Ranking 12 best players for Cowboys in the 21st century

The Cowboys have produced some exceptional talent over the period, and the players have constantly risen above expectations. The players carried their performance, charm, aura, and have helped the franchise to become a definition of modern-day football.

Surbhi Khera
September 16, 2025
5 min read

Ranking 12 best players for Cowboys in the 21st century — © Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys have experienced it all, from the lows to the highs, victories, and star players. The players not only performed in the matches but also managed to etch their names in the franchise’s history. In the 21st century, they have defined the game in their way and created a legacy for themselves and the Cowboys.

12. Sean Lee

Sean Lee, known as the smartest player on the field, was associated with the Cowboys for a decade. He even served as the team captain. His knowledge, experience, and swiftness made him an exceptional face of the franchise. His injuries had a profound effect on his gameplay and career.

11. Travis Fredrick

His journey is nothing short of a movie; Fredrick was a smart and silent dominator for the Cowboys. He was five times a Pro-Bowl. His presence and performance on the field made the game look like a smooth ride. His health took a toll on him, and he had to miss a season. He made a comeback in 2019 but announced his retirement soon due to health issues.

10. Dez Bryant

His unmatched skills, overpowering techniques, elite hands, and passion are unbeatable. Bryant was associated with the Cowboys from 2010 to 2017 and was one of the most exceptional WRs in the history of the franchise. The Cowboys dropped him due to a decline in performance, but he has remained the fans’ favorite.

9. Trevon Diggs

Diggs is one of the most feared ballhawks in the franchise. He was drafted in the second round in 2020 and is already seen as the rising face of the Cowboys. Just in his 2nd season, he was selected to the Pro Bowl. He is appreciated for his ball skills and physical strength. Despite an injury in 2023, he made a strong comeback in 2024 and is expected to excel further more this year.

8. Micah Parsons

Micah Parsons is a perfect combination of power and speed and was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2021. The Edge Rusher has been associated with the Cowboys since 2021. He became the first Cowboys player to record double-digit sacks in each of his first three seasons. He was seen as a new-age leader before leaving for the Green Bay Packers in 2025. Even though he did not play even half a decade at Cowboys his contribution could not be doubted.

7. Ezekiel Elliott

The Running Back of the franchise is the fans’ favourite and has helped the Dallas to reach great heights. He is the epitome of consistency, great balance, and powerful performance. His consistency led him to play 118 games for the franchise, though his performance declined later due to injuries. The Feed Zeke celebration is quite popular amongst the players and fans.

6. Dak Prescott

Prescott was the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2016 and has 2 Pro-Bowl selections. He appeared in 5 playoffs but is criticized for his lack of success during the playoffs. The quarterback is a leader, a fighter, and an epitome of toughness. He is exceptional on the field, but his off-the-field presence is worth appreciation as he is vocal about mental health awareness.

5. Zack Martin

One of the most elite players, Zack Martin, has been associated with the Cowboys for over a decade now. Martin is a symbol of consistency and reliability as he missed only two games out of 162 regular-season games. He was an integral part of the franchise and was known for his dominant blocking before recently retiring from the game. He made 9 Pro Bowls throughout his entire career.

4. Tyron Smith

Tyron Smith is considered one of the greatest offensive tackles in the history of the franchise. He was the Left Tackle for the Cowboys from 2011 to 2023. Smith’s performance and his role in the offensive line made him extremely important for the team.

3. Tony Romo

His journey from an undrafted player to a Dallas star is a miracle. The Quarterback was popular for his smart decision-making, chemistry, and his football IQ. His strong command and solid foundation in football have helped him become a popular NFL analyst after retirement. He is credited with inculcating a competitive nature amongst his teammates. He made four Pro Bowls while playing with the Cowboys.

2. Jason Witten

Jason Witten is a beacon of reliability and consistency for the franchise, as he has missed only a single game in his entire career. His blocking ability and running got him the title of the Iron Man of Dallas. According to Jerry Jones, “Jason Witten defines what it means to be a Cowboy- Tough, smart, selfless, and all heart”, which reflects the legacy that Witten created. He played 255 games with the Cowboys.

1. DeMarcus Ware

Popularly known as ’the Sack Machine’ of Dallas, DeMarcus Ware was associated with the Cowboys from 2005 to 2013. The Outside Linebacker was the team captain and notched 117 sacks in nine seasons, which is the franchise record. His exceptional hand technique and speed made him one of the best players for the team.