The Dallas Cowboys have made another significant change in their coaching staff, parting ways with defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus after just one season. This marks the fourth consecutive year the team has hired a new defensive leader, highlighting a trend within the organization since 2014 of favoring former NFL head coaches for this crucial position.
The Cowboys’ recent history of defensive coordinators includes Rod Marinelli, Mike Nolan, and Dan Quinn, all of whom have had prior head coaching experience. In 2024, Mike Zimmer returned to the Cowboys as defensive coordinator after a successful stint as head coach of the Minnesota Vikings. Eberflus, who previously coached the Chicago Bears, took the reins in 2025 but was unable to improve the team’s performance as expected.
Under Eberflus, the defense faced considerable challenges, finishing last in points allowed at an alarming 30.1 per game, as well as ranking poorly in passing yards and total yards. The team’s decision to trade edge rusher Micah Parsons prior to the season contributed to these struggles. Even with a potent offense that ranked seventh in scoring and second in total yards, the defensive shortcomings overshadowed their efforts.
As the Cowboys turn the page, they will need to look for a replacement who can effectively lead the defense moving forward. Potential candidates include Brian Flores, whose contract with the Minnesota Vikings will expire after a successful run, and Raheem Morris, recently fired from the Atlanta Falcons but previously served as defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams during their Super Bowl season.
Jonathan Gannon, who was let go from the Arizona Cardinals, is also a strong contender. His familiarity with the NFC East and his prior connections to the Cowboys could make him an appealing choice. Other names to consider are Aden Durde, who served as the Cowboys’ defensive line coach under Dan Quinn and now coordinates defenses in Seattle, and Jim Leonhard, currently with the Denver Broncos and known for his time as defensive coordinator at Wisconsin.
Jeff Ulbrich, Atlanta’s defensive coordinator, also improved his team’s performance this past season and could potentially lead the Cowboys’ defense as well. With several experienced candidates available, the Cowboys have the opportunity to build a more formidable defense, addressing the issues that plagued them in Eberflus’ tenure and setting the stage for a more competitive 2026 season. The future looks promising as the Cowboys seek a strategic and effective talent to lead their defense into a new era.