By Cowboys Insider | PML Network | The Star, Frisco
A Preseason Finale Full of Fireworks
The Dallas Cowboys wrapped up their 2026 preseason in dramatic fashion, falling just short in a 38–35 shootout against the Tennessee Titans — but the night wasn’t about the score. It was about evaluation, chemistry, and confirmation.
For Head Coach Cody Hirsch, this finale at AT&T Stadium was the final audition before roster decisions. And while the scoreboard tilted in Tennessee’s favor, the Cowboys walked away with more answers than questions.
“You want to see fight, execution, and consistency,” Hirsch said postgame. “And I saw that tonight. We’re building something that’s going to last, and these guys showed they belong.”
Prescott Delivers a Veteran Statement
If there was any doubt about Dak Prescott’s readiness heading into the regular season, he erased it with authority. Prescott completed 18 of 27 passes for 216 yards and 3 touchdowns, flashing total command of the offense.
It wasn’t a perfect night — 3 interceptions reminded the team that timing and ball placement still need polishing — but the overall performance spoke volumes. Prescott spread the ball across the field, kept the tempo high, and continued to mentor the younger offensive pieces.
“Dak’s leadership doesn’t waver,” said offensive coordinator Kellen McManus. “Even after a mistake, he’s right back in the huddle getting everyone focused on the next play. That’s our guy.”
Two of Prescott’s touchdown passes came on extended plays where he manipulated the pocket before firing strikes to rookie WR Denzel Boston and Jonathan Mingo. His third score — a dart to Dorian Taylor on a shallow cross — showcased Dallas’ growing comfort with quick-developing concepts near the red zone.
Rookie Sensation: Denzel Boston Breaks Out
The biggest story of the night — and possibly of the entire preseason — was rookie wideout Denzel Boston.
The 6’4” receiver out of Washington dominated from the first quarter onward, finishing with 6 catches for 118 yards and a touchdown, including a 41-yard deep post that had fans on their feet.
Boston’s combination of size, route polish, and catch radius gives Dallas a legitimate vertical weapon opposite CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens.
“He’s a gamer,” said Prescott. “You can see it in how he attacks the football — no hesitation, no fear. He’s going to help us early.”
Boston’s chemistry with both Prescott and backup Chris Oladokun (who connected with him twice on back-shoulder routes) underscores his growing confidence in the system.
Offense Explodes Despite Turnovers
Dallas finished the night with 389 total yards, including 353 through the air. The Cowboys moved the ball at will for much of the first half, but four turnovers — including three interceptions and a late fumble — prevented a win in what otherwise was an offensive showcase.
The offensive line held firm once again, allowing just one sack against an aggressive Titans front. The run game didn’t dominate statistically — Phil Mafah led the team with 22 yards on six carries — but the blocking and play-action rhythm created explosive downfield opportunities.
Tight ends also shined: Zack Kuntz (4 catches, 82 yards) and Caleb Fitzpatrick (3 catches, 62 yards) provided critical third-down conversions, while rookie Dae’Quan Wright added five grabs for 36 yards in a versatile role.
Shemar James Continues to Lead the Defense
While the offense grabbed headlines, Shemar James was the heartbeat of the defense — again.
The young linebacker recorded 9 total tackles, 3 tackles for loss, and 1 sack, wreaking havoc from sideline to sideline. His anticipation and physicality continue to set the tone for Dallas’ front seven.
“He’s our communicator, our energy guy,” said Hirsch. “When Shemar’s on the field, everyone plays faster. That’s what makes him special.”
Alongside James, rookie corner Avion Terrell had a strong showing with six tackles and tight coverage, while Malik Banks and Vincent Anthony Jr. contributed critical stops on early-down plays.
Despite giving up 446 yards to Tennessee, Dallas’ defense produced consistent backfield disruption and forced key third-down stops that showed their schematic growth under Coach Hirsch.
Offensive Rhythm Meets Defensive Grit
The Cowboys’ first-team units showed flashes of balance that foreshadow a well-rounded team entering the regular season.
Prescott’s chemistry with new weapons like Boston, combined with the reliability of Mingo and Wright, has this offense positioned to open the year firing on all cylinders.
Defensively, while Tennessee found yardage through the air, the Cowboys’ linebackers and secondary looked cohesive — especially with Jeremiah Cooper and Shemar James patrolling the middle zones with purpose.
Coach Hirsch’s Evaluation: “The Depth Showed Up”
When asked postgame what he learned about his roster through three preseason games, Hirsch didn’t hesitate:
“Depth wins in this league. You saw it tonight — from Boston to Fitzpatrick to guys like Banks and Terrell stepping up. That’s what this camp was about.”
He added that roster decisions will be “tougher than ever,” a testament to the depth and competitiveness the Cowboys have built through recent drafts and player development.
Final Word: Ready for the Real Thing
Three preseason games later, the tone in Dallas is clear — this is a team ready for the regular season.
Prescott looks sharp. The offensive line is forming chemistry. Shemar James has taken command of the defense. And Denzel Boston may have just earned himself a significant rookie role from Day One.
“We’re growing in the right direction,” Hirsch said. “Now it’s about translating that to Sundays that count.”
With the preseason behind them, the 2026 Cowboys enter the year with confidence, cohesion, and a clear identity: a young, fast, physical team built to compete with anyone.
