Below the Belt: Trying to fill the holes on the new Cowboys' defense

In this episode of 'Shan and RJ,' the hosts dive into the Dallas Cowboys' defensive roster gaps following the NFL draft, focusing heavily on the edge rusher position as the team's most pressing need. They analyze ESPN's assessment that the Cowboys' edge rush depth is a major concern, citing underwhelming performances from recent acquisitions like Rashawn Gary and Donovan Azzaraku, limited production from veterans, and the inexperience of rookies. The discussion shifts to the broader defensive philosophy under new coordinator Christian Parker, who comes from the Vic Fangio and Mike Elko schemes—systems known for disciplined, coverage-heavy defenses rather than aggressive, high-sack edge rushers. The hosts argue that the Cowboys may be prioritizing secondary strength and scheme complexity over raw pass-rush talent, a strategic choice that could impact their ability to pressure elite quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, who now operates at lightning speed. They also break down the 2026 schedule, highlighting early primetime games and travel challenges, including a Week 3 game in Brazil and a Monday Night Football matchup in Week 4, which raises concerns about player fatigue and scheduling imbalance. Despite the roster questions, the hosts express cautious optimism, noting the team’s significant investments in the secondary and linebacker corps, suggesting they believe the foundation is being built for long-term success, even if immediate pass-rush dominance remains elusive.