Dallas Cowboys clarify plans for Brian Schottenheimer’s defensive staff as coordinator search hits a roadblock

The Dallas Cowboys are once again in the limelight, with the chatter around how they plan to handle the rest of their defensive coaching staff after parting ways with Matt Eberflus. Fans expected sweeping changes following another disappointing defensive season, especially after Dallas failed to land its top defensive coordinator target.

With Brian Schottenheimer stepping into the head coach role, questions have swirled about whether more defensive assistants would be shown the door. According to Cowboys insider Mickey Spagnola, no immediate firings are planned among the defensive assistants, largely because of contractual realities.

Contracts protect assistants, but performance will decide their future

Spagnola wrote, “First of all, it’s my understanding all the Cowboys defensive coaches are under contract for this coming season and would imagine that will be discussed between head coach Brian Schottenheimer and the new DC.” He also noted, “Assistants under contract can’t just break their contracts to make lateral moves unless given permission.”


That group includes Aaron Whitecotton, Dave Borgonzi, Andre Curtis, and David Overstreet II, who were all hired before the 2025 season. While their contracts provide short-term security, nothing is guaranteed in Dallas, as seen in past situations. The Cowboys previously dismissed Mike Zimmer and his entire defensive staff after the 2024 season despite similar contractual situations.

Tommy Yarrish echoed Spagnola’s stance, stating, “Still, contracts matter, and assistants can’t make lateral moves without the permission of their current employer.” The same logic applies in reverse, as Jerry Jones can still move on from assistants if Schottenheimer and the next defensive coordinator believe changes are needed.

Dallas’s inability to land Jeff Ulbrich only added to the tension. The Cowboys requested permission to speak with him, but Atlanta shut the door and committed to keeping him after notable defensive improvement. For now, whether the Cowboys’ approach pays off will depend on who joins Schottenheimer as defensive coordinator and if this staff can finally deliver the results Dallas expects.


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