The Dallas Cowboys came into the 2025 season with high hopes, but defensively, things unraveled fast-and hard. After trading away Micah Parsons before Week 1, there was an understanding that the unit might take a step back.
What no one saw coming was a complete collapse. By season’s end, the Cowboys weren’t just struggling on defense-they were statistically the worst in the league.
That’s not hyperbole. Dallas finished dead last in points allowed and passing yards allowed, and only two teams gave up more total yards.
It was a stunning fall for a franchise that, in recent years, had prided itself on a fast, aggressive defense built around stars like Parsons. But once he was gone, the wheels came off.
And while talent was clearly an issue, coaching didn’t help matters.
Matt Eberflus, brought in to lead the defense, couldn’t find answers. Whether it was scheme, communication, or simply not getting enough out of his players, the results spoke for themselves. By the time the season wrapped, Eberflus was out of a job.
Now, Dallas is in full rebuild mode on the defensive side of the ball. The search for a new defensive coordinator is already underway, and the Cowboys are casting a wide net.
Among the internal candidates getting a closer look is defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton, who’s about to get a valuable audition. He’ll serve as the defensive coordinator for the West team at the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl-a chance to showcase his play-calling chops on a national stage.
Whitecotton won’t be the only Cowboys coach on the sidelines in that game. Tight ends coach Lunda Wells has been tapped to serve as head coach of the West team. On the other sideline, Falcons special teams coordinator Marquice Williams will lead the East team.
Back in Dallas, the front office is already deep into the interview process for the full-time defensive coordinator role. Whitecotton is in the mix, but he’s not alone.
Two of the bigger names being considered are Jonathan Gannon, the former Cardinals head coach, and Zach Orr, who recently served as the Ravens’ defensive coordinator. Both bring experience and pedigree, and either would be a significant hire for a unit that needs a complete identity shift.
What makes this all the more frustrating for Cowboys fans is that the offense did its job-and then some. Despite the defensive meltdown, Dallas still managed a 7-9-1 record, largely thanks to a resurgent attack led by a healthy Dak Prescott. George Pickens emerged as a true WR1, giving Prescott a reliable target in big moments, and Javonte Williams bounced back in a big way, bringing balance to the offense.
That trio kept the Cowboys in the playoff conversation longer than they probably had any right to be. But in the end, the defensive shortcomings were too much to overcome.
Now, the focus shifts to fixing what went wrong. The Cowboys know they can’t waste another year of Prescott’s prime or the talent they’ve assembled on offense.
Whoever steps in as the next defensive coordinator will inherit a unit in need of a full overhaul-but also a golden opportunity. If Dallas can even field a middle-of-the-pack defense next season, they’ll be right back in the playoff mix.
The road to redemption starts now. And for Aaron Whitecotton, the Shrine Bowl could be the first step toward proving he’s the man for the job.