Jon Machota: THIS Cowboys Team Feels Different

The Dallas Cowboys are “moving different” — and The Athletic’s Jon Machota joins Kevin Gray to explain why. With the 53-man roster set and Week 1 against the Giants approaching, Machota breaks down why he believes the Cowboys are positioned to make a playoff run, what could ultimately determine Dak Prescott’s legacy, and why the team’s approach this offseason feels different from what we’ve seen in Dallas in recent years. Kevin and Jon dive into George Pickens and his future with the Cowboys, whether Dallas can realistically afford two top-of-market wide receivers, the surprising decision to trade for Broderick Jones, and why Joe Milton being waived was one of the biggest roster surprises Machota has seen in 16 years covering the team. They also take a deep dive into the biggest changes on defense — including Christian Parker, Caleb Downs, Quinnen Williams, Jaishawn Barham and the Cowboys’ revamped secondary — and discuss whether Dallas can make a significant jump after having one of the NFL’s worst defenses last season. Plus, Jon identifies the under-the-radar players who could make or break the defense, explains why the Cowboys may have to generate pressure by committee, and breaks down where Dallas stacks up against the Rams, Eagles, Seahawks and the rest of the NFC. And finally: Is there actually a sense of urgency inside the Cowboys organization with Jerry Jones trying to win NOW? Subscribe to DLLS Cowboys for Cowboys coverage every day.