If you’re scrambling to find the remote because you think America’s Team is about to kickoff, take a breath. Honestly, you might want to put the chips back in the pantry for a second. We’ve all been there—refreshing the sports app, checking the local listings, and wondering exactly what time and channel are the cowboys on today only to realize the schedule doesn't match the hype.
Here is the cold, hard reality: The Dallas Cowboys are not playing today, Saturday, January 17, 2026.
I know, it's a bummer. After a season that felt like a rollercoaster designed by a madman, the Cowboys' 2025-2026 campaign came to a screeching halt a couple of weeks ago. While today is a massive day for NFL fans with the Divisional Round of the playoffs in full swing, Dallas is currently watching from the couch, just like the rest of us.
Why Aren't the Cowboys Playing Today?
The short version? They didn't make the cut.
🔗 Read more: Liverpool FC Chelsea FC: Why This Grudge Match Still Hits Different
Dallas finished their regular season with a 7-9-1 record. That’s not exactly the kind of resume that gets you an invite to the January dance. Their final game was a 34-17 loss to the New York Giants back on January 4th. If you were holding out hope for a Wild Card miracle, that ship sailed when the clock hit zero at MetLife Stadium.
It’s weird seeing a Saturday in January without the star on the helmet, especially with how much media oxygen this team consumes. But today, the spotlight belongs to the teams that actually survived the gauntlet.
What’s Actually on TV Today?
Just because the Cowboys aren't on doesn't mean there isn't elite football to watch. If you're looking to fill that void, the NFL has a heavy-hitting doubleheader scheduled for today.
💡 You might also like: NFL Football Teams in Order: Why Most Fans Get the Hierarchy Wrong
The Buffalo Bills take on the Denver Broncos at 4:30 PM ET on CBS. This one is huge because Denver is the No. 1 seed in the AFC, and Buffalo just knocked off Jacksonville to get here.
Later tonight, it's an NFC West war. The San Francisco 49ers travel to Seattle to face the Seahawks at 8:00 PM ET on FOX. This is the primetime slot, and honestly, even for a Cowboys fan, it’s hard to look away from a playoff game at Lumen Field.
- 4:30 PM ET: Bills at Broncos (CBS / Paramount+)
- 8:00 PM ET: 49ers at Seahawks (FOX / FOX One)
Looking Ahead: When is the Next Cowboys Game?
Since you won't find them on any channel today, you’re looking at a long wait. The Cowboys won't take the field again until the 2026 Preseason in August.
📖 Related: Why Your 1 Arm Pull Up Progression Isn't Working (And How to Fix It)
The 2026 regular season opponents are already mostly set, though. Because Dallas finished second in the NFC East, they're slated to face a lineup that includes the AFC South and the NFC West. You can expect games against the Eagles, Commanders, and Giants (obviously), but also matchups with the Houston Texans, Green Bay Packers, and Seattle Seahawks.
Basically, the "Dak era" or whatever version of the Cowboys we see next will have a lot of work to do. The front office, led by Jerry Jones, is already facing a mountain of questions about coaching staff changes and roster depth after the way 2025 ended.
Actionable Next Steps for Fans
- Stop searching for the channel: If you see a stream claiming to show a "Cowboys live game" today, it’s a fake or a replay. Don't click it.
- Watch the 49ers vs. Seahawks: Since this game determines who moves closer to the Super Bowl in the NFC, it’s relevant to the Cowboys' future divisional outlook.
- Check the Mock Drafts: This is officially "Draft Season" for Dallas. With a losing record, they’ll have a decent pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Start looking at names like Jayden Blue or defensive line prospects who can shore up that run defense.
- Update your calendar: The NFL Scouting Combine starts in late February. That’s the next time you’ll get meaningful news about the direction of the franchise.
The Cowboys might be "out," but the NFL machine keeps grinding. Grab a drink, enjoy the Bills and Broncos, and start prepping for the 2026 offseason drama.