While the Cowboys were unable to repeat as division champions or match their win total from 1998, their 8–8 record enabled them to qualify for the playoffs as a wild-card team.
The team started with a 3–0 record, but a week 5 injury to wide receiver Michael Irvin against the Philadelphia Eagles eventually forced him into retirement.
Despite leading the team to consecutive playoff berths and seemingly re-igniting the Dallas offense,[citation needed] head coach Chan Gailey was fired by owner Jerry Jones after the season.
Another notable addition was Tim Lester, reuniting him with Ernie Mills, whom he had played with from 1995 to 1996 while they were on the Pittsburgh Steelers, losing Super Bowl XXX to the Cowboys.
This marked the final season for future Hall of Famer Michael Irvin and longtime Cowboys fullback Daryl Johnston.