Locked On Cowboys Hit - Quick Takes on the Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys may have one of the most dangerous wide receiver duos in the NFL.

On this episode of Locked On Cowboys Hit Podcast, host James Duncan breaks down why George Pickens is poised for a HUGE season in Dallas and why his presence could actually make CeeDee Lamb even more dangerous.

Jerry Jones has been extremely impressed with Pickens, praising his training camp and talking about what the Cowboys believe he can bring to the team not only this season, but for years to come.

And it's easy to see why Dallas is excited.

Pickens is coming off a 2025 season with 1,429 receiving yards, 93 catches and 9 touchdowns. Now he's entering a Cowboys offense featuring Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, Jake Ferguson, KaVontae Turpin and Ryan Flournoy.

That's a completely different situation for Pickens.

James explains why Pickens doesn't need to become Dallas' No. 1 receiver to have a massive impact — he simply needs to become impossible for defenses to consistently stop.

If defenses put their best corner on CeeDee Lamb, Pickens can attack one-on-one.

If they focus on Pickens, CeeDee gets opportunities.

And if defenses try to double one of them?

Dak Prescott has even more options.

Then James asks the BIG question:

Could CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens actually be the BEST wide receiver duo in the NFL?

CeeDee missed three games last season and still finished with 1,077 receiving yards, while Pickens totaled 1,429 yards. Together, that's more than 2,500 receiving yards.

But the biggest reason this pairing could be so dangerous is that they don't have to play the same role.

CeeDee can dominate underneath, work from the slot and create after the catch, while Pickens can stretch the field, win contested catches and force defenses to respect the deep ball.

James breaks down why the Cowboys didn't bring George Pickens to Dallas to replace CeeDee Lamb — they brought him here to make it harder for defenses to double CeeDee.

Plus, James looks at the latest Cowboys prediction market on Kalshi, with Dallas currently trading at a 59% probability to beat the New York Giants in Week 1.

Cowboys Nation — where does George Pickens finish among NFL wide receivers this season?

Top 10? Top 5?

And are CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens the BEST wide receiver duo in football?

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The Dallas Cowboys' defense has something to PROVE.

Everyone is talking about Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens heading into Week 1, but host James Duncan believes the Cowboys' defense could be the biggest reason Dallas surprises people in 2026.

On this episode of Locked On Cowboys Hit Podcast, James breaks down Dallas' completely revamped defense and why Sunday night against the New York Giants could be the first real test of whether this unit is actually different.

The Cowboys allowed 511 points in 2025 — the most in the NFL — and Dallas responded by making major changes on that side of the football.

Quinnen Williams is now anchoring the middle of the defensive line. Kenny Clark brings more strength up front. Rashan Gary and Von Miller add pass-rush talent. Rookie safety Caleb Downs was selected 11th overall, while Dallas also added Malachi Lawrence and Shavon Revel Jr.

And then there's new defensive coordinator Christian Parker.

The talent is clearly there.

But can it translate?

James explains the Quinnen Williams effect, why the Cowboys don't need one superstar to carry the defense, and how a deeper defensive front could create opportunities for everyone else.

Then it's time to talk about Caleb Downs.

The rookie safety gets his first real regular-season test against the Giants, and Dallas needs him to be more than just a highly drafted prospect. If Downs can immediately make the secondary more aggressive alongside DaRon Bland, Shavon Revel Jr., Malik Hooker and Jalen Thompson, the entire defense could change.

Better coverage creates more time for the pass rush.

More pressure creates more bad throws.

More bad throws create turnovers.

And turnovers create opportunities for Dak Prescott and the Cowboys offense.

But James also pumps the brakes on the hype. One good game against the Giants won't suddenly make Dallas a top-five defense.

The real question is whether this defense can simply stop being the reason the Cowboys lose football games.

Can Dallas hold the Giants to 17 points or fewer?

Can Quinnen Williams dominate the middle?

Can Von Miller still create pressure?

And can Caleb Downs look like the difference-maker Dallas drafted him to be?

Plus, James breaks down the latest Cowboys prediction market on Kalshi.

Cowboys Nation — what do you expect from this defense in Week 1?

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The Dallas Cowboys have a BIGGER problem than people think heading into Week 1 — and it starts with the offensive line.

On this episode of Locked On Cowboys Hit Podcast, host James Duncan breaks down the impact of Tyler Smith landing on injured reserve after thumb surgery and what his absence means for Dallas against the New York Giants.

