Stephen Jones told DallasCowboys.com that the process is in the initial run and will cast a wide net, potentially bringing in a dozen coaches before narrowing the field. He noted there’s no strict timeline and that this process will move more slowly than last year, when McCarthy left mid-January and Brian Schottenheimer was hired a short time later. ⏳
The team plans to narrow the list and conduct in-person interviews with the candidates who fit what they want. They’re looking for a defensive coordinator who aligns with the personnel they have and can help rebuild the unit, with interviews continuing as they sort through the options. 🧭
The nine candidates in the mix are Jim Leonhard, Daronte Jones, Ephraim Banda, Jonathan Gannon, Aaron Whitecotton, Zach Orr, Christian Parker, Charlie Bullen, and DeMarcus Covington. 🧩
Cowboys owner’s son and VP Stephen Jones emphasized that any of these coaches could be a fit, but the emphasis is on finding a DC who can teach, communicate clearly, and fit Schottenheimer’s vision while also improving both coaching and personnel. There’s no hard deadline, and the decision could span into the latter part of the month. 🗣️🏈⏳