The Dallas Cowboys have long been a polarizing team in the NFL, earning the ire of many fans despite their ‘America’s Team’ moniker. Recent comments from Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley and sports commentator Colin Cowherd have brought the criticism into sharp focus. Barkley noted that the Cowboys, along with the Washington Commanders, didn’t pursue him after his release from the New York Giants. Cowherd seized on this to deliver a scathing critique of the Cowboys, comparing them to a luxury brand that’s lost its luster.
Cowherd’s analogy likened the Cowboys to a Maserati – a high-end vehicle that looks impressive but requires constant, expensive repairs. ‘I’ve never owned a Maserati, but the Cowboys and Maseratis are that luxury brand that feels like they spend way too much in the shop,’ Cowherd said. He further asserted that despite their brand prestige, the Cowboys no longer function as an elite NFL franchise. ‘I think Dallas is a bottom quarter, bottom fifth NFL franchise but because they’ve been such a luxury brand it’s hard to wrap your brain around that,’ he explained.
The criticism comes as the Cowboys look to bounce back in 2025 under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer. Cowherd’s harsh words highlight growing doubts about the team’s relevance in the modern NFL. While the Cowboys maintain an aura of success, their actual performance has failed to live up to expectations, echoing Cowherd’s luxury car analogy. As the team heads into the new season, they’ll face the challenge of proving their worth beyond their brand reputation.