10 things I think I think -- post Draft edition

[jterrell]

10 Things I Think I Think: 2026 Dallas Cowboys Edition​

1. I think Schotty is everything Big Mike was supposed to be and is the most interesting storyline of the season. After years of being labeled predictable, Schotty has rebuilt his staff, the culture and leaned into adaptability. The 2026 Cowboys feel less like a team running a system and more like a team building one around its players. That shift alone changes the ceiling. Schiotty handles Jerry well nodding at him publicly all the while getting what he actually needs done behind the scenes.

2. I think the new offensive staff finally gives Dak Prescott what he’s needed: philosophical alignment. For the first time in a while, the Cowboys’ offensive identity isn’t fighting itself. The play‑design, the sequencing, the personnel groupings — they all feel like they’re speaking the same language. Dak thrives when the offense has rhythm, and this staff seems committed to giving him that.

3. I think the 2026 draft class is going to play earlier than people expect. This class wasn’t about splash; it was about fit. The Cowboys drafted players who fill real needs, especially on defense. These aren’t “developmental” guys — they’re plug‑and‑play contributors who match what the staff wants to run.

4. I think Downs might be the team MVP of the season. Every Cowboys season eventually comes down to production in big games. If the top rookie defender stabilizes the secondary the way the staff believes he can, the entire defense steps forward — the run game fits, the play‑action calls outs, the red‑zone efficiency. Sometimes the guy being in the right place and making the right defensive calls wins games without directly making them.
Downs is set to be an extension of CP on the field.

5. I think the offense is entering a “prove it” year under Schotty. This unit could be top‑five again. But it is how it handles the best competition and toughest defense that will define it. This offense isn't just passing dominance. You've hired run game developers to win ugly too.

6. I think Dee Winters is going to surprise people. He’s short, but he’s physical, and he fits the new defensive philosophy perfectly. He will start Week 1 imo, and could be your best Backer on the season. He can move and he can read plays. He left TCU as the all-time leading tackler. And he'd be much more beloved if he wasn't on the best LB corps in football since he was drafted. He was moving to Arlington before we traded for him.

7. I think the Cowboys finally understand the value of complementary football. For years, Dallas felt like two separate teams: an offense trying to outscore everyone and a defense trying to survive until Micah or Diggs made a big play. This current staff is building a roster that works together — time of possession, field position, situational awareness. It’s not as glamorous, but it wins games.

8. I think the DL is underrated. Between the veterans and the new additions, this group gives the Cowboys flexibility they haven’t had in a while. They can go heavy, they can go lighter with pass rush, they can move and blitz into mismatches. It’s a toolbox CP will use often IMO.

9. I think the Cowboys’ success hinges on discipline more than talent. The roster is good enough. The question is whether they can avoid the penalties, the late‑game lapses, and the situational mistakes that have haunted them. Coaching matters here — and this staff feels like culture winners.

10. I think this team has a chance to redefine its narrative. Not because of hype, but because of structure. The Cowboys finally feel aligned behind adult decision-making— front office, coaching staff, and roster. If they stay healthy and stay focused, 2026 could be the year they stop talking about potential and start delivering on it. That's not at all to say this team is a true contender... they are not. But they should be back in the division title race.

 

[Chasing6]

Prove it year? This is the assemble year. They just got the pieces an a new DQ.

 

[Acceptablename]

Ya I question "prove it year"

 

[Chocolate Lab]

1. I think Schotty is everything Big Mike was supposed to be and is the most interesting storyline of the season. After years of being labeled predictable, Schotty has rebuilt his staff, the culture and leaned into adaptability. The 2026 Cowboys feel less like a team running a system and more like a team building one around its players. That shift alone changes the ceiling. Schiotty handles Jerry well nodding at him publicly all the while getting what he actually needs done behind the scenes.

I think the best thing about Schotty as a coach here isn't player management, or Xs and Os, or play calling, or any of that. I think it's that his excellent people skills have won Jerry over.

IMO Jerry wasn't totally sold on BS at first -- that was more Stephen and McClay talking him into it. But now, Jerry seems totally bought in. And we know how important that is to have any chance of success around here. Of course the team has to win to maintain that, and BS has to be good at the actual coaching part, but if Jerry can actually have some trust in his coach and not constantly override him, we at least have a chance.

 

[Verdict]

10 Things I Think I Think: 2026 Dallas Cowboys Edition​

1. I think Schotty is everything Big Mike was supposed to be and is the most interesting storyline of the season. After years of being labeled predictable, Schotty has rebuilt his staff, the culture and leaned into adaptability. The 2026 Cowboys feel less like a team running a system and more like a team building one around its players. That shift alone changes the ceiling. Schiotty handles Jerry well nodding at him publicly all the while getting what he actually needs done behind the scenes.

