorado, and Jourdan Lewis from Michigan. In the first round, the team drafted Taco Charlton, who many believed was the best pass-rusher the draft class had to offer. The Cowboys are building the roster the right way, and should be a contender for the next few seasons at least.
Year two is always a scary one for quarterbacks, though Prescott should be the exception to the rule. The Cowboys will rely heavily on Elliott to carry the load, and they still have Dez Bryant and Jason Witten in the passing game. Dallas fans can expect another divisional title this season, and at the worst case scenario, a berth in the playoffs via the Wildcard.