After suffering a tumultuous period of defensive instability, the Dallas Cowboys knew their next hire had to stand out. During an extensive search, something that blew away head coach Brian Schottenheimer was general manager Jerry Jones’ commitment to sit through the entire process. 

At 83, the billionaire’s dedication shows he’s doing everything to get it right this time.

“I think we did over 40 total interviews, nine of which were coordinators,” Schottenheimer said of the hiring process for defensive coordinator. “…The process was thorough. It was long. Jerry and Stephen, they hung with me, which is great…I think Jerry, Steve, and I grew very close over the years. I’m not being funny when I say, to get Jerry to be willing to sit in on 40-something interviews was extremely, I was stoked. ”

During a recent media interaction, Schottenheimer revealed they wanted to nail their hiring process when asked why it felt more detailed. The coach explained his team opted for an exhaustive search last year while hiring offensive staff. They hired people Brian hadn’t worked with. This year, they doubled down on their approach because the stakes were high. 

And Jerry Jones remained at the heart of the hiring process, diving into concepts and discussing the 4i technique to contain running lanes and offensive tackles. The franchise welcomed Parker last month, making him the fourth coordinator in as many years. The instability at the position forced the Cowboys to take their sweet time in finding Matt Eberflus’ successor. As the season progressed, Jones heard of communication issues between players and staff.

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That translated onto the field big time. The team broke a painful franchise record by allowing over 30.1 points per game. The unit also allowed the opponent to score 377 yards in each outing, third-worst in the league. They also recorded the lowest takeaways at twelve (eight interceptions and three fumbles) since 2015. 

After living a defensive nightmare, Jones knew he needed to change the hiring process. Last January, he hired Eberflus within 24 hours of making Schottenheimer the head coach. The decision felt easy due to his high comfort level with hiring former head coaches and coordinators. But not anymore.

“I spent a lot of time looking at the past, when I look at the coaching situation, a lot of times,” Jones said. “I do that on everything, frankly, that I can get my hands on. I’m not trying to be philosophical, but I did less of whatever I’ve been doing [in the past] and a lot more of what I am doing in this process.”

He liked that Brian focused on finding the right talent rather than relying solely on his connections while building the top offense. So grinding alongside him likely made Jones content. Meanwhile, Schottenheimer revealed Parker was the last person they interviewed. Parker’s conviction, calm demeanor, and conduct left a lasting impression on the coach. 

The Cowboys didn’t rush, and Brian Schottenheimer believes that patience made all the difference. Meanwhile, Parker explained his defensive vision later in the same conference.

Brian Schottenheimer’s DC shares outlook as the new staff takes shape

Christian Parker first met Brian during a joint practice in 2022 when he was with the Denver Broncos. While they interacted, football was not a part of their conversation. So, it was the interview round where the duo exchanged views on the scheme and plans moving forward. On Wednesday, Parker finally spoke about it publicly.

“The first thing is we’re going to be multiple,” he said. “I think that whenever you form a defensive structure, it’s about the players that you have. So our core principles, we’ll be a 3-4 by nature, but 4-3 spacing will be appropriate, 4-2-5 in nickel, different front structures, coverages behind it. But I will say being multiple is probably the most important thing about it.”

For Parker, the two most important aspects are stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback. He also showed confidence in the team’s existing defensive line and wants to build on that talent. Having worked in multiple defensive roles over the years with top franchises, he is more than “ready” to execute his vision.

This confidence also comes from preparation. The coordinator said learning from respected coaches has helped him shape his own identity. Parker won’t be working alone, as the Cowboys have welcomed six new assistants to his defensive staff. Some key names from the list include Derrick Ansley as passing game coordinator and Marcus Dixon at the defensive line. 

On the field, Parker will lean on proven players such as Quinnen Williams and Daron Bland. The latter is aiming to bounce back from foot injuries. Linebacker DeMarvion Overshown and young corner Shavon Revel Jr. can make an impact if healthy. With two first-round draft picks, Brian Schottenheimer is betting on a defensive overhaul for a stronger comeback.