I believe that Shotty has a chance to be here a long time. He has Garret’s structure without the robotic tendencies and constant buzzwords. (Stacking days/RKG etc). He also fits in like family with Jerry and Co and make no mistake that matters to Jerry.

I also think that Shotty has more balls than people give him credit for. He seems to be a solid hire for a change.

2. I think the new offensive staff finally gives Dak Prescott what he’s needed: philosophical alignment. For the first time in a while, the Cowboys’ offensive identity isn’t fighting itself. The play‑design, the sequencing, the personnel groupings — they all feel like they’re speaking the same language. Dak thrives when the offense has rhythm, and this staff seems committed to giving him that.

I don’t have a stance on this.

3. I think the 2026 draft class is going to play earlier than people expect. This class wasn’t about splash; it was about fit. The Cowboys drafted players who fill real needs, especially on defense. These aren’t “developmental” guys — they’re plug‑and‑play contributors who match what the staff wants to run.

Yes. I think this class will contribute a lot. I’m more concerned with the OT and Bama DL, but I’m willing to wait and see. The reason they were selected at least makes sense.

4. I think Downs might be the team MVP of the season. Every Cowboys season eventually comes down to production in big games. If the top rookie defender stabilizes the secondary the way the staff believes he can, the entire defense steps forward — the run game fits, the play‑action calls outs, the red‑zone efficiency. Sometimes the guy being in the right place and making the right defensive calls wins games without directly making them.
Downs is set to be an extension of CP on the field.

That’s very possible.

5. I think the offense is entering a “prove it” year under Schotty. This unit could be top‑five again. But it is how it handles the best competition and toughest defense that will define it. This offense isn't just passing dominance. You've hired run game developers to win ugly too.

I think his leash is much longer than you think it is.

6. I think Dee Winters is going to surprise people. He’s short, but he’s physical, and he fits the new defensive philosophy perfectly. He will start Week 1 imo, and could be your best Backer on the season. He can move and he can read plays. He left TCU as the all-time leading tackler. And he'd be much more beloved if he wasn't on the best LB corps in football since he was drafted. He was moving to Arlington before we traded for him.

I think he will contribute. If not it just means we have players even better in front of him. First world problems.

7. I think the Cowboys finally understand the value of complementary football. For years, Dallas felt like two separate teams: an offense trying to outscore everyone and a defense trying to survive until Micah or Diggs made a big play. This current staff is building a roster that works together — time of possession, field position, situational awareness. It’s not as glamorous, but it wins games.

I think they have understood it for a while. Pulling it off, not so much.

8. I think the DL is underrated. Between the veterans and the new additions, this group gives the Cowboys flexibility they haven’t had in a while. They can go heavy, they can go lighter with pass rush, they can move and blitz into mismatches. It’s a toolbox CP will use often IMO.

Yes. Even backups may be solid.

9. I think the Cowboys’ success hinges on discipline more than talent. The roster is good enough. The question is whether they can avoid the penalties, the late‑game lapses, and the situational mistakes that have haunted them. Coaching matters here — and this staff feels like culture winners.

I think there is enough talent. I lean towards your statement being true.

10. I think this team has a chance to redefine its narrative. Not because of hype, but because of structure. The Cowboys finally feel aligned behind adult decision-making— front office, coaching staff, and roster. If they stay healthy and stay focused, 2026 could be the year they stop talking about potential and start delivering on it. That's not at all to say this team is a true contender... they are not. But they should be back in the division title race.

Sometimes fans are too quick to jump on the narrative. We may not have won a SB in 30 years but we have built several teams between them and now that should have contended. Dez caught it. X2, etc.

Dallas is due to catch a few breaks. Overdue in fact. As some point the pendulum will swing back in our direction. Although it has taken far too long.

 

[Verdict]

I think the best thing about Schotty as a coach here isn't player management, or Xs and Os, or play calling, or any of that. I think it's that his excellent people skills have won Jerry over.

IMO Jerry wasn't totally sold on BS at first -- that was more Stephen and McClay talking him into it. But now, Jerry seems totally bought in. And we know how important that is to have any chance of success around here. Of course the team has to win to maintain that, and BS has to be good at the actual coaching part, but if Jerry can actually have some trust in his coach and not constantly override him, we at least have a chance.

Very well said!

