Historic International Game Set for 2026
The Dallas Cowboys are set to make NFL history by playing in the first-ever regular season game in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2026. This landmark event will take place at the famous Maracanã Stadium and is part of a record nine international NFL games scheduled for that year. The NFL is expanding its global reach, and this game highlights the league’s commitment to growing its presence in Brazil, which now boasts over 36 million NFL fans. Brazil is considered one of the league’s most important international markets, and the Cowboys’ participation is expected to strengthen the NFL’s connection with the country’s passionate football community.
The exact date, opponent, and ticket information for the game will be announced later. Fans eager for updates can visit nfl.com/Rio or follow NFL Brazil on social media for the latest news. This announcement is part of a multi-year plan to host at least three regular-season games in Rio over five years, showing the NFL’s long-term investment in the region. The league is also working to develop football at all levels in Brazil, including through NFL Flag football and community events, as flag football prepares for its Olympic debut at LA28.
Key Players and Coaches Recognized at NFL Honors
Several Cowboys players and coaches received recognition at the recent NFL Honors event. Defensive tackle Solomon Thomas was a finalist for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award, thanks to his leadership of “The Defensive Line,” a charity focused on mental health awareness. Thomas has been praised for promoting early mental health intervention and teaching mindfulness to youth, and he credited defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton for his positive influence.
Tight end Jake Ferguson was a finalist for the Salute to Service Award, recognized for his work supporting military veterans through partnerships like USAA and advocacy with the National Medal of Honor Museum. Quarterback Dak Prescott was a finalist for Comeback Player of the Year after returning from a severe hamstring injury and surpassing Tony Romo as the Cowboys’ all-time leading passer. Prescott played all 17 regular-season games and was a key factor in the team’s competitiveness.
Roster Moves and Free Agency Priorities
The Cowboys are facing important decisions as they look to improve their roster for the upcoming season. Wide receiver George Pickens is considered the team’s top free agent priority after an impressive season and a standout performance at the Pro Bowl Games, where he was named Offensive MVP of the Flag Football Challenge. Pickens formed a dynamic duo with CeeDee Lamb and is seen as essential to the team’s offensive success.
Kicker Brandon Aubrey is also set to become a free agent. Aubrey has quickly established himself as one of the best kickers in NFL history, with an 88.2% career field goal percentage and only four missed extra points out of 130 attempts. He has made 35 field goals over 50 yards, including six over 60 yards. Aubrey has expressed his desire to remain with the Cowboys, calling it a dream to play in Dallas. However, his current salary is among the lowest for NFL kickers, and he is expected to seek a significant raise that could make him one of the highest-paid at his position. The Cowboys will need to balance his contract demands with their salary cap constraints.
Veteran backup quarterback Will Grier has signed a futures/reserve contract to stay with the team through the offseason, where he will compete with Joe Milton for the backup role behind Prescott. The Cowboys are also focused on re-signing key contributors and adding depth, especially on defense, where they struggled last season.
Coaching Staff Changes and Defensive Overhaul
The Cowboys have made changes to their coaching staff as they aim to address defensive weaknesses. Christian Parker has been hired as the new defensive coordinator, shifting the focus to hiring additional defensive assistants. Aaron Whitecotton, who was considered for the coordinator role, is expected to interview with other teams. The team is also evaluating other candidates, including Ravens DC Zach Orr and former Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon.
Assistant wide receivers coach Stephen Bravo-Brown joined the staff after six seasons with the Cleveland Browns, taking over after Tiquan Underwood’s departure. Tight ends coach Lunda Wells is interviewing for offensive coordinator positions with other NFL teams, reflecting the high regard for the Cowboys’ coaching talent.
Special Teams and Franchise Records
Return specialist KaVontae Turpin set new franchise records in kickoff returns and total combined return yards, breaking marks that had stood for nearly two decades. Turpin now ranks second all-time in franchise history for total combined return yards, trailing only Kevin Williams. His performance on special teams has been a bright spot for the Cowboys and provides a strong foundation for the unit moving forward.
Looking Ahead: Offseason Focus and Fan Engagement
As the Cowboys prepare for the upcoming season, the focus remains on improving the defense, re-signing key free agents, and integrating new coaching staff. Multiple assistant coaches are participating in the Senior Bowl, providing valuable scouting insights ahead of the NFL Draft. The team continues to update fans on player statuses, injuries, and offseason developments through daily news updates.
The Cowboys’ commitment to international growth, community engagement, and on-field improvement signals an ambitious path forward. With a historic game in Brazil on the horizon and several key roster decisions ahead, the Cowboys are poised for a pivotal offseason that could shape the team’s future for years to come.