Hangin' With The 'Boys

Under Jimmy Johnson, Nate didn’t have a choice about going to summer practices, but what are OTAs like now? Plus, after talking to the rookies, Jesse came away impressed. And is the Cowboys' secondary good to go?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesse Holly, Nate Newton, Shannon Gross, break down the Dallas Cowboys' brutal road-heavy schedule, two stints of three games in 11 days, the late December 13th bye week, player safety concerns, the tight-knit culture of the offensive line, and what the Cowboys need to do to compete in the NFC East division.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You ready for the schedule release? Do the players get all that excited about it? Plus, could lower offensive numbers be a good thing for the Cowboys? Yes, if the defense is better. And for Nate, there were no friends on the football field.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How much impact can Caleb Downs have as a safety? Well, it’s up to Christian Parker to figure out how to use him. Plus, after all the offseason moves, is this still just an average team? And Nate and Jesse take a deep dive into what it takes to be a team leader.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it good the Cowboys drafted players that defensive coordinator Christian Parker wanted? Also, we know Caleb Downs is a day-one starter, but is Malachi Lawrence? He’s a first-round pick, after all. And has anything really changed regarding George Pickens?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Was the news about the Cowboys deciding to let George Pickens play on the franchise tag just a negotiating ploy? Could we now possibly see them draft a receiver in the first round? And does the Giants’ recent trade affect Dallas’ draft? Let’s pick ’em!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should the Cowboys take into consideration whether a player fits the defensive system? Should the coaches be able to develop that player no matter what? Or is it on the player himself to figure it out? Plus, could Dallas really trade up?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should the Cowboys trade up in the draft? Should they trade back and add a Day 2 pick? Then again, have you seen their recent second-round selections? We have (hint: it ain’t pretty). Plus, what happens if the team plays hardball with Pickens?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The crew discusses the George Pickens franchise tag situation, Pickens’ agent’s stance on long-term deals, the impact of a potential holdout on the Cowboys offense and locker room and various offseason topics including a fan-favorite voicemail from Nate Newton.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will the Jaxson Smith-Njigba deal affect negotiations with George Pickens? And how serious was the team’s interest in Maxx Crosby? Plus, Nate spends some time with Prime.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why haven’t the Cowboys addressed linebacker yet? Should we be worried. Would bringing in a veteran like Bobby Wagner be wise instead of handing the reins over to a rookie? Plus, would Dallas dare draft an offensive player in the first round?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Was it a surprise Osa Odighizuwa got traded? What was the reasoning? Does that and the Cowboys’ other moves change their draft strategy? And after this first wave of free agency is the defense better?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Owner Jerry Jones has talked about spending more money in free agency and that he’d “borrow some of my future.” But with some contracts having already been restructured is reworking even more the right thing to do? Plus, would the Cowboys prefer George Pickens stay in Dallas, or get two potential first-round picks if he signs elsewhere? Sounds like maybe a win/win for the team ...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our man Nate shares his story of being recently pardoned by the president and, for the first time, reveals a special phone call he had with one of his angels.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New defensive coordinator Christian Parker was introduced to the media and count us impressed. Knowledgeable, personable, confident, he looks like the right man for the job. So what’s next? Can he get the players he needs, especially a nickel back? Can he make changes quickly? Will people be patient? One thing is for certain, though … Parker is off to a good start.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cowboys can fix their defense … if they want to. That is, if the team is willing to spend in free agency. The hiring of Christian Parker showed a change in thinking. Will that trend continue in free agency? Or could lengthy negotiations with George Pickens again wreck the whole offseason plan? Because if the Cowboys don’t indeed do things different, things could get worse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Has the value of winning been diminished? In other words, is what counts for success today different than what it once was? Like maybe social media followers instead of victories? And is the road to success in the NFL reverting back to winning with a strong defense? Plus, Jesse calls in from Radio Row at the Super Bowl, and Nate shares a couple of his own Super Bowl memories.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let’s check in on Brian Schottenheimer and Christian Parker constructing the defensive staff, spending money on Javonte Williams and George Pickens, DeMarcus Lawrence’s rebirth in Seattle and how teams are now building around a good quarterback, a creative offensive coordinator and a dominant defense. Plus, Nate tells stories of Jimmy Johnson arriving in 1989 and what their Super Bowl schedules were like.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cowboys have a new defensive coordinator as Christian Parker is leaving the rival Eagles to come to Dallas. Having coached under Vic Fangio, what might we expect from Parker? Is development of players first-and-foremost? He’s a young up-and-comer, but will his lack of experience be an issue? And will this change the Cowboys’ approach to free agency and the draft?