Cowboys tumble in ESPN's post-draft power rankings

With a long-running nickname like "America's Team," expectations are typically going to be high each year for the Dallas Cowboys. And this year will be no different for the upcoming 2024 season.

Unlike past years, however, the Cowboys seemed to take a bit of a step back this offseason as a number of longtime notable contributors went out the door.

During the last few months, Dallas has parted ways with running back Tony Pollard, left tackle Tyron Smith, defensive end Dorance Armstrong, center Tyler Biadasz and defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, who left to become the new head coach of the Washington Commanders.

In contrast, their two biggest free-agent additions have been Eric Kendricks, a 32-year-old linebacker, and 28-year-old running back Ezekiel Elliott, who is returning to Dallas after spending a season with the New England Patriots.

The Cowboys didn't really give their fans much to be excited about during this year's NFL Draft, either. While their selections could turn out to be valuable pieces of the team within the next few seasons, it's hard to expect a major immediate impact from two offensive linemen, a defensive lineman and a linebacker.

With all of this known, it shouldn't come as a surprise to find out that the Cowboys dropped down multiple spots in ESPN's latest NFL power rankings, which were updated after last month's draft.

Prior to the 2024 NFL Draft, ESPN ranked Dallas as the ninth-best team in the NFL. But in the latest rankings, the Cowboys have dropped down to the No. 11 spot.

When breaking down the rankings by conference, Dallas is currently viewed as the fifth-best team in the NFC by ESPN behind the Green Bay Packers (10th), Philadelphia Eagles (fifth), Detroit Lions (fourth), and San Francisco 49ers (second).

But considering the lack of improvements Dallas has made to its roster during the last few months, the team should probably be happy with that standing.