Dallas Cowboys Search for Defensive Coordinator Amid Defensive Struggles

The Dallas Cowboys are in the midst of a critical offseason search, seeking a defensive coordinator who can turn around one of the league’s most porous units. With three interviews already conducted and more on the horizon, the organization is casting a wide net in hopes of finding a candidate capable of rebuilding a defense that struggled mightily in 2025.

Early Candidates and Interviews

Over the past few days, the Cowboys have interviewed three candidates for the vacant defensive coordinator position:

Daronte Jones, Minnesota Vikings defensive pass game coordinator
Ephraim Banda, Cleveland Browns safeties coach
Jim Leonhard, Denver Broncos defensive pass game coordinator

Each candidate brings a unique skill set. Jones is known for his aggressive coverage schemes and ability to develop cornerbacks, Banda has a strong background in player development and secondary communication, and Leonhard has experience coordinating complex defensive packages in Denver’s system.

The Cowboys also requested to interview Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, but the Falcons denied the request. Atlanta, in the midst of its own coaching search after firing Raheem Morris, is prioritizing its head coaching vacancy over personnel interviews.

Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News confirmed that the team plans to continue the search next week, with several high-profile names still under consideration.

The Brian Flores Factor

The most intriguing name on the Cowboys’ radar is Brian Flores, Minnesota’s defensive coordinator, who has already interviewed for head coaching vacancies. Flores’ track record of turning around struggling defenses makes him a coveted candidate. However, he may prefer a promotion to a head coaching role rather than a lateral move, which could complicate Dallas’ pursuit.

Despite the uncertainty, Flores’ potential availability for a defensive coordinator interview beginning Wednesday has Cowboys officials optimistic. His experience in both NFL and college coaching, coupled with a reputation for disciplined schemes and adaptability, makes him an appealing option to rebuild a defense in desperate need of structure.

The Challenge Ahead

Whoever takes the role in Dallas will face a daunting task. The Cowboys’ 2025 defensive statistics underscore just how much work lies ahead:

Ranked No. 30 in total defense, allowing 377 yards per game
Allowed 60 total touchdowns, the highest in the league
Ranked last in passing defense (No. 32), surrendering 251.5 yards per game and 35 passing touchdowns, second only to the New York Jets
Jets failed to record a single interception, while Dallas’ turnover production was similarly subpar

These numbers highlight systemic issues across the defense. From poor coverage schemes to inconsistent pass rush and limited turnovers, the Cowboys need more than a tweak — they need a comprehensive rebuild.

The Stakes

The defensive coordinator position is pivotal not just for statistical improvement but also for restoring credibility to a franchise historically associated with strong defenses. Dallas has long been judged by its ability to stop opponents in crucial moments, and last season’s struggles left fans and analysts questioning the front office’s approach.

The right hire could reshape the team’s identity. A coordinator capable of implementing aggressive yet disciplined schemes, developing young talent, and fostering accountability could be the catalyst for Dallas returning to its traditional standard of defensive excellence.

Future Considerations

Dallas is also balancing this search with broader roster and organizational priorities. The Cowboys hold the No. 20 overall pick in the upcoming draft, thanks to the Micah Parsons trade with Chicago. Parsons’ departure created a gap at linebacker, further emphasizing the need for a defensive coordinator who can optimize the remaining roster and integrate new talent effectively.

Additionally, the front office must consider how the new coordinator will work with the rest of the coaching staff. Head coach Mike McCarthy has emphasized collaboration and adaptability, and finding a coordinator whose philosophy aligns with the team’s culture is just as important as tactical acumen.

Conclusion

The Cowboys’ search for a defensive coordinator is about more than filling a vacancy — it’s about reversing a trend of defensive futility. With top-tier candidates already interviewed and more possibilities, including Brian Flores, on the horizon, the team is signaling a commitment to fixing a unit that has been historically weak over the past season.

For fans, the hope is that the right hire can restore discipline, consistency, and playmaking ability. Dallas’ defense has struggled across all facets, and only a strategic and capable coordinator can begin to reverse that narrative.

The stakes could not be higher. In an era where playoff success is often defined by defensive performance, the Cowboys need more than talent; they need leadership, vision, and accountability. The next defensive coordinator will not just oversee a unit — they will define how Dallas positions itself for success in the 2026 season and beyond.