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.