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 Dallas Cowboys are set to pick 12th overall in the upcoming NFL Draft, a position that reveals both potential opportunity and past shortcomings. Vice President of Player Personnel Will McClay acknowledges that while the 12th pick offers a chance at a top-10 prospect, it is a reflection of a disappointing 7-10 season. The Cowboys face significant roster gaps, particularly in the running back and interior defensive line positions, with key players like Rico Dowdle and Osa Odighizuwa entering free agency. McClay notes there’s a deeper pool of talent available in this draft class for those positions compared to the previous year’s draft.

Concerns are also mounting at cornerback, where DaRon Bland is the only healthy returning starter, while Trevon Diggs recovers from knee surgery. The potential loss of slot corner Jourdan Lewis to free agency adds to the urgency for drafting in this area. Team owner Jerry Jones emphasizes the importance of drafting based on value rather than positional need, recalling past instances where the Cowboys missed opportunities despite clear needs. With the recent hire of coach Brian Schottenheimer, who has familiarity with the organization, the Cowboys hope to streamline their draft process, integrating coaching and scouting more effectively.

Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs has undergone knee surgery for the second consecutive year, raising concerns about his availability for the 2025 season. Following last year's ACL repair on the same knee, this procedure is more complex, involving a chondral tissue graft to replace damaged cartilage. Diggs played 11 games in the 2024 season, finishing with two interceptions and 11 pass breakups, despite a series of injuries affecting the Cowboys' secondary. The team had to rotate through eight different cornerbacks this season due to injuries to multiple players, including projected starter DaRon Bland, who played only seven games after recovering from a foot injury.

Diggs earned Pro Bowl honors in 2021 and 2022 and led the NFL with 11 interceptions in 2021, showcasing his significant impact on the field. While he successfully recovered in time to start the 2024 season after a torn ACL, the uncertainty surrounding his current surgery puts his future in question.

The Dallas Cowboys have parted ways with head coach Mike McCarthy after a five-year tenure marked by three playoff appearances and only one postseason victory. The decision follows extended negotiations and a denial of a previous interview request for McCarthy. With a strong roster, including standout players like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, Micah Parsons, and DaRon Bland, the Cowboys are expected to attract top coaching talent. However, the unique dynamics of Jerry Jones' ownership complicate the hiring process.

The potential candidates for the coaching position are categorized into three groups. The first group includes familiar coaching figures such as Lions' OC Ben Johnson, Lions' DC Aaron Glenn, Ravens' OC Todd Monken, Vikings' DC Brian Flores, and others. Glenn has ties to the Cowboys and has been successful with Detroit's defense, making him a prime candidate. Johnson is regarded as one of the top available coaches but may come with a hefty price tag.

Another category features candidates with past connections to the Cowboys, including Eagles’ OC Kellen Moore and former players like Jason Witten and Deion Sanders. Moore brings valuable experience as a former quarterback and coordinator, while Witten and Sanders have strong ties to the franchise. However, the suitability of some candidates, such as Mike Zimmer and Kliff Kingsbury, may be debated.

Lastly, there are unconventional candidates like Texas HC Steve Sarkisian and legendary coach Bill Belichick, who could shake things up if hired. Belichick's track record and low-profile demeanor could appeal to Jones, while Sarkisian's local ties may also factor into the decision-making process.

The Dallas Cowboys have officially parted ways with head coach Mike McCarthy after five seasons, which included three playoff appearances but only one postseason win. The organization is now on the lookout for a new head coach, backed by a strong roster featuring stars like quarterback Dak Prescott and edge rusher Micah Parsons. This coaching search is crucial for the Cowboys, as owner Jerry Jones is known for his unique approach to team management and hiring practices.

Several candidates have emerged for the position, categorized into three distinct groups. The first list includes well-regarded coordinators like Ben Johnson, Aaron Glenn, and Todd Monken, with Glenn being a serious contender due to his previous ties to the Cowboys. The second group features familiar faces, including former offensive coordinator Kellen Moore and former players like Jason Witten and Deion Sanders. Finally, outside-the-box candidates like Steve Sarkisian and even Bill Belichick are under consideration, suggesting the Cowboys have a wide array of options.