Cowboys Schedule Interviews with Gannon and Parker for Coaching Role

The Dallas Cowboys are actively seeking a new defensive coordinator and have scheduled interviews with former Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon and Philadelphia Eagles passing game coordinator Christian Parker this week. According to Todd Archer of ESPN, Gannon’s interview will take place on Tuesday, while Parker is set to meet with the team on Wednesday.

This search comes in the wake of the Cowboys parting ways with Matt Eberflus, who was dismissed after just one season. Eberflus had a challenging year, leading the defense to underperform, which ultimately led to his removal.

The Cowboys have already conducted an in-person interview with Daronte Jones, the Vikings’ defensive passing game coordinator. Additionally, they are interested in interviewing Jim Leonhard, a passing game specialist with the Denver Broncos. However, Leonhard’s interview will be postponed as the Broncos continue their postseason run.

Gannon was let go by the Cardinals just last week after a disappointing tenure that saw him record a 15-36 overall record, including a 3-14 finish in the 2025 season. He previously earned the head coaching position following two successful seasons as the Eagles’ defensive coordinator. His coaching experience also includes roles with the Atlanta Falcons, Tennessee Titans, Minnesota Vikings, and Indianapolis Colts.

In contrast, Parker has been with the Eagles for the past two seasons, working under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. During his tenure, the Eagles have consistently ranked among the top ten defensive units against the pass. Parker began his NFL career as a defensive quality control coach with the Green Bay Packers in 2019 before moving to the Broncos as their defensive backs coach.

As the Cowboys aim to revitalize their defensive strategy, the upcoming interviews with Gannon and Parker will be crucial in determining the direction of the team’s defensive unit for the upcoming season. The decisions made in the coming days will set the tone for how the Cowboys approach their defense in the future.