Stephen A. Smith Criticizes Cowboys Ahead of 2026 Season

During a recent ESPN appearance, Stephen A. Smith revived his long‑standing critique of the Dallas Cowboys, joking that the team might need to “crawl before you walk.” The comments came as the NFC East franchise prepares for the 2026 campaign, a season that many fans hope will end its recent playoff drought.

Smith’s remarks fit a pattern of outspoken Dallas criticism that has become a staple of his First Take segment. Over the years, the veteran sportscaster has seized every opportunity to highlight what he sees as the Cowboys’ lack of consistency and recent on‑field struggles. The latest jab underscores his belief that the team’s mantra of “Super Bowl or bust” may be premature.

While Smith remains unconvinced, fellow ESPN analyst Adam Schefter has offered a more hopeful view. Speaking on “Get Up,” Schefter praised the Cowboys’ defensive progress, noting that “they were better” at the end of last year and could be “dangerous” in 2026. His optimism contrasts sharply with Smith’s skepticism, setting up a familiar media debate.

Dallas is entering the offseason with significant defensive changes. The hiring of 31‑year‑old Christian Parker as defensive coordinator has generated buzz, given his recent tenure with division rival Philadelphia. Parker’s experience is expected to shake up the units that missed the playoffs last season.

Quarterback Dak Prescott has added another layer to the narrative with his “Super Bowl or bust” declaration. Prescott’s claim is particularly striking because the Cowboys last appeared in the championship game in 1996—three years after he was born. The bold proclamation has sparked discussion about whether the roster can finally deliver on that promise.

Off the field, ESPN’s roster adjustments have also made headlines. Cam Newton, a panelist on First Take, was let go by the network ahead of the 2026 season. The departure adds another storyline to a summer already filled with turnover and rebuild plans for Dallas fans.

Looking forward, the Cowboys will hope that their defensive overhaul, led by Parker, can turn Smith’s mockery into applause. If the on‑field results improve, even skeptics may find themselves rethinking their take on the league’s most talked‑about franchise.