Preseason Power Rankings Roundup: Can Cowboys crack Top 10?

August 13, 2026 - 00:46

As the NFL preseason winds down, the annual flood of power rankings is out, and Dallas is getting a bit more respect than in past years. The question on everyone's mind is whether the Cowboys can finally break into the top ten after a string of disappointing finishes. Most major outlets have them hovering right around the 12th to 15th range, but a few bold analysts are starting to slot them just inside the cutoff.

The optimism stems from a revamped defensive line and a healthier offensive core. Micah Parsons looks primed for a monster year, and the addition of a few veteran run-stoppers should fix the glaring weakness that plagued them late last season. On offense, Dak Prescott is reportedly moving well after his ankle issues, and the return of a full-speed CeeDee Lamb gives the passing game a legitimate deep threat. The offensive line, though not the dominant unit of five years ago, still has enough talent to open holes for a committee backfield.

Still, the skepticism is fair. Dallas has a habit of winning the offseason and losing in January. Their schedule is brutal, with three divisional road games in the first six weeks. If they stumble early, the rankings will drop fast. But if the defense can force turnovers and the offense stays balanced, a top-ten finish is not a pipe dream. It is a realistic goal, and for the first time in a while, the national pundits are not laughing at the idea. They are just waiting to see if Dallas can prove them right or wrong.