The Dallas Cowboys’ 2025 season has come to a premature and disappointing end, as the team has been officially eliminated from the NFL playoffs. The question that has lingered for weeks—can the Cowboys make the playoffs—has been definitively answered in the negative, closing the book on a campaign that owner Jerry Jones has bluntly labeled an ‘underachievement.’ The elimination became mathematically certain during Week 17, a stark reality for a franchise with perennial postseason aspirations.
Amid the team’s collective struggles, the season was also marked by concerning individual incidents. Star cornerback Trevon Diggs found himself in the spotlight for an off-field matter, finally offering an explanation for a home accident that resulted in a concussion. While Diggs was activated and returned to play against the Los Angeles Chargers, the episode raised questions about his focus and future with the organization, casting a shadow over his otherwise stellar defensive presence.
On the offensive side, the development of young wide receiver Jalen Tolbert has been a point of discussion. Tolbert was active on Christmas Day, but his overall impact and role within the offense have been inconsistent, leading to questions about his trajectory. As the Cowboys look to rebuild and retool for 2026, evaluating the progress of players like Tolbert will be a key offseason priority.
The combination of on-field underperformance, key player distractions, and unmet expectations from emerging talent has culminated in a lost season for America’s Team. The playoff elimination forces a period of introspection in Dallas, with significant decisions looming regarding the roster, coaching staff, and overall direction of a franchise that once again fell short of its lofty goals.