Brian Schottenheimer makes bold prediction for Cowboys defense, puts NFL on notice

Training camp is underway in Oxnard, California, as the Dallas Cowboys ramp up their preparations for the 2025 NFL campaign. The team held its first practice on Tuesday, July 22, and gave fans a look at what to expect during the upcoming season.

One thing that was noticeable during the first practice session was the number of times the ball hit the ground. The defense was active and chasing down the ball carrier and punching at the ball on every rep, and don't expect that to stop anytime soon.

Ahead of Wednesday's session, head coach Brian Schottenheimer made a bold claim about the Cowboys' defense that should have the league on notice.

MORE: Micah Parsons could face major consequences if he leaves training camp

If you're going up against the Cowboys defense, you better hang onto the ball tight.

Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer during training camp at the River Ridge Fields in Oxnard, California. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Schottenheimer has a firm belief that the Cowboys' defense will rank near the top of the league in takeaways this season.

"I'm not afraid to put it out there: I think we're gonna be one of the top takeaway teams in the league on defense," Schottenheimer said while speaking to reporters ahead of Wednesday's practice.

MORE: Cowboys' Micah Parsons gets candid on Trevon Diggs situation, shows support

Dallas certainly has the talent and the speed on defense to make that come to fruition. Once DeMarvion Overshown and Trevon Diggs are fully healthy and ready to go, the Cowboys defense has even more talented, ballhawking players.

Last season, the Cowboys ranked No. 12 in the NFL with 22 takeaways. Unfortunately, the team's 28 giveaways ranked No. 5 in the league, and the -6 turnover differential was difficult for the team to overcome all season long. If the team can force even more turnovers in 2025, it will take pressure off of Dak Prescott and the offense and allow everyone to play more freely.

Cowboys defensive end Micah Parsons enters the field during training camp at the River Ridge Fields in Oxnard, California. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

— Enjoy free coverage of the Cowboys from Dallas Cowboys on SI —

Best highlights from Dallas Cowboys first 2025 training camp practice

Micah Parsons responds to Jerry Jones diss as tensions boil: 'I'm not here for him'

Marshawn Kneeland steals show in Cowboys' first training camp practice

Brian Schottenheimer bonds with Dak Prescott, fiancée & daughters after training camp

PHOTOS: Parker Kilpatrick, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader rookie