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will the Giants’ new head coach make things even tougher for the Cowboys? Likely so, which is just another reason why the team needs to find the right defensive coordinator. But will that be a savvy veteran or a young gun? Whoever it is, Jesse says there’s one thing he’s got to get right. Plus, what are the biggest differences between the current playoff teams and the Cowboys?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s not a big surprise that Matt Eberflus got fired, but what comes next? Is there a sense of urgency to find someone new? And does it matter who they get if the Cowboys don’t acquire better players? Should we expect them to? After all, we’ve been told the Parsons deal is going to bring big dividends. Plus, how did Brian Schottenheimer’s his first season go as head coach?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The fact Trevon Diggs was released wasn’t a big surprise, although when he got let go was a shock. But the acts of defiance got to be too much with the trip to Washington D.C. the last straw. Simply put, Diggs seemingly no longer wanted to be a Cowboy. We dive deeper into yesterday’s big news, plus look ahead to Sunday’s game.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nate Newton, Jesse Holley and Shannon Gross discuss latest Dallas Cowboys news and notes on Cowboys Break.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So how many positions have big needs that need to be filled in 2026? Five? Six? More? Will they be able to fill those needs in one offseason? Are they at risk of spreading mediocracy throughout the team? Also, are the Cowboys hoping Jadeveon Clowney will be a rotational piece at defensive end next season or the main man? Plus, the trend toward tight ends, Dak’s day in Washington and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who Plays? Who Doesn’t? With two games to go, should the Cowboys think about sitting players? Make sure Dak Prescott is healthy for next while letting Joe Milton get some experience? Or does that send the wrong message, especially for a team trying to rebuild its culture. As Nate tell us, losing can become a culture too. Plus, Jesse’s stat and our predictions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s not coaches make players, right? So would a different defensive coordinator really produced different results? Perhaps, but probably not in a big way. Plus, could Tyler Smith moving to left tackle become permanent? Let’s hope not. He’s a Pro Bowl guard, after all. And has this team struggled to make in-game adjustments on offense as well? Where are the counterpunches?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It wasn’t that long ago that the Cowboys appeared to have the best cornerback combo in the NFL. Now, DaRon Bland is out again with a foot injury, and the status of Trevon Diggs is still up in the air. My how quickly things can change. Plus, for all the criticism the defensive line and secondary have received this season, are the linebackers the real problem? Plus, Jesse’s stat and our predictions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How are we watching the games now that the Cowboys will likely miss the playoffs? Want them to win? Lose to get a higher a draft pick? Plus, has Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert lived up to his billing? Can the Dallas defense slow him down? What about their receivers? Keenan Allen and Ladd McConkey are some of the best route runners in the business. It’s another tough task ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Don’t look now but the Chargers are coming to town with one of the best defenses in the league. And they’re physical. What can the Cowboys do to attack them? Will head coach Brian Schottenheimer be more aggressive? Will they try to get George Pickens more involved? Plus, could we see more opportunities for Dak Prescott to run? There just might be some openings there for the taking.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just when we think the Cowboys are going to get on a roll, they instead stumble. What happened against the Vikings? No pressure on defense, no success on third downs, questionable coaching decisions. Is this team just not what we thought it would be? Dallas is on the brink of elimination after another disappointing performance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cowboys have got to win the rest of their games to get in the playoffs. Does that add more pressure? Hey, if you can’t handle the heat, better get out of the kitchen, right? But do they know how to win? Do they have enough players who have made playoff runs before who can lead the way? Plus, Jesse’s key stat and our predictions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nate speaks out about what we’re all thinking – why aren’t there more Cowboys in the Hall of Fame? Or the Ring of Honor, for that matter? There are some deserving guys being left out. Plus, we get into the Minnesota offense. Is Justin Jefferson still the man? Better not sleep on him. And definitely don’t forget about Aaron Jones. About their quarterback, though …See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Know what a cross-dog blitz is? You will if you listen. It’s all about creating confusion, and Minnesota likes to blitz more than any team in the NFL. But does that actually play into Dak Prescott’s hands? He’s been good under pressure. The Cowboys will also have to get the run game going behind Javontae Williams, which won’t be easy. Don't let their record fool you – the Vikings defense is a concern.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to know what goes on behind the scenes? Jesse and Nate are here to tell you. Like, how much are players paying attention to social media? Why do they bother responding to criticism? And is the veteran leadership the same as it was decades ago? Who is providing guidance, motivation? Do players today communicate as much as they used to? Even with each other? It’s a fascinating look inside.