Dallas, Texas -- Matt Eberflus has been dismissed from his role as defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, sources confirmed on Tuesday. This decision was made two days following the conclusion of the season.
Team Defensive Performance
The Cowboys concluded the season ranked last in the league in points allowed per game and 30th in yards allowed per game. Key defensive statistics from the season include:
- Averaged 30.1 points allowed per game, totaling a franchise-record 511 points. This marks the first time in franchise history the team allowed over 30 points per game.
- Recorded 35 sacks, the lowest total since 2020.
- Allowed opponents to score more than 30 points in nine games.
- Allowed a touchdown or field goal on 91 of 177 drives.
- Averaged 377 yards allowed per game, ranking third worst in the league.
- Registered 12 takeaways, the fewest since 2015.
- Ranked 23rd in run defense.
- Opposing quarterbacks completed 68.5% of their passes.
Historical Context and Coordinator Changes
This marks the seventh instance since 1989 that a Cowboys defense has allowed 400 or more points. Each prior occurrence resulted in a coordinator or radical scheme modification. The team will now seek its fourth defensive coordinator in as many years.
Eberflus's previous tenure with the Cowboys included a role as an assistant coach from 2011 to 2017.
Player Performance and Roster Adjustments
The team traded All-Pro pass rusher Micah Parsons the week prior to the season's commencement. Later in the season, trades were made for defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and linebacker Logan Wilson. Williams's acquisition coincided with a three-game winning streak. Wilson did not play in the Week 17 victory against the Washington Commanders.
Key defensive players Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland had limited playing time together. Bland's season ended prematurely due to a foot injury requiring surgery. Diggs also sustained a concussion and a knee injury, missing six games before being waived on December 30. Diggs had previously questioned the defensive scheme.
Upcoming Roster Outlook
The Cowboys possess two first-round selections in the upcoming draft. However, the team lacks picks in the second and third rounds due to trades for Quinnen Williams (Jets) and wide receiver George Pickens (Pittsburgh Steelers). Five starting or regular defensive players are scheduled to enter free agency, necessitating potential changes to the defensive roster.