2011 NFL Power Rankings: Dallas Cowboys Improve Ahead of Season

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

Tony Romo Pulling The Players Together

The Dallas Cowboys are ranked much higher in my post-draft rankings than they were the last time I ranked them during the season.

The Cowboys were ranked toward the bottom most of the season, and I took a lot of heat for putting them low weeks before anyone else did. I saw the Cowboys come out of the gate flat and I read the writing on the wall and ranked them accordingly. It turned out I was right and people stopped calling me an idiot.

So far this offseason, things look more promising. Romo, who looked better last season before his injury, seems to finally be embracing his leadership role and has been organizing workouts during the lockout.

The Cowboys looked re-energized under Jason Garrett last season, and the Cowboys should be contenders again in 2011.

MUST READ: Madden 2012 Player Rankings, Projecting Rookie Numbers

Just behind the Cowboys, at No. 18, are the Houston Texans. Wade Phillips is back to what he does best, running a defense. The Texans have the offense to compete, and now they should have the defense.

The Texans drafted well and there should be improvement up and down the line, resulting in a more effective pass rush and better run stoppage.

Both teams have to prove some things on the field before they can be ranked higher, but both teams look poised to have a good 2011 season.

Most recent updates:

Flag

Props (0)