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let’s talk offensive line today because, you know, we’ve got a six-time Pro Bowler, 2-time All-Pro and three-time Super Bowl winner hangin’ with us. Are the tackles struggling with their technique? Is it a coaching thing? Nate breaks it down for us. Plus, college experience, slow starts, the outlook for the rest of the season and more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nate Newton, Jesse Holley and Shannon Gross discuss latest Dallas Cowboys news.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One key to stopping the Lions? Limit what they do on first down because this is a team that won’t hesitate to go for it on fourth down. So can the Cowboys’ rebuilt defensive line stop Jahmyr Gibbs and the Detroit ground game? How will things change if star wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown doesn’t play? Plus, Jesse’s key stat and our predictions for Thursday night's showdown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Was defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus ever really the problem? Or did he just not have the right players to run his system? Well, drop in new guys like Quinnen Williams and Logan Wilson, get injured players back like Malik Hooker, Donovan Wilson and DeMarvion Overshown and suddenly his defense is working. Plus, despite falling behind early, the Cowboys have been able to battle back. Are they learning how to win?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cowboys are coming off a big win, but it’s not getting any easier. In fact, they have yet to play a quarterback like Patrick Mahomes this season, a guy who only seems to care about winning or losing, not about stats. Is that a rarity in today’s NFL? Also, can Dak Prescott handle the Chiefs blitz? He’s been great against it so far this season. Plus, Jesse’s key stat and our predictions. Happy Thanksgiving!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the big trades made this year, and Jerry Jones saying George Pickens will be back in 2026, are the Cowboys finally going to go all-in? Or will it be business as usual? Also, everyone knows CeeDee Lamb is still the man, but does he know it? Plus, fingers, knees and, um, other places, Nate and Jesse talk injuries.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer has talked about changing the team’s culture. Does the big come-from-behind win over Philly help with that, or do the Cowboys have to take the next two as well to really make things different? Plus, the exceptional play of the defense, what’s going on at wide receiver and Dak Prescott’s mastery in the pocket. It’s Victory Monday!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So was last week a defensive mirage? Or is this unit really as good as we think it is? It’s safe to say things are headed in the right direction, but will the Cowboys show up in the pivotal moments? And can they stop Saquon Barkley both on the ground and in the passing game? Plus, Jesse’s stat, key players to watch and predictions!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Eagles have a good record, but are they really that good? With their troubles on offense and the Cowboys improved defense, could Philly be ripe for the picking? And with more push coming from the middle of the defensive line will Dallas be able to contain Jalen Hurts? It’s time to find out how good this Cowboys defense really is.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So Jalen Carter will be playing in this game. Just how big of an impact does he have on the Philly defensive front? Like Quinnen Williams, he makes everyone better. And after spit-gate in Week 1, could that ramp up the rivalry another notch? Plus, many are asking if George Pickens has become the No. 1 receiver? Not so fast. Don’t let the numbers fool you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can one man change an entire defense? In the case of Quinnen Williams, it sure seemed like it. Along with several players returning from injury, the Cowboys defensive unit put on a show against the Raiders. Plus, was not starting CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens any big deal? Regardless, it was a perfect tune-up game in Las Vegas. Let’s discuss!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nate and Jesse dig into the mental intricacies of the game and how players are constantly evaluating their performance, even between snaps. Everybody is fast, everybody is strong, so intelligence and situational football is often the difference. Also, will the Cowboys be re-energized after a tough bye week? Plus, Jesse’s stat, key players and predictions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With all these stud defensive tackles on the roster now, there’s been talk about playing some 5-2 alignments on defense. So, should they switch to a 3-4 base to get those guys on the field? Also, how much can we expect from both the new guys and those coming back from injury? Is the defense overall going to look vastly different?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So are the Raiders really as bad as their record? If not, why are they losing? They’ve got Maxx Crosby, after all. What do the Cowboys have to do to negate him? And will having the game Monday night with an extra day to prepare help much? Plus, after playing themselves and knowing the intricacies of football so well, Nate and Jesse explain what it’s like for them watching games live.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a team getting ready to play the tough half of its schedule, where can the Cowboys find success? Is it simply winning? Is it building an identity? Also, what’s going on with the offensive line? Have injuries kept them from finding cohesion? And we were told Brian Schottenheimer started spending more time in the defensive meetings, but now the offense has struggled. Coincidence?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NFL players seem immortal. They are machines who can conquer anything. But in honoring the memory of Marshawn Kneeland, Jesse shares his own mental health journey, telling us what it’s really like for the players and the behind-the-scenes challenges they battle daily.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.