Prescott, Pickens Projected for Big Seasons
SI.com's Gilberto Manzano predicts Dak Prescott will lead the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns this season. The Cowboys return all 11 offensive starters, including receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. Prescott has openly discussed Super Bowl aspirations and aims to have the league's greatest offense.
The Cowboys' 2025 offensive success was built on a balanced attack that ranked seventh in scoring and second in total yardage. Their passing game was particularly potent, finishing second in the league, powered by the trio of Prescott, Lamb, and Pickens. This marked Pickens' first season in Dallas after arriving via trade, and he immediately set career highs with 93 receptions and 1,429 yards.
The team's unprecedented continuity, with all 11 offensive starters returning, forms the foundation for these projections. Pickens is playing on the franchise tag this season, providing additional motivation to exceed his 2025 totals of nine touchdown catches. The offense averaged 27.7 points per game under Schottenheimer, who balanced his coordinator duties with head coaching responsibilities.
This story could influence fantasy football draft strategies and fan expectations in Dallas. If Prescott and Pickens meet these projections, the Cowboys would likely be a top Super Bowl contender, potentially boosting local economic activity and national media attention. However, bold preseason predictions often fail to materialize, and the pressure of heightened expectations could affect team performance. The outcome may also impact contract negotiations for Pickens, who is playing on the franchise tag.