DERRICK ANSLEY JOINS DALLAS COWBOYS STAFF AS DEFENSIVE PASS-GAME COORDINATOR AND DBs COACH

Christian Parker, the Dallas Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator, has quickly begun assembling his staff for the 2026 season, and one of his key hires is Derrick Ansley. The former Green Bay Packers defensive pass-game coordinator has agreed to terms with the Cowboys, marking the end of his two-year tenure in Green Bay. Ansley’s move to Dallas comes shortly after Bobby Babich was brought in to fill the pass-game coordinator role with the Packers.

Ansley, 44, brings a wealth of experience to the Cowboys’ defensive staff. Having previously served as a defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023, he is no stranger to high-pressure roles. His time with the Chargers was brief, however, as the firing of Brandon Staley midway through the season led to a significant shakeup on the coaching staff. Ansley’s coaching career also includes experience as a defensive coordinator at the University of Tennessee in 2020 and 2021.

ANSLEY’S ROLE IN DALLAS: FOCUS ON TURNING AROUND PASS DEFENSE

Ansley will take on the dual roles of defensive pass-game coordinator and defensive backs coach with the Cowboys. His addition to the staff comes at a crucial time for Dallas, as the team ranked last in the NFL in pass defense during the 2025 season. This significant deficiency in their defense was a key factor in the Cowboys’ failure to make the playoffs after an otherwise successful offensive campaign.

Ansley’s expertise in secondary play and pass defense is seen as a major asset for the Cowboys, who are aiming to revamp their defensive unit. His ability to improve the Cowboys’ defensive backs and passing game strategy will be crucial in addressing their most glaring weakness from 2025. He will work alongside Ryan Smith, who was hired as the secondary coach, further strengthening Dallas’ defensive coaching staff.

ANSLEY’S TRACK RECORD AND FUTURE AMBITIONS

Ansley’s impressive coaching history includes his time as the defensive coordinator at the Chargers, where his unit showed promise before the midseason firing. In addition, his tenure at Tennessee saw him develop a competitive defense in the SEC. Ansley’s ability to lead defensive backs and improve pass defense will be under scrutiny in Dallas, and if he can turn the Cowboys defense around, it will likely boost his stock as a future defensive coordinator candidate in the NFL.

During each of the last two NFL hiring cycles, Ansley interviewed for defensive coordinator positions, showing that he is highly regarded in coaching circles. A successful stint with the Cowboys could further elevate his career and put him in line for future opportunities.

DALLAS COWBOYS CONTINUE STAFF BUILDING

The Cowboys have not stopped their search for talent to fill out Parker’s staff, with interviews continuing for several other key positions. Notably, Denzel Martin, the Steelers’ outside linebackers coach, Ronell Williams, the Eagles’ assistant linebackers coach, and Marcus Dixon, the former Vikings defensive line coach, all conducted in-person interviews with Dallas on Saturday. Additionally, Eric Henderson, the USC D-line coach and defensive run game coordinator, is scheduled to meet with the team tomorrow.

THE ROAD AHEAD FOR DALLAS

With Christian Parker leading the charge and a growing coaching staff, the Dallas Cowboys are focused on making the necessary changes to their defense in order to contend for a 2026 playoff berth. The addition of Derrick Ansley to oversee the secondary and pass defense is a step in the right direction for a team that is determined to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season. If Ansley can turn around the Cowboys’ defensive issues and improve their pass defense, the team could become a much more well-rounded contender moving forward.