Week 3 NFL power rankings roundup: Cowboys aren’t seen as playoff contenders

The Dallas Cowboys improved to 1-1 on the season and avoided their first 0-2 start since 2010 with an overtime win against the New York Giants.

Despite securing the win, there are a lot of questions this team has to answer, especially on defense.

MORE: Updated 2026 NFL Draft order for Dallas Cowboys after thrilling Week 2 OT win

That’s why they find themselves in the bottom half of NFL power rankings. Here’s a collection of those rankings, which shows Dallas isn’t seen as a playoff threat by the experts.

Connor Orr, SI.com: No. 19

Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. | Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

The Cowboys moved up from No. 24 to 19 in SI.com’s rankings with Connor Orr saying the team seems to be all-in with Brian Schottenheimer.

”I couldn’t help but watch Brian Schottenheimer conduct his post-game festivities and see a team that has a lot more affinity for him as a coach than the lot of us. That feeling—and wins like these—can be powerful.”

ESPN: No. 19

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott reacts after a play against the New York Giants during overtime. | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Dallas was stagnant in ESPN’s rankings, staying at No. 19 for the second week in a row. In his write-up, Todd Archer highlights Dak Prescott’s ability to move the ball with his legs returning.

”Prescott doesn't run the way he did his first few years or certainly before he suffered a dislocated and fractured ankle in 2020, but he has shown he can move around this season.” - Todd Archer

Pete Prisco, CBS: No. 20

Dallas Cowboys safety Donovan Wilson intercepts the ball against the New York Giants during overtime. | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Despite the win against the Giants, Prisco dropped Dallas four spots to No. 20. Their defense is a major concern, so it’s difficult to say his concerns are invalid.

Bleacher Report: No. 21

New York Giants WR Malik Nabers makes a catch for a touchdown against Dallas Cowboys CB Trevon Diggs. | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

The Cowboys dropped two spots with Bleacher Report, again due to their defense.

“With plenty of offensive potential—and a reliable kicker in Brandon Aubrey—the Cowboys should be in a lot of games this season. With a defense even worse than last year's, however, Dallas doesn't look like a legitimate playoff threat.” - Kristopher Knox

Nate Davis, USA Today: No. 21

Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams runs with the ball for a touchdown against the New York Giants. | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Nate Davis moved Dallas up from No. 23 to 21, citing Javonte Williams’ performance as a reason for hope.

”How about RB Javonte Williams' resurgence in Big D? Tied for the league lead with three rushing TDs, he'll match his career high with the next one.” — Davis

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