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Jerry Jones Announces Update After NFL Playoffs Elimination

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Dec 23, 2025 10:18 AM ET

The Dallas Cowboys’ 2025 season ended in frustration as the club missed the playoffs for the second straight year, a drought the franchise hadn’t experienced since 2019-20. Dallas entered Week 16 already eliminated from postseason contention after the Philadelphia Eagles’ win over the Washington Commanders, and the Cowboys followed that up with a 34-17 home loss to the Los Angeles Chargers.

The defeat dropped Dallas to 6-8-1 on the season, leaving a talented offensive unit without the results expected despite strong individual performances.

With their playoff hopes dashed, the Cowboys face critical decisions heading into the offseason as they evaluate how to return to playoff contention in 2026 and address deficiencies that cost them consistency throughout 2025.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4).© Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

On Tuesday, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones spoke on 105.3 The Fan about the team’s direction and his involvement in the upcoming free agency period.

When asked if he plans to be active during free agency, Jones said:

“I don’t know. We’ll see where we are with our own players. I’ll be active, but the question is the degree of activity. I can’t imagine not doing things in free agency.” The comments signal that while Jones intends to participate in roster building, the extent of his moves will depend on how Dallas prioritizes retention and upgrades across the roster.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones on @1053thefan on if he’ll be active during free agency: “I don’t know. We’ll see where we are with our own players. I’ll be active, but the question is the degree of activity. I can’t imagine not doing things in free agency.”
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) December 23, 2025

One of the most significant decisions for the Cowboys will be the future of wide receiver George Pickens. Dallas acquired Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers in a May trade, and he is set to become a free agent after the 2025 season, as he is playing on the final year of his rookie contract.

The Cowboys will also be examining how to upgrade a defense that repeatedly struggled to create pressure and stops, an area that was exposed in losses throughout the year.

Another major point of evaluation is the future of defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. Jones confirmed Eberflus’ role is part of the broader review process after Sunday’s loss, noting that the team plans to address Eberflus’ future during the offseason rather than while games remain on the schedule.

The Cowboys close out their regular season with games remaining against the Washington Commanders and the New York Giants.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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