‘Unknown Variables’ Could Dictate Cowboys’ 2025 Season

The Dallas Cowboys fell off a cliff last year with a 7-10 mark after three straight 12-5 campaigns.

Most of that was due to starting quarterback Dak Prescott missing nine games with a calf injury.

Former head coach Mike McCarthy is out, and Brian Schottenheimer has replaced him in his first attempt to lead an NFL team.

While he appears to have assembled an impressive coaching staff, Schottenheimer is an unknown variable, as is the health of Prescott.

Those, along with a questionable running game, could all be factors for the Cowboys in 2025.

Pro Football Network predicted each team’s best- and worst-case scenario for next year as we head into training camp, and those unknown variables dominate the discussion.

BEST-CASE SCENARIO

12-5

“After three straight seasons at 12-5, the Dallas Cowboys dropped down the ranks with a 7-10 performance in 2024. A lot of that was due to Dak Prescott’s hamstring injury, forcing them to go nine games without their starting quarterback,” PFSN wrote. “Luckily for Dallas, Prescott is back to full health. New head coach Brian Schottenheimer is an unknown variable, but the offense should be explosive with Prescott throwing to CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, and Jake Ferguson.

“They have a solid pass rush and two playmaking defensive backs in Trevon Diggs and Daron Bland. If their key defenders stay healthy, the Cowboys could make some serious noise.”

WORST-CASE SCENARIO

7-10

“After three straight seasons at 12-5, the Dallas Cowboys fell back to Earth in 2024 with a 7-10 record. Dak Prescott only being able to play in eight games certainly hurt their chances of making the playoffs, much less contending for a spot,” PFSN wrote. “It remains to be seen if Brian Schottenheimer will be an upgrade at head coach over Mike McCarthy. If Prescott stays healthy, the Cowboys have an explosive offense and a defense with multiple impact players.

“Prescott missing time again, however, would limit the offense severely and put a lot of pressure on the defense to carry the load.”