The Cowboys had hoped that second-round picks Sam Williams and Marshawn Kneeland would fill the gaps left by Armstrong and Fowler, but Williams suffered an ACL tear during training camp.

As a result of these injuries and departures, the Cowboys' scoring defense has plummeted from fifth-best in 2023, allowing 18.5 points per game, to the second-worst in 2024, allowing 29.3 points per game.

Adding to their defensive woes, DeMarcus Lawrence is currently on injured reserve due to a foot injury sustained in Week 4.

The team allowed key players Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr. to depart in free agency, both of whom have since joined the Washington Commanders.

The Dallas Cowboys are struggling this season, currently holding a 3-7 record, which marks their worst 10-game start since 2020.

This dismal performance is compounded by a five-game losing streak, the team's longest since 2015.

A significant issue for the Cowboys has been the lack of depth on their defensive line, particularly at the edge rusher position.

Despite the team's struggles, Dante Fowler has been a standout player this season, recording eight-and-a-half sacks and ranking fourth in the NFL.

Head coach Mike McCarthy expressed pride in the performances of Armstrong and Fowler but hopes they underperform when the Cowboys face them in upcoming games.

In a slight positive development, Marshawn Kneeland has returned to limited practice after missing five games due to a knee meniscus injury.