Jerry Jones sends message Cowboys fans needed after missing playoffs

As the NFL regular season heads into its final week, the Dallas Cowboys stand at 7-8-1, marking another year without a postseason appearance and extending their playoff drought to two consecutive seasons.

Owner Jerry Jones, however, pointed to some encouraging aspects of the campaign, noting that the team’s attack placed fourth overall, producing an average of 28.4 points per contest. He also commended head coach Brian Schottenheimer in a Tuesday radio spot on 105.3 The Fan.

Nevertheless, Jones issued a firm assurance to supporters about the unit’s persistent defensive shortcomings.

“We will get better on defense, I promise you that,” he said.

Throughout the year, opponents racked up 6,029 total yards against Dallas, translating to 376.8 yards per game — a figure that positioned the Cowboys as the third-most generous in the league, surpassed only by the Washington Commanders and Cincinnati Bengals.

More alarming was the defense surrendering the highest point total in the NFL at 29.8 points per game, with the Bengals close behind at 29.5. Though final Week 18 results might adjust these slightly, the season’s dominant narrative has centered on defensive failures.

In his debut as defensive coordinator, Matt Eberflus drew considerable criticism, yet Jones emphasized that accountability extended beyond one individual.

“That’s a teamwide breakdown for us not to play better defense. Not an Eberflus breakdown, per se,” Jones said.

On Tuesday, the organization took an initial step toward addressing the back end by outright releasing cornerback Trevon Diggs, ensuring he would no longer remain on the active roster going forward.

This move signals the beginning of what promises to be an active offseason focused on fortifying a unit that has underperformed dramatically. The decision to part ways with Diggs, a former Pro Bowler, comes amid reports of performance issues, injuries and off-field matters that accumulated over the year.

With the playoffs out of reach, attention now shifts to how the front office will overhaul personnel and potentially coaching to reverse these trends.

Jones’ public commitment to improvement carries weight, given the high expectations surrounding America’s Team each year. Fans have grown increasingly frustrated with repeated defensive lapses that have sabotaged otherwise potent offensive efforts.

The release of Diggs underscores a willingness to make tough choices, even with established players under contract.

Looking ahead, the Cowboys close out the campaign against the New York Giants, a game that offers little beyond pride and momentum into the offseason. As evaluations continue, the defensive struggles will undoubtedly dominate discussions in Dallas during the coming months.

Ultimately, fulfilling Jones’ pledge will require significant investments in talent and scheme adjustments to restore balance.

The 2025 season, while showcasing offensive firepower, served as a stark reminder of how vulnerabilities on one side can derail overall success.

With changes already underway, the franchise aims to enter 2026 better equipped to contend at a higher level.