 

[CowboyStar88]

lol this BS love fest is hilarious

 

[Bagman]

10 Things I Think I Think: 2026 Dallas Cowboys Edition​

1. I think Schotty is everything Big Mike was supposed to be and is the most interesting storyline of the season. After years of being labeled predictable, Schotty has rebuilt his staff, the culture and leaned into adaptability. The 2026 Cowboys feel less like a team running a system and more like a team building one around its players. That shift alone changes the ceiling. Schiotty handles Jerry well nodding at him publicly all the while getting what he actually needs done behind the scenes.

2. I think the new offensive staff finally gives Dak Prescott what he’s needed: philosophical alignment. For the first time in a while, the Cowboys’ offensive identity isn’t fighting itself. The play‑design, the sequencing, the personnel groupings — they all feel like they’re speaking the same language. Dak thrives when the offense has rhythm, and this staff seems committed to giving him that.

3. I think the 2026 draft class is going to play earlier than people expect. This class wasn’t about splash; it was about fit. The Cowboys drafted players who fill real needs, especially on defense. These aren’t “developmental” guys — they’re plug‑and‑play contributors who match what the staff wants to run.

4. I think Downs might be the team MVP of the season. Every Cowboys season eventually comes down to production in big games. If the top rookie defender stabilizes the secondary the way the staff believes he can, the entire defense steps forward — the run game fits, the play‑action calls outs, the red‑zone efficiency. Sometimes the guy being in the right place and making the right defensive calls wins games without directly making them.
Downs is set to be an extension of CP on the field.

5. I think the offense is entering a “prove it” year under Schotty. This unit could be top‑five again. But it is how it handles the best competition and toughest defense that will define it. This offense isn't just passing dominance. You've hired run game developers to win ugly too.

6. I think Dee Winters is going to surprise people. He’s short, but he’s physical, and he fits the new defensive philosophy perfectly. He will start Week 1 imo, and could be your best Backer on the season. He can move and he can read plays. He left TCU as the all-time leading tackler. And he'd be much more beloved if he wasn't on the best LB corps in football since he was drafted. He was moving to Arlington before we traded for him.

7. I think the Cowboys finally understand the value of complementary football. For years, Dallas felt like two separate teams: an offense trying to outscore everyone and a defense trying to survive until Micah or Diggs made a big play. This current staff is building a roster that works together — time of possession, field position, situational awareness. It’s not as glamorous, but it wins games.

8. I think the DL is underrated. Between the veterans and the new additions, this group gives the Cowboys flexibility they haven’t had in a while. They can go heavy, they can go lighter with pass rush, they can move and blitz into mismatches. It’s a toolbox CP will use often IMO.

9. I think the Cowboys’ success hinges on discipline more than talent. The roster is good enough. The question is whether they can avoid the penalties, the late‑game lapses, and the situational mistakes that have haunted them. Coaching matters here — and this staff feels like culture winners.

10. I think this team has a chance to redefine its narrative. Not because of hype, but because of structure. The Cowboys finally feel aligned behind adult decision-making— front office, coaching staff, and roster. If they stay healthy and stay focused, 2026 could be the year they stop talking about potential and start delivering on it. That's not at all to say this team is a true contender... they are not. But they should be back in the division title race.

Really great post man. Lots of reasonable insights. Good job

 

[visionary]

I think we are way way overreacting

I think Schotty and CP have proven absolutely nothing yet

This is basically a 2 year window to make a deep playoff run

 

[KingCorcoran]

lol this BS love fest is hilarious

The offseason is wishful thinking season. There are 32 NFL fanbases embracing this kind of rhetoric in deference to their favorite team. Cowboys fans deserve to embrace this kind of mindless optimism more than most fanbases.

Think of it like a person dying of thirst in the desert. It looks like water, sure enough, but it’s a mirage.

 

[Acceptablename]

lol this BS love fest is hilarious

Why

 

[LonnieElam]

I have this sinking feeling the offense takes a major step back this season. I don't know why.

 

[Chasing6]

I have this sinking feeling the offense takes a major step back this season. I don't know why.

A better defense will make the offense better.

 

[gtb1943]

Lots of hopium here

 

[Aven8]

I think the best thing about Schotty as a coach here isn't player management, or Xs and Os, or play calling, or any of that. I think it's that his excellent people skills have won Jerry over.

IMO Jerry wasn't totally sold on BS at first -- that was more Stephen and McClay talking him into it. But now, Jerry seems totally bought in. And we know how important that is to have any chance of success around here. Of course the team has to win to maintain that, and BS has to be good at the actual coaching part, but if Jerry can actually have some trust in his coach and not constantly override him, we at least have a chance.

