Dallas’ preseason opener vs. the Rams highlighted the Cowboys’ three focal questions: Mafah’s pro-ready physicality, the run game's ceiling behind a crowded backfield, and the pass game’s consistency with Joe Milton at the helm. Mafah delivered a tepid 10 carries for 36 yards, while Malik Davis flashed late with multiple carries. Milton completed 17 of 29 passes for 143 yards with 22 rushing yards, but accuracy and timing were uneven. Rivaldo Fairweather flashed in limited work, grabbing a late TD on Milton’s toss, signaling upside at tight end. The Rams controlled much of the first half with freedom for their receivers and stifled Dallas’ defense on the ground, totaling 181 rushing yards. Dallas finally found the end zone late, but the narrative was clear: there will be better days ahead for Mafah, Milton, and the backfield shakeup, aided by Schottenheimer’s evolving system.

Joe Milton’s Cowboys preseason showing was a study in ceiling vs. refinement. The rocket arm flashed, but timing and rhythm lagged early as Dallas opened with six straight passes. Milton settled later, showed improvement with legs, and connected with Rivaldo Fairweather for a corner‑end TD. Cam Lampkin turned a misfire into a showcase moment, snagging a late interception that underscored the learning curve in a pro environment. The Cowboys publicly back Milton with a three‑year plan, signaling a long runway for growth.

Fantasy managers should gauge Milton’s upside against the risk: mega‑arm potential paired with the mental reps needed to run Schottenheimer’s offense. If he tightens start‑to‑start decision making and the Cowboys dial up design packages to exploit his athleticism, Milton could evolve from a high‑variance stash into a genuine fantasy ceiling play, especially in multi QB formats or dynasty leagues.

Dallas opened the preseason with vanilla look, dropping a 31-21 decision to the Rams as the roster shuffles and depth questions linger. Joe Milton’s first test as the Cowboys’ development project was uneven but instructional: 17-of-29, 143 yards, a touchdown to Rivaldo Fairweather, and an interception before exiting with an elbow injury. The coaching staff emphasized keeping schemes simple, but the result spotlighted roster battles beyond the top receivers and corners.

Offensively, CeeDee Lamb anchors a likely five-man group with six receivers in play for the final roster spots. The day also offered glimpses from Jalen Brooks and Ryan Flournoy, while Tyler Booker and Hunter Luepke sat out, underscoring early depth concerns along the line and backfield. Defensively, the secondary drew questions again as playmakers struggled with deep shots, though Israel Mukuamu flashed with a third-quarter pick. Special teams remained solid as Anger punted well and Aubrey drilled both field goals. The Cowboys head into the next two preseason games with several meaningful decisions to be made toward the 53-man cut.