Cowboys Plan Additional Interviews for Defensive Coordinator Candidates
The Dallas Cowboys are actively seeking candidates for their vacant defensive coordinator position. Over the next two days, the team plans to conduct interviews with three individuals. These candidates include Christian Parker, the Eagles’ defensive backs coach, and Charlie Bullen, the Giants’ interim defensive coordinator. The Cowboys will also meet with Demarcus Covington, the Packers’ defensive line coach, on Friday.
Upcoming Interviews
The Cowboys’ interviews are part of a comprehensive search for a new defensive coordinator, bringing the total number of candidates to nine. Dallas previously interviewed:
- Zach Orr – Ravens DC
- Jonathan Gannon – Former Cardinals HC
- Jim Leonhard – Broncos defensive pass game coordinator
- Daronte Jones – Vikings defensive pass game coordinator
- Ephraim Banda – Browns safeties coach
- Aaron Whitecotton – Current Dallas DL coach
Candidate Profiles
Charlie Bullen
Bullen, aged 41, transitioned to interim defensive coordinator after the Giants released Shane Bowen in late November. Previously, he was the outside linebackers coach, mentoring talents like Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux. Bullen’s coaching journey began in 2005 at St. Norbert College, evolving into roles at Iowa City High School, the University of Iowa, and the Miami Dolphins from 2012-2018.
Demarcus Covington
Covington, 36, will be the fourth interviewee with previous experience as a DC in the NFL. Before joining the Packers as defensive line coach and run game coordinator, he served as the defensive coordinator for the New England Patriots in 2024. His college coaching resume includes tenures at UAB, Ole Miss, and Eastern Illinois before moving to the NFL with the Patriots in 2017. Covington played a significant role in the Patriots’ 2019 Super Bowl victory, where the defense allowed just three points to the Rams.
Why the Search Matters
The Cowboys’ pursuit of a new defensive coordinator is critical to enhance their defensive strategies moving forward. As they prepare for the upcoming season, selecting a qualified candidate who can adapt and innovate is essential for the team’s success.
Stay tuned to El-Balad for updates on the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator search and other related news.
