With the Dallas Cowboys sitting at 3-4 after a disheartening 30-24 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, their season has shifted from high hopes to critical questions. Here are three burning issues that have come into focus for Dallas as they look to salvage their season.
#1. What’s the Solution for Terence Steele’s Struggles at Right Tackle?
Right tackle Terence Steele has had a rocky season, looking overmatched against elite pass rushers like Nick Bosa and struggling even against lesser competition. Since his knee injury in 2022, Steele hasn’t returned to form, particularly in pass protection, a concerning weakness for a team that depends on a secure offensive line.
Possible Fixes:
The Cowboys could experiment with some reshuffling along the offensive line. They might consider moving rookie Tyler Guyton, who played right tackle in college, to Steele’s spot, allowing Tyler Smith to slide to left tackle. Alternatively, backups Asim Richards or Matt Waletzko could be tested in Steele’s place. But if they don’t make a move soon, it might signal a lack of confidence in their reserves.
If 2024 is indeed a rebuilding year, Dallas could focus on letting Guyton gain experience on the left side while giving Steele some help through added blocking support from tight ends and running backs. A potential offseason cut could bring $4.6 million in cap relief, making Steele’s long-term future uncertain.
#2. Why Has Jake Ferguson’s Breakout Year Stalled?
Going into the season, tight end Jake Ferguson was expected to be a prominent figure in Dallas’s offense. Yet, with only 23 yards on six catches against the 49ers and limited involvement throughout the season, the anticipated leap hasn’t materialized. Part of the issue traces back to the offensive line struggles, which have kept Ferguson in more blocking roles instead of running routes.
Another factor is play-calling. Head coach Mike McCarthy’s offensive schemes have historically minimized tight end usage, dating back to his years in Green Bay. Even with Ferguson’s clear talent, his targets pale in comparison to what former Cowboy Dalton Schultz received. Unless the offensive approach changes, Ferguson’s breakout may have to wait for new leadership or a revamped scheme in 2025.
#3. Why Aren’t Malik Hooker and Donovan Wilson on the Bench?
The safety play has been a weak point for Dallas, with Malik Hooker and Donovan Wilson grading among the lowest at their positions this season. Despite their experience, neither has delivered, possibly due to adjustments under defensive coach Mike Zimmer. Yet, backup safeties like Juanyeh Thomas and Markquese Bell have shown flashes of playmaking potential, and their limited usage—just 6% of snaps—leaves many wondering why they aren’t given a chance.
With both Hooker and Wilson’s potential offseason cap casualties, the Cowboys should consider rotating Thomas and Bell into the lineup to gauge their readiness for starting roles in 2025. At this point, trying a new approach in the secondary might yield improvements.
As the Cowboys prepare for Week 9, they’re under pressure to make adjustments. These three questions represent critical issues that could define the rest of their season, whether they choose to shake things up or stay the course.
