Cowboys’ DC Search: Shifting Priorities and Potential Hires

The Dallas Cowboys are taking a measured approach as they search for a new defensive coordinator (DC), despite the urgency of the offseason. Several names have emerged as potential candidates, but the team’s strategy seems to hinge on some external factors, especially with the Atlanta Falcons’ head coaching search and other coaching dominoes falling in the NFL.

Waiting on Jeff Ulbrich: The Top DC Target?

The Cowboys are reportedly waiting on Atlanta to finalize its head coach hiring process, particularly because they have interest in Jeff Ulbrich, the defensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons. Jeff Ulbrich has become a key figure in Dallas’ DC search, with reports suggesting that the Cowboys would prefer him over other candidates like Jim Leonhard.

As discussed by Broaddus on the Doin’ Alright podcast, Dallas may want to see if Ulbrich becomes available once Atlanta hires its next head coach. If Atlanta decides to go in a different direction with their DC or keeps Ulbrich on the staff, the Cowboys would be positioned to offer him a prominent role. Ulbrich’s experience and proven success with the Falcons defense have made him an appealing candidate for Dallas.

Interestingly, Broaddus also speculated that the Cowboys might prefer Ulbrich over Jim Leonhard, the fan-favorite pick for the position. Leonhard, known for his strong defensive acumen, has drawn interest from various teams, but it appears that Dallas’ preference might lean toward Ulbrich if the Falcons part ways with him.

The Stefanski-Schwartz Connection

Another wrinkle in the DC search is the possibility of Kevin Stefanski bringing Jim Schwartz to Atlanta if he’s hired as the Falcons’ head coach. However, the situation is complicated by Schwartz’s ongoing second interview with the Cleveland Browns for their head coach vacancy. Should Schwartz stay in Cleveland, it would impact Atlanta’s hiring plans and, consequently, the Cowboys’ pursuit of Ulbrich.

Daronte Jones: A Strong Alternative to Leonhard

In addition to the Ulbrich rumors, Daronte Jones has emerged as another intriguing option for Dallas. Jones, who has worked with Brian Flores, brings a defensive philosophy that aligns with the aggressive, high-pressure approach the Cowboys seem to want to implement. According to Cody Warren from Inside The Star, Jones’ experience with Flores in Minnesota gives him an edge over Jim Leonhard, whose defensive strategies may not be as disruptive against high-volume passing offenses.

Jones’ more recent success in dealing with high-powered offenses might appeal to the Cowboys, who struggled with coverage and pressure this past season. Given his background in both college and the NFL, Jones might be a candidate who can help the Cowboys adjust to the evolving nature of offenses in today’s league.

While Jim Leonhard remains a solid option, especially given his sharp defensive mind, Jones’ pedigree and results in similar systems could make him a more seamless fit for the Cowboys’ needs.

Trade Rumors: Could the Cowboys Deal George Pickens?

Off the field, the Dallas Cowboys are also considering roster moves, and one of the more intriguing possibilities is a trade for George Pickens, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ wide receiver. With a roster full of talented receivers, the Cowboys could look to leverage Pickens’s value to bolster other areas of need.

Examining recent trades, such as the Seahawks’ deal for DK Metcalf or the Panthers’ trade of DJ Moore, provides some context for what the Cowboys could expect in return for Pickens. According to K.D. Drummond of Cowboys Wire, a potential trade for Pickens could fetch the Cowboys a mid-to-late first-round pick or possibly multiple picks, depending on the market.

Pickens, at just 22 years old, offers great potential as a young, dynamic receiver, but the Cowboys could decide to part with him if it leads to an improvement in other areas of the team, especially on defense.

Hiring Defensive Coaches Who Gave Dak Prescott Fits

In another strategic move, the Cowboys are reportedly interviewing defensive coaches who caused problems for Dak Prescott and the offense during the 2025 season. According to Dan Rogers of Blogging The Boys, several of the Cowboys’ DC candidates have had success against them. This strategy could allow Dallas to gain insight into defensive schemes that have stymied their quarterback, potentially giving them an edge in future matchups.

The focus on coaches who have challenged Dak Prescott could help the Cowboys identify defensive schemes that best counteract their offensive style. By hiring someone who knows how to exploit weaknesses in the Cowboys’ offense, they could improve their overall game plan for the upcoming season.

Conclusion: A Deliberate Approach to the Cowboys’ Future

The Cowboys’ coaching search has been anything but rushed, with several key decisions still pending. Jeff Ulbrich, Daronte Jones, and Jim Leonhard are all names in the mix, but much of the team’s strategy is contingent on external factors, such as Atlanta’s head coach hiring and the results of the NFL playoffs. The Cowboys’ front office appears to be staying patient, confident that they can land a top defensive mind to help elevate their unit in 2026.

Meanwhile, offseason trades and roster moves, such as potentially dealing George Pickens, will continue to evolve as the Cowboys shape their team for next year. The coming weeks will reveal whether Dallas can secure a defensive coordinator who can help unlock the full potential of their roster — and whether the Cowboys can make a serious push for the Super Bowl in 2026.