Everything You Need to Know About the Dallas Cowboys for the 2025 NFL Season Kickoff

The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for the start of the 2025 regular season, which begins on September 4, 2025, with a key matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles in Philadelphia at 5:20 p.m. ET, broadcast on FOX.
Below is everything relevant to the Cowboys in terms of signings, injuries, sanctions, and other significant data for the start of this campaign.
Signings and Roster Moves
Key Contract Extensions:

Dak Prescott: The quarterback signed a massive four-year, $240 million contract extension with $231 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid player in the NFL by average annual salary ($60 million). This recently announced extension ensures stability at the QB position after years of speculation.
CeeDee Lamb:
The star receiver settled his holdout with a four-year, $136 million extension ($100 million guaranteed), cementing him as one of the highest-paid wide receivers. His return to training camp bolsters Dallas' passing offense.

Signings and Free Agents:
The Cowboys signed veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks to bolster the defense under new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, who returns to the team from Minnesota.
Defensive tackle Jordan Phillips was acquired via trade from the New York Giants to bolster the defensive line, especially following Sam Williams' injury.
Defensive end Carl Lawson was added as a free agent to provide depth in the pass-rushing rotation, compensating for the absence of key players due to injuries.
Carson Wentz was considered to back up Prescott, but the Cowboys opted to keep Trey Lance and Cooper Rush as backup QBs, showing confidence in their depth.

2025 Draft:
The Cowboys selected Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty in the first round of the 2025 Draft, looking to revitalize their running game following the departure of Tony Pollard. Jeanty, known for his explosiveness, will be a key complement to Ezekiel Elliott, who returned to the team in 2024.
Other notable picks include Tyleik Williams (defensive tackle) and Evan Stewart (wide receiver), both projected to have an immediate impact.

Recent Roster Moves:
The Cowboys released several players in final preseason cuts, including receiver Jalen Brooks and cornerback Eric Scott Jr., to comply with the 53-man cap.
Linebacker DeMarvion Overshown has emerged as a key piece after recovering from injury in 2024 and is expected to lead the second defensive line alongside Kendricks.

Injuries
Sam Williams (DE): The pass rusher suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during training camp, which will sideline him for the entire 2025 season. His absence is a significant blow to the defensive rotation.
DeMarvion Overshown (LB): Although he has recovered from his 2024 injury, his fitness will be monitored to ensure his performance at the start of the season.
DaRon Bland (CB): The All-Pro cornerback suffered a stress fracture in his foot during the preseason, which could limit his participation in the opening weeks. His early absence will put pressure on Trevon Diggs and the rookies in the secondary.
Jake Ferguson (TE): The starting tight end dealt with minor discomfort in training camp but is expected to be ready for the start of the season.
Rico Dowdle (RB): The backup running back suffered a minor injury in the preseason, but reports indicate he will be available for Week 1.

Penalties and Controversies
CeeDee Lamb: Although he didn't face formal sanctions, his holdout during training camp created tensions with the organization. His return following a contract extension has calmed the waters.
Micah Parsons: The star linebacker came under scrutiny for public comments about his contract, but he doesn't face any sanctions. He is expected to lead the defense with his usual intensity.
No significant suspensions for key Cowboys players have been reported at the start of the season, allowing them to start with a relatively intact roster, save for the aforementioned injuries.