Outlook: Eagles vs. Cowboys, Week 1

The NFL has started unveiling matchups for the 2025-26 season, and there are some exciting games on the schedule. The opening Thursday night game will showcase a fierce rivalry: the Philadelphia Eagles versus the Dallas Cowboys.

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This rivalry, which began in 1960, has seen the two teams clash 132 times, including four playoff encounters, with the Cowboys holding a 74-58 advantage. Fans and analysts can almost always expect a thrilling contest when these teams meet, and this year's matchup promises to be particularly electrifying.

The 2025 NFL Draft wrapped up on April 26, with both the Eagles and Cowboys making significant roster improvements. Notably, the Cowboys selected former Alabama offensive guard Tyler Booker with the 12th overall pick, while the Eagles selected former Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell at 31.

Both players are top talents in their positions and have a history of competing against each other since high school, setting the stage for an exciting debut in Week 1. On draft night, both expressed their thoughts on becoming division rivals, further fueling the competitive atmosphere. Their addition to the NFL pipeline from Alabama not only highlights the Crimson Tide's dominance but also amplifies the competitive edge instilled in them.

Booker is expected to start from day one, while Campbell is rehabbing due to a torn labrum but has the potential to make an impact in his rookie season. The Eagles and Cowboys will face off on Sep. 4 at 8:20 p.m. ET at Lincoln Financial Field, with the game available for streaming on NBC, Peacock, Telemundo, Universo, and NFL+.

Former Alabama Players on the Eagles:

Quarterback Jalen Hurts - selected No. 53 overall in the 2020 NFL Draft

Wide Receiver DeVonta Smith - selected No. 10 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft

Offensive Guard Landon Dickerson - selected No. 37 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft

Offensive Tackle Tyler Steen - selected No. 65 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft

Tight End Cameron Latu - selected No. 101 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft (signed with the Eagles after a stint with the Cleveland Browns)

Defensive Tackle Byron Young - selected No. 70 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft  (signed with the Eagles in August 2024 after being waived by the Las Vegas Raiders)

Cornerback Eli Ricks - 2023 NFL Draft Undrafted Free Agent

Linebacker Jihaad Campbell - selected No. 31 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft

Former Alabama Players on the Cowboys:

Offensive Guard Tyler Booker - selected No. 12 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft

Cornerback Trevon Diggs - selected No. 51 overall in the 2020 NFL Draft