The Dallas Cowboys open training camp Wednesday at Residence Inn River Ridge in Oxnard, California. The Cowboys finished in third place in the NFC East with a 6-10 record in 2020. They have missed the playoffs the past two seasons and coach Mike McCarthy needs to turn things around in 2021. The good news: the health of key players, such as quarterback Dak Prescott and offensive linemen Tyron Smith and La'el Collins. The iffy news: the defense remains a question, though new coordinator Dan Quinn could have some answers. Here's a 53-man roster projection:
QUARTERBACK (2): Dak Prescott, Garrett Gilbert
Prescott, who suffered a fractured right ankle in October 2020, looked fine coming off the offseason work, which should make the Cowboys breathe easier. Gilbert, who started one game last season, took the No. 2 snaps over Cooper Rush and Ben DiNucci and had some moments. The Cowboys have looked at some veterans, but have opted to go with Gilbert at the moment. It's his job to win in training camp.