The Dallas Cowboys' 2026 schedule has finally been released after weeks of anticipation.
Dallas will play on primetime six times this season, and also has a game overseas in Rio de Janeiro versus the Baltimore Ravens. The Cowboys' bye will come in Week 14, which is later than usual, as the team had its off week in Week 10 last year.
With the schedule now unveiled, let's run through a full 17-game regular season prediction for the Cowboys.
Cowboys 2026 record prediction
Before we start, let's take a look at the Cowboys' strength of schedule. According to Warren Sharp of Sharp Football Analysis, Dallas has the fourth-easiest schedule in the NFL this year. To calculate strength of schedule, Shatp uses win totals from oddsmakers instead of 2025 win percentages to better reflect offseason moves.
That said, with an easy schedule and a mini roster overhaul this offseason, the Cowboys are well-positioned for a major bounce-back season in 2026.
Week 1: Win at New York Giants (1-0)
Week 2: Win vs. Washington Commanders (2-0)
Week 3: Loss in Brazil vs. Baltimore Ravens (2-1)
Week 4: Loss at Houston Texans (2-2)
Week 5: Win vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2)
Week 6: Loss at Green Bay Packers (3-3)
Week 7: Loss at Philadelphia Eagles (3-4)
Week 8: Win vs. Arizona Cardinals (4-4)
Week 9: Win at Indianapolis Colts (5-4)
Week 10: Win vs. San Francisco 49ers (6-4)
Week 11: Win vs. Tennessee Titans (7-4)
Week 12: Win vs. Philadelphia Eagles (8-4)
Week 13: Loss at Seattle Seahawks (8-5)
Week 14: BYE (8-5)
Week 15: Loss at Los Angeles Rams (8-6)
Week 16: Win vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (9-6)
Week 17: Win vs. New York Giants (10-6)
Week 18: Win at Washington Commanders (11-6)
When it's all said and done, I have the Dallas Cowboys posting an 11-6 record in 2026. With the additions of edge rusher Rashan Gary and versatile rookie defensive back Caleb Downs, the dynamic offense set to return, and a favorable schedule, Dallas should get back into contention in the NFC and challenge the Philadelphia Eagles for the NFC East.
However, success for the Cowboys will always be measured by playoff success. A record of 11-6 would likely get them into the postseason and a chance to make noise in January and possibly February.