Head Coaches are a lot like politicians. They have to be able to manage people and say the right things publicly and behind the scenes all the way down to Pop Warner. The best ones that can do all of that are generally successful. BS appears to be that type. Plus his play calling rocks!

 

[Coogiguy03]

I think we are way way overreacting

I think Schotty and CP have proven absolutely nothing yet

This is basically a 2 year window to make a deep playoff run

post of the damn day

 

[big dog cowboy]

4. I think Downs might be the team MVP of the season.

DROY

 

[phildadon86]

The offseason is wishful thinking season. There are 32 NFL fanbases embracing this kind of rhetoric in deference to their favorite team. Cowboys fans deserve to embrace this kind of mindless optimism more than most fanbases.

Think of it like a person dying of thirst in the desert. It looks like water, sure enough, but it’s a mirage.

No we don’t. This FO has 0 currency with its fanbase. 0

 

[phildadon86]

Head Coaches are a lot like politicians. They have to be able to manage people and say the right things publicly and behind the scenes all the way down to Pop Warner. The best ones that can do all of that are generally successful. BS appears to be that type. Plus his play calling rocks!

Yeah he looked fantastic against Chicago, Carolina and other people who were supposed to be bottom feeders.

Also looked amazing in the red zone and in the second half of games.

The guys going to come down to earth this year. And it’s not going to be good. Defenses were already figuring him out last year.

 

[Mikexike]

10 Things I Think I Think: 2026 Dallas Cowboys Edition​

1. I think Schotty is everything Big Mike was supposed to be and is the most interesting storyline of the season. After years of being labeled predictable, Schotty has rebuilt his staff, the culture and leaned into adaptability. The 2026 Cowboys feel less like a team running a system and more like a team building one around its players. That shift alone changes the ceiling. Schiotty handles Jerry well nodding at him publicly all the while getting what he actually needs done behind the scenes.

2. I think the new offensive staff finally gives Dak Prescott what he’s needed: philosophical alignment. For the first time in a while, the Cowboys’ offensive identity isn’t fighting itself. The play‑design, the sequencing, the personnel groupings — they all feel like they’re speaking the same language. Dak thrives when the offense has rhythm, and this staff seems committed to giving him that.

3. I think the 2026 draft class is going to play earlier than people expect. This class wasn’t about splash; it was about fit. The Cowboys drafted players who fill real needs, especially on defense. These aren’t “developmental” guys — they’re plug‑and‑play contributors who match what the staff wants to run.

4. I think Downs might be the team MVP of the season. Every Cowboys season eventually comes down to production in big games. If the top rookie defender stabilizes the secondary the way the staff believes he can, the entire defense steps forward — the run game fits, the play‑action calls outs, the red‑zone efficiency. Sometimes the guy being in the right place and making the right defensive calls wins games without directly making them.
Downs is set to be an extension of CP on the field.

5. I think the offense is entering a “prove it” year under Schotty. This unit could be top‑five again. But it is how it handles the best competition and toughest defense that will define it. This offense isn't just passing dominance. You've hired run game developers to win ugly too.

6. I think Dee Winters is going to surprise people. He’s short, but he’s physical, and he fits the new defensive philosophy perfectly. He will start Week 1 imo, and could be your best Backer on the season. He can move and he can read plays. He left TCU as the all-time leading tackler. And he'd be much more beloved if he wasn't on the best LB corps in football since he was drafted. He was moving to Arlington before we traded for him.

7. I think the Cowboys finally understand the value of complementary football. For years, Dallas felt like two separate teams: an offense trying to outscore everyone and a defense trying to survive until Micah or Diggs made a big play. This current staff is building a roster that works together — time of possession, field position, situational awareness. It’s not as glamorous, but it wins games.

8. I think the DL is underrated. Between the veterans and the new additions, this group gives the Cowboys flexibility they haven’t had in a while. They can go heavy, they can go lighter with pass rush, they can move and blitz into mismatches. It’s a toolbox CP will use often IMO.

9. I think the Cowboys’ success hinges on discipline more than talent. The roster is good enough. The question is whether they can avoid the penalties, the late‑game lapses, and the situational mistakes that have haunted them. Coaching matters here — and this staff feels like culture winners.

10. I think this team has a chance to redefine its narrative. Not because of hype, but because of structure. The Cowboys finally feel aligned behind adult decision-making— front office, coaching staff, and roster. If they stay healthy and stay focused, 2026 could be the year they stop talking about potential and start delivering on it. That's not at all to say this team is a true contender... they are not. But they should be back in the division title race.

Thank you for that, great read. My thoughts on the team align with yours.