Why the Cowboys Should Be All-In on Jim Schwartz After Browns’ Coaching Shakeup
The Christian Parker era in Dallas is just getting started, but the new defensive coordinator isn’t wasting time putting his stamp on the Cowboys’ defense. Even before filling out his staff, Parker has already made bold moves-letting go of three assistants from Matt Eberflus’ group. That’s not just a reshuffling of the deck; it’s a clear message that a new philosophy is on the way.
Meanwhile, Aaron Whitecotton, the lone assistant from Eberflus’ staff who looked like he might stick around, is heading out too. He’s reuniting with Robert Saleh in Tennessee, where he’ll take over as the Titans’ run game coordinator and defensive line coach. So, Parker’s slate is now almost entirely clean-and that could be a good thing.
Because an unexpected opportunity might be falling right into Dallas' lap.
In Cleveland, the Browns made a surprising move by hiring Todd Monken as their next head coach. That decision didn’t sit well with defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, who was reportedly a finalist for the job. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Schwartz didn’t just take the news hard-he left the building and told his fellow coaches he’s not coming back.
That’s a seismic shift. And for the Cowboys, it’s a potential game-changer.
Let’s be clear: Schwartz is still under contract with the Browns, and Cleveland wants him back. But if Schwartz is already halfway out the door emotionally, the Browns may not need to do anything at all for him to become available.
And if he does? Dallas should be at the front of the line.
Schwartz is one of the most respected defensive minds in the game. He’s got a Super Bowl ring, a long track record of building tough, disciplined defenses, and he was just in the running for a head coaching gig.
If he’s truly on the market, there won’t be a shortage of suitors. Teams like the Bills, Chargers, and 49ers are still looking for defensive coordinators, and Schwartz would be a top-tier option for any of them.
But here’s where Dallas has a window-those teams are deep into their interview processes. If it takes time for Schwartz to officially part ways with Cleveland, the Cowboys could sneak in and make their pitch before the other dominoes fall.
Of course, this isn’t as simple as offering a paycheck. Schwartz is used to calling plays and running his own show.
Would he be interested in a role where he’s technically second-in-command under Parker, a first-time coordinator? That’s a fair question.
Even if Dallas made him the highest-paid defensive assistant in the league, that might not be enough if the role doesn’t come with play-calling duties.
But that shouldn’t stop the Cowboys from trying.
This is a rare chance to pair a rising young coordinator with one of the most battle-tested defensive minds in the NFL. Schwartz could be an invaluable resource for Parker, helping him navigate the transition and install a defense that can compete with the NFC’s elite. Even if it’s just for a year or two, the knowledge and structure Schwartz brings could be the kind of foundation that sets Parker-and the Cowboys-up for long-term success.
And hey, this is the NFL. Bill Belichick just got passed over for the Hall of Fame. Nothing’s off the table.
So if there’s even a sliver of a chance that Jim Schwartz is available, Dallas needs to make that call. Fast.