NFL grades NFC: Cowboys A-, Packers C-, Panthers B+
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- NFL assigns offseason grades to each NFC team, with Tyler Sullivan evaluating moves across free agency, trades, and the draft.
- Dallas Cowboys receive an A‑ grade, bolstering a defense that allowed the most passing yards in 2025 with safety Caleb Downs, edge rusher Malachi Lawrence, safety Jalen Thompson, corner Cobie Durant, and linebacker Dee Winters.
- Green Bay Packers earn a C‑ grade, adding defensive linemen Javon Hargrave, Zaire Franklin, and corner Brandon Cisse while losing key contributors Quay Walker and Rashan Gary and seeing defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley depart.
- Carolina Panthers secure a B+ grade, splurging on free‑agent edge rusher Jaelan Phillips (four‑year, $120 million) and linebacker Devin Lloyd (three‑year, $45 million) to upgrade a defense that underperformed last season.
Why it matters: Dallas fans gain a stronger defense as the Cowboys' A‑ grade reflects high‑impact acquisitions, while Packers risk a weaker unit after losing key players and their coordinator, and Panthers' $165 million spending aims to lift a struggling defense.
