Cowboys’ Defensive Woes Run Deeper Than Matt Eberflus - But Change Is Inevitable
Matt Eberflus is now the third defensive coordinator the Dallas Cowboys have employed in as many seasons - and the results speak for themselves. While Eberflus has taken the brunt of the criticism, and not without reason, the deeper issue is one that’s plagued the franchise for years: a lack of continuity and a clear defensive identity.
Tommy Yarrish, a reporter for the Cowboys’ official site, recently joined 105.3 The Fan and pulled back the curtain on the organization’s internal concerns. According to Yarrish, even team owner Jerry Jones is beginning to acknowledge that the revolving door at defensive coordinator has stunted the unit’s growth.
“Matt Eberflus is their third [DC] in as many years,” Yarrish noted. “I think that certainly has something to do with why Dallas hasn't found their footing on defense.”
And he’s right. Defensive success in the NFL isn’t just about star power - it’s about cohesion, scheme familiarity, and leadership.
The Cowboys have lacked all three. Eberflus may be the current face of the problem, but the root cause is systemic.
The team has cycled through coordinators without building a sustainable foundation, and now they’re paying the price.
The Eberflus Fit Just Hasn't Worked
Let’s be clear: Eberflus hasn’t done himself any favors. This isn’t just about inheriting a flawed situation - it’s about failing to elevate it.
The Cowboys’ defense has looked disjointed, inconsistent, and at times, flat-out overmatched. And while injuries and personnel limitations are part of the equation, other teams have managed to weather far worse.
Take the 49ers, for example. Even without defensive anchors like Fred Warner and Nick Bosa, they've managed to hold the line.
The unit isn’t dominant without its stars, but it’s been good enough to keep the team competitive. That’s the mark of a system that works - and of a coaching staff that adapts.
The Cowboys, on the other hand, are living the worst-case scenario. The personnel isn't elite, but it’s not devoid of talent either.
The issue is that the scheme hasn’t maximized what’s there. And that’s where Eberflus falls short.
Jerry Jones’ Comfort Zone Is Holding the Team Back
There’s a pattern here, and it starts at the top. Jerry Jones has a tendency to hire coaches he’s familiar with - guys who fit his mold, rather than ones who challenge the system.
That’s how Eberflus ended up in this role in the first place, despite being a questionable fit for the current roster. And it’s also why the Mike Zimmer experiment was always going to be short-lived - Zimmer reportedly had his eyes on a head coaching job from the jump.
This isn’t just about hiring the wrong guy. It’s about not having a long-term vision for the defensive side of the ball. And when you’re constantly changing voices in the locker room, it’s nearly impossible for players to develop within a consistent framework.
Continuity Matters - But So Does Competence
There’s an argument to be made for sticking with a coordinator to build some continuity. But when the scheme isn’t working and the results are this underwhelming, keeping someone like Eberflus just to avoid more change would be a mistake.
Yes, three coordinators in three years is far from ideal. But let’s not forget what the defense looked like under Zimmer.
He had guys like DeMarvion Overshown and Osa Odighizuwa playing at a Pro Bowl level. Mazi Smith took a noticeable leap forward right after Dan Quinn left to take over in Washington.
That’s what good coaching looks like - maximizing the pieces you have, even in transition.
Eberflus hasn’t been able to do that. And while he’s not the only problem, he’s a big enough one that change feels inevitable.
What Comes Next?
Jerry Jones hasn’t publicly committed to Eberflus beyond this season, and that silence speaks volumes. While Jones hasn’t thrown his DC under the bus, there’s a growing sense that patience is running thin.
The Cowboys need more than just another name on the headset. They need a defensive coordinator who can build a system that fits the personnel, develop young talent, and create a culture of accountability. That starts with hiring the right voice - and giving that voice time to build something real.
But first, they have to stop settling for what’s comfortable.
The Cowboys are at a crossroads. And if they want to get back to being a serious contender, it’s time to stop spinning the coordinator carousel and start building a defense with staying power.