Cowboys Explore Tight End Future as Starters Face Jeopardy

Christian Parker talks Dallas-Philly rivalry as team looks to bolster defense in draft

Feb. 28, 2026 at 10:55am

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The Dallas Cowboys are facing some tough decisions as they head into the 2026 season, with several key starters potentially on the chopping block. The team is also exploring the future at the tight end position, while new defensive back Christian Parker discusses the nasty rivalry with the Philadelphia Eagles. The NFL Scouting Combine is just around the corner, and the Cowboys are eyeing defensive prospects to help turn around their struggling unit.

Why it matters

The Cowboys are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season, and the decisions they make this offseason regarding their roster and the NFL Draft will be crucial. The tight end position is an area of need, and the team will need to find the right pieces to complement their offensive attack. Meanwhile, the rivalry with the Eagles remains one of the fiercest in the NFL, and Parker's perspective provides insight into the intensity of the matchup.

The details

The Cowboys are exploring options at the tight end position, as they look to plan for the future beyond the 2026 season. Several key starters, including running back Javonte Williams, may also be in jeopardy of losing their jobs. On the defensive side, the team is eyeing top prospects from the SEC and some under-the-radar players from Texas as they look to bolster their unit. New defensive back Christian Parker, who joined the Cowboys after playing for the rival Eagles, discusses the intensity of the Dallas-Philly rivalry and what it means to put on the star for the first time.

  • The NFL Scouting Combine kicks off in a few days.
  • The Cowboys are heading into the 2026 season.

The players

Christian Parker

A 34-year-old defensive back who recently joined the Cowboys after playing for the rival Philadelphia Eagles.

Javonte Williams

A Cowboys running back who may be in jeopardy of losing his starting job.

Brian Schottenheimer

The Cowboys' offensive coordinator, who is entering his second season with the team.

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What they’re saying

“Putting on the star for the first time, it's going to be a different feeling. But I'm ready to give it my all and show the fans what I can do.”

— Christian Parker, Defensive Back (Cowboys Wire)

What’s next

The Cowboys will be closely monitoring the NFL Scouting Combine in the coming days, as they look to identify defensive prospects that can help turn around their struggling unit.

The takeaway

The Cowboys are facing a critical offseason as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign. The decisions they make regarding their roster and the NFL Draft will be crucial, as they aim to bolster their defense and find the right pieces to complement their offense, including at the tight end position. The rivalry with the Eagles remains as intense as ever, and new addition Christian Parker's perspective provides insight into the passion of this matchup.