Cowboys defense struggles in loss but anticipates boost from Joey Porter Jr.

Dallas falls to 4-4 following a 24-16 loss to Tampa Bay.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 55m1 min read

From The Insiders on @nflnetwork: The #Cowboys defense struggles… but there were moments and adding Joey Porter Jr will Via @RapSheet on X

What happened: The Dallas Cowboys defense struggled during a 24-16 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. NFL Network reported that despite the difficulties, the unit showed positive moments and anticipates improvement with the addition of Joey Porter Jr.

Why it matters: Dallas has ranked 32nd in key defensive metrics since trading Micah Parsons, struggling across a 22-game sample size. The defense is looking to stabilize and views Joey Porter Jr. as a critical piece for a turnaround.

By the numbers: The Cowboys are allowing 22.9 points per game this season, compared to an offense that averages 26.6 points.

What to watch: Dallas will look to bounce back and better integrate its defensive additions in the coming weeks.

Sources

@RapSheet 2026-10-09T23:58:34.503917+00:00

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