Smith is one of the Cowboys’ most important offensive linemen, and losing him to start the season creates even more questions for an offensive line that was already undergoing changes. Dallas traded for former first-round pick Broderick Jones, added Wanya Morris and is still trying to figure out its best combination up front.

The biggest question is simple: Can the Cowboys protect Dak Prescott?

Dallas has the weapons to put together one of the NFL’s most dangerous offenses with Dak, CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens and Jake Ferguson. But none of that matters if the offensive line allows the Giants’ pass rush to dictate the game.

And New York has the players to make Dallas pay, including Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux.

But there could be another side of this Cowboys team that changes everything.

James breaks down why the Cowboys’ new-look defense could be the key to surviving the offensive-line concerns. With Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark, Rashan Gary, Von Miller, Caleb Downs, Malachi Lawrence and Shavon Revel Jr., Dallas has invested heavily in improving the defense.

This will also be the first real regular-season test for defensive coordinator Christian Parker and rookie safety Caleb Downs, who was selected 11th overall.

Can Dallas pressure Jaxson Dart? Can the defense force turnovers? And can the Cowboys keep the Giants from letting Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo take over the game?

If the Cowboys’ defense is really as different as advertised, Week 1 is where they need to prove it.

Plus, James breaks down the latest Cowboys-Kalshi prediction market, with Dallas currently trading at a 59% probability to beat the Giants.

Cowboys Nation — what worries you more heading into Week 1: the offensive line without Tyler Smith, or the defense proving it's actually better?

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The Dallas Cowboys have more than $30 million in available 2026 cap space — so what is Jerry Jones planning to do with it?

On this episode of Locked On Cowboys Hit Podcast, host James Duncan breaks down Dallas’ massive increase in salary-cap flexibility and the three biggest ways the Cowboys could use that money heading into the 2026 NFL season.

Dallas recently restructured the contracts of Kenny Clark, DaRon Bland and Jake Ferguson, creating more than $19 million in additional 2026 cap space. Combined with the money Dallas already had available, the Cowboys now have more than $30 million in flexibility.

But having the money and spending the money are two very different things.

James breaks down three potential paths for Dallas: making a significant trade, signing a veteran or simply preserving the cap space for the future.

The trade option is the most exciting.

Dallas now has the financial flexibility to potentially absorb a significant contract while also possessing draft capital that could be used in a blockbuster deal. That's where names like Christian Gonzalez become interesting — not because there is a verified Cowboys-Patriots trade negotiation, but because Dallas has created the financial ability to pursue a player of that caliber if the opportunity ever becomes available.

James then examines the positions Dallas should monitor most closely.

Cornerback is at the top of the list, especially if a legitimate difference-maker becomes available. Edge rusher remains worth monitoring despite the additions of Von Miller and Rashan Gary. And offensive tackle remains a position of concern after Dallas traded for Broderick Jones and added Wanya Morris.

But there is also an argument for doing absolutely nothing.

You don't spend $30 million simply because you have $30 million.

James gives his take on when Jerry Jones should finally open the wallet — and why the Cowboys should be waiting for a player who can actually raise the ceiling of this football team.

The Cowboys don't have to make a move because they have the money. But for the first time in a while, if the right superstar becomes available, Dallas has the flexibility to say YES.

Cowboys Nation — you have more than $30 million in cap space. What's the ONE position you're spending it on?

And if Christian Gonzalez becomes available, what's the most draft capital you're giving up?

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The Dallas Cowboys just created more than $30 million in available 2026 cap space — and Cowboys Nation immediately has questions.

On this episode of Locked On Cowboys Hit Podcast, host James Duncan breaks down Dallas’ latest salary-cap moves, why the timing is so interesting, and whether the Cowboys could be positioning themselves to make a major move before the 2026 NFL season.

Dallas restructured the contracts of Kenny Clark, DaRon Bland and Jake Ferguson, creating more than $19 million in additional 2026 cap space. Combined with the approximately $14.2 million Dallas had available beforehand, the Cowboys now have more than $30 million in reported cap flexibility.

And this isn't happening in isolation.

Dallas has already reworked several major contracts this year, including deals involving Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, Tyler Smith, Terence Steele and Malik Hooker. That raises an obvious question: why is Dallas continuing to create financial flexibility?

Could the Cowboys simply be rolling the money into 2027? Could they be preparing for an extension for one of their own players? Or could Jerry Jones and the front office be positioning themselves to absorb a veteran contract in a trade?

