The Dallas Cowboys are facing an internal crisis as Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer and Defensive Coordinator Matt Eberflus aggressively shut down star CB Trevon Diggs’s public complaints about the defensive scheme. Well, it is to everyone’s information that the team has been struggling with its defense for the first five weeks of this season, but some changes are definitely on the way.

Diggs ignited the conflict by praising the team’s quick pass rush as “instant grits” after the Week 5 win over the Jets, subtly suggesting the defense is only effective when simplified. He also admitted to advocating directly to Eberflus for more man coverage over the current zone preference.

However, this is how the coaches have made their response. As per an X post by Jeff Kolb, it stated the response by the team’s defense coordinator, Matt Eberflus, “We’re going to make decisions based on what we feel is best. Based on the matchups. Based on what we have. And I don’t like grits, either.”

Yet, the conflict wasn’t a total breakdown. Head Coach Schottenheimer immediately stepped in to balance the hard truth with praise. He highlighted Trevon Diggs’s elite contribution even while being benched:

“Just the way he’s responded, the way he played in that game. Fantastic player. I’ve been blown away by his work this week and how well he’s been doing. That’s what I love about him,” the coach said.”

Schottenheimer framed the situation as a familial bond, using a parenting analogy to stress that the discipline was about love and high expectations. By all accounts, the “grits conflict” has been resolved—not with a scheme change, but with professional accountability. Diggs accepted the coach’s decision, and the coaches acknowledged his dedication.

Cowboys Reshuffle Defense and Refine Strategy Ahead of Week 6 Clash

The Dallas Cowboys are making a few important adjustments as they get ready to take on the Carolina Panthers in Week 6. Coordinator Matt Eberflus confirmed that linebacker Jack Sanborn is still in concussion protocol, which means the defensive lineup will see a few changes.

With Sanborn sidelined, Kenneth Murray is expected to move to an inside role, giving rookie Shemar James a chance to step up and show what he can do. The coaching staff is excited to see how James handles the increased responsibility, viewing it as a valuable growth opportunity for the young linebacker.

On the offensive side, head coach Brian Schottenheimer is working to keep things rolling for a unit that’s been one of the league’s most efficient. Dak Prescott continues to play at an MVP level, and running back Javonte Williams has quickly proven to be one of the Cowboys’ best offseason pickups.

While the defense is still finding its rhythm, the offense has been electric, carrying much of the team’s success so far. If these defensive adjustments click, the Cowboys could soon be one of the most well-rounded squads in the NFL.