The Dallas Cowboys wrapped up their preseason with a game that mattered far more for individual evaluations than the final score, giving coaches one last extended look at players competing for roster spots and roles before the regular season begins.
New Orleans established itself early behind quarterback Spencer Rattler and running back Kendre Miller. The Saints moved efficiently on their opening possessions, with Miller repeatedly finding room against the Dallas defense. New Orleans converted that early success into points, while Dallas initially relied on kicker Brandon Aubrey to keep pace. Aubrey connected on multiple field goals, including another demonstration of the range that has made him one of the Cowboys' most dependable weapons.
For Dallas, much of the early offensive attention centered on quarterback Joe Milton. The Cowboys moved the football at times but struggled to turn those possessions into touchdowns. The performance underscored one of the realities of preseason football: moving between the 20-yard lines is useful, but coaches are ultimately evaluating whether players can finish drives when opportunities become more difficult.
The Cowboys were also using the game to evaluate depth throughout the roster. Players on the offensive and defensive lines were particularly important, with final roster numbers approaching and several positions still unsettled. New Orleans exposed some concerns in Dallas' defensive depth when the Saints later broke a run directly through the middle for a touchdown. The broadcast analysts noted that several of the players on the field were essentially competing for their NFL futures.
One of the more encouraging developments came when veteran quarterback Sam Howell entered the game.
Howell immediately provided a different presence to the Dallas offense, and his connection with former SMU receiver Jordan Hudson became one of the game's highlights. Howell delivered a deep pass that Hudson went up and secured before the pair connected again in the corner of the end zone for a touchdown. The sequence demonstrated Howell's ability to adjust at the line, work through play action and deliver accurately downfield.
That performance could carry significance beyond a single preseason game. While Milton brings considerable physical ability, Howell's experience showed in his decision-making and command of the offense. The broadcast crew specifically noted the veteran presence he brought after entering the game.
Dallas continued battling late. Howell helped engineer another touchdown drive and then ran into the end zone himself on the two-point conversion, tying the game with both his arm and legs contributing to the comeback. New Orleans eventually answered with a 53-yard Daniel Carlson field goal to regain the lead.
The larger takeaway for Dallas, however, wasn't the scoreboard.
Preseason finales are ultimately about evidence. Coaches want to see which players execute assignments under pressure, which reserves can provide dependable depth and which young players make themselves difficult to release.
For the Cowboys, Howell and Hudson supplied some of the strongest late evidence. Other position battles, particularly along the lines and deeper portions of the roster, may require considerably tougher decisions.
With preseason evaluation now giving way to the regular season, Dallas has reached the point where potential must become production.
