The Dallas Cowboys open 2025 training camp with new DE James Houston and rookies Tyler Guyton & Marshawn Kneeland joining stars like Micah Parsons. Get the scoop.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The California sun is back, the familiar fields of Oxnard are buzzing, and the Dallas Cowboys have officially opened training camp for the 2025 season. While the perennial Super Bowl aspirations remain, this year's camp feels different. It’s a prove-it year, underscored by a modest 7.5-win projection from Vegas and fueled by a host of new faces determined to rewrite the script after a disappointing 7-10 campaign.
We’re looking for someone to seize the moment. The competition is wide open.
The front office made an immediate statement, officially signing former Lions defensive end James Houston. Known for his explosive rookie season where he racked up 8 sacks, Houston provides much-needed depth and a potential rotational threat behind Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence. The investment in the lines didn't stop there. First-round pick OT Tyler Guyton and second-round DE Marshawn Kneeland are already earning rave reviews from coaches for their athleticism and readiness, with Guyton expected to make a serious push for a starting tackle spot.
While the pass rush got a boost, the biggest question mark hangs over the secondary. With Trevon Diggs working his way back, the depth at cornerback is under an intense microscope. Defensive Coordinator Dan Quinn isn't shying away from it, calling it an 'opportunity' for young players to step up. The battle for roster spots and playing time is on between incumbents like Nahshon Wright and Eric Scott Jr., and newly acquired rookie Kaiir Elam. Quinn's message was clear: the job is there for the taking.
It didn't take long for the offense to create some buzz. Backup quarterback Joe Milton III, known for his incredible arm strength, wasted no time showing it off, connecting with tight end Tyler Neville on a beautiful deep touchdown that lit up social media. Meanwhile, the always-electric KaVontae Turpin was spotted taking snaps in a new, unspecified offensive role, suggesting the coaches have bigger plans for the dynamic return man this season.
Despite the camp buzz, oddsmakers in Vegas are pumping the brakes. The Cowboys' initial win total has been set at a cautious 7.5, with longshot odds of +550 to win the NFC East. These numbers reflect last season's struggles but don't account for the potential impact of key offseason additions like running back Javonte Williams and wide receiver George Pickens, who are expected to inject new life into the offense. For a team and a fanbase used to high expectations, this might be the perfect fuel.
Day one is in the books, and the narratives are already taking shape. Between the bolstered defensive line, the critical competition at corner, and the new wrinkles on offense, there's no shortage of storylines to follow. As Micah Parsons posted on social media, 'Year 4, let’s get it!' The pads aren't on yet, but the battles have begun. The coming weeks in Oxnard will determine who seizes their moment and shapes the identity of the 2025 Dallas Cowboys.
