🚨 COWBOYS COACHING MOVES: Zach Orr Set to Join Dallas’ Staff, Ryan Smith Expected to Be Hired as Cornerbacks Coach 👇

While Zach Orr may not have been hired as the Dallas Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator, his potential role on the coaching staff is becoming clearer. Orr, who recently served as the defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, is a candidate to depart Baltimore following head coach John Harbaugh’s firing. While Orr interviewed for the Cowboys and Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator positions, both teams ultimately chose different directions. However, Dallas is still interested in Orr and has reportedly “lined him up” to join Brian Schottenheimer‘s staff as an “elevated” linebackers coach, according to Clarence Hill Jr. of All City DLLS.

Zach Orr’s Move to Dallas: A New Role

Orr, who has experience as both a player and coach, spent two years as the Ravens’ defensive coordinator. Under his leadership, the unit didn’t meet expectations, particularly in the 2025 season. Despite that, Orr is still highly regarded and could bring significant value to the Cowboys’ linebacking corps, a group that is expected to be a focal point for improvement this offseason. Orr’s playing background as a middle linebacker and his coaching experience at the position could be a strong asset for Dallas.

His connection with Schottenheimer—the two worked together for a season in Jacksonville in 2021—and with new Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker further strengthens the likelihood of this move. Orr’s ties to the area also make it a potential homecoming. He is a native of DeSoto, Texas, which adds an emotional element to his potential return to his home state.

Cowboys Defensive Struggles in 2025: A Focus on Linebacker Improvement

The Cowboys faced several defensive challenges during the 2025 season, particularly under the leadership of Matt Eberflus. Dallas ranked 23rd against the run, and it is clear that improvements at the linebacker position will be crucial as they look to bounce back in 2026. With Orr expected to come on board as a linebackers coach, he will be tasked with improving this critical area. His experience working with a high-level defensive unit in Baltimore, coupled with his ability to coach the linebacker position, makes him a strong candidate to help fix the Cowboys’ defensive issues at the second level.

Baltimore’s DC Search and Orr’s Departure

Orr’s departure from Baltimore would mark a significant change for the Ravens, leaving the team in need of a new defensive coordinator under Jesse Minter, their first-time head coach. While the Cowboys look to improve their defense, Baltimore will be searching for Orr’s replacement to maintain their defensive prowess.

Ryan Smith Set to Join the Cowboys as Cornerbacks Coach

In addition to Orr’s expected hire, Ryan Smith is reportedly set to join the Cowboys as their cornerbacks coach, according to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports. Smith spent the past three years coaching the Arizona Cardinals’ cornerbacks and brings a wealth of experience to the position. Having also coached at the collegiate level, Smith’s hiring would provide much-needed stability and expertise to the Cowboys’ secondary.

Conclusion: A Strong Coaching Staff Takes Shape

With Zach Orr and Ryan Smith joining the coaching staff, the Dallas Cowboys are positioning themselves for a defensive rebound in 2026. Orr’s potential role as the linebackers coach, combined with Smith’s expertise in the secondary, adds much-needed experience and fresh perspectives to Dallas’ defense. These changes, along with the addition of new defensive coordinator Christian Parker, could be exactly what the Cowboys need to address their 2025 struggles and contend for a stronger defensive showing next season.

This expanded version delves into the potential hires of Zach Orr and Ryan Smith, explaining their roles and how they could impact the Cowboys’ defense. It also highlights the challenges Dallas faced defensively in 2025 and how these coaching additions are meant to address those issues for the upcoming season.