That's where New England Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez enters the conversation.

Gonzalez is one of the most intriguing names Cowboys fans could connect to a potential blockbuster trade, but there is currently no verified report that Dallas and New England are actively negotiating a deal.

James breaks down why the responsible way to discuss the rumor isn't “Christian Gonzalez is coming to Dallas,” but rather: Dallas has created the financial flexibility to potentially make a move like this.

Then James looks at what Gonzalez could actually bring to the Cowboys’ defense alongside DaRon Bland and Shavon Revel Jr.

With a defensive front featuring Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark, Rashan Gary and Von Miller, plus young playmakers like Caleb Downs, adding a high-end outside corner could completely change what Dallas is capable of doing defensively.

The bigger question is what Gonzalez would cost.

Would the Patriots demand a first-round pick? What kind of contract would Gonzalez command? And would the Cowboys be willing to spend both significant draft capital and money to land a potential defensive cornerstone?

Cowboys Nation — if New England makes Christian Gonzalez available, are you giving up a first-round pick to get him?

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The Dallas Cowboys’ 53-man roster may be set, but the Cowboys are NOT finished making moves.

On this episode of Locked On Cowboys Hit Podcast, host James Duncan breaks down the biggest remaining roster questions for Dallas and asks the most important question heading into the 2026 NFL season: Who should the Cowboys add next?

Dallas has already made several moves since cutdown day, including acquiring former first-round offensive tackle Broderick Jones, adding veteran tackle Wanya Morris, claiming running back Emari Demercado, and bringing quarterback Joe Milton back to the practice squad.

Those moves have changed the Cowboys’ biggest roster needs.

Offensive tackle is now the position James is watching closest. Dallas has added Jones and Morris, but those additions may actually be a sign that the Cowboys remain concerned about their tackle depth.

James also examines the running back room featuring Javonte Williams, Malik Davis, Hunter Luepke and Emari Demercado, the cornerback depth behind DaRon Bland and Shavon Revel Jr., and the linebacker group led by DeMarvion Overshown and Jaishawn Barham.

The quarterback situation has changed as well. With Dak Prescott and Sam Howell on the 53-man roster and Joe Milton back on the practice squad, quarterback is no longer a position Dallas needs to address immediately.

So if Jerry Jones gives the Cowboys ONE MORE roster move, where should they make it?

Offensive tackle? Cornerback? Linebacker? Running back? Veteran receiver? Defensive line?

James gives his answer — and explains why the Cowboys don't necessarily need another superstar. They need the right piece in the right place.

Dallas has already shown that it's willing to make moves when the right opportunity appears. The question now is whether another player becomes available who can make this roster better.

Cowboys Nation — Jerry Jones gives you ONE more roster move. What position are you fixing?

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Cut day is over — but the Dallas Cowboys’ roster story is far from finished.

On this episode of Locked On Cowboys Hit Podcast, host James Duncan breaks down which Cowboys cuts returned to the practice squad, which players found new NFL homes, and which practice-squad player could be the first one called up during the 2026 season.

Dallas brought back several familiar faces, including Joe Milton, Justin Barron, Michael Trigg, Jordan Hudson, Israel Abanikanda and Reddy Steward. Milton is especially intriguing after clearing waivers and returning to the Cowboys’ practice squad, allowing Dallas to continue developing the young quarterback in an offense he already knows.

But not every Cowboys cut came back.

Jaydon Blue landed with the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad, Julius Wood joined the Miami Dolphins, Trevor Keegan landed with the Minnesota Vikings, and Sam Williams joined the Cleveland Browns.

James breaks down why those departures matter and why Dallas’ cutdown process wasn't simply about deciding who made the initial 53-man roster. The Cowboys also had to determine which players they could retain, develop and potentially call up later — and which players they were willing to lose.

Then comes the biggest question: who gets called up first?

James ranks the Cowboys’ top practice-squad call-up candidates, with new offensive tackle addition Wanya Morris at No. 1. Morris brings legitimate NFL starting experience and could become extremely important if Dallas suffers an injury or needs additional help at offensive tackle.

Justin Barron, Reddy Steward, Joe Milton and Michael Trigg also remain intriguing candidates depending on where injuries and roster needs develop.

The first player called up from the practice squad could tell us more about the Cowboys’ biggest weakness than the 53-man roster does.

Cowboys Nation — who is your first practice-squad call-up?

