The Dallas Cowboys are at a crossroads on defense - and this time, they know they can’t afford to miss.
After cycling through defensive coordinators at a dizzying pace - four in as many years - the Cowboys are zeroing in on a long-term answer. This isn’t just about plugging a hole. It’s about reshaping the identity of a unit that once looked like a strength but has since become a liability, especially in the wake of their Wild Card meltdown against Green Bay.
That loss wasn’t just a bad day at the office - it was a flashing red light. Since then, the defense has steadily unraveled. Key talents like Micah Parsons, Nahshon Wright, Jourdan Lewis, and DeMarcus Lawrence have all found success elsewhere, leaving Dallas looking for more than just a new coordinator - they need a new foundation.
And the front office knows it. According to Bobby Belt of 105.3 The Fan, this isn’t a “just because” hire. The Cowboys are looking for someone who can grow with the team - a coordinator who can bring stability, not just schemes.
“I don’t think they’re going to go six coordinators in six years,” Belt said. “So, that’s the upside - if you get hired here, you probably have the job for a little bit, too.”
That’s a far cry from recent history. Mike Zimmer, brought in at age 67 after three years away from the league, was never built to be a long-term fix.
And Matt Eberflus, who followed, marked the third DC in three seasons. At some point, the revolving door has to stop.
That’s where Brian Schottenheimer comes in. The offensive coordinator is playing a key role in the search, casting a wide net and leaning into a youth movement. The Cowboys are looking at coaches who aren’t just ready to lead now - they’re hungry to build something lasting.
One name that’s drawing serious interest: Christian Parker, currently the Eagles’ defensive backs coach. Parker brings real NFL chops, having previously coached DBs in Denver and served as a defensive quality control coach in Green Bay. He’s young, experienced, and already respected in league circles.
Another intriguing option is Daronte Jones, the Vikings’ passing game coordinator. He’s reportedly made a strong impression inside the Cowboys’ building and could be a sleeper pick - the kind of under-the-radar hire that pays off big if given time to grow into the role.
And then there’s Jim Leonhard. The former Wisconsin defensive coordinator has long been seen as a future NFL DC, and he’s still in the mix.
But with his current team making a Super Bowl push, his availability remains in question. Fortunately for Dallas, they’re not short on quality candidates - and they’re not in a rush.
This time, patience might be their best play. The Cowboys know they can’t afford another one-and-done coordinator. And after surrendering a franchise-worst 511 points this season, even Jerry Jones seems to understand that a hard reset is overdue.
Whoever gets the job won’t just be calling plays - they’ll be tasked with restoring pride to a unit that used to be feared. The Cowboys are betting that their next hire won’t just stick around - they’ll lead the charge in turning this defense around for good.