Dallas opens the Brian Schottenheimer era with a high-velocity, real-game flavor as they host the Rams in SoFi’s preseason opener. Five eyes will be on the Cowboys’ new attack: Milton’s acclimation in a key backup role, run defense’s stubbornness, the early shape of the backfield rotation, the shuffled offensive line, and the nickel-CB puzzle with Diggs sidelined. The matchup will quietly inform fantasy projections as the Cowboys test depth and rotation under pressure to prove readiness for Week 1.

Joe Milton, nursing a thumb tweak, is slated to start and show command beyond his rocket arm, with potential off-script mobility that could complicate Milton’s development curve on a new team. Dallas hopes his ability to progress through reads and keep balls downfield translates into steadier game management and a higher ceiling when pressure rises.

Stopping the run remains a concern for Dallas’ defense, especially without a fully healthy interior. If Parsons can anchor the edge and the interior line can hold run lanes, the pass rush could carry more weight, but the Rams’ backfield will test gaps early. The run game is the opposite story for Dallas on offense, where Schottenheimer wants to lean on a true run-first approach even if the depth makes the half and rotation unfamiliar.

Dallas’ ground game is the bigger experiment: Javonte Williams is expected to be Week 1’s RB1, with Miles Sanders nursing injuries and rookies like Jaydon Blue unavailable. Expect Deuce Vaughn and Phil Mafah to seize carries, while the line battle for left tackle between Nate Thomas and Asim Richards adds a real-life fantasy layer to the protection picture. The Cowboys’ run-blocking will be a crucial predictor for 2025’s offensive identity.

In the backfield and on the boundary, the nickel rotation is the microdrama of camp. Trevon Diggs’ absence amplifies the need for DaRon Bland, Kemon Hall, Israel Mukuamu, and Zion Childress to seize the nickel role, while Schottenheimer’s comments signal a competitive, opportunistic approach. Dallas’ two home preseasons after this one and a Sept. 4 opener at Philadelphia will hinge on these young players pulling meaningful snaps and elevating the depth chart.

Dallas Cowboys guard Saahdiq Charles exited Saturday’s preseason clash with the Los Angeles Rams due to a knee injury, with the update still pending. Charles is in a battle for a rotational guard role after signing with Dallas this offseason, having spent four seasons with Washington prior. The injury elevates depth-chart chatter at guard as Dallas awaits further tests, and fantasy managers will want to monitor the situation as roster moves and evaluations unfold.

In fantasy terms, the setback reinforces the volatility of the Cowboys’ interior line depth. If Charles misses time, snaps could shift to secondary guards and backups, potentially altering run-blocking schemes and pass protection windows. Keep an eye on injury updates and practice notes early in the season to gauge who gains opportunities in Week 1 builds and daily fantasy stacks.

In a pivotal joint practice between the Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Rams, key players including Dak Prescott, DaRon Bland, and Michael Gallup showcased their skills ahead of the upcoming preseason matchup. The session highlighted the Cowboys' offensive strategy, emphasizing Prescott's leadership and decision-making capabilities. Meanwhile, Bland demonstrated his prowess in defensive coverage, critical for setting the tone against a high-powered Rams offense.

As the Cowboys prepare for the regular season, maintaining momentum through such competitive practices will be crucial. The practice provided an opportunity for young talents to shine, hinting at potential breakout performances this season. With a focus on refining play execution and building team chemistry, Dallas looks poised to make a significant impact in the league.

The Atlanta Falcons are actively scouting talent as they prepare for their preseason opener against the Detroit Lions. This week, they hosted four free agents: linebacker Jailin Walker, defensive back Ronnie Harrison, and linebackers Chance Campbell and Max Tooley. Harrison, a former third-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars, brings significant experience with 48 starts and has made seven interceptions over his seven-season career. Walker, who went undrafted in 2025, is noted for his versatility, possessing skills that allow him to excel in coverage and special teams. Campbell, although limited in NFL experience, was drafted in 2022, while Tooley, who played at BYU, previously joined the Houston Texans.

With these workouts, the Falcons aim to enhance their roster depth ahead of the regular season. Although these players left Atlanta without contracts, the Falcons have a history of signing players after workouts, such as wide receiver DJ Chark last week. The team is looking to finalize their roster choices before the upcoming match against the Lions, which will provide a clearer view of their defensive strategies going forward.

The Dallas Cowboys are witnessing a rapid evolution in their running back position during training camp. Since the offseason program culminated in June, the team has seen the emergence of rookie Deuce Vaughn and the re-signing of Tony Pollard, both vying for significant roles. Vaughn, despite being an undrafted free agent, has impressed coaches with his agility and playmaking ability, making him a strong contender to complement Pollard's explosive style. Meanwhile, Ezekiel Elliott's absence post-departure has left the door open for these younger talents to step up.

Pollard, who has shown flashes of brilliance, now finds himself as the clear lead back. In preparation for the season, both players are expected to share the workload, allowing the Cowboys to maintain a balanced attack. As the team gears up for the regular season, the performance of these backs will be crucial to their offensive strategy.