Cowboys Reporter Jon Machota Explains Why Cowboys Fans Deserve Better | Doin’ Alright

Episode 198: Bryan Broaddus is joined by Jon Machota of The Athletic for an in-depth conversation covering everything from the realities of reporting on the Dallas Cowboys to the team's outlook heading into training camp. Jon pulls back the curtain on what it's really like covering the NFL's most scrutinized franchise, explaining how relationships with Jerry Jones, coaches, and players are built without sacrificing credibility. They discuss why Cowboys reporters are often accused of protecting the team, how Jerry Jones actually handles criticism, and why honest reporting has earned respect—not resentment—inside The Star. They also share behind-the-scenes stories about covering the league, navigating breaking news, and balancing access with accountability. The conversation then shifts to football as Jon evaluates the Cowboys' biggest strengths and concerns entering the 2026 season. He breaks down the impact of new defensive coordinator Christian Parker, why the defense has legitimate reason for optimism, the pass-rush questions that still need answers, and what he expects from George Pickens in his first season with Dallas. Jon also explains why Dak Prescott remains the team's biggest reason for confidence, discusses the Micah Parsons contract saga, and shares why training camp can often be misleading when evaluating players. It's a wide-ranging interview packed with insider stories, media insight, and a realistic look at where the Cowboys stand before the season kicks off. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro with Jon Machota 04:46 What has changed when it comes to reporting the Cowboys? 07:30 “Cowboys Fans Deserve Better” 14:13 What do you listen for when interviewing Jerry Jones? 15:49 What makes a good press conference question? 20:03 Are there reporters that thrive on confrontation? 22:14 How difficult is it to cover a losing team? 24:10 How do players deal with interviews after a loss? 29:28 Has Jon ever been confronted by a player? 31:59 Have the Cowboys asked Jon to do a favor with a story? 35:43 Did the Cowboys do enough in the offseason? 37:54 How are you going to cover George Pickens? 41:13 What don’t we know about Christian Parker 45:54 Jon’s biggest concern with the Cowboys 💰 Sign up for PrizePicks with code: HMA and get $50 in lineups instantly when you play your first $5+ lineup! https://link.prizepicks.com/LME0/CROWN 📲 FOLLOW OUR HOSTS Bryan Broaddus Instagram:   / bryanbroaddus   Twitter (X): https://x.com/CrwnGlobalMedia Voch Lombardi Instagram:   / voch_lombardi   Twitter (X): https://x.com/vochlombardi 👑 FOLLOW Crown Global Media Twitter (X): https://x.com/CrwnGlobalMedia 📺 WATCH & LISTEN YouTube:    / @crownglobalmedia   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Lmseke... 🔥 OFFICIAL MERCH Your favorite Crown Global Media merch is available now. Shirts, hoodies, trucker hats, and more in Crown and Doin’ Alright styles. 👉 https://esixsportswear.com/crown_glob... 🌐 WEBSITE https://www.crownglobalmedia.com/ 📸 Photos provided by Imagn Images #NFL #DallasCowboys