Cowboys

Former NFL coach sounds the alarm on the Cowboys’ defense

The Dallas Cowboys’ typically dominant defense fell apart in 2024 and one former head coach warns that this season might not be any better, and here’s why.

The Dallas Cowboys’ typically dominant defense fell apart in 2024 and one former head coach warns that this season might not be any better, and here’s why.
RONALD MARTINEZ
Jennifer Bubel
Sports journalist who grew up in Dallas, TX. Lover of all things sports, she got her degree from Texas Tech University (Wreck ‘em Tech!) in 2011. Joined Diario AS USA in 2021 and now covers mostly American sports (primarily NFL, NBA, and MLB) as well as soccer from around the world.
Update:

The Dallas Cowboys defense had been dominant for several years, but in 2024, that all changed. Instead, it was a historically bad season that saw their defense plummet to 28th in the NFL.

After that, the team made sweeping coaching changes. But according to former NFL head coach Jon Gruden, the real problem runs deeper.

Jon Gruden points out Cowboys’ biggest problem on defense

In a recent interview, Gruden questioned the unit’s identity, saying that outside of Micah Parsons, the defense lacks a clear mindset or leadership - especially with DeMarcus Lawrence gone and promising linebacker DeMarvion Overshown injured.

“I don’t think their defense other than Parsons has an identity,” Gruden said. “You know, and [DeMarcus] Lawrence is gone. ... [DeMarvion] Overshown is a great linebacker but he’s hurt, I just don’t know what their defensive mentality is.”

New head coach Brian Schottenheimer and defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus will be under pressure to turn things around, but after last year’s collapse, many wonder if Dallas can recover in time for the 2025 season.

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