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The Dallas Cowboys just made a major move at offensive tackle — and Terence Steele better be ready for a fight. On this episode of Locked On Cowboys Hit Podcast, host James Duncan breaks down Dallas’ trade for former first-round offensive tackle Broderick Jones and why this move is about much more than adding depth. The Cowboys acquired Jones from the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for Dallas’ 2027 third- and sixth-round picks, receiving Jones and a 2027 fourth-round pick in return. The former first-round pick has started 38 games over three NFL seasons, including 27 at right tackle and 11 at left tackle. Dallas reportedly had a first-round grade on Jones coming out of Georgia, and now the Cowboys are giving him an opportunity to compete for the starting right tackle job. That puts the spotlight directly on Terence Steele, who has been Dallas’ starting right tackle for years. James breaks down why the Cowboys made this trade, what Jones brings to the offensive line, why his experience at both tackle positions matters, and why Dallas appears determined to create legitimate competition at right tackle. But what happens if Broderick Jones actually wins the job? Steele has experience, familiarity and years invested in the Cowboys’ offensive line. Jones has the higher draft pedigree and 38 NFL starts — including 27 at right tackle. Pittsburgh ultimately moved on after inconsistent play and positional instability, but Dallas could give Jones the fresh start and consistency he didn't always have in Pittsburgh. Terence Steele has earned the right to compete. Broderick Jones has earned the right to challenge him. So who should start Week 1 at right tackle? Cowboys Nation — Terence Steele or Broderick Jones? Subscribe to Locked On Cowboys Hit for daily Dallas Cowboys news, Cowboys rumors, breaking updates, roster moves, offensive line analysis, player competition and NFL coverage from James Duncan. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. #DallasCowboys #CowboysNation #BroderickJones #TerenceSteele #CowboysNews #CowboysRumors #CowboysRoster #CowboysOL #OffensiveLine #NFL #LockedOnCowboys

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Joe Milton is officially back with the Dallas Cowboys — and now the Cowboys’ practice squad is loaded with intriguing talent.

On this episode of **Locked On Cowboys Hit Podcast**, host **James Duncan** breaks down Joe Milton’s return to Dallas, the most intriguing players on the Cowboys’ practice squad, and the player who could be the most important addition of them all.

Milton cleared waivers and has officially returned to Dallas’ practice squad, allowing the Cowboys to continue developing the young quarterback without using a spot on the 53-man roster. Sam Howell remains QB2 behind Dak Prescott, but Milton remains one of the most intriguing developmental quarterbacks in the organization.

James also looks at Justin Barron, who made headlines with three interceptions during practice, versatile defensive back Reddy Steward, running back Israel Abanikanda, and tight end Michael Trigg as potential players who could receive a call-up if injuries hit.

But the biggest question may be at offensive tackle.

Dallas added **Wanya Morris**, a former third-round pick with 16 career NFL starts, including 11 starts for Kansas City in 2024. The Cowboys also added former first-round pick Broderick Jones, giving Dallas even more competition and insurance at tackle.

With concerns still surrounding offensive tackle depth, could Wanya Morris become one of the most important players on the Cowboys’ practice squad?

And with Joe Milton back in the building, who is the **next Cowboys practice-squad breakout candidate**?

**Cowboys Nation — which practice-squad player do you think gets called up first?**

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The Dallas Cowboys have found their new RB3 — and it’s Emari Demercado. After moving on from Jaydon Blue, Phil Mafah and Israel Abanikanda, Dallas went outside the organization and claimed Demercado off waivers from Kansas City.

On this episode of Locked On Cowboys Hit, host James Duncan breaks down why the Cowboys chose Demercado, what his NFL experience brings to the running back room, and whether Dallas actually got better at RB3.

Demercado brings three years of NFL experience and 40 career games to Dallas, along with 819 career rushing yards and a 6.5 yards-per-carry average. Even more importantly, Demercado previously worked with Cowboys offensive coordinator Klayton Adams in Arizona, giving him familiarity with the offensive system.

James breaks down why Dallas may have valued experience and immediate reliability over the potential of Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, and what this move tells us about how the Cowboys view the running back room behind Javonte Williams and Malik Davis.

With Javonte Williams expected to lead the group, Malik Davis emerging as RB2, Hunter Luepke providing fullback and special-teams versatility, and Demercado now entering the mix, is Dallas actually better at running back?

And does this move mean the Cowboys weren't completely satisfied with their previous RB3 options?

Cowboys Nation — would you rather have Jaydon Blue or Emari Demercado as RB3?

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