The Dallas Cowboys have taken a hit in the latest NFL power rankings roundup after watching their playoff hopes plummet in Week 15.

Dallas dropped to 6-7-1 with the loss and can still technically make the playoffs, but it would take a lot. The Cowboys would need the 9-5 Philadelphia Eagles, who are in first place in the NFC East, to lose their final three games, while Dallas would need to win against the Los Angeles Chargers, Washington Commanders and New York Giants.

The Cowboys spent an NFL-low $20.47 million in free agency in 2024, per OverTheCap.com, and they went bargain bin shopping in 2025. They struck oil with running back Javonte Williams, but most of their additions didn't move the needle. Dallas needs more from its front office in free agency in order to build a more competent defense in 2026.

There were some bright spots for the Dallas Cowboys despite an ugly defeat to the Minnesota Vikings, with five players standing above the rest with their PFF ratings.

According to Jones, the defensive shortcomings have directly altered the trajectory of the Cowboys’ season. Despite boasting one of the league’s most productive offenses, Dallas has repeatedly been forced to play from behind or win shootouts, a formula that hasn’t consistently worked.

Wide receiver George Pickens was quiet in both the Lions loss and the Vikings loss, causing some to wonder if team owner Jerry Jones may reconsider wanting to keep him around long-term. However, Jones recently assured fans that this was not the case.

The Chargers can clinch a playoff berth this weekend. It starts with not falling into a trap against the Cowboys.