In the 2025 season, the Dallas Cowboys, as always, were filled with statements like "This year is different," "The roster is complete," and "This time we will definitely make the playoffs." However, as the season actually began and the results came in at the end of the year, it was another disappointment. Haha.

The Cowboys were officially eliminated from playoff contention on December 20, 2025, due to a victory by the Philadelphia Eagles. Since the Super Bowl is the final championship of the playoffs, the Dallas Cowboys, having failed to make the playoffs, cannot participate in the Super Bowl. The Cowboys have not won a Super Bowl since their victory in Super Bowl XXX on January 28, 1996, marking a long drought of over 29 years.

It is somewhat frustrating that throughout the season, the Cowboys cheerleaders maintained a professional atmosphere, the stands were always full, and merchandise sales ranked among the best in the league, yet the team continues to repeat the same drama on the field every year. The franchise value is among the highest in global sports teams, but their performance has stagnated at a mediocre level for several years. It is ironic that a team that earns well, has many fans, and enjoys a good environment is always one step behind in the championship race.

In fact, if you watch Cowboys games closely, when things go well, they really go well. They score a lot, and there were moments when it seemed like "this could lead to something." The problem lies in the mistakes that occur at crucial times, the ridiculous plays that disrupt the flow, and the disappointing losses in must-win games.

Typically, strong NFL teams ramp up their focus and intensity towards the end of the season. However, the Cowboys do the opposite, haha. As the playoff race becomes most intense, they make more mistakes and ultimately slip in the competition. By mid-December, the results of the Eagles game confirmed that the playoff chances were essentially over.

These days, the Cowboys' tradition re-emerges. Instead of aiming for the Super Bowl, phrases like "At least let's not tie," "Let's aim for a .500 record," and "Let's beat our division rivals" become the goals. In fact, in the last week of the season, there were comments like "Finishing with an 8-8-1 record wouldn't look too bad."

Injuries are also a recurring topic. Just before the last game, news came out that key players were dropping out one after another. Of course, injuries happen to any team. But strong teams can withstand injuries due to their systems. Weak teams are left with only excuses when injuries occur. Strangely, the Cowboys have a recurring phrase in their team narrative: "If only it weren't for injuries."

The 2025 Dallas Cowboys faced a season that was tough even to keep up in the wild card race, let alone aim for the Super Bowl. They possess the league's top market size, fandom, sponsorship, broadcasting, and expectations, yet the results remain similar. There were many bright moments throughout the season, but those sparks did not last long.

So, the Cowboys will once again have to promote the phrase "Next year for sure" and sell tickets. The title of the world's most valuable franchise seems too generous compared to the current team performance, and fan enthusiasm has waned, but it seems fans will still purchase tickets.