Home / Sports / Cowboys Hire Mike Pettine to Bolster Struggling Defense
Cowboys Hire Mike Pettine to Bolster Struggling Defense
12 Oct
Summary
- Mike Pettine hired as senior defensive assistant by Cowboys.
- Pettine brings past experience with coach and coordinator.
- Cowboys defense ranks 26th in points and 31st in yards.
Seeking to improve their defense, the Cowboys have appointed Mike Pettine as a senior defensive assistant. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed the hiring, noting Pettine's prior working relationships with both himself and defensive coordinator Christian Parker. Pettine previously served as defensive coordinator for the Jets and Bills, and as head coach for the Browns. His most recent role was assistant head coach and outside linebackers coach for the Minnesota Vikings, a position he held until parting ways after the 2025 season.
The Cowboys' defense has struggled significantly this season. As of 2026-10-12, the team holds a 2-3 record after a recent loss. Their defensive performance places them 26th in points allowed and a concerning 31st in yards allowed, underscoring the immediate challenges Pettine is expected to help address.
