Cowboys Defensive Coordinator Search Narrows to Four Key Candidates
The Dallas Cowboys are closing in on a crucial hire, and the field is narrowing. After casting a wide net with nine initial interviews to replace the recently dismissed Matt Eberflus, four candidates have emerged as serious contenders for the defensive coordinator role.
This search has taken a slightly different tone than in years past. While owner Jerry Jones has historically been the face of major coaching decisions, this time it’s head coach Brian Schottenheimer leading the charge. And with Schottenheimer at the helm, the Cowboys appear to be prioritizing a blend of innovation, experience, and schematic versatility as they look to reshape their defense.
Let’s break down the four finalists and why each has caught the Cowboys’ attention.
Daronte Jones - Minnesota Vikings Pass Game Coordinator
Jones has already completed a second interview, signaling real interest from Dallas. He’s a rising name in coaching circles, and his ties to Brian Flores - one of the NFL’s most respected defensive minds - don’t hurt his case. Jones’ defensive philosophy is rooted in aggressive, adaptable coverage schemes, something that aligns with Schottenheimer’s stated vision for the unit.
However, his résumé comes with limited coordinator experience. He held the DC title for just one season at LSU, and while that stint showed promise, it’s fair to ask whether he’s ready to lead a defense at the NFL level. Still, his ability to develop secondary talent and implement complex coverage looks makes him a compelling fit for a Cowboys team that leans heavily on its defensive backs.
Jonathan Gannon - Former Cardinals Head Coach
Gannon is no stranger to the spotlight. He helped guide the Philadelphia Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance as their defensive coordinator before taking the head coaching job in Arizona. While his time with the Cardinals didn’t pan out, his credentials as a defensive architect remain strong.
His resume includes success with a high-pressure front and a secondary that thrived on disguises and rotations - traits that could complement the Cowboys’ existing personnel. The connection to Matt Eberflus, his former mentor, might raise eyebrows given Eberflus’ recent exit from Dallas, but Gannon’s track record speaks for itself. He’s scheduled for a second interview on Tuesday, and it’s clear the Cowboys see him as a serious contender.
Christian Parker - Eagles Pass Game Coordinator/Defensive Backs Coach
At just 34 years old, Parker is the youngest of the group, but don’t let the age fool you - he’s already building a reputation as one of the NFL’s sharpest young defensive minds. He’s worked with some of the league’s top young corners, including Patrick Surtain, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean, and has earned praise for his ability to maximize secondary performance.
The Cowboys have already interviewed Parker once and are planning a second meeting. His player development chops and schematic creativity are appealing, especially for a Dallas defense that thrives on takeaways and tight coverage. The question is whether he’s ready for the big chair - the pressure, the expectations, and the responsibility that come with coordinating a defense in one of the league’s most scrutinized franchises.
Jim Leonhard - Broncos Pass Game Coordinator
Leonhard is a name that’s been floating around head coaching and coordinator searches for years now, and for good reason. He has a reputation for being a cerebral, detail-oriented coach who gets the most out of his players. His defensive philosophy matches up well with what Schottenheimer outlined in his season-ending press conference: smart, adaptable, and fundamentally sound.
The catch? Leonhard can’t be interviewed in person until the Broncos are eliminated from the playoffs or during the Super Bowl bye week.
That delay could complicate things, especially if Dallas wants to move quickly. But if the Cowboys are willing to be patient, Leonhard could be worth the wait.
He checks a lot of boxes - schematic fit, experience, and leadership - and his name continues to carry weight in coaching circles.
What’s Next for Dallas?
With these four candidates emerging from the initial pool, it’s clear the Cowboys are focused on finding a coordinator who can both elevate the current talent and bring a clear identity to the defense. Whether they go with an experienced hand like Gannon or Leonhard, or opt for a younger, rising star like Parker or Jones, the decision will say a lot about how Schottenheimer and the front office view the future of the team.
This isn’t just about X’s and O’s - it’s about culture, leadership, and the ability to get the most out of a defense that has the pieces to be elite. The Cowboys don’t appear to be rushing the process, but with second interviews underway and the playoff picture unfolding, a decision could be coming soon.
And when it does, it’ll be one that shapes the next chapter of Cowboys football.