Who is the new defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys?

Christian Parker is expected to be named the new defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys.

Why is Christian Parker's hiring unusual for the Dallas Cowboys?

It's unusual because Parker does not have previous NFL head-coaching experience, a rarity for the Cowboys' defensive coordinator position since 2014.

How did the Dallas Cowboys' defense perform in the 2025 season?

The 2025 Cowboys defense was one of the worst in franchise history, allowing a record 511 points and ranking last in the NFL in scoring defense.

Home / Sports / No Head Coaching Past: Cowboys' Bold DC Hire

No Head Coaching Past: Cowboys' Bold DC Hire

22 Jan

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Summary

Christian Parker is set to become the Cowboys' defensive coordinator.
Parker, 34, lacks previous NFL head-coaching experience.
Dallas defense was historically bad in the 2025 season.

No Head Coaching Past: Cowboys' Bold DC Hire

The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly set to hire Christian Parker as their next defensive coordinator. This move is significant as it will be the first time since 2014 that the Cowboys' defensive coordinator will not have prior NFL head-coaching experience.

Parker, 34, brings recent experience from the Philadelphia Eagles and Denver Broncos, where he focused on the defensive backs and passing game. His NFL coaching career began in 2019 with the Green Bay Packers.

The Cowboys are seeking to revitalize their defense after a historically poor 2025 season. The team allowed a franchise-record 511 points, ranking last in scoring defense at 30 points per game and 30th in total defense. This hire follows the dismissal of Matt Eberflus after just one season.