Cowboys to Interview Three New Defensive Coordinator Candidates
The Dallas Cowboys are actively seeking a new defensive coordinator, expanding their search to include three additional candidates. This decision follows interviews with several other potential coaches, reflecting the team’s commitment to enhancing their defensive strategy.
Cowboys’ Search for a Defensive Coordinator
Recently, the Cowboys conducted interviews with various candidates to fill the defensive coordinator position. Among those interviewed are:
- Aaron Whitecotton – Current defensive line coach
- Zachary Orr – Baltimore Ravens’ former defensive coordinator
- Jonathan Gannon – Former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals
Current Candidates and Their Backgrounds
Aaron Whitecotton is the only internal candidate interviewed thus far. He joined the Cowboys in 2025 after four seasons with the New York Jets. His experience includes working with star defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, who has excelled under Whitecotton’s guidance with four consecutive Pro Bowl selections since 2022.
Zachary Orr, hailing from DeSoto, Texas, has an impressive coaching resume. After a brief playing career that ended in 2016 due to a neck condition, Orr transitioned to coaching. He served as a defensive assistant for the Ravens and later as the inside linebackers coach. In 2024, he became the defensive coordinator for the Ravens, leading them to a top-tier defense, ranking among the best against the run.
Jonathan Gannon, on the other hand, has previous head coaching experience with the Cardinals, where his record was 15-36 over three seasons. Notably, Gannon’s defense held the Cowboys to just 17 points in a game during the 2025 season. He also served as the defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, achieving notable success that helped propel the team to the Super Bowl.
Significance of the Search
The quest for a new defensive coordinator is particularly significant as eight teams across the NFL are currently looking for head coaches, creating a dynamic coaching market. The Cowboys’ strategy reflects their aim to innovate and strengthen their defensive unit.
As the Cowboys continue to interview candidates, the organization is determined to find the right leader for their defense. Fans and analysts eagerly await the outcome of this search and its implications for the team’s future performance.
For ongoing updates on the Cowboys’ pursuit of a new defensive coordinator, stay tuned to El-Balad’s coverage.
