The Dallas Cowboys are hoping for a defensive resurgence in 2026, and three players expected to play a significant role in that effort are Quinnen Williams, Donovan Ezeiruaku, and Rashan Gary. To prepare for the season ahead, all three are heading to Las Vegas later this week to attend the annual Sack Summit hosted by Von Miller, Cam Jordan, and Maxx Crosby.
The Cowboys are hoping Williams, Ezeiruaku, and Gary can take what they learn at the summit and translate it to the field this season. Just as importantly, they’ll have an opportunity to bring that knowledge back to Dallas and help elevate the defense as a whole.
While the spotlight is still shining on improving the defense, some believe running back remains a position the Cowboys could address. The team’s lack of proven depth continues to draw questions from outside observers, even though the coaching staff and front office appear confident in the current group.
If Dallas decides they want to add another veteran to the mix, one name floated around is former Texans and Bengals running back Joe Mixon. Mixon missed the entire 2025 season due to a foot injury and was released back in March. Exactly where he stands health-wise remains unclear, especially after former Texans GM Nick Caserio said he believes Mixon underwent foot surgery this offseason. There’s no denying the talent, though. If Mixon can get healthy and return to form, pairing him with Javonte Williams would give Dallas one of the better one-two punches at running back in the NFL.
For now, the Cowboys seem comfortable with the group they have. The coaching staff has liked what it’s seen from Jaydon Blue, Malik Davis, and Phil Mafah, and there are a couple of under-the-radar names worth keeping an eye on as well. Israel Abanikanda brings the kind of speed and big-play ability that can change a game in an instant, while undrafted rookie Dominic Richardson offers a more physical running style. Both players bring something different to the table and could push for roles if given the opportunity.
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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys Headlines: 2x Pro-Bowl free agent a fit? MK diagnosed with CTE
Reporting by Terence Watson , Cowboys Wire / Cowboys Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Terence Watson , Cowboys Wire | USA TODAY Network
