Matt Eberflus returns to Dallas as the new defensive coordinator for the Cowboys, stepping into the role after a challenging stint as head coach of the Chicago Bears. Eberflus aims to revamp the Cowboys' defense by leveraging standout talents like Micah Parsons, Trevon Diggs, and DaRon Bland. He emphasizes aggressive play designed to generate turnovers while addressing the team's deficiencies against the run, echoing past successes under former coordinator Rod Marinelli.

Eberflus' strategy revolves around maximizing Parsons' unique abilities, aiming to utilize him predominantly as a pass rusher. Meanwhile, he expresses excitement about working with the All-Pro cornerback duo of Diggs and Bland, despite Diggs' recovery from knee surgery. Eberflus' commitment to restoring the defense's former glory highlights the Cowboys’ ambitious goals for the upcoming season.

The Philadelphia Eagles continue to set the standard in the NFL, showcasing a well-constructed roster that has made them 6.5-point favorites in the upcoming NFC Championship game. The Eagles’ draft strategy, particularly their focus on players from the University of Georgia, has been instrumental in building a formidable defense. With four starters, including Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter, drafted in recent years, the Eagles have exemplified how to effectively rebuild a team’s defensive unit. Dan Morgan and the Carolina Panthers, looking to rejuvenate their own defense, would do well to consider similar moves in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.

At the draft, the Panthers are expected to have the opportunity to select from a trio of promising Georgia defenders: Malaki Starks, Jalon Walker, and Mykell Williams. Starks, a ball-hawking safety, could address the Panthers’ significant need in the secondary as they prepare to lose multiple safeties to free agency. Meanwhile, Williams presents a versatile option with the potential to excel as both an outside linebacker and a defensive lineman, filling a critical role alongside veterans like Jadeveon Clowney. Lastly, Walker’s versatility could prove invaluable in helping the Panthers re-establish a defensive identity akin to what has been successful with the Eagles. The strategic parallels between the two franchises could mark a turning point for the Panthers as they aim to reinvent their defensive strategy for success in the league.

The Dallas Cowboys faced a disappointing defeat in Week 17, losing 41-7 to the Philadelphia Eagles. This loss marked a significant downturn for the Cowboys, who had previously been on a positive streak with four wins in their last five games. With this defeat, their record fell to 7-9, leaving them with only one game left to play in the season.

Among the players, tight end Jake Ferguson struggled significantly, managing only 18 yards on three receptions and losing a fumble, which further emphasized his disappointing season without a touchdown. Cornerback Andrew Booth also had a rough outing, failing to keep pace with his assignments and allowing an early touchdown, raising concerns about the depth of the secondary.

On a brighter note, wide receiver Jalen Tolbert stood out by catching his seventh touchdown of the season and scoring in three consecutive games, dispelling earlier doubts about his performance. Running back Rico Dowdle made history by surpassing 1,000 rushing yards, becoming the first undrafted free agent in Cowboys history to achieve this milestone. However, quarterback Cooper Rush's performance was lackluster, throwing two interceptions, including a pick-six, and showcasing the inconsistency that has plagued him.

Head coach Mike McCarthy's future also came into question following the loss, as it highlighted the precarious nature of his position with the team. The defeat served as a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NFL, possibly influencing owner Jerry Jones's decision on McCarthy's return in 2025.

The Dallas Cowboys have made significant roster changes ahead of their Week 16 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Cornerback Trevon Diggs has been placed on Injured Reserve due to a knee injury that requires surgery, effectively ending his season.

To fill the gap, the Cowboys signed cornerback Andrew Booth Jr. from the practice squad and elevated linebacker Darius Harris and center Dakoda Shepley. Booth is expected to play a crucial role in the secondary this week.