Cowboys Schedule Interviews with Gannon and Parker for Coaching Role

The Dallas Cowboys are actively pursuing potential candidates to fill their defensive coaching vacancy. This week, they have scheduled interviews with former Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon and Philadelphia Eagles passing game coordinator Christian Parker. According to Todd Archer of ESPN, Gannon’s interview is set for Tuesday, while Parker will meet with the team on Wednesday.

The Cowboys have already conducted an in-person interview with Daronte Jones, the defensive passing game coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings. Additionally, they are interested in interviewing Jim Leonhard, a passing game specialist with the Denver Broncos, although that meeting will be postponed due to the Broncos’ ongoing postseason run.

The search for a new coach follows the dismissal of Matt Eberflus, who was let go after just one season with the team. Under Eberflus, the Cowboys struggled defensively, prompting the team to seek a fresh direction.

Jonathan Gannon was recently fired by the Cardinals after a three-year tenure that yielded a record of 15 wins and 36 losses. His final season in 2025 was particularly challenging, finishing with a 3-14 record. Gannon earned his head coaching position after previously serving as the defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, where he contributed to a defense that ranked among the league’s best during his time.

On the other hand, Christian Parker has spent the last two seasons in Philadelphia, working under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. His leadership has coincided with the Eagles’ emergence as a top-10 defensive unit against the pass. Parker’s NFL career began in 2019 with the Green Bay Packers as a defensive quality control coach, before he transitioned to the Broncos as a defensive backs coach after two years in Green Bay.

The Cowboys’ coaching search reflects their commitment to enhancing their defensive strategy as they aim to return to playoff contention. With a mix of candidates who have varying levels of experience, the franchise is seeking a coach who can bring a fresh perspective and drive improvement in their defensive unit.