BREAKING NEWS: Cowboys Star QB Admits Defense is the Biggest Weakness

In the 2025-26 NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys are grappling with significant challenges as their defense emerges as the most glaring weakness, directly impacting the team's overall performance. Star quarterback Dak Prescott has spoken candidly, acknowledging that the defensive unit is a major burden and requires urgent improvements to help the Cowboys compete effectively.​

The Alarming State of the Cowboys' Defense

After the first eight weeks of play, the Dallas Cowboys rank 31st in the NFL for overall defensive performance, allowing an average of 404.6 yards per game—barely ahead of the Cincinnati Bengals. This deficiency isn't limited to one area but spans across all facets, making it difficult for the team to control games and secure victories.​

The Cowboys' pass defense sits at No. 31, just above the Pittsburgh Steelers, with opponents racking up 258.6 passing yards per game and a league-high 20 passing touchdowns. This highlights the vulnerabilities in defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus's scheme, which has failed to make consistent adjustments to address exposed flaws, leading to inconsistent results.​

The run defense fares no better, ranking 29th and surrendering 148.9 rushing yards per game while tying for the most rushing touchdowns allowed at 10. These statistics paint a clear picture of a defense that's leaking in every aspect, contributing to the team's modest 3-4-1 record early in the season.​

Dak Prescott's Candid Take

Dak Prescott, leading a potent offense that's lighting up the scoreboard, didn't hold back when discussing the issue. In a recent media interview, he voiced strong support for bolstering the defense through trades ahead of the NFL deadline, which is less than 24 hours away from their upcoming Week 9 clash with the Arizona Cardinals.​

"It definitely can help a team," Prescott said when asked about potential moves. "Not being naïve and understanding where we are... I'm not sure [about] one position... Leave it to those guys who are in those talks." His admission underscores the urgency, emphasizing that while the offense thrives, the lack of defensive support is holding the team back and necessitating action from ownership.​

Prescott focused on solutions rather than blame, believing that acquiring a key defensive player could restore balance. This is especially critical as the Cowboys head into their bye week after Monday Night Football, giving Jerry Jones and the front office time to evaluate trade options.​

Path to Improvement and Lessons for the Cowboys

Given their current standing, the Dallas Cowboys must prioritize defensive enhancements to stay in the NFC playoff hunt. Eberflus's inability to adapt tactics has drawn widespread criticism, and Prescott's comments serve as a wake-up call that time is running out.​

Analysts expect the Cowboys to be active buyers at the trade deadline, targeting players to fill gaps in the defensive line. If executed well, this could transform their weakness into a strength, reigniting momentum and positioning them as contenders.​

In summary, Dak Prescott's honest assessment isn't just a harsh reality—it's a catalyst for change. Strengthening the defense will be key to overcoming this rough patch and returning the Cowboys to NFL elite status in 2025-26.