Dallas’ run game looked sharper and Dak Prescott mobility resurfaced, giving fantasy managers a brighter outlook despite the loss. Philadelphia’s Jalen Hurts used his legs to stretch Dallas’s defense, exposing slow linebacker gaps. Marist Liufau’s limited use sparked questions about a potential base-defense shift, while Barkley was held to 3.33 per carry but still factors in as a boom-or-bust option. IDP angles around Parsons, Williams, Clark and Sanborn will evolve as Liufau’s role grows or stalls.

Dallas rides a healthier Dak Prescott into a rebound season, but the defense carries questions after Micah Parsons’ exit to Green Bay. Overshown’s knee injury leaves a void at linebacker, so Marist Liufau is centerpiece material heading into 2025. The rookie-leaning playmaker impressed as a fill-in and carried that momentum into training camp, positioning himself to become a breakout anchor behind a new defensive scheme run by Matt Eberflus. Prescott’s health could unlock more balanced offense and elevate fantasy options across the Cowboys.

Liufau’s potential breakout is the fantasy storyline to watch: a third-round Notre Dame product who posted 50 tackles, 1.5 sacks, three passes defensed and two forced fumbles in 17 games, thriving when stepping in for Overshown. If he cements a larger role, Dallas could stabilize a run defense and create IDP upside. The early-season test against Philadelphia will gauge whether the defense can adapt post-Parsons and whether the offense can sustain improvement with Prescott back in rhythm.

Dallas opens Week 1 at Philadelphia with a reimagined linebacker corps led by Murray and Sanborn, backed by Liufau and Overshown to adapt on the fly in Matt Eberflus’ new scheme. The trade that sent Parsons altered expectations, but the Cowboys lean on trusted veterans and versatile first-year pieces to contain Hurts and the Eagles’ attack from the jump.

The preseason exposed depth concerns, yet Dallas insists Murray and Sanborn can anchor gaps and coverage, with Liufau, Overshown, and Clark providing needed rotation. Upshaw-like looks, rapid communication, and a sharper pass rush from James Houston and Perrion Winfrey could tilt the balance early, while the offense counters with George Pickens and Javontae Williams to diversify the attack.