Here, we introduce three candidates for defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys. The clock is ticking, and the Cowboys have already completed three interviews this week. The team recently met with former New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan about the defensive coordinator job. Ryan hasn't played in the NFL since 2016, when he was the head coach of the Buffalo Bills.
As such, Ryan appears to be trying to return to the NFL while joining a highly competitive field of experienced coaches. This includes Ron Rivera and Mike Zimmer, who also interviewed for the job. However, Ryan has extensive experience in the NFL, having served as the defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens. He then served as head coach for six seasons with the Jets and two years with the Bills.
The pressure has never been higher for Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, who is entering the final year of his contract. The fact that Dallas is taking its time finding the right candidate for the D.C. job may fuel some speculation. Some believe the new defensive coordinator will eventually become Dallas' head coach next year. Ryan's arrival in Dallas would be a great springboard for his career after eight years away from the NFL.
However, the Cowboys and Coach McCarthy are reportedly considering a defensive coordinator with head coaching experience. This is why they interviewed Zimmer and Rivera since Dan Quinn left for the Washington Commanders. Here are the top Dallas Cowboys DC candidates after interviews:
Three defensive coordinator candidates for the Dallas Cowboys
mike zimmer
According to reports, Zimmer could be the best choice for the defensive coordinator job among other candidates. Replacing Dan Quinn will not be an easy task, but there are still top candidates ready to recreate Dan Quinn's season. Quinn transformed a historically poor defense into one of the best units in three seasons. But ever since Quinn moved to Washington, the battle to find his successor has continued.
Zimmer started his NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys in 1994 as an assistant defensive coach under Barry Switzer. He is now back where he started his career and looking to return to the NFL. Zimmer was successful in his starting position and was promoted to defensive backs coach until 2000. In 2003, he was the Cowboys' defense that allowed the fewest yards and points and thrived on an aggressive, fast-paced scheme.
Zimmer would be a great replacement as it could be a reunion with Jerry Jones, who has a history with him. His experience could bring a lot to a talented Dallas defense.
Ron Rivera
Rivera is another candidate who recently met with the Cowboys for the vacant D.C. seat. The Cowboys will likely choose between Rivera and Zimmer. If Rivera is hired, he will have to face the manager twice a year, so it will be interesting to watch. What makes Rivera an even more interesting choice is that he's still in the NFL without ever taking a break.
On the other hand, Zimmer is out of the NFL and might be missed coming back. But while some say Zimmer is still the best option, Rivera still has a chance.
mike vrabel
Even if Vrabel was interested in the DC job, it seems unlikely for now that he will convince the Cowboys. But Vrabel remains a candidate the Cowboys could look to if Rivera or Zimmer garner interest. The problem is that Dallas hasn't talked to Vrabel, but something could change within a week. If Vrabel were to take over as D.C., the heat would be even higher, putting even more pressure on McCarthy's job next year.
