Can one player's return be the X-Factor in the NFC East?
However, the Dallas Cowboys could have something to say about who wins the division. Last season, the Cowboys were without quarterback Dak Prescott for the final nine games, and they finished with a 7-10 record. Moe Moton of Bleacher Report recently named one X-Factor for all eight NFL divisions in 2025, and named Prescott's durability as the X-Factor that could determine the NFC East.
Between 2021 and 2023, Dak Prescott missed six games, and the Dallas Cowboys went 12-5 for three consecutive seasons, winning two NFC East titles.
Last year, the quarterback missed nine games, and the Cowboys finished with a 7-10 record. With him healthy, Dallas may be an underrated team this year.
The Cowboys promoted Brian Schottenheimer from offensive coordinator to head coach, replacing Mike McCarthy. So, they can carry over some of what was effective under the former coach, specifically in the passing game.
In 2021 and 2023, Dallas fielded a top-three passing offense. As a Pro Bowler, Prescott led the league in touchdown passes (36) for the 2023 term.
With an underwhelming collection of running backs, Dallas will likely rely heavily on Prescott's arm this year. Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders are coming off a down season. Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah are Day 3 rookies. Deuce Vaughn has 50 career touches in two campaigns.
If Prescott stays healthy, CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens could be one of the league's most productive wide receiver duos.
Though the Washington Commanders have earned the buzz following an improbable run to the NFC Championship Game, watch out for the Cowboys' bounce-back season if Prescott can stay on the field.
We're going to have to disagree with Moton here. Make no mistake, Prescott's return does put the Cowboys in a favorable position. With Prescott under center, Dallas has won the NFC East four times in his nine NFL seasons. Dallas will be better with Prescott. However, it's worth noting that the Cowboys were 3-5 in his eight starts last season. Is the roster around Prescott better now?
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Philadelphia remains the division's top team. Sure, the Eagles lost some talented defensive players, but they return almost completely intact on offense. Saquon Barkley, Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown and the league's best offensive line remain tough to beat.
Also, don't overlook the Commanders. Washington was the NFL's surprise team last season, finishing 12-5 and advancing to the NFC championship game. Even if the Commanders take a step back this season, they could actually be better. The offensive line significantly improved, and Washington traded for wide receiver Deebo Samuel, giving Jayden Daniels another offensive playmaker.
It seems unlikely that the Commanders or the Cowboys will pass the Eagles in 2025. Washington has a better chance of overtaking the Eagles than Dallas. All three teams will be in the playoff mix, though, so Prescott's return will undoubtedly help the Cowboys.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: What is the NFC East's X-Factor in 2025?
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