The Dallas Cowboys officially get on the field for their first training camp practice of 2026 on Wednesday, July 29, marking the beginning of Brian Schottenheimer‘s first camp as the team’s head coach.
After the Cowboys arrived in Oxnard on Monday and held their opening press conference on Tuesday, the focus now shifts to football as players take the field for the first time this summer.
Brian Schottenheimer speaks before practice
The day’s activities begin with Schottenheimer addressing the media at 1:05 p.m. CT. The second-year head coach is expected to discuss the team’s early goals, player availability, and what he wants to see from the opening practice. His press conference will offer the latest updates before the Cowboys begin on-field work, per the official schedule.
Cowboys hit the field for first practice on July 29, 2026
The Cowboys’ first training camp practice is scheduled to begin at 1:45 p.m. CT. It is the first opportunity for coaches to evaluate the roster in a competitive setting as preparations for the 2026 season officially get underway.
One of the biggest storylines will be the debut of defensive coordinator Parker, who takes over a defense that underwent significant changes during the offseason.
Fans will also get their first extended look at rookie safety Caleb Downs, veteran additions Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark, and the offense led by Dak Prescott.
Wide receiver George Pickens is also expected to participate after reporting to camp despite playing under the franchise tag.
What comes after practice
Following the conclusion of practice, the team will release a new episode of Inside Cowboys Training Camp on the Cowboys Break podcast. Cowboys Break is the team’s official analysis podcast on the franchise’s official website.
It covers training camp updates, game breakdowns, roster battles, player performances, coaching decisions, injury news, draft and free agency discussions, and fan questions.
Hosted by the team’s staff writers and analysts, such as Derek Eagleton, Ambar Garcia and Voch Lombardi. The show provides in-depth insight into the latest developments surrounding the Cowboys throughout the NFL season.
What happened at Cowboys training camp yesterday on July 28?
On July 28, the Jerry Jones‘ team officially opened its 2026 training camp in Oxnard, California, with players taking the field for the first full practice under first-year head coach Schottenheimer. The session featured position drills, install periods, and early evaluations as the coaching staff began sorting out depth chart battles across the roster.
Owner Jerry Jones also addressed reporters before practice, discussing the team’s expectations for the season and indicating that the Cowboys could be willing to use future draft capital if the right opportunity arises to strengthen the roster. Executive vice president Stephen Jones provided updates on contract negotiations, including the team’s desire to keep defensive tackle Quinnen Williams in Dallas for the long term.
The opening practice also gave fans their first extended look at several newcomers, including defensive coordinator Christian Parker, whose defense drew praise from players for its energy and attention to detail. With training camp now underway, the Cowboys shifted their focus toward installing schemes.
With training camp now underway, every practice will be closely watched as position battles begin to take shape and the Cowboys start building toward the 2026 regular season.