Inside The Star
Matt Eberflus’ zone defense no longer fits the Cowboys. Here’s why it’s time for a change —and which assistant coach can bring back an aggressive man-defense.
The Dallas Cowboys’ defense has lost its identity under Matt Eberflus. His conservative, zone-heavy system keeps everything in front but gives up far too much underneath — letting quarterbacks find open receivers before the pass rush has a chance.
It’s a scheme built to minimize mistakes, not maximize talent. And in Dallas, that philosophy has backfired. The Cowboys’ young, fast defenders thrive when attacking, not reading.
They need a man-coverage, blitz-heavy approach that unleashes their athleticism instead of boxing them into soft zones.
Through eight weeks, the results speak for themselves. Missed tackles, busted coverages, and a lack of turnovers have become the story of a defense built to react instead of dictate.
It’s time for a change — and the answer may already be on the sideline.
Eberflus’ system has failed to generate consistent pressure or confuse opposing quarterbacks. His zone looks are predictable, and offensive coordinators have adapted quickly.
The result: Dallas sits near the bottom in third-down defense and red-zone stops.
A midseason coordinator change is rare, but this situation demands it. The locker room needs new energy, and the defense needs a voice that will play to its strengths — speed, power, and disruption.
Dave Borgonzi — Linebackers Coach (14 years)
A steady presence and respected teacher, Borgonzi understands run fits and gap integrity. But his background under Eberflus makes him unlikely to change the system that’s already struggling.
Andre Curtis — Defensive Passing Game Coordinator (19 years)
Curtis brings veteran experience and a history of success in multiple coverage styles. He’s shown he can mix man and match coverage, making him a solid secondary strategist.
Still, his approach can be cautious, and Dallas needs aggression.
David Overstreet II — Cornerbacks Coach (8 years)
Overstreet connects well with younger defensive backs and emphasizes technique. He’s an excellent teacher but lacks coordinator-level play-calling experience.
Aaron Whitecotton — Defensive Line Coach (12 years)
Whitecotton is the most logical interim choice. His defensive fronts are built on attacking, using movement and stunts to generate pressure.
He understands how to free up rushers and complement aggressive man coverage behind it. His style would energize the defense instantly.
Darian Thompson — Nickels/Secondary Coach (3 years)
Thompson’s fresh perspective and former-player mindset resonate with the locker room.
He favors press-man looks and physical coverage, traits that match Dallas’ personnel perfectly. Though young, he could serve as a key piece alongside Whitecotton.
If the Cowboys make a move, Aaron Whitecotton should be the next man up. His philosophy fits today’s NFL — attack the quarterback, force quick throws, and trust your corners to compete in man coverage.
Whitecotton has earned respect across the defensive line...
