Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

The 2026 schedule isn’t favoring the Cowboys

Originally posted on Inside The Star
By Richard Paolinelli | Last updated Jan 26, 2026 10:18 AM ET

After two consecutive seasons with just seven wins, following three-straight 12-win years, the Dallas Cowboys will head into the 2026 season looking for at least double-digits in the win column.

While the week-by-week schedule won’t be released until May, we do know who Dallas will be playing at home and on the road.

The Cowboys will have nine home games this fall, although one probably will be lost to Roger Goodell’s International fetish. Probably against Jacksonville or Baltimore.

Traveling out of the country will be the least of the Cowboys’ worries.

First, let’s look at the home and away lineup for 2026:

HOME

Arizona Cardinals
San Francisco 49ers
Jacksonville Jaguars
Tennessee Titans
Baltimore Ravens
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
New York Giants
Philadelphia Eagles
Washington Commanders

AWAY

Houston Texans
Indianapolis Colts
Los Angeles Rams
Seattle Seahawks
Green Bay Packers
New York Giants
Philadelphia Eagles
Washington Commanders

While it is far too early to set any predictions in stone – the draft, free agency, coaching changes, etc. – based on how these opponents are set right now, we can say this.

The 2026 season may not end up any better than the two previous seasons have ended.

Road Warriors?

It is not much of a stretch to say that the Cowboys could go 0-8 on the road in 2026. Five of the eight teams made the playoffs in 2026.

The Colts would have if Daniel Jones had stayed healthy.

Washington should bounce back from their off year while the Giants just brought in John Harbaugh to right their ship.

The Giants game in East Rutherford might be Dallas’ best chance for a road win. The other seven are going to be brutal games to emerge with a victory from.

The second annual Micah Parsons reunion up in Green Bay should be a tough out as well.

Home Sweet Home?

There has been no official word on whether or not the Cowboys will play an international game. Jerry Jones is reportedly pushing for one and for it to be played down in Mexico.

A 49ers or Cardinals matchup would be better suited for that venue.

If it’s a London or Germany game instead?

Maybe it’s the Ravens or Jaguars as the opponent. Either way, that would mean only eight games at AT&T this fall.

The Cardinals, Titans, and Giants should be wins.

Although Arizona did beat Dallas this season.

The other six games aren’t going to be easy. Which is why this prediction goes up on the board.

With the proviso that it will change as the offseason unfolds.